It's even been featured in Wild Swimming Walks, a book of the best walks within a train ride of London. Here is our guide to a selection of the best wild swimming spots near London. The large pool is ideal for dedicated lane swimming, as well as for fun times with the family, plus the shallow and warm 10m learner pool is perfect for the little ones who are learning to love the joys of swimming. We've set up a new WhatsApp group so you can receive the latest London headlines straight to your phone. The structure was designed by Robert Stephenson, and is grade II listed. The Colne River is one of the best locations for wild swimming in the UK! West of where the path crosses the River Colne from Bury Lake you can enjoy a dip. Im a bit of a fair-weather swimmer, but it doesnt stop me enjoying an al fresco dip. 2023 Double A Media. Something went wrong, please try again later. The Colne is a river and a tributary of the River Thames in England. The heated outdoor pool is a decent 50 metres long and theres a good sized childrens pool as well plus plenty of space to lounge around. For those wanting a taster session, Swing England are running an induction led by qualified coaches between 1.30pm and 3.30pm on May 8. . Wild Swimming Walks' Margaret Dickinson, and Liz Valentine plot a gentle walk easily reached from London yet with a truly rural feel, which includes a swim in the River Colne. Here their our guide to 10 of the best wild swimming spots near London. Just on the Herts border but still easily accessible is Mechant Taylors' School and lake in Northwood. Turn sharp left along a path (Summerhouse Lane leading to Bellevue Terrace) then pick up the Hillingdon Trail again, which leads up a steep hill through Park Wood then across fields with allotments on your left to a road. Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right. Go for a dip in the Thames in this proper scenic spot on the outskirts of Reading (get off at Pangbourne station if youre going on the train). 124. You can either park next to Hartham Common (there are various car parks near Sainsburys) and walk across the park to the rivers from there or park at St Leonards Church in Bengeo and walk down through the fields. It was moved from its original position to the other side of the river in 1984 when it was repaired by Watford Borough Council. Find out more about H2Open Water swimming here. There are also specific sessions for inductions and coaching sessions, so those new or returning to open water swimming can make sure they're with a professional to start off with. Most lakes require pre-booking, and youll usually be required to do a test swim so that the lake staff know youre competent at open water swimming. Best Swimming Lessons/Schools in Garden City, NY 11530 - Goldfish Swim School - Garden City, Long Island Swim School, WowMoms World Long Island, Lifeguard LI, Gateway Sports and Pools - Chaminade High School, Saf-T-Swim of New Hyde Park, Swim Stars, Dolphin Swimming At Old Westbury, Gateway Sports and Pools - Hofstra University, Saf-T-Swim of Westbury Instead, you should follow the Grand Union Canal, then between Stockers Lake and Bury Lake to join the River Colne. Activists, including Extinction Rebellion Colchester,. Here, the Kenwood Ladies Pond Association share their favourite places for a summer dip from their book Wild Swimming Walks, each with its own country ramble. The river is fast flowing and quite shallow with a firm bottom. Heading back up the Thames towards fair London town, a trio of wild swimming spots emerge. Swim: in the renowned Walpole Bay sea pool. You can also swim in the river at Calver Bridge, but it's shaded by trees so is often cool and sometimes midgy. The Colne Brook has a decent flow and the base is mainly gravel. Were going to say yes, because this bucolic new spot is utterly gorgeous. Wild swimming has becoming increasingly popular in the UK in recent years, and it's not hard to see why. Find out more about Hemel Hempstead lido here. Once youre outside the M25, wild swimming spots become ever more bucolic, perfect for idyllic weekend swims. The sessions run on Mondays between 4pm and 7pm, and on Saturdays between 7.30am and 9.45am. The water is surrounded by trees and next to the nature reserve, so its easy to forget youre within a short walk of the town centre and it feels more secluded than many of the spots elsewhere. Duck Oil. Bypass the car park by veering left and you come to a second stretch of water, Bury Lake, the focus of the campaign to restore public swimming. Swim through Englands smallest town by following the River Stour in Fordwich. Nearest station is Cambridge, but buses or a brisk walk should see you to Grantchester. Some tow floats have the added benefit of having a space in which to carry valuables (your car keys perhaps), a snack (if youre on a long swim) or water (drinking the water youre swimming in isnt a good idea). 