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Dive into Nature: Wild Swimming in the Peak District

July 12, 2024
July 12, 2024 - Dive into Nature: Wild Swimming in the Peak District
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There are some stunning places to go wild swimming in the Peak District!

Wild swimming is more than just a dip in nature's pools—it's an exhilarating way to connect with the landscape, boost your wellbeing, and experience the Peak District in its raw, untamed glory.  A far cry from taking a dip in a chlorinated swimming pool.

Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or a beginner looking to explore, the Peak District offers some of the most scenic and inviting spots for wild swimming. Let's take a plunge into the best locations, the benefits of wild swimming, and essential tips for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Why Wild Swimming?

Mental Health Boost: Immersing yourself in natural waters has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and enhance mood. The combination of cold water and beautiful surroundings can have a meditative effect, providing a welcome escape from the stresses of daily life.

Physical Benefits: Wild swimming is a fantastic full-body workout. The resistance of the water helps tone muscles, improve cardiovascular health, and increase stamina. Cold water immersion can also improve circulation and boost the immune system.

Connection with Nature: Wild swimming allows you to experience the natural world in a unique and intimate way. The feeling of gliding through water in a tranquil, picturesque setting can heighten your appreciation for the environment and encourage a deeper connection with nature.

Top Wild Swimming Spots in the Peak District

The Peak District is a haven for wild swimming. Your chance to get off the beaten track, plunge into cool, clear water and get out feeling invigorated and revitalised.

Check out our top wild swimming spots in the Peak District

Three Shires Head, River Dane

Nestled on the River Dane, where Cheshire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire meet, Three Shires Head is a stunning location. The water here is peaty, clear, and chilly, with picturesque waterfalls. Whilst parts are rocky and shallow, the deep pool makes it a popular spot for a refreshing swim. Surrounded by the rugged moorland of Axe Edge Moor, it's a perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Peak District.

Three Shires Head where you can go wild swimming

Slippery Stones, Upper Derwent Valley

Located at the northern end of the Upper Derwent Valley, Slippery Stones offers a serene swimming experience. The crystal-clear waters of the River Derwent are inviting, and the area is surrounded by lush forest and rolling hills, making it a peaceful retreat for swimmers.

The actual swim area is quite small, but it’s a good plunge pool for a total submerge! Do be wary of the current. Accessible only on foot by a track from Fairholmes car park along the eastern banks of Howden reservoir, but well worth the walk.

Another option is Derwent Sailing Club. Open water swimming is available to non members on Wednesday between 2pm and 4pm, and Saturday and Sunday between 9am and 10am at a charge of £10 per person. Pre-Booking a place prior to swimming is essential.

Dovedale

Known for its iconic stepping stones and stunning limestone ravines, Dovedale on the River Dove is a favourite among wild swimmers. The gentle flow of the river and the scenic surroundings create a perfect setting for a leisurely swim and a picnic., or a shallow paddle for the kids.


Dovedale-by-Wesley-Kristopher-Chambers

Photo credit: Dovedale by Wesley Kristopher Chambers - People of the Peak.

  • Nearest parking: Dovedale Car park or Thorpe pastures
  • Walk time: 30 mins
  • What3Words: ///tube.pimples.complies or ///pickup.mystery.props

Youlgreave, River Bradford

The River Bradford runs through the valley below the picturesque village of Youlgreave (also sometimes spelt Youlgrave). Originally a man made pool for farmers to clean their sheep before sheering; no longer used for this purpose the shallow waters are ideal for beginners. Further upstream the water is shallower and perfect for paddling for children before enjoying a picnic on the grassy riverbank.

As this location is family friendly and easy to access it can get busy in high summer.

wild swimming pool at River Bradford near Youlgreave in Derbyshire

  • Nearest parking: Limited roadside parking in Youlgreave or a small car park on Alport Lane, so arrive early to secure a space
  • Walk time: 2-5 minutes from Youlgreave village
  • What3Words: ///probing.wedding.nightfall

Lathkill Dale

A hidden gem, Lathkill Dale offers crystal-clear waters and a series of deep pools perfect for a refreshing dip. some shallow spots ideal for paddling. The limestone valley is rich in flora and fauna, making it a beautiful spot for both swimming and exploring nature.

people walking in Lathkill dale by the river

Padley Gorge

Padley Gorge, located near Grindleford, offers a magical wild swimming experience amidst its enchanting woodland setting. The cool, clear waters of Burbage Brook cascade through a series of natural pools and waterfalls, providing a refreshing and scenic spot for a dip. An enchanting and magical place with lots of flat shaded areas which makes it one of the best picnic spots in the Peak District 

Circular walk from the Longshaw Estate including the woodland at Padley Gorge

photo credit: Padley Gorge by Peak Lass

Tips for Wild Swimming

Safety first:

Check conditions: Be sure to check the water temperature, depth, and currents before getting in. Water may look calm on the surface, but there could be strong undercurrents after heavy rain fall.

