Swim Dem Crew

London

Brighton

Margate

We love taking trips to Brighton’s lesser-talked about beach in Saltdean as it’s got plenty of space and less crowding, it’s more local. It’s just a 10 minute bus journey or drive from Brighton centre. A huge bonus of this beach is that Saltdean Lido is less than 100 metres away, providing you with a beautiful art-deco backdrop to your swim and all the facilities that come with a swimming pool (changing rooms, toilets, café). Saltdean Beach is pebbled, like it’s cousin in Brighton, but don’t let that dampen your experience of the crashing waves and tame (by the UKs standards) sounds of seagulls. It’s a place where you can set up shop with your friends for the day in the summer and enter the water at your own pace. While the stones may make your walk to the water less graceful than you’d like, you’re still in control when compared to some other locations. The water will be refreshing and the seaview on a clear day is incredible. On your way back to Brighton, consider having a meal at Curry Leaf Cafe for a quick bite or Little Fish Market for fancy seafood.

Swim Level: Beginner

Public Transport:  Yes 

Facilities: Lifeguard  

We visit Margate regularly as a crew when the sun decides to show its face for long enough. The town has been through a regeneration-turned-gentrification sparked by the Turner Contemporary being built and new money hipsters trying to replicate what they saw happening across under-funded boroughs in London on the seaside. That’s brought many challenges for Margate's locals who either can’t get on the property ladder or simply don’t want to, rent is increasing and new homes aren’t being built. It means that for visitors like us, we get to see different communities working and living side by side…for now. Margate has two popular tidal pools. The first is just a few minutes walk from the train station and very much a part of the seaside fun that takes place on hot days, the pool is enclosed so as the tide retreats in the afternoon, there is still plenty of water nearby to get a few laps in. We prefer Walpole Bay pool, which is either a half hour walk from Margate station or a five minute drive. This pool has an all important beach entry and small beach area so tends to be much less busy than Margate’s pool. Expect refreshing water, kids crabbing and seasoned swimming vets all sharing the same space. We challenge you to spend a day there to see the pool appear and disappear as the tide comes in and out, there’s something beautiful about that natural process. Margate has a great food scene with plenty of variety, head to Sargasso for refreshing small plates, Angela’s for the best seafood you’ll ever eat, or their sister restaurant Dory’s for a more casual vibe but similar quality. 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport:  Yes 

Facilities: No 

We first visited Frensham Ponds in Farnham in 2021 as a part of us trying to find exciting places outside of London to Swim in and the ponds delivered on that many times over. Of all the places to swim for us, this one is filled with a sense of adventure as it's located in a green with huge trees and rich wildlife. Bring a packed lunch for the day and find a spot along the sand to make your home for the day. Frensham has very calm waters as it’s a lake and two designated swimming areas with a gradual increase in depth as you go further out. We think this is the perfect place to practise floating as it’s such a low pressure place to swim, you’ll most likely be surrounded by families enjoying the weather and water and definitely will not see any elite athletes swimming through the lake. When floating, the key is to remain calm, regulate your breathing and stretch your body out. As you head back to Farnham station, be sure to check out the Plough, it’s a lovely pub with live music most days and is run by a Black musician who also keeps chickens in the garden for delicious eggs. 

Swim Level: Beginner

Public Transport: No 

 Facilities: No 

Hampstead Heath is home to three swimming ponds, the Ladies, Mens and Mixed ponds are oases in hot summer days and fortresses of solitude in colder weather, with backdrops of comforting willow trees to sooth your inner self. We love to swim there knowing that you’re able to experience floating around on your back or swimming through slightly murky waters without having to leave the City, which is truly special. If Hampstead is too far north for you, consider coming with us down south to Beckenham Place Park for a dip. It’s one of the few ponds that has air filtration which helps to keep the water extra fresh too. You can even give paddle-boarding a try while there and head up to the grounds to see a movie at their outdoor cinema during the summer. 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport: Yes

