The best wild swimming spots in the UK

Penned on the 28th September 2023

For us, nothing can soothe the soul like a cold water dip somewhere beautiful. Whether in the open ocean, a tidal pool, a lake or a river, taking the plunge and immersing ourselves in the elements awakens magic within us! As we move into autumn, the sea temperature is now at its warmest and those special 'hidden gems' we seek become a little quieter. It's time to seize the last of the fair weather days and how better to embrace the new season, than from the water.

Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire

Where to stay: Officer's Mess

Left image of quirky accomodation in Pembrokeshire hot a hot tub, right image of the Blue Lagoon in Pemrbokeshire.

Famous for its aquatic blue tones, the Blue Lagoon is located next to Abereiddy Beach in Pembrokeshire and makes for an enchanting swim spot, especially at sunset. The Officers' Mess is around 20 minutes away and boasts quaint and cosy charm. After your invigorating ocean experience, why not warm up with a mug of hot chocolate and soak in the heavenly hot tub?

Glenridden Beck, Cumbria

Where to stay: Tawny Owl Treehouse

Left image of the interiors of a treehouse in Cumbria, right image of the natural landscape of the Lake District

One of the most awe-inspiring locations in the UK to experience wild swimming is the Lake District. Settled just a stone's throw from the national park is the wonderfully rustic Tawny Owl Treehouse. This hideaway is located close to the spellbinding Glenridding Beck; a tucked-away rocky lagoon, nestled amongst trees and fed by a small waterfall. After your swim, enjoy a soak in the outdoor bathtub.

Golitha Falls, Cornwall

Where to stay: Shepherd's Rest

Left image of a shepherd's hut in Cornwall by a lake, right image of wild swimmer at Glothia Falls Cornwall

Not far from picturesque Shepherd's Rest, a dog-friendly lake-side glamping abode in the heart of Cornwall, you will find Draynes Woods. Home to the majestic Golitha Falls, this section of the River Fowey cascades through the woodland, creating waterfalls and idyllic dipping pools along the way. With an abundance of flora and fauna surrounding, you feel as if you are living in a fairytale.

Foggintor Quarry, Devon

Where to stay: Nellie's Nook

Left image of a shepherd's hut with outdoor bathtub near Dartmoor, right image of Foggintor Quarry

Dartmoor, renowned for its hiking routes and hidden wild swimming spots, is perfect for a getaway. We have several hideaways in this part of the world, such as Nellie's Nook. Foggintor Quarry is around half an hour from this sweet shepherd's hut and is great for beginners, as the water is warmer than most locations in the UK. It's almost like a giant outdoor swimming pool, but natural, peaceful and undoubtedly a little colder.

Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight

Where to stay: Lazydays Hideaway

Left image of a yurt on the Isle of Wight with sea views, right image of Freshwater Bay

Tucked away on the magical Isle of Wight is where you will find Lazydays Hideaway, a family-friendly yurt, with sparkling sea views and a beautiful outdoor bathtub. Just a seven-minute walk from Ventor Beach, morning sea swims are promised and if you fancy venturing further afield, the postcard-pretty shores of Freshwater Bay are only half an hour away.

Penmancho Bridge, Conwy

Where to stay: Cwt Elsi

Left image of two cabins in Snowdonia National Park, right image of Penmanhco Bridge, image taken by 'Oh What a Knight'

Snowdonia National Park is one of the best areas in Wales for adventure dreamers. Cwt Elsi, our wood-clad cabin with a bubbling hot tub is an idyllic hideaway for exploring this area. Penmancho Bridge is around a 20-minute drive away, where crystal-clear waters flow beneath the ancient, vine-covered bridge. With a number of plunge pools easily accessible from the shoreline, it's perfect for a cold water dunk.

Grebe Beach, Cornwall

Where to stay: Little Jenny Wren

Left image of the interiors of a cosy cabin in Cornwall, right arial view of the Helford

For those dreaming of calm waters, swimming beneath the canopies of the Helford’s ancient oak trees can’t be beaten. Grebe is known as a popular wild swimming spot in Cornwall, due to its peaceful waters and strong swimming community. For the perfect place to stay nearby, take a look at Jenny Wren, our pretty little cabin with a warming wood burner, nestled on a working farm and boasting countryside views.

Lugg Meadows, Herefordshire

Where to stay: Mrs Higgs

Left image of Mrs Higgs in Herefordshire, right image of wild swimmer under water

If you seek a longer swim, Lugg Meadows in Herefordshire is the place for you. The meandering River Lugg winds itself through the large grassy meadow, so the backdrop to your dip is truly idyllic. After taking the plunge, warm up with a picnic of tea and cake and snuggle in under a blanket. Only 20 minutes from this picturesque spot is Mrs Higgs, our off-grid quirky cottage with a wood-fired hot tub, sleeping up to four lucky guests.

The River Dart, Devon

Where to stay: Bowhay Shepherd's Hut

Left image of shepherd's hut in Totnes, right image of wild swimmer on Dartmoor

Just a stone's throw from the eclectic town of Totnes in south Devon is Bowhay Shepherd's Hut, our romantic hideaway with a heavenly hot tub and warming wood burner. The River Dart runs through Totnes' town centre, and just away from the laid-back hustle and bustle is a fantastic swim spot. The river bank just above the weir has easy access for hopping in and out of, so if you are feeling adventurous, be sure to dive in here.

Take a look at our guide 'Best hideaways for wild swimming', for more inspiration on places to stay near stunning natural swim spots.

*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.