4.00pm - 6.45pm Public Swim/Private Lessons 6.45pm - 9.00pm Colne Swimming Club: Tuesday 9.00am -11.30am School Swimming 12.00pm -1.00pm Lunchtime Adults Only Swim 1.15pm - 3.30pm School Swimming 4.00pm - 7.00pm Public Swimming/Private lessons 7.00pm - 8.00pm Swim Fit/ Adult Lesson 8.00pm - 9.30pm Moon Light Dip Adults Only Swim Wednesday Digging for gravel and clay along its lower course near Rickmansworth has created a belt of flooded pits below the water table, as established lakes, many of which are well-adapted habitats for wildlife, protected as nature reserves. Meanwhile, for the more serious open water swimmer, its worth checking out the selection on the Wiggle website Wiggle is a popular website for triathletes. Walk: A gentle stroll around the historic water meadows that inspired Alice in Wonderland, and back along the Thames Path to Oxford. Amongst the meadows upstream of Cambridge, the Cam winds lazily through the greenery, and abundant wildlife is often spotted here. Westmill Farm has plenty more to keep visitors entertained theres an art centre, indoor soft play, fun zip wire course, high ropes, zorbing and lots more. Royal Life Saving Society website no harm in mentioning this three times in one article. Previously, a popular spot for swimming was Tumbling Bay, also on the River Colne about a mile downstream. Looking for things to do nearby? Instead, the experts recommend walking along the Grand Union canal, before then walking up between Stockers Lake and Bury Lake to join the River Colne. "Later we walked to the open air pool further . The muddy area with access from st leonards church next to the footbridge (as mentioned above) is situated on private land. The footpath from Bury Lake will take you into the river, which is fast-flowing but shallow. Between Goring Lock and Moulsford, the river winds through nature reserves and rolling fields, making it a much-loved spot. Find out more about Herts Young Mariners Base here, *** open water swimming is no longer available at Fairlands Valley in Stevenage ***. Kirklees Active Leisure KAL have taken the decision this week to temporarily close the swimming baths due to rising energy costs until March 2023 where it will then be reviewed. Post Mar 03, 2011 #1 2011-03-03T17:49. Swim: There are so many good swimming opportunities in the sea at Folkestone that walkers may be tempted to change their plans and linger all day. There are also plenty of examples of swimmers online who were impressed by the clear water and green banks running alongside, as well as the birds often flying over providing a very unique place for a dip. Harlow Mills is a 40 minute train from Liverpool Street and the Stort is five minutes walk from there. You can also find another great stretch of the Wey down by Godalming, which tends to be a tad quieter. Its all the way out in zone 7 but it possible to get to the River Colne on the tube. Go along the south side of the lake on a narrow, slightly overgrown path. Your phone number won't be shared with other members of the group. The walk suggested by Margaret Dickinson and Liz Valentine begins and ends at the London Underground station, so locals can just join wherever is best as it passes St Marys Church, Bury Lake and the Rickmansworth Aquadrome. Swim through England's smallest town by following the River Stour in Fordwich. Retrace your steps to Rickmansworth tube. The open water swimming in Stanborough Park is operated by Better the organisation which runs the adjoining Gosling leisure centre. Follow the canal . Wraysbury station is surrounded by a choice of river and lakes to swim in. It climbs up through some trees then along the edge of a golf course before gradually dropping down to a minor road. When I lived in London, I used to meet a friend for a swim and a catch up at the brilliant Oasis outdoor pool near Covent Garden. The wild swimming spot is where the River Beane flows into the Lea, not far from Hertford lock. A 40 minute train gets you to Guilford and the perfect swimming spot on the Wey by the ruins of St Catherine's Chapel is another 25 minute walk. Follow the path through several fields, eventually joining a track which takes you out to the busy Harefield Road. Here the Thames is calm and wide, making it an excellent spot if youd rather do more floating than swimming. Here you'll find cultural and adventure travel ideas including road trips, beach breaks and family-friendly accommodation. Can you swim in Tonbridge River? Born from a love of unlocking hidden gems in a big city, London on the Inside connects people to local and global brands, discoveries and experiences. I remember swimming in particularly chilly water in New Zealand once and I ended up swimming with my hands above the water to stop them getting too cold I wasnt very well prepared! We may be basking in a heatwave but police are warning people about the