 Facilities: Yes

Heated lidos are actually quite a luxury, while London holds a few of them, we won’t be focusing on them because we think there are so many benefits to having a relationship with cold water. The cold water brings a presence of thought and strengthens the connection between body and mind through the odd sensations you feel, it’s so hard to describe, that’s why you must try it for yourself! So don’t be afraid to go to south London's Brockwell Lido for a dip that will make you feel truly awake, followed by a munch at their amazing cafe. Or head to Tooting Bec Lido that will recreate swimming in the sea as the pool is nearly 100 metres long! Lastly, consider one of the most beautiful lidos in the UK, Parliament Hill Lido with it’s metallic basin (we thought this was done to heat the water up, but it was actually installed to reduce maintenance time as there are no tiles) which also boasts a cafe that has great falafel wraps and traditional breakfast scran. 

Swim Level: Beginner

Public Transport: Yes 

 Facilities: Yes 

Swim Dem Crew's Bodies of Water for Every Level

Open Waters Community

Wales

A gorgeous sandy beach in South hams at the mouth of the River Avon where you can forage for sea treasure, surf or sun yourself in the summer. I go often to collect drift wood and shells to use in my art pieces. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: No
Facilities: Lifeguards from May - Sept

Added by @nuttersbychloehill

Sick place to go for a picnic and a swim in the summer. Bit muddy , but alright when you dive in. Bring your armbands just in case. 

Swim Level: Intermediate
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: No 

Added by @tenzinball

Quieter than most tourist beaches, with some gorgeous views up at Hastings cliffs, plus there's a lovely group of swimmers, the St Leonards Bluetits, for bigger supportive swims when you want them.

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: Changing rooms

Added by @filmsvbooks

One of the best beaches I've been to, beautiful white sand, very few people, no litter and lots of seals which are very cute. Nudity is also acceptable if that's your thing. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: No
Facilities: None

Added by @kittycatmeow4

Stunning reservoir with clear water that glows a vibrant turquoise in the sunshine where you can go open water swimming, or even take cheeky stop by the hot tub or saunas in you're feeling boujie. 

Swim Level: Intermediate
Public Transport: No
Facilities: Lifeguards 

Added by @shotbymelissa 

Beautiful place to swim, one of the best places I've been to wild swim in the UK with some amazing views around the lake. Takes a little bit of a walk along the footpath to get there and you should keep an eye out for boats, but well worth it. 

Swim Level: Intermediate
Public Transport: No
Facilities: No
Wheelchair access: No 

Added by @samblenk

I love this place because it's got fresh running water, beautiful lakes and streams and massive grass areas for lounging in the sun. Perfect place to rest and restore your energy.

Swim Level: Not for swimming
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: No 

Added by @feensface 

Home to a unique breed of seaweed eating sheep who live on it's rocky-foreshore, this beach isn't neccesarrily one for swimming but it's a place where once a year you can tap into local cutlure and traditions by attending the North Ronaldsay Sheep Festival which involves rebuilding the drystone sheep dyke to prevent the special breed from straying from the shores and eating grass which is toxic to the sheep. 

Swim Level: Not for swimming
Public Transport: No 
Facilities: No

Added by @gazzergram_

Such a great pool and there's a queer swim meet there once a month which is great for water lovers who might not feel so comfortable going to the pool alone. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: No 

Added by @freshasadaiz 

An effortlessly beautiful beach where you can swim or go fossil foraging if that floats your boat. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: Yes, RNLI lifeguards 

Added by @xcazzyx 

One of my fav pools, it's open air, heated and has beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: No
Facilities: Yes, lifeguards and changing rooms

Added by @heyellieq

Tiny little shingle beach with stunning views. Great for a quiet little retreat, peppered with fossils and there are some fantastic walks to be had on the surrounding cliffs with spectacular views of the sea. 

Swim Level: Intermediate 
Public Transport: No
Facilities: Yes, toilets 

Added by @wilhopson

Hope Cove is like a little slice of the Med tucked into the Devonshire shores. The cove itself is beautiful, with crystal clear water, little streams and rockpools that pepper the beach and lots of big boulders for climbing. It's safe as there's very little current and there are usually lifeguards in the summer months and if you get tired of paddling then there's a lovely little gallery where you can enjoy art produced by locals. 


Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: No
Facilities: Yes, Seasonal lifeguards 

Added by @indiahill_mhd

The bit of Brighton Beach that extends down to Hove is a an oddly serene oasis compared to the main bit of the beach by Brighton town centre. Not many tourist stray down that far, there's a mixture of sandy and pebbled sections and the main draw is it's a lot quieter. Lovely for a dip in the summer and the major key is to position yourself inbetween Marrocco's (a fantastic Italian restaurant where the go to order is a Frittura Mista - a HUGE and delivious box of seafood and chips) and the Brass Monkey's Ice Cream cart (often positioned on Courtney Terrace on the beach front where the beach huts are).

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: Yes

Added by @indiahill_mhd

Powered by volunteers, Clevedon Marine Lake is a salt water tidal pool filled with water and set against the the Bristol channel. Swim, paddle, crab, SUP or canoe here any day of the year. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: Yes 
Facilities: No 

Added by @bonnieophelia 

Take the Bristol to Bath cycle route and end here to pop your toes in the water. Take a picnic and meander through the valley, enjoying a dip in the River avon. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: No
Facilities: No 

Added by @bonnieophelia 

A 2 mile long pebble beach, set against jurassic cliffs, is a perfect spot for a long walk and day out in the south Devon area. After, get a clotted cream ice cream and pop to the long high street of charity shops. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: No
Facilities: No 
Wheelchair Access: Yes

Added by @bonnieophelia

Tucked away behind Clifton Village in North Bristol, Clifton Lido is a calm oasis offering delicious swim and lunch packages. Pop in during winter as the pool is heated all year round. 

Swim Level: Beginner
Public Transport: Yes
Facilities: Yes, lifeguards and changing rooms

Added by @bonnieophelia

If you fancy a little inland adventure, or just want to brush up on your skills before going on a holiday further afield, you can try your hand at scuba diving, open water swimming or stand-up paddleboarding centre in Somerset. Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms + Guide, Added by @dancetoujours

This is a beautiful art deco saltwater lido formed in an unusual, triangular shape. You can take a dip while enjoying a little slice of history. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilties: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes. Added by: @dancetoujours 

A real gem of the south west, this is one of my favourite places in the UK to go snorkelling. Also at low tide you can explore the surrounding caves and it feels like you're walking through a magical kingdom of rocks, water and hidden caves. Swim Level: Beginner Public Transport: No, Facilities: Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: No

Beautiful sandy beach next to a quaint, picture-perfect fishing village with some truly amazing views and you can grab a drink at Tŷ Coch Tavern after. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Partial.

The cutest little cove in the world with a bit of a swashbuckling vibe from the smugglers caves that are dotted about.  It's got a lovely sandy beach, which is really quiet as it's tucked away from any roads or hustle and bustle and there's even a botanical garden nearby if you're visiting with friends who are less keen on beach activities. Seafood is to die for. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No

Even thought the route to Man O'War is really steep, it's worth the effort. The water is so beautiful, it's literally like being in the Med on a hot day. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No

So I had to double take at pictures of this beach when I was looking ahead of my visit, because it genuinely looks like a beach I love in Trinidad. The water is crystal clear and I had a sick day here doing paddle boarding and snorkeling and collecting sea treasures. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Yes

This was a lovely little discovery on a camping holiday to Osmington Mills in Weymouth. The beach is sandy and pebbly, but the best thing about it is the water is super clear and it's pretty shallow for quite a distance offshore, which was great for the members of our group who were anxious about deeper water. Also, it's a lot less busy than Weymouth Beach. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Yes, Added by @indiahill_mhd

Really great facility to have in the heart of Hackney borough. I love going here for a cold water swim all year round. There's nothing quite like it in the rest of London and there's something really liberating about having access to cool water and open horizon against the city skyline. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes

This one is for all my people after a boujie weekend. Floating around in these beautiful heated pools, overlooking the rooftops of Bath city is such a treat, especially at sunset. There's also an indoor pool if you don't fancy the one on the roof. And if you plan your trip, you can head down to the Roman Baths to contrast your modern experience of the water with a guided tour to find out how the Romans enjoyed the water too! Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms + Guide, Wheelchair Access: Yes 

