Best hideaways for wild swimming

The Pilchard Shed, Cornwall

Nestled at the tip of the Roseland Peninsula in Cornwall, close to subtropical beaches, unspoilt landscapes, hidden creeks and magical coves, The Pilchard Shed sits just footsteps from the crystal clear waters of St Mawes Harbour. It’s a dream come true for those wishing to immerse themselves in a coastal haven, the definition of a small place with soul. Begin your day with a gentle stroll down to the harbour's edge, spend a moment in solitude and simply gaze out to the glistening ocean. Embrace a refreshing dip in the harbour and begin your day with a clear mind. After, make a steaming mug of tea, pick up some delicious fresh pastries from Da Bara Bakery and soak in the tranquillity…

Solas, The Scottish Highlands

Sleeping four, Solas is designed with families in mind. If you and your little ones seek adventure in nature, this is the hideaway for you. Just steps away from Loch Broom, this Highland hideout is perfectly positioned for wild water dips. Meander down to the water's edge and step into this calm loch. Surrounded by mesmerising mountain views, there’s nowhere quite as idyllic to plunge into crystal-clear water and let your worries float away. Loch Broom is also perfect for paddleboarding or kayaking, with many tours and hire companies nearby. Once you’ve had your cold water fix, retreat to your hidden haven and soak up the views from the decking. 

Shepherd's Delight, Devon

Nestled in woodland and perched beside its own private lake, Shepherd’s Delight is the perfect hideaway for wild swimmers! For those seeking wellness, why not enjoy a spot of yoga on the deck before embracing a cold water dip in the lake, followed by a session in the sauna? This little haven is idyllic for a solo getaway to nature, where you can spend time reconnecting with yourself and enjoying some self-care in a rural escape. The hut is also dog-friendly, so your beloved four-legged friend can join you on your adventure to the Devon countryside. 

The Surf Shack, Cornwall

For those who love the Cornish coast, look no further than our cliff-top retreat in the far west. The Surf Shack is perched above the sandy shores of stunning Sennen Cove, the perfect beach to catch some waves or go for a salty sea swim. Famous for its breathtaking sunsets, why not collect fish and chips to enjoy with the sand between your toes on an early summer's eve? Then, as the sun dips beyond the horizon and the sky transforms into a pastel palette of soft summer hues, take a refreshing dip in the water to end the day. After your ocean fix, venture back up the hill to your romantic, bohemian-style cabin, and drift into a sweet slumber with the sound of lapping waves as your background. 

Take a look at this blog by Bex, which covers her magical summer stay at The Surf Shack.

Y Berllan Hideaway, Pembrokeshire

Secluded in a magical forest glade, you won't believe you are just 200 metres from the seashore at this enchanting cabin. Perfect for a family getaway to beautiful Pembrokeshire, Y Berllan Hideaway ticks all the boxes for some much-needed time in nature. Cwm Yr Eglws, a sleepy cove hosting a lovely little beach, is just a short stroll from the hideaway. It really is postcard pretty, with lush green trees lining the water's edge. Spend blissful days soaking up golden rays, cooling off in the ocean and getting lost in a good book. And it doesn’t stop there; you’ll find an abundance of picture-perfect beaches dotted all around the Pembrokeshire coast, so you are sure to get your wild swimming fix!

Na Mara Bothy, Argyll and Bute

Our off-grid bothy offers wild swimming on the doorstep. Your own private beach sits just beneath this hideaway. Untouched sand and glassy waters await, so why not pack a picnic and spend the day in total seclusion, dipping in and out of the ocean as and when you please. Seals and even otters have been spotted along the shore, so look out for wildlife during your time at the beach. When you are ready to retreat to your beautiful bothy, you could light up the rustic outdoor bathtub and end your day with an alfresco dip under starlight. 

For inspiration on things to do and places to visit in and around Oban, have a read of what Rostia got up to during her stay at Na Mara Bothy. 

The Chalet on the Beach, Dorset

There’s nowhere closer to open water than The Chalet on the Beach. As the name suggests, this pocket-sized paradise is quite literally on the beach! From dawn to dusk, you can swim in the ocean, soak up the sunshine and simply embrace beach life. Lyme Regis is a special seaside town on the Jurassic Coast, with its quaint streets, independent shops and restaurants, and, of course, a beautiful beach. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect location for those wishing to escape the everyday and soak up life by sea for a little while. 

The Cider Camp, Herefordshire

Take a walk on the wild side at our family-friendly retreat just a short stroll away from the banks of the River Wye in Herefordshire. Complete with a lovingly restored oak shepherd’s hut and beautiful bell tent, The Cider Camp pays homage to a traditional style of glamping. It’s the perfect escape for those who love their swims to be well and truly wild, with private access to an idyllic spot by the river. Bredwardine Bridge is also a short drive away, and it's a popular and easy spot to swim in the river, with beaches and shallows for a tranquil paddle. Adventure seekers can head out on a longer swim under the bridge, where deep pools are revealed. You can climb out and dive back in! Return to The Cider Camp after a day on the river and freshen up in the open-air shower room. Rustle up a family feast in the outdoor kitchen, dine alfresco, then gather around the fire pit and share stories beside the warmth of the flickering flames. 

Pippin, Cornwall

Pretty Pippin… the sweetest escape from it all. Nestled in the corner of a grassy meadow, encompassed by beautiful trees, you won’t quite believe the view that stretches out in front of you. Picture glistening ocean vistas over Restronguet Creek towards the River Fal, a wonderful accompaniment to the lush green countryside that surrounds you. Peace and serenity are promised at Pippin; enjoy journalling in the meadow, delve into a good read in the dappled shade or head out for a wild, refreshing swim! You can venture down to Weir Beach in just a few minutes from the hut and embrace an early morning refresh. If you have a paddleboard or kayak, we highly recommend bringing them with you to explore the local area by water. The vibrant town of Falmouth is just around the corner, hosting an array of picturesque beaches with fine golden sand and tranquil waters, perfect for swimming. The only decision you have to make is which to venture to first?  

The Wrens Nest, Cumbria

Adventure seekers and romance dreamers, this hideaway is for you! Its name gives a clue to its peaceful surroundings; wildlife abounds, and the sound of birdsong fills the air. Not to mention it’s in the perfect location to explore the much-loved Lake District - a real gem for keen wild swimmers. Think vast lakes, hidden tarns, plunge pools and cascading falls… if this sounds like your idea of heaven, a retreat to The Wrens Nest is just the tonic. No trip is complete without a dip in Lake Windermere or Buttermere, but if you’re after a more secluded spot, head along to Crummock Water. There’s so much beauty to explore in Cumbria, but nothing quite beats taking the plunge and immersing yourself in cold water. The Wrens Nest is the perfect place to retreat to after a day full of adventures. Soak in the secluded wood-fired hot tub before getting snug inside your romantic hideaway.

Read all about Charlotte's stay at The Wrens Nest here. 

*Please take care on your adventures and always make sure you check the tides, are aware of currents and never go for a wild swim alone, especially in the winter. Take a look at Wild Swimming Cornwall’s blog ‘How to stay safe when wild swimming’ to find out more.

Explore our guide ‘The best wild swimming spots in the UK’ for more inspiration on places to stay near dreamy wild swimming locations.