ESEA Sisters

London

Brighton

Wales

A beautiful, serene traditional Japanese garden located in West London, designed by Japanese landscape architect Shoji Nakahara. With tiered waterfalls, stone lanterns, a koi pond, Japanese maple trees and Sakura trees, it really gives a sense of a ‘home from home’ for the Japanese diaspora. It’s also completely free to access! I go there first thing most mornings before work, to clear my head, ground myself with nature, and write. It’s a very special place that has a lot of history to it - it was opened in 1991 as a gift from the City of Kyoto to commemorate the friendship between Japan and Great Britain, and in 2012 there was an additional Fukushima memorial garden added to the side of the Kyoto Garden. The peacocks strutting around the garden are an added bonus!

It’s a tranquil pebbly beach set below the backdrop of the Seven Sisters cliffs - which creates a pretty dramatic scene! It’s a great place to go swimming or surfing, but if the tide is out, you’ll also see some rock pools to explore, and you can hunt for fossils and even catch crabs! There’s definitely something for everyone, I know that some areas of the Birling Gap beach are used by nudists/naturists. Which is maybe something to be mindful of when you visit. 

Our collective, ESEA Sisters, have been organising a series of nature walks with healing circles each month in different locations near London, and the Birling Gap is actually going to be our next destination! Immersing ourselves in the water, having a swim, connecting with nature, and incorporating some tai-chi/qi-gong on the beach, we’ll be rebalancing our energy and grounding ourselves, while in community with others. I’d recommend that if you go to the Birling Gap, try some of those activities out - either alone or in company. It’s a great way to destress. 

It's our capital's dividing waterway, it's home to famous races and regattas and an abundance of wildlife resides on it’s banks. How could we not add it to the list!

There are so many things that make the Thames special but let's start outside of London. The Thames is home to hundreds of beautiful towns and villages many of which are easily accessible by train so you can spend the day walking between places (the Thames has 185miles of walkable trails!) before finally heading home. Towns include Henley-on-Thames, famous for the regatta in the Summer and you can cross the Thames between Windsor and Eton, but the most magical places are the areas up and down the banks that locals would call 'our spot'. These are small oases found up and down the river where rope swings are built, bridges were made for jumping off and friends spend late summer evenings swimming and cooling off in the water. If you swam anywhere near the zoo Beale Park, like I did all through my teenage years, you’d often find yourself swimming alongside terrapins from when the park once flooded! 

One of the best places to swim here is a village called Pangbourne, not far from Reading, easily accessible by train or car as there is a dedicated carpark. Here you’ll find the brave jumping off the bridge, people using the water activities facility to canoe, others who come to try their hand at fishing a bit further down and tonnes of people splashing in the water or watching the boats and yachts go by from the jetty.

Now heading downstream to the capital. The Thames Path walking routes here are not to be missed from the quaint village-esque feel of Barnes all the way to the Wapping, a now largely residential area that still holds it's old dock and factory history within every cobbled street, it makes a perfect alternative day out for anyone heading to London. Getting tired feet doing all that walking? Hop on one of the many river buses or tours that depart between Richmond all the way to the Thames Barrier. Another great way to see the sites of London on one of Britain's most famous waterways.

This is a huge expanse of white rolling sand dunes residing on the coast of West Sussex. It is often deemed one of the most beautiful beaches in England at 13km long and backing onto the South Downs, it’s enjoyable all year round and there are areas all along the front for you to swim, make sandcastles, go for a walk or enjoy a BBQ with family. 

It’s one of the few beaches in the UK where I have found absolutely anyone is welcome to come and enjoy it, no stares or whispered conversation between other families for looking different. I went to university in a county with a lot of coastline and always found my presence at the beaches there to be bothersome to many others. In fact, the only thing to note when you come to enjoy West Wittering is please be mindful and smart when going to enjoy the water, there are safe swimming areas for a reason! 

Lifeguards are posted up and down the beach and with it being so large, there are many areas to swim. Lots of places have much calmer, slightly busier waters which make it perfect for swimming together with friends and family or if you prefer to get your sea laps in, like me, there are equally calm areas to swim often used by those of us who might be taking the beach a little too seriously... If you’re looking for a bit of thrill when you head here, there are areas dedicated to water activities like wind surfing too.

Whilst visiting my partner’s parents for the first time in Gellifor, North Wales we took a trip West, to Dolgellau, hiked around Llynnau Cregennen (Cregennan Lakes), and meandered down hairpin bends towards Fairbourne Beach. We met with a large sea wall that protects the village from high tide, which we clambered over and stood in awe of the sprawling sandy beach. Despite the sunshine, it was sparsely filled with fellow beach walkers. Opalescent jellyfish were dotted around the sand - marking the edge of the tide. The open views fogged the horizon line facing the general direction of Ireland, and I felt at peace. A resolution had been made. We had our swimming gear - we had to jump in. Nothing beats a salty swim with natural views, crisp fresh air, and staring up to a clear blue sky. The feeling of weightlessness clears the mind, ready for the return back to the hustle bustle of London living.