Ok hear me out, this pool is small and kind of spenny because you only get access when you book a room in the hotel, but the view from this pool is amazing. It's 52 floors up and you can see all of London. This is definitely one to consider as a birthday, valentines, palentines or anniversary experience. If you're going to go up the Shard, this is the way to do it. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes

This spa is so decadent, there are six pools and each has a different kind of vide. There's one set up on the roof, another which is more of a kid's pool with a rockpool kind of vibe, but my favourite one is the one set slightly aside from the hall in the grounds as it has more of a holiday abroad kind of vibe. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes

This is a teeny tiny infinity pool to be fair, but it's set right up in the rooftops of Manchester city centre and it's just really cool because of the views. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes

Incredible indoor infinity pool with views of the Thames. Such a luxurious setting to swim laps and then you can treat yourself to a spa treatment after if you feel like it. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Partial

I think this is the only hotel pool I've been to in the UK that has a stunning coastal view. The pool is heated, so you can enjoy it even when the weather is chilly, but the best thing is definitely being able to look down onto Saundersfoot Beach. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Acces: Yes

You've probably seen this pool popping up on your timeline or on the news, it made a big place when it opened. It's a bizarre experience being able to swim with the London skyline all around you and the streets visible below. Definitely worth experiencing at least once, if you can get in. It's worth noting that the pool has also been quite controversial, gaining a reputation for being super exclusive and expensive to maintain. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes

So I came across this beach on TikTok and it did not disappoint. Firstly, it's huge and it's a gorgeous sandy beach which is a nice change as so many of the beaches in the UK are stony and painful to walk on. At sunset on a hot day I think this is literally the closest you can get to the Caribbean in the south west. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard, Wheelchair Access: Yes, Added by Sabrina @sabrinal879

Bit of a remote one in Shetland and take a bit of hiking to get there, but it's worth the trip. The slopes are slippery, so proceed with caution and the water is pretty icy, so one to be admired from the banks. Swim Level: 
Advanced, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No, Added by Ian @dancetoujours

The most aesthetically pleasing plunge pool with a waterfall above it that is perfect for a wild swim. The water is extremely cold so don't stay in too long or wear a wetsuit! Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No, Added by Ian @dancetoujours

This medieval fish pond is the perfect place for a dip in the summer set in the middle of beautiful heathland. They have two areas of the ponds that are marked out for swimming and the rest of the pond is used for fishing. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Yes

Really cute little beach lined with beach huts. You can do some really lovely walks along the coast and then take a dip after. Just watch out as there are warnings around of landslides and coastal erosion, so just don't get too close to the cliffside. Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Yes 

Crystal clear turquoise water, white sand and a dramatic cliff-face as a backdrop. It's giving the holiday feel of the Caribbean with the drama of the British coastline. Also has a claim to fame, having starred in the series Poldark. You need to check tide times before you go though otherwise you'll risk getting stuck, it takes a hike down a pretty steep cliff 'path' to get there, so trainers and backpacks are advisable, and finally it's an unofficial nudist beach, so you can let it all hang out if you want to! Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No 

This beach is really special as it's home to one of the UK's most spectacular natural landmarks, a massive arch formed naturally in the limestone that jutts out in front of the beach. The beach itself is a mixture of pebbles and shingle and you access it by a somewhat perilous winding staircase, but it's worth the effort. Good for a paddle and maybe a quick swim on a clear day when the waters in the cove are calm, just be wary of the rocks beneath the surface. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Added by @indiahill_mhd

A lovely place to visit for the day, just a short journey out of London. Lee Valley Park a tangle of rivers and lakes, so it's a great place to take a picnic and sit by the water. You can rent little boats or pedalos at Lee Valley Boat Centre and go sailing. Not one for swimming as the water quality isn't fantastic and also I think the park advises against it because it would disturb the wildlife, but you can dip your toes in to cool off on a hot day. Swim Level: No Swimming, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No, Added by @indiahill_mhd

