Wild Swimming in the Lakes

Discover our favourite wild swimming spots in the Lakes

Loughrigg Tarn

Outdoor swimming during the past year has seen a huge surge in popularity. There is something amazing about getting submerged in natural waters, and of course, the Lake District is the perfect place to enjoy it.

We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite places to give it a go. We’d recommend never swimming alone, or at least letting someone know where you are going. Get yourself well kitted out with footwear and swimwear – even if you don’t use a wetsuit – footwear will protect you from rocks and reeds. The bright orange inflatable buoys are great too for spotting where you are, and also to rest on if you need to have a breather. Take a towel and warm clothing for afterwards and wash yourself and your kit when you get home.

Windermere The longest lake in the Lake District, and home to huge swimming events like the Great North Swim. Be aware of the boats and ferries on the lake, so if you stay close to shore, you should be fine. Fell Foot Park has a natural ‘beach’ for easy shallow entry into the water, as does Borrans Park at the Ambleside end.

Rydal Water This beautiful small lake sits next to White Moss Car Park, from where you can walk through the woodlands to the southern end of the lake. Much quieter than Windermere, you’ll only see rowing boats or paddleboards on here. Nearby is Grasmere and the village, as well as the Badger Bar, for lots of choices for hot drinks and cake after your swim. Derwentwater Another one of our larger lakes, with breathtaking views right down to the ‘Jaws of Borrowdale’. Get in the water from Ashness jetty, or one of the other jetties dotted around, and Crow Park is a large open green space, ideal for a picnic and to come back to after your swim. Keswick itself is crammed with cafés and pubs so lots of choices to eat after you’ve worked up an appetite.

Ullswater Another beautiful lake sitting below Helvellyn and Aira Force and home to the iconic Ullswater Steamers. Lots of places where you can get in the water – some laybys on the road round are ideally placed and you can almost park up and get into the lake. Lots of choices to eat around Glenridding and Pooley Bridge too.

Loughrigg Tarn This beautiful small tarn sits under the skyline of the Langdale Pikes. A lovely quiet spot with no boats or craft. It’s just a short walk from the road to the shoreline.