Discover the best wild swim locations in the Lake District and Cumbria - river swims, lakes and waterfalls galore. Take the ferry to Howtown and follow the shore path a mile SW. Or take Howtown road from Pooley Bridge at N end of Ullswater; you will pass several beaches en route and Park Foot camping (CA10 2NA, 0176 84 86309) has lakeshore pitches. Top Spots for Wild Swimming - Coppermines The tarn is located along one of the best hiking paths to Scafell Pike the highest peak in the Lake District. Beautifully placed between Buttermere and Loweswater, Crummock Water is one of the lovely wild outdoor swimming spots. Take our map with you on your discovery of the amazing wild swimming in the Lake District. Lake District and Cumbria - Wild Swimming Park at the Blea Tarn car park between Little and Great Langdale Valleys. Skelwith Force might not be the biggest waterfall in the Lake District, but its both beautiful and powerful. In a lovely wooded section of the valley, the falls curve around the large boulders lining the river, creating atmospheric spots to unwind and go for a dip. 10 Amazing Amazing Wild Swim Spots in The Lake District If you feel the current is fine stay near the bank, as the water is usually slower moving. With rivers forming picturesque canyons,delightful babbling brooks and natural lagoon plunge pools,theres a wild swim in the Lake District for all tastes. 6 Peak District waterfalls with the wow factor - Holiday cottages For the more experienced there are different routes you can try as well as some brilliant guided swim tours that cover the full length of this great lake. The plunge pools and waterfalls make it perfect for adventurers and those keen on an alternative to lengthy sessions of front. BMK0DP Coniston Village and Coniston Old Man, The Lake District, Cumbria . The path continues to be flat and leisurely and 850m into the trail youll reach an old stone bridge. We used to talk about travelling the world together, and in 2012 we finally made that happen. How to use this map / Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. Best wild swimming in the Lake District for exploring this most beautiful and remote valley. Near the foot of the valley, the Esk River has cut canyons and pools in the rock creating three great pots to wild swim. We're Cat Smith and Joe Bird, two travel fanatics from the U.K. We both caught the travel bug on solo trips in 2003 and have been hopelessly addicted ever since. Lake District waterfalls map Lake District waterfalls Aira Force Location: Matterdale, Penrith CA11 0JY Grid Reference: NY 401209 Starting with perhaps the most famous waterfall in all of the Lakes, since the 18 th Century Aira Force has stood tall as one of the national park's tourist hotspots. But its worth the trip and one of our favourite things to do in the Lake District. The Lake District's most beautiful villages | House & Garden After buying a one way ticket to Istanbul we spent a year making our way through Asia before arriving in Australia, where we have been living ever since. A crisp air drifts from the nearby mountains, covering us in a reluctance to dive in the water. There's a 7-day free trial too, so you can access all of Great Britain anytime, anywhere. Sour Milk Ghyllmight be small, but its perfectly formed, and the setting is simply stunning. In our opinion, this is one of the Lake District's better waterfalls (although not as good as High Force in the Durham. Come with cobwebs and leave with clarity. We love the small canyon falls which only has a tiny plunge pool, but is incredibly atmospheric. But there is usually plenty of coming and going to find a spot. Chatsworth House, Bakewell, DE45 1PP. Located just outside Simonsbath, the best wild swimming near me, has to be past the Bluebell Wood to the secluded pools. So if you plan to take a dip in multiple lakes please rinse both yourself, your swimwearand any other equipment thoroughly between each swim. Whatever your motive, the UK has some stunning spots for wild swimming, from secluded rocky pools to unspoiled hillside lakes. Wild Swimming in the Lake District | Park Cliffe For more information about visiting the area, read our guide to the Langdale Valley. part of the Wild Swimming Walks series. All the details on the walk and what its like to swim there are in this guide. The only thing to watch out for is a little bit of boggy terrain, not to reach every pool, but to reach a couple of goodies. Park alongside