A Guide to Wild Swimming in the UK (and Spots to See via Campervan)

[Image source: Deposit photos]

Wild swimming has become incredibly popular in the UK in recent years. Thousands now find the rush of natural waters invigorating, and while the UK has historically not been known for that kind of activity, we can attribute this growing trend to the increasingly hot summers we’ve seen recently.

If you appreciate wild swimming, and also happen to have an enthusiasm for exploring the great outdoors in a campervan, read on. Maybe you’re planning your next adventure, picturing yourself waking up beside a secluded, quiet, and clear river, and stepping straight in before coffee and breakfast. If so, you may be intrigued by what we’ve compiled below.

What is wild swimming?

Firstly, it’s important to establish what we mean when we say wild swimming. This refers to swimming in natural outdoor waters like lakes, tarns, rivers, bays, and the like, as opposed to chlorinated commercial pools in controlled environments.

The UK houses an abundance of wild swimming spots, from secluded beaches and winding rivers in the South West and tarns nestled in the depths of the Lake District. Wild swimming offers much-needed relief when the summer sun reaches its peak, allowing you to cool off and refresh in a pristine, nature-centred environment. It’s also garnered a positive reputation for being therapeutic, influenced largely by cold water therapy. 

Award-winning pool manufacturer and contractor Compass Pools confirm that cold water exposure can boost immunity, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and offer a wealth of mental health benefits. Therefore, if you’re considering wild swimming for the first time, you could be doing your body and mind a big favour.

Top tips for wild swimming

If you’ve never been wild swimming before, take these tips on board:

• Check water quality first using tools like Swimfo. Make sure that you can safely swim in the water without affecting your health. 

• Avoid swimming 48 hours after heavy rain. Pollution and run-off can make certain swimming spots riskier.

• Allow your body to acclimatise to cold water slowly.

• Don’t swim alone if you can help it, especially at night.

• Wear appropriate gear. A wetsuit helps maintain body temperature and prevents the risk of hypothermia.

• Only enter waters that are deep enough for your swimming ability.

• Ensure you have an easy, safe route back to dry land.

• Always avoid nature reserves and protected areas.

Why wild swim when on a campervan holiday?

• Your campervan allows you to discover niche, secluded swimming spots away from busy beaches.

• After a night in the van, you can wake up and be immediately surrounded by your chosen spot, with all your essentials immediately to hand, and no need to carry everything.

• Campervans give you the flexibility and mobility to find a spot that’s ideal, based on current weather conditions.

• Travel between swimming spots across your planned route without the hassle of paying for traditional accommodation and unnecessary commutes.

Best wild swimming spots in the UK

Buttermere, Lake District 

This lake offers stunning mountain views and relatively easy campervan access via the B5289. Park in Buttermere village and enjoy a short walk to crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic fells.

River Dart, Devon 

Near Buckfastleigh, the Dart provides excellent river swimming with deep pools and gentle currents. Several campervan-friendly car parks offer easy access, and the charming market town is just a stone’s throw away.

Seven Sisters Pools, Sussex

Located near Birling Gap, these natural rock pools fill with seawater at high tide. The nearby car park accommodates campervans, and the chalk cliffs offer sufficient wind protection.

Tarr Steps, Exmoor 

This ancient clapper bridge crosses the River Barle, creating perfect swimming pools downstream. The medieval bridge nearby is a stunning background piece for photos of your trip.

Fairy Pools, Skye 

While requiring a moderate hike, these crystal-clear mountain pools are accessible from campervan parking at the base. The dramatic Highland scenery at the top is well worth the effort, though.

You can find hundreds of recommended swimming spots across the country on various online resources, like the Wild Open Water Swimming App.  

Combining a campervan adventure with wild swimming breaks lets you experience the great British outdoors at its finest and enjoy the thrills of camping as you explore new places. Whether you’re after the highs of the mountains, the intimacy of the woodlands, or a coastal escape, your campervan lets you see some of the UK’s most spectacular natural swimming locations with ease.