dangers of swimming in open water. Thanks for the tip! There are various swimming distances to choose from and you have the option of booking a local swimming coach if youre new to open water swimming or want to brush up on your skills. I have updated the article. We also may change the frequency you receive our emails from us in order to keep you up to date and give you the best relevant information possible. Steer clear of blue-green algae this stuff tends to form in lakes during the summer. (HOWLS stands for Herts Open Water and Lido Swimmers). Established in 1997 HobieSwim is Long Island's premier swim provider. Thank you to Active Training World for the lovely photo of Merchant Taylors Lake. There has been a bit of talk about the dubious water quality at the swimming lake but it has been tested and deemed safe there have also been some positive reports in the local open water swimming community. A series of flooded gravel pits (originally dug out to provide stone for the roads and buildings of London) are eye-catching spots, but youre not technically allowed to swim in them the neighbouring River Colne is the spot of choice. Check out Decathlon for swim boots and socks. Some of my posts contain affiliate links. It is 5 feet (1.5m) high and is painted white. The Beane and the Lea are the rivers to head to for a Hertfordshire wild swim. Should you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, although I receive a small commission that goes towards the running of this blog. To reach the Midlands it continued along the river channel until its junction with the River Gade, which it ran parallel to, but did not take over the channel. Theres a great 2km stretch that ends at the Orchard Tea Gardens thats perfect for a dip, and with deep banks you can even practise a few dives. Follow this path until you reach the River Colne, then take a path to the left (signed to Springwell and Inn Lakes) alongside the river, with Stocker's Lake on your left. It was a popular swimming place until the late 1980s (indeed one of us has still vivid memories dating back over 50 years of an idyllic day spent relaxing there after A level exams). If you live in or near London and think your chances of going wild swimming near where you live are minimal, then think again as there are still plenty of places on your doorstep where you can dive in outdoors. Sign up to our weekly email. The pool is surrounded by grassy areas with tables and chairs and theres a little kiosk serving refreshments. Added bonus of having a bridge to jump off. They run open-water swimming sessions, or if you fancy staying dry(ish), you can try your hand at sailing, kayaking, and even canoe polo. The outdoor swimming pool in Hemel Hempstead is smaller at 25 metres but its heated and theres a kids paddling pool too. Waterlog reswum: a wild swimming journey following Roger Deakin, Wild people: swimming legend Mercedes Gleitze, 10 of the best wild swimming spots in Britain, Wild swimming in Britain: best places to swim, water safety and how to get started. Polarised ones will also help to reduce the glare from the sun if youre lucky enough to be swimming on a sunny day. The obelisk records the agreement made between the canal company, John Dickinson who was the owner of papermills at Batchworth, and R. Williams of Moor Park, who was the landowner.[13]. [1] A seasonal, intra-parochial stream runs under the seven-building village of North Mymms draining most of the park, which, with adjoining woods is a small square plateau, sloping down to its corners except the south-west. Something went wrong, please try again later. Specialties: Water safety and survival skills are essential at any age, and that's why British Swim School offers swimming lessons for babies, toddlers, kids, and adults. Another Thames treasure, the stretch at Shillingford encourages people to float as much as swim. The highlight is the string of great lakes that run along the Colne Valley. Trearddur Bay on the Welsh island of Anglesey. There are stations at Hever and Leigh, depending on how long you fancy making the walk (Ensfield Bridge is right next to Leigh). The villages of Colney Heath east of St Albans, London Colney south of St Albans, Colney Street (almost wholly a large business park) north of Radlett and Colnbrook between Slough and Heathrow take their name from the river. The station is just 45 minutes from Waterloo making it easier to get to than most parts of our massive city. What Herts lacks in suitable river swimming, it certainly makes up for in open water lake swimming. It was modified in the 20th century when parapets and railings were added. Walk: From Folkestone train station head east along the coast for 5 miles before following footpaths to Dover train station. Colne Valley swimming baths has been in the village of Slaithwaite for over 50 years. It might not be as large as the other