the road just before the farm at Seathwaite, then walk for 1 hour and 45 minutes uphill. Situated only a stones throw from the picturesque town of Keswick, Derwentwater is a lake you can swim in the wild any time during the day and get spectacular views while enjoying the water. A pebble beach shelves down on one side of the pool into the crystal clear water and an oak tree overhangs. With these great wild swimming spots you can enjoy the cool natural waters while taking in the spectacular scenery that is all around you. What makes it unique is the little stone hut that sits in front of the falls. Sourmilk Gyll. Located off Ullswater, this deep water underneath an intimidating cliff can be enjoyed by jumpers and wild swimmers alike. The waterfall is easily accessible by trail and road. Lower down from Buckstones Jum, you will find an amazing swim location with a majestic waterfall. Close to the foot of England's highest mountain, Scafell Pike, a visit to Stanley Ghyll also offers a car-free method of arrival. However, the pool is small and best enjoyed with as few people as possible - which can be a challenge to achieve as its not a very long or difficult walk (although you do have a bit of a climb on a narrow track). Surrounded by hilly woodlands crisscrossed with jogging tracks, Rydal Water is the perfect place to get active in nature. The long narrow pool is just wide enough to swim up and down for about 50 meters. Please remember to take all rubbish with you and keep these places wild and pristine - as with anywhere in the outdoors. The pretty waterfall cascades into an emerald pool and its hard to believe such a lovely spot is both free to visit, and a mere five minute easy stroll. Today, Lubny is a large industrial and cultural centre. The closest car park to the trail head for Scale Force Waterfall is at the Buttermere Court Hotel - postcode CA13 9XA, its a pay and display car park. The path around the bridge is also boggy. A crucial question is always, what is the water temperature? There are no facilities at Blea Tarn, so pack your own picnic and thermos of coffee. Park at the car park at the top of the Foulstep Road just above Skelwith Bridge, then walk for 5 minutes down to the tarn. 15. Walk length: 2 miles (3.2km) returnDifficulty: Moderate. After 300m youll see a gate into the woods on the left. As the grot becomes more well known it will be harder to get it to yourself, so you might want to visit early or late if youre travelling in peak season or at the weekend. The walk to Scale Force is largely flat, but there is a climb towards the end. There are several small footholds, but even then, I had to take my boots off to feel comfortable going up. The car park has toilets which come with a 50p fee. With all the beauty of the lakes and wild natural swimming holes, there is something special about swimming in the wild near to, or even under a waterfall. Swimming is a fantastic exercise and when you can do it out in the open with such stunning scenery, it enhances the experience immensely. Its deep enough to dive in from the old dam wall, and small enough that it warms up nicely in the sunshine. Up in this beautiful place you may feel like you are the only person in the entire National Park. Wild Swimming | Luxury Lake District Hotel & Spa - Armathwaite Hall Walk length: 0.7 miles (1.2km) returnDifficulty: Easy. Every post from us in chronological order. Make sure that you are always aware of your surroundings. Make the Moat House Your Wild Swimming Base Jumping from the cliffs into the deep water below can give you a huge adrenalin rush. But dont let that put you off. 4 Be aware of the cold, hypothermia can come to you quickly. Wild swimming . Walk length: 1.4 miles (2.2km) return Difficulty: Easy. A great place for new swimmers is in Waterhead at Borrans Park. 48 Best Wild Swimming Near Me + Map - Sophie's Suitcase ULLSWATER LAKE (Lake District) - All You Need to Know - Tripadvisor Wild Swimming Italy: Discover the most beautiful rivers, lakes, waterfalls and hot springs of Italy, by Michele Tameni, is out on 12 May (Wild Things Publishing, 16.99). Unbelievably, despite it being located in Wasdale Head (the start of the trail to Scafell Pike and one of the busiest places in the Lake District) it hides in plain sight and remains something of an unknown. Swimming in the Lake District : Lake District National Park In the early morning, as the mist slowly drifts from the lake, Blea Tarn