Located on a quiet stretch of the South Coast pebble beaches between Seaford and Newhaven, Tide Mills has prime swimming. Calm and easy to dip into ocean, which is surprisingly clear here. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No, Added by @annarosejay

Hyper local spot in Penzance for accessible sea swimming, drop off the rocks or step down the natural granite into cool, clear water. Enclosed in the bay, this spot is tucked behind the Jubilee Pool Lido in Penzance. The marked Buoys to swim to and around make this a ritualistic swimming spot, frequented by locals on their daily swim. It's also a friendly, sheltered place to hang out.  Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Lido next door has facilities, Wheelchair Access: No,  Added by @annarosejay

Nice sandy/shingle beach, great place to bodyboard. Really clean and only a stones throw from the New Forsest if you wanted to have a hiking holiday with access to a beach. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: No, Added by @_habibtati_xoxo

Really long stone beach lined with cute little beach huts. Also great beach to visit if you're a dog owner as they're allowed all year round! Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Yes, Added by @_habibtati_xoxo

Absolutely nut day out, basically like total wipeout. You can go on this massive inflatable assault course that floats on the water. Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: No, Added by @_habibtati_xoxo

Amazing place for a wild swim, surrounded by beautiful park land and wildlife that really comes to life in the summer. Not too far out of London so makes a good day trip from the city centre and great place to walk your dog too. Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Yes

This place is amazing as it's open all year round and you can windsurf, paddleboard, sail and get lessons for the activities too if you've never done them before. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Partial, Added by @_habibtati_xoxo

Super cold water which is lovely to swim in on a hot summer day. Worth booking a spot if you're trying to go in the summer as it does fill up, but a brilliant spot to visit when you need to cool off, nestled just at the south side of Hamsptead Heath. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard + Changing Rooms, Wheelchair Access: Yes, Added by @threadsforapenny

The woodlands at Rydal Hall are like something out of a children's fairytale. There are wild ponds which have been cultivated by volunteers to increase the wildlife. Rydal beck weaves its way around the grounds, but the best part is the waterfall which you can view through the Grot. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Guide, Wheelchair Access: No

A beautiful section of Loch Lomond with a sandy shore which makes accessing the water quite easy compared to other spots around the loch where there are only slippery rocks. Surrounded by lots of walking trails too where you can get a more elevated view of the loch. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Partial

Totally awesome place to swim in view of the old tower house on the tidal islet that sits in the near the shore in Loch Linnhe. Defintiely need a wetsuit though because the water is really cold! Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No

The beach here is a lovely, clean, sandy beach and you can swim with the view of the chalk cliffs which are stunning. It's not as crowded as other beaches in the area and there are toilets and nice cafes nearby. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: Lifeguard, Wheelchair Access: No

Such a conveniently located sandy beach with nice walking trails and a promenade. Also really close to lots of lovely restaurants and cafes so you can have a nice lunch with a lot more options than just fish and chips. The beach is dog friendly too and you can get beach wheelchairs for free if you book ahead! Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: None, Wheelchair Access: Yes

Stunning white sandy beach fringed with grassy dunes that provide epic views of the beautifully clear turquoise water, not to be confused with its sister beach on the Isle of Barra, though both are equally beautiful. Fun fact this beach is also used as a small aircraft runway at low tide, so also worth checking if anything is due to land as it's quite exciting to go and watch the planes coming down. This beach is quite popular for surfing due to the power waves. Swim Level: Intermediate, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: None, Wheelchair Access: No

There are plenty of beaches and bays spread across these two Hebridean islands. Though the average temperatures on these islands doesn't really go above 16 degreed, the white sand and crystal clear waters on these two islands' beaches would make you think they're in Spain or Italy. These islands are quite remote so the beaches are incredibly peaceful and surrounded by phenomenal landscapes and wildlife. Swim Level: Beginner, Public Transport: No, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: No

Really beautiful park with walking trails that pass by little waterfalls, ponds and streams. The best time of year to go is either autumn when the leaves are starting to change colour, or spring when all the buds are just beginning to emerge. Swim Level: No Swimming, Public Transport: Yes, Facilities: No, Wheelchair Access: Partial

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