What is wild swimming and is it safe?

IN these hot temperatures, we need somewhere to cool off but unfortunately not all of us are lucky enough have a pool in our household.

That is why in the UK, you’ll find many people wild swimming – but you need to make sure you are doing it safely.

What is wild swimming?

Wild swimming is when people swim in natural waters such as lakes and rivers, which is a great alternative for those who do not have access to a pool.

It has become increasingly popular throughout the years, especially during rising temperatures.

You need to take great care as waters of lakes and rivers will be cold, so you need to allow your body to acclimatise so you can enjoy a refreshing swim.

However, wild swimming can take place in all seasons – even winter.

Is wild swimming safe?

Swimming outdoors is a great way to keep fit and you can also have some water activities there too.

Before heading for a wild swim it is important to do some research into water safety.

You’ll find many places that host water activities or games which follow many safety measures.

But be aware that you are still swimming in the unknown, especially when it comes to swimming in seas or oceans.

Try to be as safe as possible and do not take any unnecessary risk.

As well as letting your body become acclimatised to the temperature of the water, you need to check for any currents.

Throwing in a stick will let you see how fast the flow is.

Also make sure to pay attention to any warnings that the authorities may release about the swimming area, such as wind warnings, cleanliness of the area and maybe if there are any risk of dangerous creatures or excess of plants, such as weed, reeds and algae.

Check for any signs to indicate whether swimming is prohibited.

Do not dive or jump into any water if you don’t know how deep it is.

Make sure that you have a clear entry and exit point and never swim alone.

Also ensure that you keep close to the banks or shore.

Never swim in the sea where warning flags are in place or there are known rip tides.

Where can I go wild swimming near me

There are several places across the UK where you can go swimming and here we give you our recommendations.

Bryher, Isles of Scilly, England

This is a must-see location, located in South West of England and has several wild swimming spots.

You can find Stair Hole in Dorset, Mullion Cove in Cornwall and Salmon Leaps on the River Teign in Devon.

Kailpot Crag, Ullswater, Lake District

This is one of the most popular spots up in the north in Lake District.

While you’re there, you might also want to have a look at Lake Windermere and Linhope Spout.

The Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire, Wales

If you’re confident in deep waters, then the blue-green naturals waters of the Blue Lagoon are for you.

Along the coast line you can also find Traeth Llyfn and Penclegyr which you can swim through.

Miner’s Bridge, River Llugwy, Wales

This is considered as one of the best spots to swim in Wales as it has a stepped bridge surrounded by several pools.

It also has another hidden pool which offers some great opportunities for those who like diving.

Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye, Scotland

These pools are known to be a bit chilly considering that they’re surrounded by hills and rocks.

If you are not brave enough to swim in the cold temperatures of the Fairy Pool, it is still worth a visit to experience the impeccable scenes.

Achmelvich Beach, Sutherland, Scotland

Achmelvich Beach has a crystal blue sea along with a white sandy beach.

While you’re there you can also do snorkelling, rock pool fishing and maybe spot some dolphins.

Murlough Bay, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

This is a great location for a wild swim in Northern Ireland.

Not only that, but if you spend the day there, you will get to see a great scenery of the sunset and you can also do some birdwatching.

Muckross Bay, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland

This is a very quiet, tranquil area and you can enjoy a great day with the family, or with your friends or a loved one here.

The council uses this spot to also hold swimming safety courses and the Muckross Lake Swim is also held here.

The gives pointers on places to go and how to stay safe.