is lavished with a cache of serenity. Exposure Kamm/D-Shaped Seatpost Silicone Insert and Band for Boost R 5.00 The water cascades into a narrow mossy chasm and the walls are so high that no light can penetrate. If you are looking for freedom, stunning scenery, and the opportunity to explore the very best in wild swimming spots, then the only place to visit is the Lake District. Walk length: Five minutes each wayDifficulty: Easy. Discover a whispering waterfall, beyond an ancient stone bridge, tumbling amongst ferny rocks. Here we reveal some of our favourites. Ritson's Force is one of those magical places that makes you instantly grateful to be alive! Follow the nature trail through the park and woodland where you'll find dams, reservoirs, brooks and a series of very pretty waterfalls. The views are gorgeous, not just of the lake itself, but also the surrounding fells. The trail is now climbing up alongside the stream, its rocky, but not difficult. Its only 100m between the wooden bridge and the base of the upper falls, but its definitely not for everyone. Due to the depth of the lake it may be colder than others on our list so make sure that you wild swim in the correct gear. On each side sheer rock walls rise up, making the place famous for jumps. Our favourite views and photo spots in the Lake District, Explore the remote and rugged Lake District at the Langdale Pikes, Walk Scafell Pike via the Corridor Route for a top Lake District Hike, Find our favourite things to do in the Lake District, Conquer knife-edge ridges on the exhilarating walk up Blencathra, Our pick of the finest walks in the Lake District, Try these heart-pumping grade 1 Lake District scrambles, The best places to stay in the Lake District. Save Sort by : River Esk Falls. This takes around 15 mins. It sits underneath an old stone bridge and flows into a fern covered rocky chasm. Some car parks may charge and always check the specific lake before you swim. What a beautiful walk in the Langdale valley, whatever the weather the views are breathtaking. Sunbathe, swim, plunge and enjoy your surroundings up at Galleny Force. As the rock was nice and dry, it was easy to get up this bit as I was barefoot and it was grippy, but I wouldnt have felt as confident if it was wet. This fantastic little lake is an old reservoir above Coniston and a fabulous place to escape to. Prefer an infinity pool perched on top of a huge cliffside waterfall? Best places in Europe for wild swimming in 2022 - Lonely Planet The Lake District is an excellent destination for open water swimming. After crossing the bridge, youll see a cleft in the hillside on the trail ahead of you. Accessing the lower part of the falls is easy, but if you want to experience the upper falls, you need to scramble up several rocky areas, which well go into detail on below. If youre feeling brave you can take a dip in the icy waters beneath Scale Force. Unfortunately due to ongoing rockfall risk, the bottom of the falls is closed and therefore you can no longer swim here. With a waterfall to enjoy at one side and beautifully clear waters to indulge in taking a snorkel may also be a good idea. By mikeedeedee. 200 2 3 From fairytale falls that shoot through narrow canyons, to those with turquoise pools that wouldnt look out of place in Bali. The setting is dramatic and the crystal clear swimming hole at the base is easily one of my favourite places to take a dip in the Lakes. These are ideal places for enjoying a peaceful wild swim. This is crucial for your own safety. This high, craggy cliff beneath Hallin Fell plummets into deep water. There is limited free parking around the village of Buttermere, but it fills up very quickly on weekends and school holidays. The Lake District is a waterfall lovers dream. Park at the bottom of Hardknott Pass near Brotherinkeld Farm then walk up the Eskdale Valley. Sign up to our mailing list to get our free mini guide! In the sunshine, it would rival the prettiest turquoise water weve seen anywhere in the world. Stanley Gill Force - Image: Daniel Start//WildSwimming.com. If youre planning a trip to the Lake District, here are more of our guides to help you get the best out of this stunning part of England. Lake District Wild Camp Part 1 - Wild Swimming, Waterfalls, Summits & a These are the 14 best waterfalls in the Lake District: 1: Scale Force2: Whorneyside Force3: Rydal Grot4: Sour Milk Ghyll5: Stock Ghyll Force6: Chockstone Falls7: Fisher Gill