From moorland plunge pools to sea coves with turquoise water, the South West is one of the best regions in the UK for wild swimming. Here are ten stunning spots to dive into, with details on how to find them and what to expect when you get there.
1. Warleigh Weir, River Avon, Somerset
Warleigh Weir is a favourite among locals and students, this stretch of the Avon offers a peaceful, leafy setting and a deep, wide pool below a photogenic weir. There’s a field for lounging and picnics nearby, and on warm days it has a lively but laid-back atmosphere.
How to find it:
Park at Ferry Lane in Claverton (near Bath) and walk across the railway footbridge to reach the weir. It’s about 10 minutes on foot from the car park.
Facilities:
No toilets, bins, or cafés. Bring everything with you and take all rubbish home. The nearest amenities are in Bath (15 minutes by car).
2. Sharrah Pool, River Dart, Devon
Hidden in the woods of Dartmoor National Park, this long, clear pool is a magical spot for confident swimmers. Expect a good walk through Holne Woods to reach it, but you’ll be rewarded with cool, clean water and forest serenity.
How to find it:
Park at Newbridge car park (TQ13 7NT) and follow the footpath through Holne Woods for around 45 minutes. The path can be muddy and uneven.
Facilities:
None at the pool itself. The area is remote with limited phone signal. Public toilets and a tearoom can be found in the village of Holne.
3. Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall
A crescent of white sand and turquoise waters, Porthcurno Beach is one of Cornwall’s most striking wild swim spots. It’s also backed by granite cliffs and overlooked by the Minack Theatre. Calm on the right day, but swells can roll in – always check conditions.
How to find it:
Follow signs to Porthcurno from the B3283 near St Buryan. A car park is located just up the hill from the beach, around a 5-minute walk down.
Facilities:
Toilets, a seasonal café, lifeguards in summer, and the Telegraph Museum are all nearby. Be aware of changing tides and steep coastal paths.
4. Landacre Bridge, River Barle, Exmoor
Tucked into the hills of Exmoor, Landacre Bridge offers a peaceful stretch of the River Barle with shallow runs, grassy banks, and deeper pools for a proper swim. The setting is classic moorland: big skies, sheep-dotted hills, and the occasional heron gliding by. It’s a quieter spot than Tarr Steps, ideal for those seeking a gentler, more secluded swim.
How to find it:
Follow signs from Withypool along minor roads to Landacre Bridge (postcode TA24 7SD gets you close). There’s limited parking on the roadside near the bridge.
Facilities:
No facilities at the bridge itself. The nearest toilets and places to eat are in Withypool, where there’s also a shop and tearoom. Mobile signal is limited, so download directions in advance.
5. River Frome, Farleigh Hungerford, Somerset
This stretch of the Frome is home to Farleigh and District Swimming Club – one of the oldest river swimming clubs in Britain. It’s ideal for families, with ladders, platforms, and a welcoming atmosphere.
How to find it:
Access via Farleigh Hungerford on the A366. Park at the club site (BA2 7RS), where you can pay for day membership during the summer.
Facilities:
Designated swimming area with toilets, parking, and entry ladders. Pubs and shops are available nearby in Trowbridge and Bradford-on-Avon.
6. Bude Sea Pool, North Cornwall
Part-natural, part-manmade, this tidal sea pool is a safe way to experience sea swimming with a barrier against the surf. Popular with locals and visitors, especially at low tide. No wetsuit needed on a sunny day.
How to find it:
Located on Summerleaze Beach in Bude. Paid parking available at Crooklets Road or the beach car park, both within walking distance.
Facilities:
Toilets, cafés, and lifeguards in summer. The town centre is a 10-minute walk with plenty of places to eat, shop, and shelter.
7. Lantic Bay, Cornwall
A secluded cove with clear water and a steep path down, Lantic Bay feels like a Mediterranean escape on a calm day. It’s not lifeguarded and can have strong currents – better for confident swimmers.
How to find it:
Park at the National Trust car park at Triggabrowne (PL23 1NP). A well-marked path leads down to the beach in about 20 minutes.
Facilities:
None at the bay. Nearest facilities including toilets and food are in Polruan or Fowey. Good walking shoes and water are essential.
8. River Barle, Tarr Steps, Exmoor
A river swim with history. Below the ancient clapper bridge at Tarr Steps, the River Barle flows through oak woods and Exmoor meadows. Shallow paddling spots and deeper pools upstream make it suitable for all levels.
How to find it:
Signposted from the B3223. A car park is located above Tarr Steps (TA22 9PY) with a short walk down to the river and stone bridge.
Facilities:
Toilets at the car park, and the Tarr Farm Inn nearby offers food and drink. Picnic tables and open grassland make it a popular family spot.
9. Wiveliscombe Lido, Somerset
Not strictly wild, but this charming outdoor pool is fed by spring water and retains an old-school charm. It’s a great backup if the rivers are swollen and offers a safe place for a refreshing plunge.
How to find it:
On the edge of town at West Road (TA4 2ND), just off the B3227. Free parking is available nearby.
Facilities:
Toilets, changing rooms, showers, and a small café. Open seasonally, with booking advised during peak summer weeks.
10. Mupe Bay, Dorset
A hidden cove east of Lulworth Cove, reachable only on foot when the Lulworth Ranges are open. Mupe Bay has dramatic cliffs, clear water, and fewer crowds. The approach is a bit of an adventure – but worth every step.
How to find it:
Start at the Lulworth Cove car park (BH20 5RQ). Walk east along the coast path for around 45 minutes. Check MOD range opening times before you go.
Facilities:
No facilities at the bay. Toilets, cafés, and shops are all available at Lulworth Cove. Bring your own supplies and check tide times.
