Wild Swimming Walks
Are you already a seasoned wild swimmer or eager to dip your toe into wild swimming but not sure where to start? Perhaps you’re a keen walker with a love of exploring. So how about combining the two?
If this sounds like something you’d be keen to try, you are in the right place as I am planning some wild swimming walks across Yorkshire this spring and summer. If you would like to know more, read on…
Wild Swimming Walks Yorkshire
Yorkshire has some beautiful rivers, tarns, waterfalls, not to mention a fantastic coastline with hidden, sandy coves, perfect for a dip. Without local knowledge it can be hard to know where and how to access the water for a swim or dip and more importantly where it is safe to do so.
I’m currently researching my next book, Wild Swimming Walks Yorkshire. Combining two of my favourite outdoor activities - swimming and walking - the book will include routes and descriptions for some gorgeous walks across the county with at least two swim spots en route.
I hope to share my love of walking and wild swimming and to encourage people to get out and give it a go.
Join our Wild Swimming walking group!
For so many of us wild swimming is as much about the community as the swim. So I have set up a group for pro wild swimmers and any newbies who would like to get out on walks with a swim or two along the way.
You can bathe in some of Yorkshire’s favourite rivers, the Wharfe, Ure, Nidd and Derwent; plunge in fairytale waterfalls; glide through moorland tarns and hike for miles, enjoying some spectacular scenery along the way. If this sounds like your sort of thing, then why not join us?
The Kit: What will I need?
You could argue that you need very little for a swim walk, just a decent pair of walking shoes or boots, a swimming costume and something to dry yourself with. But it helps to be prepared with a few bits to make it an enjoyable day out. So alongside the above, here is the sort of kit I usually take along on a spring and summer swim hike:
A rucksack - I usually carry a 25-30 litre rucksack for swim walks. I recently bought a 25-litre drybag backpack from Seashell which I am yet to try out. It fits loads in and keeps everything dry so will be good for day-long swim hikes.
Towel - a microfibre or hamman towel - These are lightweight and faster drying than regular towels. You could use a lightweight poncho if you want more of a cover-up.
Swimming costume - One or two if you are planning more than one dip. Be biosecurity aware. The transition of invasive species from one body of water to another can have devastating consequences so wear a different swimsuit at each swim spot.
Aqua shoes - These are really useful if you are clambering over slippy rocks, particularly around waterfalls or pebbly beaches. I don’t tend to wear gloves on spring/summer swims as I am not in the water that long but it is a personal choice.
Layers - include a warm top or jacket for after your swim. Always bring more layers than you think you will need. Include a sun hat or warm hat depending on the weather.
Lightweight waterproof jacket - Not only will it keep you dry if it rains, it will also protect you from wind chill.
Drinks, snacks, lunch - I usually bring a flask of tea to warm me up after a swim; plenty of water as cold water can dehydrate you ( I am aware of this myself as I am always thirsty after cold water swimming)r; snacks and a packed lunch.
Small dry bag or just a reusable zip lock plastic bag (ie self-seal freezer bags) to put your wet swim things in.
Mat - This provides a bit of insulation for your feet when you’re are getting changed. I use a compact sit-mat from Multimat which folds up into my rucksack and weighs very little. You can also use it to sit on while you are eating your lunch as it dries quickly.
First Aid Kit - plasters, antiseptic cream, tick remover - I know - yuk! But better to get the little blighter out asap than giving it a lift home with you).
Where can I go wild swimming in Yorkshire?
If you can’t make the organised swim walks, why not enjoy your own swim adventure?
My book, Wild Guide North East England, published in 2023, contains hundreds more swim spots across the North East and Yorkshire, including rivers, waterfalls, tarns and hidden coves.