Find a safe & easy access point: Plan where you are going to get in and out of the water, look for shallow banks.

Swim with a buddy: Always swim with someone else for safety, or have someone watching you from the river bank just in case you get into difficulties.

Know Your Limits: Start slow, especially if you're new to cold water swimming. Don't push yourself too hard. Even better join a wild swimming group who will give help and give good advice.

Gear Up:

Wear a Wetsuit: It can help you stay warm in colder waters. Swim in a bobble hat!

Use a Tow Float: This increases visibility and provides buoyancy if needed.

Footwear: Wear aqua shoes to protect your feet from sharp rocks and for grip on slippery surfaces.

Safety: pack a first aid kit and don't forget sunscreen

Warm up after your swim: Take towels, gloves, extra socks and a dry robe to warm up after your swim. Take a flask of tea or hot chocolate and some energy bars.

Respect the Environment:

Leave No Trace: Take all litter with you and respect the natural surroundings.

Avoid Disturbing Wildlife: Swim quietly and steer clear of nesting birds or other wildlife.

Wild swimming or an outdoor swimming pool?

If unsure about taking the plunge to go wild swimming, but you want to give it a go then try Hathersage Outdoor Swimming Pool. You get the experience of an outdoor dip in a safe environment but with views of the surrounding hills and best of all the water is slightly warmer!

Hathersage outdoor swimming pool

Photo credit - Hathersage Swimming Pool

Stay and swim

Hoe Grange Holidays is an ideal base to stay to visit these stunning wild swimming spots! Book your holiday in a log cabin or glamping pod and plan your outdoor swimming adventure.

Wild swimming in the Peak District is an exhilarating way to connect with nature, improve your physical and mental health, and discover some of the most beautiful and serene spots in the region.  With a great selection of pools, ponds and rivers, there is something for everyone!

Whether you choose the legendary Mermaid’s Pool or Three Shires Head with panoramic views, the experience is sure to be memorable. Remember to swim safely, respect the environment, and most importantly, enjoy the invigorating embrace of wild waters. Happy swimming!

Feel free to share your wild swimming experiences or ask any questions in the comments below. If you're ready to dive into the adventure, the Peak District awaits!

- Felicity

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Hoe Grange Holidays Tripadvisor Comments...

  • star rating  A beautiful place to stay! Amazingly run family business! Everyone were very welcoming, friendly and cozy! The skylark pod we stayed in was very clean, cozy and well equipped! The... read more

    sophiee249
    January 2, 2020

    star rating  We have just returned from a short stay in one of the pods on site at Hoe Grange Holidays. We couldn’t recommend them enough. The pod has everything you could... read more

    Catboy86
    August 17, 2019

    star rating  Recently spent a week in "Pinder" and had a lovely time. The location is stunning - the site is nestled in a beautiful valley on the edge of the Peaks... read more

    Peachey167
    July 16, 2019
  • star rating  Another great holiday at Hoe Grange - such a great place for us all to holiday as a family - this time with a baby, a 3 yr old, a... read more

    Thesamps
    October 4, 2019

    star rating  We stayed for a night in one of the cabins . The cabin was spotless and very well equipped , lots of extra touches were added like fresh eggs and... read more

    Ajtravels14
    February 3, 2020

    star rating  We stayed in Pinder cabin and had a lovely stay, the cabin was spacious and comfortable, nice and warm after cold days out. The children loved meeting the animals and... read more

    Tiggywinkle15
    November 5, 2019
  • star rating  We had a lovely time staying in one of the incredibly well equipped pods. I bought my pony along and we had some great rides on the high peak trail.... read more

    plopster1
    June 7, 2019

    star rating  We love this place. Very wheelchair friendly, really well equipped and comfortable, with easy access by car to lots of places of interest particularly Crich Tramway Village, Chatsworth, Bakewell and... read more

