Britain has a plethora of wild swimming spots; from vast lakes and secluded beaches to majestic waterfalls and crystal clear rivers. A great way to stay fit whilst connecting with nature, wild swimming has grown in popularity over recent years.
Water temperatures can be a little chilly for the majority of the year, but with a wetsuit in tote, the UK makes for an ideal location for those looking for some wild swimming experiences. Here, we take a look at 10 of the best wild swimming spots to explore around the UK:
1. Lochan Uaine, Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
Lochan Uaine, commonly known as the ‘Green Loch’, is located near Glenmore in the Cairngorms National Park. Beautiful Scottish nature surrounds this popular wild swimming site. Local legend says the lake gets its unusual green colour from fairies washing their clothes in it!
2. Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire, Wales
A former slate quarry which was active up until 1910, the Blue Lagoon was formed when the channel connecting the quarry to the sea was blasted, allowing the sea water to enter. Sea cliffs and rugged coast surround this wild swimming spot, so there’s plenty to explore nearby too.
3. Bude Sea Pool, Cornwall, England
This part natural, part man-made pool is filled by the Atlantic ocean and is perfect for those new to wild swimming. There are shallow areas for kids to enjoy and the pool is also manned by staff during the busier summer months.
4. Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye, Scotland
One of the most instagrammed beauty spots in Scotland, the crystal clear Fairy Pools are located along the River Brittle on the Isle of Skye. Take your time exploring the pools and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this magical place. The brave swimmers out there might want to try the high jumps into the deeper plunge pools!
5. Lady Falls, Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales
The Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales provides a wealth of wild swimming opportunities. Lady Falls, also known as Sgwd Gwladys Waterfall, is one of the most spectacular sites for a dip. The waterfall drops 30 feet into a plunge pool and is surrounded by a beautiful fern and moss amphitheatre.
6. Black Moss Pot, Langstrath Valley, Lake District, England
Unusual rock formations characterize this renowned wild swimming and nature spot in the Lake District. Enclosed by six-metre high walls and a waterfall, Black Moss Pot is a popular cliff jumping site. You can also continue up Langstrath Beck and explore the many other pools for a dip.
7. Dores Beach, Loch Ness, Scotland
Loch Ness is a large, deep, freshwater lake in the Scottish Highlands. The most famous lake in Scotland, thanks to the mythical and renowned Loch Ness Monster. The water is bitterly cold all year round with average water temperatures of just 6°C, you are more likely to get hypothermia than bump into Nessie! Dores Beach is a beautiful spot for a swim but remember to take your wetsuit with you to keep warm.
8. Lake Buttermere, Lake District, England
With clear waters and a mountainous backdrop, Lake Buttermere offers beautiful vistas from the water. Surrounded by some of the Lake District’s most stunning scenery, the lake has plenty of nature trails and walks to explore nearby.
9. Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Scotland
Located only 45 minutes from Glasgow, Loch Lomond is the largest lake by surface area in Scotland, and a popular destination for all types of watersports. Milarrochy Bay on East Loch Lomond is a favoured entry spot and offers perfect conditions for wild swimming.
10. Hampstead Heath, London, England
The Hampstead Heath swimming ponds are located in the centre of London. There are three swimming ponds available, one for men, one for women and one for mixed bathing. Enclosed by densely packed trees, you will certainly feel like you are a million miles away from the buzz of the city here!