Sadly, Fairbourne is on the front line in the battle against climate change and there are rising concerns that the lovely little village by it’s shores will be consumed by rising tides and ever more frequent flooding. “It’s being called the first place in the UK to be lost to climate change, as rising sea levels and extreme weather become too much to defend it from.” 13th March 2020 - Greenpeace. So be considerate and respectful when visiting and perhaps let your trip inspire you to invest as much time in healing the earth we share as we try to invest in healing ourselves. 

ESEA Sisters Guide us to Healing Waters

Flame Baster

Smashing out incredible burgers. This place will make you happy. 


I absolutely love this place. Owned by Grace from the Philippines. She is just amazing. What a woman!! Her food is so good. She serves all the greasy spoon classics along with traditional dishes from the south of the Philippines. She introduced me to the best ingredient in the World - Pinakurat, a special vinegar made using fermented coconut nectar, chilli and spices. I loved her food so much I made a take on her ‘Humbá’ over the embers for 200 people in my hometown last Christmas.


Enjoy cult status ramen at the fucking AMAZING Matsudai Ramen. Trust me here, just go, you will slurp yourself into a noodle high. It’s like a legal class A that gives you love and big bowl hugs. Proper buzz eating there. You can also order ramen kits to your home if you’re not in Cardiff. I LOVE MATSUDAI X

A Cardiff Spanish grill & wine house. Owner/Chef Owain Morgan does magic over the parilla grill. Using ex-dairy meat from local farms and Galicia. Fire! 

Chippy Lane in Cardiff on a weekend night is a sight to behold 

5 Places You Need to Visit in Cardiff With Flame Baster

Orienteer Magazine

Scotland

We took a trip to Arisaig, Scotland with MW guiding us to go sea kayaking. The water is so clear it looks like the Caribbean, we kayaked from island to island spotting seals as we went. With the right equipment you can also go wild camping, snorkelling or fishing. 


Swim level: Beginner 
Public Transport: Yes 
Facilities: Lifeguard 


A photoshoot took us walking the Watkins Path of Snowdonia. We were following the river up which twists and turns through many rock pools and waterfalls, the rock pools make the perfect spot to stop for a swim and cliff jumping! The clearest water and easy to access.  


Swim Level: Intermediate

Public Transport:  Yes

Facilities: None 

Where I am from in Rickmansworth, there are a lot of lakes that you can go sailing on and spots that would be great for wild swimming. I haven’t been back in years but have fond memories. Catch a short train from London and take an easy stroll around them, it's a great spot to go if you just want to be in nature and surrounded by water. 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport:  No 

Facilities: Toilets / Car Park 

When walking The Old Man Of Coniston, the blue lake is the perfect scene for a mirror lake shot - you get reflections of the mountain behind and the sky, if you can stay till sundown! The colours are so vivid. 


Swim Level: Not for Swimming 

Public Transport:  Yes 

Facilities: No 

There is a lake at the bottom of Pen Y Fan, great spot for a wild swim after a long hike. You can pitch up for the night in the nearby forest and wild camp next to small streams. It's a great spot for a few days as with the right equipment this water can be used for drinking water and to clean your cook sets! 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport: No 

 Facilities: No 

Orienteer Mapazine's Top Weekend Trips That End with a Dip

I love this village just outside Porthmadog. Glorious beaches to walk and I just adore the ‘Bae y Borth Deli’ there - Serving a taste of Nova Scotia with beautiful local seafood. Great wine & beer choices, plus phenomenal Welsh cheese deli counter. You’ll get stunning views sitting on the terrace and just when you think it couldn’t get any better - they are dog friendly as fuck!! 

My spiritual home for over 30 years. My extended family. These guys have influenced a lot on my cooking over the years and I’ve done some fun pop-ups there too. If you think you eat big, ask them for a ‘Chris Special’.

Best chippy in the whole World is in Criccieth. Castle Fish & Chips. Eat at the beach under the castle with a can of Tango.

If you’re in a Neapolitan pizza vibe, then look no further than ‘Jones Pizza Co’. Rich is a master of Napoli pies. His dough is fucking magical. Kissed by a 500*C wood fire. Beautifully leopard crust, crispy, light, chewy with really cool toppings he imports from Italy and usually with a few specials that celebrate local produce on too. He has a pop-up truck that serves around Caernarfon and a restaurant soon to open in Bangor

This is is very very very good. Smallish intimate restaurant in the beautiful Castle walls of Conwy. I highly recommend the taster menu with wine pairings. Chef Nick Rudge worked with Heston Blumenthal for years before returning home and opening his own place last year. Making a big impact with Snowdonia flavours.

When you’re done with North Wales, it is worth the drive down the coast to Gareth Ward at Ynyshir in Machynlleth & my G Nathan Davies of SY23 in Aberystwyth - they will blow your fucking minds.  They have 3 Michelin Stars between them. Flavour wizards. 

Nathan of SY23 is a pyromaniac like myself. He cooks everything over fire. His wood is all local, and he treats the wood not just as fuel, but as an ingredient. He showcases Welsh produce and people like him are putting Welsh food identity on the map.  

Flame Baster's Guide to North Wales

Open Waters Community

Margate

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

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

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 

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