7 Wild Swimming Spots Every Explorer Needs to Visit in 2025
8th May 25
With 7.5 million people venturing into the UK’s lakes, lochs, and lagoons each year, Rydale has ranked the country’s top wild swimming locations for a cold-water dip this summer.
The hype around wild swimming continues to surge, with well over one-tenth of the population putting on a brave face to endure a cold dip every year. Wild swimming improves mental health, reduces stress, and aids sleep. However, one problem still stumps many adventurers: where to go wild swimming.
From crystal-clear coastal waters to serene mountain pools, Rydale, a Yorkshire-born country clothing brand, has researched and compiled a list of 7 breathtaking wild swimming locations in the UK. Based on extensive online data, each area has been rated relatively from one to ten (one being unsatisfactory, ten being excellent) for aesthetic appeal, overall safety, and water cleanliness.
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2025’s Best Wild Swimming Spots
| Position | Location | Key Features | Aesthetic Appeal | Safety | Water Cleanliness |
| 1 | Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire (Wales) | Bordered by dramatic cliffs | 9/10 | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| 2 | Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye (Scotland) | Natural underwater stone arch | 10/10 | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| 3 | Pool Bridge Farm, York (North Yorkshire) | 3 tranquil lakes to explore | 9/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| 4 | Derwentwater, Keswick (The Lake District) | 3 miles of water to explore | 9/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| 5 | Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire (Wales) | Former quarry location | 9/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| 6 | Watkins Pools, Snowdonia National Park (Wales) | Crystal clear turquoise waters | 9/10 | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| 7 | Salmon Leaps, River Teign (Devon) | Three plunge pools with mini waterfalls | 8/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 |
1. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire (Wales)
The Irish Sea’s crystal-clear turquoise waters make Barafundle Bay a secluded spot nestled between stunning green cliffs, perfect for an invigorating swim.
2. Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye (Scotland)
Sitting beneath the Black Cuillin mountains, swimmers will navigate magical lagoons, cascading waterfalls, and a mesmerising underwater stone arch, immersing themselves in remarkably refreshing, pristine waters surrounded by heather-clad landscapes.
3. Pool Bridge Farm, York (North Yorkshire)
A family-run location on the outskirts of York, Pool Bridge Farm consists of three idyllic lakes, each promising a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
4. Derwentwater, Keswick (The Lake District)
Spanning 3 miles in length, Derwentwater offers wild swimmers a new experience every time with several access points, four picturesque islands, and The Lake District’s iconic majestic mountains surrounding the water.
5. Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire (Wales)
A mesmerising former slate quarry, Blue Lagoon in Pembrokeshire, provides a sheltered swimming experience with the potential for exhilarating cliff jumps.
6. Watkins Pools, Snowdonia National Park (Wales)
Hiding amid rugged mountain terrain and enchanting woodland scenery, visiting Watkins Pools for a quick dip provides a breathtaking cold-water experience in a serene, remote setting.
7. Salmon Leaps, River Teign (Devon)
Nestled beneath Castle Drogo, the Salmon Leaps on the River Teign offers wild swimmers a chance to immerse in nature’s jacuzzi, with multiple cascades rapidly plummeting into deep plunge pools.
Rydale’s Communications Specialist, Laura Forsyth, commented on the report: “Our mission was simple: to find the UK’s most captivating wild swimming locations so adventurers can relish the thrill of a cold-water dip in safe and stunning settings.”
Visit Rydale.com for outdoor gear designed to complement any outdoor adventure.
About Rydale Country Clothing
Overflowing with rural heritage, Rydale Clothing specialises in quality country gear designed in-house in the East Riding of Yorkshire. Comprising a team of outdoor lovers, they know a thing or two about getting outdoors—and even more about how to get kitted out for the best adventure every time.
Has this article piqued your interest? Want to know more about wild swimming? Read our article The Benefits of Wild Swimming to discover more.
Take a look at our Outdoor collection for all things swimming, whether that’s in the wild or the pool.
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