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7 Best Open Water Swimming Spots In The UK | Blog | Simply Swim

Open water swimming has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people looking to take their swimming skills outside of the pool. If you're in the UK and looking for some of the best open-water swimming spots, we've got you covered, we'll explore some of the top open-water swimming spots that have been tried and tested by swimmers in the UK.

1. Lake District

The Lake District is home to some of the most stunning open-water swimming spots in the UK. With its crystal clear lakes and scenic surroundings, it's a popular destination for both recreational and competitive swimmers. One of the most popular open-water swimming spots in the Lake District is Lake Windermere, which is the largest natural lake in England. The lake is 11 miles long, and its calm waters make it perfect for open-water swimming.

2. Llyn Padarn

Located in Snowdonia National Park in North Wales, Llyn Padarn is a popular open-water swimming spot for swimmers of all levels. The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers some of the clearest waters in the UK. It's also home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, birds, and fish, making it a unique swimming experience.

3. Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is Scotland's largest lake and a popular destination for open-water swimming. Its crystal clear waters and beautiful surroundings make it a top spot for both recreational and competitive swimmers. The loch is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals and otters, which can often be seen swimming alongside swimmers.

Open Water Swimming Loch Lomond

4. River Thames

The River Thames is the longest river in England and a popular destination for open-water swimming. The river is tidal, which means that the water levels can change, but it's generally safe for swimming during the summer months. 

River Thames Goring Open Water Swimming

5. Hampstead Heath Ponds

The Hampstead Heath Ponds are a popular open-water swimming spot in London. The ponds are actually a series of three separate ponds, including the Men's Pond, the Ladies' Pond, and the Mixed Pond. The Men's and Ladies' Ponds are for single-sex swimming only, while the Mixed Pond is open to everyone. The ponds are surrounded by beautiful parkland and offer a unique swimming experience in the heart of London.

6. River Avon

The River Avon is a popular open-water swimming spot in Bath. The river is relatively shallow, making it perfect for swimmers of all levels. Swimmers can enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Bath, including the Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey, while swimming.

Bath-Pultenay-Bridge River Avon

7. Tooting Bec Lido

Tooting Bec Lido is one of the largest open-air swimming pools in the UK and a popular destination for open-water swimming. The lido is heated, which makes it perfect for swimming year-round. The pool is surrounded by beautiful parkland and offers a unique swimming experience in the heart of London.

Whether you're a competitive swimmer or just looking for a new way to enjoy the outdoors, open-water swimming is a great way to stay active and enjoy the beauty of the UK. We stock all your open-swimming needs with swimsuits, tow buoys, swim caps, goggles, gloves, towelling robes and swim shoes.

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