Wild swimming has become an increasingly popular activity in recent months as the UK eased coronavirus restrictions.
The activity involves people immersing themselves in natural bodies of water such as lakes and rivers while swimmers are exposed to the cold and the thrill of an outdoor pool.
Here, the experts at LeaseCar.uk have looked at the best places across the UK to take a swim, which are just a short drive away.
Swimming is not allowed in all natural waters, so it is recommended that you inquire about destinations before traveling.
It is also recommended to check the temperature and objects such as rocks and other debris that could pose a hazard to swimmers before entering the body of water.
A spokesman for LeaseCar.uk said, “With more Brits staying in the UK this summer, wild swimming is another activity to try and one that you may not be surrounded by hundreds of other people.
“You can take some really nice trips to these seaside resorts that will make you feel like you are abroad. It’s the perfect day trip, especially when the weather is scorching.
Blue Lagoon
(Image: PA)
“Wild swimming is a great way to be outside and be surrounded by nature. Even if it’s something you’ve never done before, it can be a really great and different experience. “
Here are the best places to swim in the wild on LeaseCar.uk:
The Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire, Wales
The Blue Lagoon has beautiful blue-green water that is peaceful and calm. The water here is a little deeper, so this spot is definitely one for the confident swimmer. Other great places in Wales include Waterfall Woods in the Brecon Beacons and Llyn Glaslyn in Snowdonia.
Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye, Scotland
Surrounded by beautiful hills and rocks are the cool crystal clear fairy pools, which are known to be quite cold. Even if you don’t have the courage to face the cold temperatures, the Fairy Pools are still a beautiful sight. Also try Loch Ness and Achmelvich Beach for other wild swimming spots.
Murlough Bay, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
Not only is this place great for a wild swim, it’s also a great place for those who love bird watching. It’s also a breathtaking place to watch the sun go down.
Kailpot Crag, Ullswater, Lake District
The Lake District is a very popular spot and has plenty of places to swim. Kailpot Crag is one of the best with the little cliffs perfect for diving into the cool water. Lake Windermere and Linhope Spout are also worth a visit.
The Grantchester Meadows, Cambridgeshire
If you love greenery, this is your favorite place for a wild swim. The beautiful meadows are the perfect picnic spot after a swim in the water.
Grantchester meadows
(Image: PA)
Stainforth Force, North Yorkshire
Another great spot for picnics is Stainforth Force, which has long river basins that give you plenty of space if you are swimming wildly. Other wild seaside resorts nearby include Janet’s Foss in Malham and Lumb Falls in West Yorkshire.
River Derwent, Chatsworth House, Derbyshire?
A wild swim here on the River Derwent also gives you great views of Chatsworth Parkland, making it a great place for those in the inland Midlands who don’t want to travel too far.
Bryher, Isles of Scilly, England
Bryher gives you the best of both worlds, not only can you enjoy the beautiful blue waves but also peaceful sandy beaches which definitely make this wild seaside resort a must see. The southwest has numerous other wild bathing spots to enjoy. These include Stair Hole in Dorset, Mullion Cove in Cornwall and Salmon Leaps on the River Teign in Devon.
River Thames, Pangbourne, Berkshire?
The name of this place is easy to put off, but don’t worry, you won’t be swimming directly in the Thames. This place leads into the countryside, where it is much quieter and the water is cleaner.
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