WILD SWIMMING

By Noor Sheikh

With everyone still being on the ‘new year, new me’ kick, we thought it might be handy to add a couple of wild swimming spots to your list of new activities. Cold-water swimming being beneficial for the body is no secret, and we’ve all seen our fair share of people going for their midwinter swim, but there’s more to it than just the sea. We’ve compiled a list of peaceful places you can go for a quick dip as the weather warms up.

Starting off with a Sussex favourite, Barcombe Mills is a great area for anyone who is starting to take an interest in wild swimming. Surrounded by fields and meadows, it is thought of as somewhat of a sanctuary by its frequent visitors. The water is some of the best quality for outdoor swimming in Sussex, and the area is completely accessible with a car park nearby, which makes it ideal for a family day out.

Another spot for beginners in wild swimming, Cuckmere Meanders are a surprisingly warm cluster of lakes and streams just off the main River Cuck. Cuckmere Meanders also has quite clear waters, meaning the wildlife in the lakes is visible to swimmers. Going towards the sea, you’ll approach Cuckmere Haven, where the water becomes chalkier, but not to worry, as Cuckmere Haven is a superb spot for a quiet beach swim, especially if you’re missing the open water but can’t stand the busyness of Brighton Beach. For the more adventurous swimmer, the River Cuck and its slightly stronger currents are sure to give you a bit of a challenge.

At Houghton Bridge, you’ll find swimmers in the idyllic rivers that run through the vast meadows, and the area itself is filled with other activities. Another family friendly day out, Houghton Bridge has multiple streams to explore and a huge amount of space, so no one is at risk of getting bored. If you want to make the most of your trip, visit the tea rooms which make the perfect addition to the quaint wildlife scene.

Going up to 15 feet deep, the edges of Waller’s Haven are surrounded by reeds and marshy ground, so this might be better reserved for the more experienced swimmers. The river is notoriously awkward to get in and out of, but don’t let that stop you from attempting it. It is recommended that swimmers go in groups, just to stay on the safe side, but once you arrive, the tranquillity of the area is sure to put you at ease. The high quality of water at Waller’s Haven will make for a very easy swim once you’ve made your way in.

For those who want to be in the environment for a wild swim but aren’t quite sure they’re ready to swim in natural waters, Pells Pool in Lewes might be worth a visit. It may not be wild swimming, per se, but it is the oldest freshwater pool in the United Kingdom. Located in a lawn lined with trees, you’ll feel close to nature, a close second to real wild swimming. The spring-fed pool is only heated by the sun, so if you’re looking to feel the sensation of swimming in open water, this is a noteworthy option.

If you’re even opposed to a freshwater swimming pool and want to stay close to the city centre, a brand-new pool development is coming to the Brighton Seafront. Due to open this Spring, Sea Lanes will be home to a heated outdoor pool, gym and indoor studios, as well as an indoor pool.

Sussex is full of serene areas that are absolutely perfect for wild swimming, so if the chaos of Brighton Beach is daunting to you, think about making a short trip to any of these spots.