Today is anticipated to be the hottest May Bank Holiday on record, with temperatures forecast to climb as high as 34C. This extreme heat has sparked a common desire among Britons: to venture outdoors and, ideally, discover a way to cool down.
Enter wild swimming walks, an ideal method to immerse oneself in nature and locate natural pools, lakes, and beaches for a refreshing dip. Venturing off the beaten path to find wild waters to cool off in is the perfect way to spend the bank holiday, and the UK boasts some magnificent trails and waters to explore.
These spots are featured in the new book Wild Swimming Walks, including the Thames and West of London edition by Margaret Dickinson and Phillip Nice, and one dedicated to Norfolk and Suffolk by Eve Stebbing. Both are published by Wild Things Publishing and are available for purchase now.
Here is a rundown of some of the best routes from both books for you to consider.
Thames and West London
Buscot and Kelmscott Circular
The five-mile Buscot and Kelmscott Circular swim-walk takes you through fields of greenery, resembling a work of art. It even has artistic credentials, as it passes the country home of famous designer William Morris. Buscot National Trust is the starting point, and the walk leads you past Kelmscott Manor, which features many furniture items and fabrics designed by Morris himself. The village of Buscot is a standout spot, with a church dating back to 1200, while Buscot Weir pool provides an excellent location for a quick dip.
Shillingford to Dorchester-on-Thames
Swimming spots are at their best on the Shillingford to Dorchester-on-Thames walk. You can choose between an eight-mile or six-mile route, easily accessible from London, Reading, and Oxford. The journey takes you through Shillingford village, past a swim near Shillingford Bridge, an Iron Age fort, and Little Wittenham. Dorchester-on-Thames is the real highlight, having served as the backdrop for several episodes of the TV show Midsomer Murders.
Bursledon to Hamble
Yachts, ferries, and waterways mark the walk from Bursledon to Hamble. This nine-mile walk (which can be shortened to just under three miles) takes you through elegant marinas and harbours. Enjoy RHCP swimming spots, once the site of a Second World War landing craft training base, as well as many others along the way, plus the Royal Victoria Country Park. Shingle could make the waters uncomfortable to walk through, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Winchester to Eastleigh: The Itchen Navigation
Along the walk from Winchester to Eastleigh, you will find the Itchen Navigation, formerly a canal, now home to a famous swimming spot at Compton Lock. While signs nearby suggest it is unsafe to swim, it remains a popular activity among locals and visitors. Other highlights include Winchester Great Hall and Westgate Museum, Winchester Cathedral, City Mill, the Old Bishops' Palace, the Hospital of St Cross, and Brambridge Park garden centre cafe for a quick bite.
Frensham Ponds Circular
The Frensham Ponds Circular is a family-friendly route with clear waters and designated swimming areas, perfect for a hot day. Frensham Great and Little Ponds are key landmarks on this Surrey walk, with outdoor cafes available at both. Frensham Common at the end of the route is an important habitat for insects, reptiles, certain snakes, and birds, ideal for wildlife lovers to observe.
Norfolk and Suffolk
The Waveney at Outney Common
The walk in Bungay passing Outney Common and Falcon Meadow is a delight, with its highlight being the River Waveney, a meandering river offering a multitude of swimming spots along the way. Flooding in winter means this is very much a summer recommendation, ideal for this Bank Holiday weekend. Bungay also boasts plenty of bakeries and historic sights, perfect for an outdoorsy day out.
River Nar
A double loop walk through Narborough and Pentney Abbey takes you along the River Nar, with two main swim spots to enjoy. First, you can take a quiet dip along the path, and there is another winning spot behind an ancient bridge with a view of Pentney Abbey. More swimming spots are available nearby, such as Castle Acre Priory, and West Lexham offers wild swimming for a fee.
Pin Mill to Harkstead
The hidden beach in Harkstead is the crown jewel of the walk from Pin Mill to Harkstead, ideal for swimming. Be aware of tide times to avoid missing your opportunity. Great dining options are available in the area, including the Butt & Oyster pub and the Wild Rabbit at Harkstead.
Winterton Dunes
Winterton's dunes are an explorer's paradise, especially for younger adventurers. You can swim all along the beach, and other British beach holiday essentials are easily accessible, from fish and chips to coastal paths. This National Nature Reserve, near Great Yarmouth, has a large seal colony, perfect for animal lovers seeking a glimpse of these creatures.
Burnham Overy Staithe to Holkham Gap - with Scolt Head
Walking along the North Norfolk coast promises rugged beauty, excellent sea and river swims, and windy weather. A route from Burnham Overy Staithe to Holkham Gap offers all of these in abundance, with swim spots such as Bank Hole and Holkham along the way. A detour to Scolt Head Island is unique and majestic, but ensure the tides are right to avoid being cut off.