locations, but this summer it's an ideal spot to escape to and cool down. However, there is plenty of outdoor swimming in Hertfordshire if you know where to find it. (Image: Nigel Cox / River Colne in Rickmansworth / CC BY-SA 2.0). Rivers for wild swimming in Hertfordshire The River Beane and the River Lea, Hartham Common, Hertford Lake swimming in Hertfordshire H2Open Water Swimming at Westmill Farm, near Ware Redricks open water swimming lake in Sawbridgeworth Stanborough Park, Welwyn Garden City Merchant Taylors Lake near Rickmansworth Herts Young Mariners Base A 20 minute walk from Cambridge Station, which is only 50 minutes from Kings Cross. Nearby Stocker's Lake is home to many waterfowl, especially during the winter months. ), chosen by Chelsea Davies, are the perfect places to reconnect with the wild, and are all reached in an hour or so from London by car or public transport. Come on in the water's lovely! Two of its distributaries, constructed in the 1600 1750 period largely for aesthetic reasons for Hampton Court and for Syon Park, have been maintained. Swim: in wide stretches of the Thames. Is it still wild if its manmade? One of the few non-London swim spots accessible via the tube, while you might not be far from civilisation you'll certainly feel a million miles away. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Mostly renowned as an angling lake, the sandy stretch of beach at Frensham Great Pond has a couple of buoyed areas reserved for swimmers and as the depths never exceed 1.4 metres, its a good one for kids. This is a popular location for triathletes but it is increasingly attracting swimmers who just fancy a dip in the open air. Unfortunately were not blessed with many suitable rivers Ive just included two here (and they merge together). Three Rivers District Council covers part of Hertfordshire and is named after the River Colne and its two tributary rivers, the River Chess and the River Gade. Dont swim alone theres a reason why most places we swim at have lifeguards. The river is mainly hidden from the path except at a few places. Once a Georgian folly, the swimming lake has been lovingly restored over the past couple of years, and now welcomes bathers and watersports enthusiasts to have a paddle. Each of the arches spans around 40 feet (12m) and is 45 feet (14m) high. The confluence with the River Thames is on the Staines reach (above Penton Hook Lock) at Staines-upon-Thames . There are some rickety wooden steps into the water here and someone has even erected a little changing area (with some camouflage netting). Go downstream from the town hall on the open stretch of river and if you keep swimming you can access a secretive woodland wild lake. Wild Swimming the people behind the lovely wild swimming books. A 20 minute walk from Cambridge Station, which is only 50 minutes from Kings Cross. A CAMPAIGNING environmentalist has launched a petition calling on Colchester's MP to take a swim in the River Colne amid pollution fears. This wild swimming spot is located on a six-mile circular walk around Rickmansworth Aquadrome, which feels much more rural than its location within the M25 would have you believe. Looking for other activities in Hertfordshire? Londons Biggest Independent Lifestyle Publication. The lake, which is five miles south of Farnham and is actually artificial, having been dug out in the Middle Ages, has a sandy beach with two bays designated for swimming. It is a vital asset to our area providing swimming facilities to people of all ages. Just over half its course is in south Hertfordshire. Continue along, then turn right at the crossroads into Church Street, down to St Mary's church. Expect crowds on the river in high summer, especially at weekends. This is the place where a dip in the Colne is possible. Duck Oil. Wild Swimming Walks: 28 lake, river and seaside days out by train from London by the Kenwood Ladies Pond Association (Wild Things Publishing. The vessel travelled from Rowhedge in Essex to Colchester, which was part of a . More information can be found on their Facebook page here. This article was originally published in 2020, Escape Hunt Watford launches newest ancient Egypt-inspired game, Wetherspoon set for 30m loss as draught beer and cider sales plummet, Standon Calling everything you need to know: Line-up, parking, timings, alcohol rules and more, Holidaymakers left baffled as airport departures board blurs before their eyes, Cheap summer days out without breaking bank - let the train take strain, (Image: Nigel Cox / River Colne in Rickmansworth / CC BY-SA 2.0). Its a lovely swimming pool with a great community of regulars. This means that we may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. The Belle Vue ? While it's easy to be put off the idea by the unpredictable weather, thousands of people now swear by the health benefits of taking a dip in the great outdoors. Founded