Falls8: Aira Force9: Ritsons Force10: Stanley Ghyll Waterfall11: Coniston Secret Waterfall12: Skelwith Force13: Eskdale Waterfalls14: Warnscale Beck Falls, Walk length: 4.2 miles (6.8km) returnDifficulty: Moderate. Wild Swimming Spain: Discover the Most Beautiful Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Spain Discover over 150 magical places to swim and explore in Spain. With a shimmering chute falling 20m into a deep plunge pool, it's hidden in a mossy and verdant tropical-looking ravine reached by crossing several wooden bridges and some final scrambling along a slightly tricky path. But the shelving beach is on the far side (20 minute walk away from the car park), so it retains a slightly off-the-beaten-track feel. Waterfall walks and wild swims less than an hour from Stoke-on-Trent There is a little dam at the outflow of Blea Water . Packed full of activities, destinations and free things to do outside, the new GetOutside app makes it easy to organise an outdoor activity or a day out that your family will love. Dont let it put you off because its relatively short sections, but do wear shoes you dont mind getting wet. If you're looking for the best paddling and wild swimming Peak District locations, then grab your swimmers and a towel, and read on. The next part of the circuit has some much boggier ground. Cross the bridge and head through the gate, and then right. Like Buttermere, it is relatively small in comparison to other lakes, but well worth a visit if you fancy taking a dip. Its so dramatic and feels like youve entered a secret world - you just cant believe that metres away lies an open landscape of lakes and fells. There are plenty of hand and footholds to get down the steep dirt track, as well as tree roots for stability. Wild Swimming in the Lake District - 10 Best Hidden Spots Stanley Ghyll Waterfall is one of the most atmospheric in the Lake District. With spectacular ribbon lakes, rugged mountains and charming villages the range of activities on offer spans everything from afternoon scones to adventurous scrambles. It's also one of the smallest lakes in the National Park, and is popular because of its Wordsworth connections. The 10 best Wild Swim spots in the Lake District National PArk When the sun is shining there is no better place on earth to be. Rydal Water is a serene and peaceful place for open water swimming in the Lake District. If peace, quiet and beauty is what you are looking for then this is the place for you. There may be a walk involved in getting there, but the enjoyment afterwards will more than make up for it. Wastwater One of the most dramatic of all wild swimming spots, the impossibly photogenic Wastwater is England's deepest lake. Also, be aware of other users. Buckstones Jum 3 Stunning Waterfalls To Swim In 12. Wild Swimming The Lake District, Cumbria is one of the best places in the world for wild swimming. Mobile eTicket. The deepest of the lakes at over 250 feet deep, Wastwater also stretches for 3 miles in length and around mile wide with the Screes also making up one part of the shoreline. This is the hardest bit though, so once youve over that, there is nothing worse to come. The best spot to swim is just south of Countess Beck. It does get a little boggy the higher you climb though, even in summer. The walk to get there is also gorgeous, taking you alongside multiple cascades and through fabulous mossy woodland. Here you can enjoy wilder and shallower waters. This makes Eskdale a therapeutic isolated place for wild swimming in the Lake District. After your thoroughly adventurous swim, head back down to Seathwaite Farm along Grains Ghyll completing a day out in the Lake District that you wont forget in a hurry. You can find out more details on the track in Stanley Ghyll Waterfall guide. Wild Swimming in the Lake District | Fairy Pools & Lakes | Lifehop Dont be fooled by these initial excellent trail conditions, it deteriorates quickly! The fact there was no one else here at all during our visit in the August school holidays still has me perplexed! Another reason for its popularity is that it can be reached via such an easy well maintained trail. If you appreciate our content, here are some ways you can support us. High up in the mountains, the still water perfectly reflecting the impressive Langdale Pikes is one of the best views in the Lake District. The lake itself is around mile in width and 2 miles in length so you can use it to gain