Wild and outdoor swimming has recently increased in popularity, and for good reason. The health and wellbeing benefits of wild swimming and access to ‘blue spaces’ include increased feelings of connectedness to nature, increased feelings of relaxation and opportunities for positive social interactions. There is a large body of evidence that shows that immersion in nature is good for our mental health and blue spaces are an important part of this.
Blue spaces, like lakes, streams, rivers and oceans, can provide a welcome release from the constant comings and goings of every day life as well as being proven to lower the risk of stress, anxiety, obesity, cardiovascular disease and premature death.
However, there can also be significant barriers to accessing blue spaces such as safety and a lack of suitable locations. So, we thought we would make a list of safe to swim wild locations for you to get your blue space fix this summer.
Some of these locations offer family friendly slots, so they are a great opportunity to teach your kids about the benefits of wild swimming as well and the dangers and swimming techniques’ they can use.
In The Malverns
Wildwood UK
Wildwood is a lake, studio and outdoor spa in Leigh Sinton offering all sorts of wellness packages, events and swimming opportunities. As well as wild swimming (including family friendly slots) you can book onto paddleboarding, full moon swims or the full wellness package with natural swimming pool, hot tub, sauna and lounging space.
As if that wasn’t enough you can enjoy yoga, Pilates, personal training and sound baths in the beautiful surrounds of the lakeside.
Wildwood UKEscape to the Lake
A beautiful spring fed lake surrounded by wildflowers offering swimming, wild swimming acclimatisation classes as well as a woodfired sauna, yoga, sound baths, breathwork and creative seasonal workshops. Visitors describe the lake as ‘magical’ and they are open for swimming every day apart from Thursdays.
Escape to the lakeOrchard Holiday Park & Fishery
Near to Tenbury Wells, this site has a members only caravan standing, open to all camping field and you can book in for wild swimming in their lake – even if you aren’t a resident. Swimmers must be NOWCA members and book through the official app.
Orchard Holiday Park & FisheryPlaces to stay with wild swimming
Wagtail Retreat
Stylish shepheard’s huts with views of The Malvern Hills with a private swimming lake and its own vineyard.
Wagtail RetreatThe Lakehouse Malvern
This six bedroom luxury property has it all – including a large lake for water sports and swimming with great views of the Malvern Hills
The Lakehouse MalvernThe Freeth / The Hyde at The Netherwood Estate
Just outside Tenbury wells in the lush and verdant Teme Valley The Netherwood Estate offers two large holiday lets for families, groups and celebrations. Both properties have access to the estates two private lakes for swimming, kayaking or fishing.
Properties at the Netherwood estateTop Tips
To maximise safety there are sometimes a few things that have to be done before you enter the water. We have collated some of this information below however each location will have its own rules and processes, so make sure you consult their website fully before visiting.
Bands
Many swimming spots are members of programmes where swimmers wear a tracking band with their information whilst swimming. Watersedge, The Lenches, Escape to the Lake and Broadfields all use the Sports Guardian system which can usually be hired for a few pounds per trip or more committed swimmers can purchase their own online.
The system, used by Orchard holiday park is NOWCA and other locations may have their own system or not require a band.
Tow Floats
Tow floats are bright, inflatable buoys wild swimmers attach around their waists and are required by most paid for swimming locations. They act as a visibility aid and can offer a but of buoyancy if you need a rest during your swim. Usually these can als be hired at a small fee at the location but again keen swimmers can purchase their own.
Shoes / Attire
Most locations recommend shoes for ease of entering and avoiding the potential muddy squelch of the lakebed – but the are not usually required.
Some locations will have rules around dressing safely for winter swims so make sure to check the requirements before heading off.
Swimming Safety Advice from the RNIL
Make sure to read the correct safety advice before any water sports – here is the best advice direct from the RNLI
Further Afield
Lenches Lakes – Evesham
Croft Farm Water Park – Tewkesbury
Woodside Lodges Country Park LLP – Booking by Bookwhen – Ledbury
watersedge.club – Bishampton
Broadfields Wild Swimming and Wellbeing
Lakeside Adventures – Hartlebury