    David H
    October 25, 2019

    star rating  Arrived and was shown to our pod, fantastic location and the pod was very good indeed plus we had home made bread and milk and tea and coffee. A... read more

    mickvfr
    July 28, 2019
  • star rating  We've just returned from our second visit to Hoe Grange. The suggested riding routes with stunning scenery were enjoyed by my daughter and I while the menfolk were delighted with... read more

    Jdrichie12
    July 11, 2019

    star rating  Lovely place to holiday near to interesting locations and easy access to the High Peak trail and Carsington Water. Part of a working farm with fresh produce to enjoy during... read more

    Angie B
    August 3, 2019

    star rating  We stayed in Skylark, one of the two glamping pods available at Hoe Grange in February 2020.

    Felicity & David welcomed us when we arrived to show us around... read more

    HelenLCarter
    February 6, 2020
  • star rating  We spent four nights at Hoe Grange and had a lovely time. The location is fantastic and right next to the High Peak Trail. The cabin was very clean and... read more

    Big_Al_0000
    July 16, 2019

    star rating  We stayed in the Skylark pod last October (2018) and had a lovely time. There was homemade, rustic goods (bread, biscuits etc) when we arrived. Felicity and David who run... read more

    KBarry
    September 15, 2019

    star rating  What a lovely weekend away! We stayed in the lovely gypsy caravan, which was a wonderful and really unique experience. We took along our two horses, who also had a... read more

    rachelthomas2015
    June 18, 2019
  • star rating  It's been three years since we last visited but once we arrived it certainly didn't feel like it!
    We stayed in Hipley again which had had a refurbished wet... read more

    ElizabethA717
    September 21, 2019

    star rating  Stayed last week, from 6th to 13th September in the log cabin called Hipley. This was amazing, it was our first visit but certainly not our last. Gold standard disability... read more

    548julie
    September 14, 2019

    star rating  Second visit to the accessible holiday cabins at Hoe Grange. David and Felicity were as helpful and friendly as ever. We had a welcome pack of freshly baked bread, butter,... read more

    Charlotte M
    August 7, 2019
  • star rating  lovely surroundings real farm country with chickens paying you a visit nice decking area to chill at the end of the day accommodation very good plenty to do nearby... read more

    vincent s
    July 28, 2019

    star rating  What a wonderful find. As our first experience of needing accessible accommodation we could not have wished for better. Beautiful well equipped lodges in lovely surroundings. We stayed in both... read more

    L9943KBlesleym
    April 3, 2020

    star rating  Myself and my sister travelled to Costa Rica and Panama via Viva Holidays Ltd. The holiday was exceptional and one to be treasured forever. Andrew at Viva Holidays... read more

    Paula C
    July 4, 2019
  • star rating  We stayed in Rainster cabin for a long weekend 6 th to 9 th September. This was my 5 th visit to the amazing Hoe Grange. I had visited before... read more

    Jan Horsman J
    September 17, 2019

    star rating  We wanted a complete break and some peace and quiet and this was perfect. The caravan was secluded with beautiful views over the countryside. Everything was spotlessly clean and well... read more

    joanne B
    June 4, 2019

    star rating  For the second year running, we have had a great family holiday at Hoe Grange. We had one cabin for the week, for two sisters and our elderly wheelchair-using... read more

    EJYork2013
    June 25, 2019
  • star rating  Felicity and David made us feel very welcome right from our booking. The pods are well equipped and spotlessly clean. The area is very peaceful with great views and we... read more

    Adventurer_12121
    January 30, 2020

    star rating  Loved every minute of our stay, and so did the family and friends that came to stay. Excellent facilities in our cosy Hipley log cabin. By far the best... read more

    krimpenijssel
    October 25, 2019

    star rating  On arriving at Hoe Grange in a downpour, we doubted if we’d made the right decision to go glamping, but after the warm welcome from David and a quick tour,... read more

    karenmD4738KD
    June 25, 2019
  • star rating  We love this place. Very wheelchair friendly, really well equipped and comfortable, with easy access by car to lots of places of interest particularly Crich Tramway Village, Chatsworth, Bakewell and... read more

    dghiggs61
    October 25, 2019

    star rating  What can I say?
    Absolutely superb!
    We have just returned from a family weekend staying in Daisybank cabin and the Skylark pod.
    It was our first trip away with my... read more

    Wheelieuser
    June 13, 2019

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