Five of the Best Wild Swimming Spots in Lancashire.
No Car? No problem, you can always hire from Easihire.
Get ready for your New Years Resolutions and take a dip into wild swimming.
Lancashire, with its rolling hills, serene rivers, and hidden tarns, offers a wealth of opportunities for wild swimming beginners and enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or a beginner looking to dip your toes into this invigorating pastime, Lancashire has something for everyone.
Dive into Nature: The Five Most Picturesque Wild Swimming Spots in Lancashire.
Wild swimming has surged in popularity, offering a refreshing way to connect with nature. Here are five picturesque places to go wild swimming in Lancashire, complete with practical details like car hire, parking, facilities, and advice for beginners. Importantly, these recommendations exclude reservoirs and canals for safety and environmental reasons.
If you have no car available, you can hire a car locally from here: Local car hire
1. Fairy Glen, Appley Bridge
Tucked away near Appley Bridge, Fairy Glen is a magical oasis featuring small waterfalls and calm pools perfect for a serene swim. The glen’s lush greenery and cascading streams create a storybook-like atmosphere that’s ideal for a peaceful dip.
- Car Parking: Limited parking is available near the entrance on Parbold Hill. Be prepared for a short walk to the glen.
- Facilities: There are no official facilities, so bring your essentials.
- Beginner-Friendly Groups: The Lancashire Wild Swimmers Facebook group often organizes introductory swims in scenic locations like this.
2. Broome Hill, Garstang
Small swimmable area. Shallow access deepening towards and at the far bank. Following heavy rain the river levels rise and the flow quickens.
Walk towards the river, take the path, cross the river on the bridge, turn left and continue to follow the path upstream. Walk up the small mound. Approx 10/15 min walk.
Where the small stream enters the river is the entry/exit point. There is a sloping bank down into the river.
- Car Parking:Park on Wyre Lane PR3 1LF, street parking.
- Beginner-Friendly Groups: Check out Lancashire Wild Swimmers for guidance and meet-ups tailored to those new to wild swimming.
3. Crook O’ Lune, Caton
The Crook O’ Lune, just outside Lancaster, is a meandering bend in the River Lune surrounded by stunning countryside. This spot offers calm shallows and deeper pools, perfect for all levels of swimmers.
- Car Parking: Ample parking is available at the Crook O’ Lune picnic site.
- Facilities: A café and public toilets are on-site.
- Beginner-Friendly Groups: Join the Lancashire’s stay wild…wild swim is a supportive community for those starting out.
4. Marles Wood, Ribchester
The Marles Wood, near Ribchester provides a peaceful spot with stretches of shallow water and secluded pockets for swimming. The area’s natural beauty, combined with its proximity to historical sites, makes it an enchanting destination.
- Car Parking: Free parking is available in Ribchester village.
- Facilities: Cafés and public toilets are located in the village.
- Beginner-Friendly Groups: Lancashire’s Stay Wild…..Wild Swim is a local community that welcomes new members and provides safety tips for river swimming.
5. Cowan Bridge, River Leck
A peaceful stretch of the River Leck with shallow and deeper sections for varied swimming experiences.
- Facilities: None on-site; head to nearby Kirkby Lonsdale for amenities.
- Parking: Roadside parking available near Cowan Bridge.
- Groups: Join Outdoor Swimming Society 🏊🏽♀️🏊🏻♂️🏊🏻♀️ for guidance and support.
Tips for Beginners
- Join a Group: Wild swimming groups provide a safe way to learn and meet like-minded people.
- Start Slowly: Choose shallow, calm waters and don’t swim alone.
- Stay Safe: Wear a bright swim cap, use a tow float, and check water conditions beforehand.
- Respect Nature: Leave no trace – take all rubbish with you and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- The Outdoor Swimming Society
- Swim England Open Water
- Wild Swimming Northern England
Lancashire’s wild swimming spots offer an unforgettable experience, blending adventure with the serenity of nature. Whether you’re exploring secluded tarns or flowing rivers, these locations will inspire you to dive in and enjoy the freedom of the great outdoors, there’s never been a better time to take the plunge into wild swimming!
Why not make a weekend of it and hire a campervan instead! Cosy and warm, after swim brew and a hot shower to warm your cockles, you can’t beat it!
Image by Albrecht Fietz from Pixabay