confidence or to let yourself go into nature. The best places to go wild swimming near waterfalls in the UK, from rivers in Cornwall to pools in National Parks in Yorkshire, the Lake District and Scotland If you are swimming alone ensure that someone knows of your plans before setting out. Around one hours walk away from Eskdale, you will find this beauty. You wouldnt want to do this after heavy rainfall (or during rain). The path above the campsite leads through the woods mile to find first set of pools, below on L, followed by the main pool after another 200m. Warning: There is a swimming section of this body of water known as the "nudists pool," as it is traditional to swim naked in the clear water that is naturally dammed above the falls. Now you have seen 17 of the very best wild swimming spots in the Lake District we hope that you will make the time to go and enjoy them. Where can I swim for free in the lake district?Any of the main lakes, tarns etc are all free to swim in. But if youre ready to channel your inner Wim Hof, then you probably wont find a more dramatic swimming spot. This stream has beautiful water to swim in wild through a breath-taking gorge. If you think you need to fly to a far off tropical destination to get your turquoise water fix, think again. Best for a chilly mountain dip. Located in the peaceful western side of The Lake District, Cumbria, the Stanley Ghyll Force waterfall plummets 60 feet into a secluded gorge. Its a popular location with hikers heading up to the summit of Helvellyn or boat lovers cruising on the Ullswater Steamer. Its a fabulous canyonesque waterfall that I never see anyone talk about which is pretty mind boggling. The best viewpoints in the Lake District - 12 easy to access locations. From rivers to lakes, quarries to natural dubs and pots - you'll never be far away from a sumptuous, soul-reviving freshwater wonderland in which to wallow. Behind the crag are peaceful woods to enjoy and there is a small beach that runs alongside the water. There's a National Trust car park just a short walk from the top of the falls. After a few minutes youll pass through a kissing gate, which is signposted for Scale Force. Mountaineer and wild swimmer Pete Kelly on his new book Wild Swimming Be aware that boats do use the lake as well so always swim with care. After a long hike, Loughrigg Tarn is the perfect place to relax tired limbs and unwind. 7 amazing public swimming lakes to wet your appetite, Frequently Asked Questions About Wild Swimming. Our favourite spot was the cave falls, but to be honest every cascade was breathtaking. Reaching the bottom of the falls is easy, and the walk is mainly flat and along a good path - almost to the pool itself. Please remember to take all rubbish with you and keep these places wild and pristine - as with anywhere in the outdoors. 0 reviews . Dash Falls. Best wild swimming in the Lake District for young kids and families. Scale Force: the Lake District's wild and mysterious gorge waterfall Following us on social media, using our resource page or buying us a coffee, helps keep Anywhere We Roam on the road. All the spots on this list are wild and have no safety measures in place. Wild Swimming in the Lake District: The Best Spots - Jennie Wanders With misty lakes, meandering rivers and hidden tarns, there are hundreds of places to wild swim in the Lake District. The brave can descend down to the pool for a dip in the cool waters. Its nice enough, but its not a patch on what lies beyond. Grasmere is situated in the heart of the Lake District National Park. The Peak District may be landlocked with a distinct lack of salty sea air, but there are some fantastic spots for a refreshing dip and paddle with the kids. Just make sure if you do jump, you jump with care. I say brave because the water is ice cold even in summer. Access into the water is easiest on the southeast side of the tarn. It plunges into a sheer ravine and the force of the water and dramatic scenery make for a mesmerising scene. Don't forget to check out Swim England's advice for open-water swimming before you go. The Best Places To Stay In The Lake District in 2023 Huge craggy mountains surround the water creating a dramatic atmosphere for a refreshing Lake District wild swim. With a campsite on its shores, this small lake is a perfect place to relax and enjoy a leisurely swim in the wild, while taking in the views all around. Its gorgeous at any time of year, but if