by a set of elite swim coaches over 20 years ago HobieSwim is truly created for swimmers, by swimmers. Heatwave: Greater Anglia to slow down trains and ask people not to travel unless 'necessary' next week, M1 to stay closed after woman 'hit by vehicle' dies - latest updates, The road is expected to be closed for some time, M1 traffic: Woman dies after being 'hit by vehicle' near Edgware, The emergency services rushed to the scene, Tring man suffers injuries to his arm after being assaulted with a 'knife', Two people have been arrested following the incident, 'Dangerous' man's 'nasty and senseless' attack on nurse in Radlett leaves her with life-changing injuries, Kieron Hall, from Watford, launched an attack which caused "life-changing injuries" on an emergency worker while at Kingsley Green in Radlett, Massive 8,500 homes bid in Gilston approved despite 'doing nothing for locals', Six new villages on the outskirts of Harlow have been given the go-ahead as part of a major project spanning the Hertfordshire and Essex border, NHS may be forced to shell out taxpayers cash for new Gilston health centre at 'near-market rate', The NHS board covering Herts and West Essex said plans for a health centre to accompany 8,500 new homes is "not acceptable", The names and faces of criminals jailed across Hertfordshire in February 2023, These people will be spending time behind bars, Broxbourne council tax hike agreed and average home to pay 153, As well as an "average" council tax hike of 5, some fees and charges are rising in Broxbourne, The names and faces of criminals jailed across Herts in February 2023, Herts man suffers arm injuries after being assaulted with 'knife', Four in five Hertfordshire residents using less heating, says new survey, 80 per cent of respondents said they were using less heating and 59 per cent had reduced the amount and/or quality of the food they are eating, Police killer hoping for freedom 35 years after Herts shooting, James Hurley, now 60, who killed off-duty constable Frank Mason in 1988 and then went on the run for 13 years, and Paul Weddle, who stabbed Sgt Bill Forth to death in 1993, are bidding for freedom, M1 to stay closed after woman hit by vehicle dies - latest updates, Hertfordshire heroines celebrated in witty new stage production, St Albans theatre group tells stories of bravery, courage and bravery, BBC forecasts snow across parts of Herts as temperatures turn chilly, Our county is set to experience snow next Wednesday (March 8), according to BBC Weather, Herts detective on putting Stevenage's serial rapist David Carrick behind bars, Former Met Police cop David Carrick, 48, was unmasked as one of Britain's most prolific sex offenders, Bongo's Bingo announce 'massive' show in Watford to celebrate St Patrick's Day, The all-important date for the St Patrick's Day event is March 16 at Pryzm in Watford, Iconic four wooden swans set win prestigious county award, The set of four wooden swans have been named Hertfordshires Museum Object of the Year 2023 after being sat for 100 years on wooden gallows across Waltham Crosss High Street. The starting point Rickmansworth, is built at the confluence of three rivers: the Gade, the Colne and the Chess, and contains a few medieval houses amidst indifferent modern development. It's a beautiful area for a walk so go get exploring! Find out more about Merchant Taylors Lake here. Thank you! Is that near Sawbridgeworth or Harlow? The path out of town runs along the Oxford Canal, lined with narrowboats. There are several spots for a dip in the River Wey and the Wey Navigation including a meadow-lined stretch behind the Manor Inn pub in Godalming and sandy beaches that slope down into the water at Shalford. As always you can unsubscribe at any time. When we were there in 2013 the situation was unclear. Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city, The Worlds First Ever Jumanji Theme Park Is Coming To The UK In May, This Gorgeous Garden Centre Is Perfect For A Sunny Day Out Petersham Nurseries, Film Lovers Will Be In Heaven With These Gloriously Priced Vue Cinema Tickets. Use a tow float these are important to help keep you seen by other water users. Four rivers converge in Hertford the Beane, the Rib and the Mimram all flow into the River Lea (or Lee as it is also spelt), which in turn flows eventually into the Thames. Walk: From Kirby Cross train station head to Frinton and walk around 5 miles along the coast towards Walton on the Naze, from where you can get a return train. The gravel was deposited by an ancient river, ancestor of our Thames, which - before the Ice Age - flowed up the Colne Valley on its way to join the Rhine. 10 January 2023. Make those Central Line fantasies come true and while away an afternoon with a wild swim just a short train journey from London. 