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5 Wild Swimming Spots to Visit This Autumn and Winter in England

Wild swimming is a fantastically invigorating sport and hobby with a ton of potential benefits. Those who do it regularly will tell you: there’s no need to stop when the weather gets cold! Whether you’ve never taken a wild dip or you’re a seasoned wild swimmer looking for new spots to try, our list of wild swimming places will have you eager to pop on your swimming cap and whip out your wetsuit (Unless you’re brave enough to go in without that is!).
man wild swimming

1. Rydal Bower North Windamere



Great for:

• Jumping in
• Adventurous Couples and friends

Why it’s Special

Once you spot it, deep within the woods you’ll think you’ve stepped inside an old fairytale. Rydal Bower has a sense of magic about it that only nature could conjure up. Nestled between picturesque woodland sits a waterfall leading to a deep pool that’s just perfect for wild swimming.

How to Get There

2. River Waveney, Bungay, Suffolk



Great for:

• Long Swims
• Otter Spotting
• Lunar Snorkelling

Why it’s Special

This river was a favorite swimming spot of writer, environmentalist and wild swimming enthusiast Roger Deakin. The River Waveny is also full of wildlife from marsh harriers and kestrels to otters and even Chinese water deer!

How to Get there
woman in lake smiling

3. Hampstead Heath Ponds (Highgate Chain) – Kenwood Ladies Bathing Pond, Highgate Mens Bathing Pond & the Hampstead Mixed Bathing Pond, London



Great for:

• Those new to wild swimming looking for a safe and secluded spot
• Making friends
• Families

Why it’s Special

Unlike many other wild swimming spots, the Highgate chain features a sunbathing and changing area and you’ll always find a lifeguard on duty. Once you visit the ponds, you’ll no longer believe you’re in London! The Hampstead Heath ponds are perfect for city dwellers who are craving some fresh, open air and a one on one experience with nature.

How to Get There
kenwood ladies bathing pond

Kenwood Ladies' Bathing Pond near to Hampstead, Camden, London by Peter is Licensed Under C C BY-SA

4. Gladdings Dam, Todmorden, West Yorkshire



Great For:

• Adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts • Admiring Scenic views • Beach lovers • Ramblers

Why it’s Special

Gladdings dam is commonly known as the highest beach in England. It is only accessible by a steep and scenic hike, so is perfect for those who like to combine their wild swim with an active walk.

How to Get There:

5. Hell Gill, Yorkshire Dales



Great For:

• Thrill seekers and extreme adventurers
• Rock climbers

Why it's Special

If you’re looking for impressive rock formations with a side of thrill, then you’ll love Hell Gill. Situated in the Yorkshire dales, hell hill is a deep gorge, shallow stream and a scenic waterfall. Hell Gill is not for beginners, and you’ll need some scrambling skills as well as a good selection of kit – ideally a wetsuit, rope and wet boots. While this wild swimming spot can provide a very rewarding and exhilarating experience, it can also be dangerous, especially in high water.

How to Get There:
hell gill waterfall

Waterfall on Hell Gill by John Darch is Licensed under C C BY-SA 2.0

Safe Wild Swimming in Winter:



When all the necessary precautions are taken, and you’re clued up on the wild swimming do’s and don’ts then it can be thrilling and fun, but if you choose to take risks and swim without the proper know how, you put yourself at extreme risk of injury or even death. If you’re brand new to the idea of wild swimming, please do your research and make sure you’re clued up on the latest health and safety advice from reliable sources such as the outdoor swimming society and wildswimming.co.uk.
 

Packing



Most wild swimming spots don’t offer convenient changing rooms or ample parking, and many require visitors to hike or pedal there before you can enjoy their natural beauty, after all this is wild swimming were talking about. So, since most wild swim spots don’t offer much in the way of accommodation, it’s important to pack smartly before your trip to ensure your own safety and comfort. Our range of Thule roof bars, Thule roof boxes and accessories will ensure your cargo is kept safe and secure on every journey.