youre visiting in autumn, youll be treated to some wonderful fall colours. Well and truly bitten by the bug. Wastwater is the deepest lake in the Lake District. Once youve soaked up the atmosphere, head back to the Langstrath Country Inn in Stonethwaite for a pint. Check for any regulations before hand such as specific areas or times first though. This is not the only infinity pool in the Lake District, but it is one of the most beautiful. This is an avid favourite among wild swimmers and you are sure to meet others here who are enjoying the water. Walk length: 2.6 miles (4.3km) returnDifficulty: Easy. Add to Wishlist. But, the natural and tranquil setting is full of the typically beautiful Lake District scenes. The water is clear, peaty and cold, flowing straight off the hills. The water temperature can fluctuate hugely depending on the time of year and can be significantly colder that the air temperature. Be inspired to do more and go further by equipping yourself with the best tools for the job. Although the track is generally in good condition, small parts of it can be boggy year round. Hypothermia from wild swimming is known and should be protected against. There is a steepish climb to get there, but it doesnt last too long and its more than worth it. We've rounded up the area's most beautiful villages, towns and hamlets ahead of your next northern getaway. You will still have to be aware of smaller craft like canoes and sailing boats, but your overall experience may be improved. As the lowest of three levels of the well-known McCloud River Falls, this is said to be the most popular swimming waterfall in the region and allows for 12-foot jumps into a large pool at the base. This is Waterfall Woods in the Brecon Beacons, a place where you'll find some of the most striking and awe-inspiring waterfall plunge pools. Wild Swimming. The water during the summer months is usually warmer than you would expect. With amazing scenery and history, Windermere is a fantastic wild open water swimming spot. If you told me I was in the Lake District, Id be gobsmacked. At the 1.3km mark, youll pass over a wooden bridge and after this point there are lots of little patches of water scattered along the track. As well as the main lakes, pools, and waterfalls there are also other stunning places to swim in wild in the Lake District. Read Next 15 stunning Lake District walks. The Lake District is a popular national park in northern England covering an area of 2,300 square kilometres. You cant swim in the pool, but its more than enough to simply sit and take in the idyllic scene. It may be small, but Rydal Water is still an amazing place to venture for a wild swim. However, early morning and sunset are personal favourites especially setting out from places like Ashness Jetty. Discover more great hidden places to go in the Lake District with The Wild Guide to the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales by Daniel Start. Waterfall Swim Adventure in the Lake District | Wild Swimming | Cold Its also the warmest swimming spot Ive been to in the Lakes so far! We couldnt believe it either, and yet even when we visited and the waterfall was in shadow, the water was still undeniably turquoise and absolutely exquisite. There are shallow spots on this list suitable for anyone, but others are very deep. Tongue Pot is a deep pool with high walls perfect for leaping into for a more expansive swim. 3 Do not swim in rivers with strong currents, there is a risk of being swept downstream. Mountain Goat Full Day Tour: Ten Lakes Tour of the Lake District (From 51.26) Ultimate Full-Day Lake District Tour: 10 Lakes, Amazing Scenery & Lake Cruise (From 125.64) 10 Lakes Winter Scenic Tour - Expert Guide - Photo Stops - Magnificent Locations (From 109.55) 8 Lakes and Magnificent Scenery - Afternoon Half Day Tour (From 55.28) The turquoise water is crystal clear and flows into a series of picture perfect swimming holes, its the stuff dreams are made of. 2023 - Walk My World. Head on up the valley for Black Moss pot where the brave dare each other to jump into a deep water-filled chasm. You can read more about the falls, as well as several other stunning waterfalls along the same track (which we havent listed in this article) here. 14 Incredible Lake District Waterfalls: wild swimming and hidden gems Add to Favorites. The lakes which do not have power boats or ferries include; Wastwater, Crummock Water, Buttermere and Rydal Water.