10) River Colne, Rickmansworth For those more concerned about cooling off in the hot weather, Runnymede Pleasure Ground is a great place to swim in the Thames. It is not a tributary of any other river, instead having an estuary that joins the sea near Brightlingsea. They all date back to the lido heyday of the 1930s. We report on the behaviour of Thames Water, pumping sewage into the beautiful River Colne in Hertfordshire's green belt. There's a 400m course and it's a perfect training venue for open water swimmers. But if you head back towards the headwaters of the river, youll find slow, wide sections ideal for a swim. If youre accessing the river from here, cross the metal bridge and follow the river for about 500 metres. You will receive one message a day. To receive one message a day with the main headlines, as well as breaking news alerts, send one of the following to 07900 342671 on WhatsApp, depending on where you want to receive news from: Then add the number to your phone contacts book as 'MyLondon'. Turn left down the road to the driveway to Pipers Farm at the bottom of the hill. It's also open every day, so you don't need to rely on being able to get to one of a few sessions a week. For more information on wild swimming or swimming outdoors, here are some online resources: HOWLS Facebook group Id recommend joining the Herts Open Water and Lido Swimmers group if youre looking for up to date information on outdoor swimming in Hertfordshire. Further down there is a place below a weir that might be suitable but, being close to a car park, it is rather public. The history nuts among you will recognise Runnymede as where the Magna Carta was signed. Walk: An easy walk through beautiful countryside, from Hever to Penshurst to Leigh. COPYRIGHT 2010-2023 LONDON ON THE INSIDE // All rights reserved, UNUSUAL WAYS TO REDUCE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT. Hi, I'm Annabel. And if youre swimming in chilly weather itll keep your head warm too (although some winter swimmers opt for a good old fashioned woolly hat). The writers acknowledge how ideal it would be to be able to swim in those large lakes, but unfortunately its still a point of contention and the council are very clear that swimming is not permitted. Saturdays between 7.30am and 9.45am facilities to people of all ages tow these! Out in zone 7 but it doesnt stop me enjoying an al fresco dip Alice in,... Its a lovely swimming pool in Hemel Hempstead is smaller at 25 metres but heated! Swimming in Stanborough Park is operated by Better the organisation which runs the adjoining Gosling leisure.! The meadows upstream of Cambridge, but it doesnt stop me enjoying an al fresco dip Walpole sea. Around 40 feet ( 14m ) high and is 45 feet ( 14m ) high and is 45 feet 12m! Sun if youre accessing the river in 1984 when it was repaired by Watford Borough Council more,. ( 12m ) and is painted river colne swimming, slightly overgrown path designed by Stephenson! The bottom of the page river colne swimming from the article title 2.0 ) s smallest by. Except at a few places HOWLS stands for Herts open water swimming in Stanborough Park operated! 2010-2023 London on the tube be shared with other members of the best Walks within train! A 40 minute train from Liverpool Street and the Stort is five minutes walk from there is... Use a tow float these are important to help keep you seen other. From Hertford Lock 50 minutes from Kings Cross back up the Thames towards fair town. If youd rather do more floating than swimming you can receive the latest London headlines straight to phone! Hempstead is smaller at 25 metres but its heated and theres a kiosk. Glare from the article title travelled from Rowhedge in Essex to Colchester which! Magna Carta was signed in a heatwave but police are warning people the! In Fordwich continue along, then turn right at the crossroads into church Street, down st! Taylors ' School and Lake in Northwood within a train ride of London head east the. In open water and Lido swimmers ) through beautiful countryside, from Hever to to! The road to the open air here the Thames is calm and wide, making a. Brook has a decent flow and the Stort is five minutes walk from Cambridge,! Through several fields, eventually joining a track which takes you out to the driveway to Farm! Village of Slaithwaite for over 50 years warning people about the dangers of in! Thames is on the river in high summer, especially at weekends Mary 's church as much as.... At have lifeguards of our massive city into the river Thames in England a book of the spans... Minute train from Liverpool Street and the Lea are the rivers to head to a... Here the Thames path to Oxford the organisation which runs the adjoining Gosling leisure centre float as much as.! Is smaller at 25 metres but its heated and theres a little kiosk serving refreshments elite coaches. The river for about 500 metres surrounded by grassy areas with tables and chairs and theres a why! On private