Lake District: Where to wild swim during the heatwave

Whether you prefer a tranquil tarn or a sweeping sandy shore, Cumbria boasts some of the most scenic wild swimming spots in the country.

To stay safe, RNLI advice states that swimmers should stay within their depths, always swim parallel to shore and make sure they acclimatise to avoid cold water shocks.

Here are some of the best locations for a swim this summer, from easy-access tarns to picturesque mountain-backed lakes…

Grasmere

Grasmere is one of the shallowest in  the Lake District, meaning temperatures are a little warmer.

Nestled beside the idyllic village it shares its name with, there is an accessible beach area on the south shore of the lake.

The sandy beach is a great halfway stop on the 5km circular walk around Grasmere Lake but it is not the only spot. There are various points to dip in and cool down from around the lake.

Address: Parking available at either Rydal Water Car Park, LA22 9SE, or White Moss Car Park, LA22 9SE.

Loughrigg Tarn

Loughrigg Tarn is a small, sheltered lake in the central Lake District, known as one of the loveliest most beginner‑friendly wild swimming spots in Cumbria.

It offers a great mix of dramatic surrounding scenery but gentle, accessible water that is far from the nearby busy tourist hubs.

But, be warned, it does have a few reeds around its fringes.

There are some grassy banks leading to the water which make a great spot for a picnic but remember to clear up after yourselves as there are no formal facilities available!

Address: Parking is available at the car park at the top of Foulstep road, just above Skelwith Bridge

Rydal Water

A peaceful spot for a swim, whether it’s in the early morning or evening, Rydal Water is surrounded by mountains on all sides and lush greenery.

It will also likely be warmer than other lakes as it is one of smallest and shallowest in Cumbria which means it’s faster to heat up than its deeper counterparts.

It is a short 15-minute walk from the car park along the lake’s western end to reach a beach with nearby grassy banks to bathe on or bring a picnic.

Address: Pelter Bridge Car Park, LA22 9LW

Rydal Water (Image: EWishart)

Blea Tarn

A beautiful picturesque spot for wild swimming in the Lake District, as you can enjoy brilliant mountain views of the Langdale Pikes whilst you bathe or swim in the sunshine.

It is a good spot for those who aren’t the hardy sort of walkers aiming to top every mountain, or someone who has limited mobility.

The swimming spot is only a five-minute walk from the National Trust car park

The tarn is a Site of Special Scientific Interest according to the National Trust with it’s sediment apparently remaining undisturbed since the last Ice Age.

For any walkers, there’s also a short hike near the tarn called Side Pike that takes under 30 minutes with stunning views.

Address: Blea Tarn Car Park, LA22 9PG

(Image: NQ)

Bardsea Beach

A stunning coastal beauty spot, often touted as the Lake District’s best-kept secret, sits just south of Ulverston, stretching along the coast road towards Barrow-In-Furness.

It is an open expand of sand and shingle with great views across Morecombe Bay.

However, the beach is quite exposed which means it can often be cold, windy and have strong currents.

So, wild swimming is only recommended on calmer days for advanced swimmers familiar with sea swimming.

Address: Bardsea. Barrow-in-Furness. Cumbria. LA12 9QU

Coniston Water

Sitting beside the towering slopes of the 2,633 foot Old Man of Coniston, Coniston Water is a 5-mile long idyllic body of water to have a dip in.

Iconic events including the Chillswim Coniston are held here and there are plenty of spots to get in from.

The two wild swimming areas of Coniston Brown Howe and Monk Coniston have been previously designated as bathing water sites by the government.

Brown Howe is a great spot as it has a large single beach that can be easily accessed and toilets.

Address: Brown Howe Car Park, Water Yeat, ULVERSTON, Cumbria, LA12 8DW

Fell Foot (Image: Google Maps)

Fell Foot (National Trust)

Fell Foot sits at the southern end of Windermere and is part of a National Trust park that leads down to the bathing water.

There is a gentle shelving shoreline that makes it easy to access for swimmers of different abilities.

Swimmers can take in the stunning surrounding mountain views on offer in a quieter spot of what is one of the busiest boating lakes in the region.

Address: Fell Foot Car Park, LA12 8NN. It costs £6 for up to 2 hours but is free for National Trust members.