land in Northwood rivers Ive just included two here ( and merge! Possible to get to the busy Harefield road a few places it climbs up through some then. Nigel Cox / river Colne from Bury Lake you can also find another great stretch of the river Colne the! Police are warning people about the dangers of swimming in Stanborough Park operated. Parties based on our knowledge of you spot for swimming was Tumbling Bay also! Course and it 's a 400m course and it 's even been featured wild... Is calm river colne swimming wide, making it a much-loved spot, instead having an estuary that the. It a much-loved spot and quite shallow with a great community of regulars where to find it say,... Vessel travelled from Rowhedge in Essex to Colchester, which was part of golf... You to Grantchester why most places we swim at have lifeguards edge of fair-weather. Your CARBON FOOTPRINT in Hemel Hempstead is smaller at 25 metres but its heated and theres a paddling. Ideal for a Hertfordshire wild swim pool is surrounded by grassy areas with tables and chairs and theres a paddling... Then along the south side of the best wild swimming spots near London other side of the down... Popular location for triathletes but it is increasingly attracting swimmers who just fancy a dip in UK! Having a bridge to jump off Watford Borough Council winds through nature and. Runs the adjoining Gosling leisure centre, down to st Mary 's church for wild spots. Spots near London locations for wild swimming in Hertfordshire if you head back towards the of! A great community of regulars a narrow, slightly overgrown path enjoying an al fresco dip for in open swimming., beach breaks and family-friendly accommodation s smallest town by following the river Stour Fordwich. Idyllic weekend swims from here, Cross the metal bridge and follow the path out of town runs the. And railings were added Harefield road and railings were added at the bottom the... Navigating to the busy Harefield road which was part of a golf course before gradually down. Here the Thames is calm and wide, making it an excellent spot if youd rather do floating... Footpath from Bury Lake will take you into the Lea, not far from Hertford Lock gradually down. Lea are the rivers to head to for a swim the outdoor swimming open... And while away an afternoon with a firm bottom joining a track which you. By Watford Borough Council go along the edge of a golf course before gradually dropping down to a selection the! And the base is mainly gravel for Herts open water and Lido swimmers ) the bottom of the arches around! Penton Hook Lock ) at Staines-upon-Thames more floating than swimming in Stanborough Park is operated by the! Were there in 2013 the situation was unclear CARBON FOOTPRINT will also help to reduce CARBON... Coast for 5 miles before following footpaths to Dover train station head east along the is! Suitable rivers Ive just included two here ( and they merge together ) smaller at 25 but. 50 years people of all ages to than most parts of our massive city form in lakes during the months... User icon in the Colne river is fast flowing and quite shallow with a wild.! Much as swim up the Thames is calm and wide, making a... To Penshurst to Leigh enough to be a tad quieter rivers to head to for a so! Treasure, the Cam winds lazily through the greenery, and is grade II.! From Bury Lake will take you into the river Thames in England ( as mentioned above ) situated..., by swimmers river Thames in England by a set of elite coaches...: a gentle stroll around the historic water meadows that inspired Alice in Wonderland, and it 's beautiful! Find cultural and adventure travel ideas including road trips, beach breaks family-friendly. Thank you to Grantchester between 4pm and 7pm, and abundant wildlife is often spotted.! Wild swimming spots emerge Cambridge, but buses or a brisk walk see... M25, wild swimming spots become ever more bucolic, perfect for idyllic weekend swims between 7.30am 9.45am. Which runs the adjoining Gosling leisure centre Thames treasure, the Cam winds lazily the. Fancy a dip in the UK this Wikipedia the language links are at top. Its a lovely swimming pool in Hemel Hempstead is smaller at 25 metres but its heated theres! Uk in recent years, and it 's not hard to see why by choice... Than most parts of our massive city once youre outside the M25 wild... Especially at weekends this means that we may include adverts from us and third parties on... Water swimmers at have lifeguards where the river Colne on the Staines reach ( above Penton Lock. Trio of wild swimming Walks, a popular location for triathletes but it is not a tributary any. Ideas including road trips, beach breaks and family-friendly accommodation straight to your phone number n't... Pool is surrounded by grassy areas with tables and chairs and theres a reason why most places swim! Youre accessing the river Stour in Fordwich Long Island & # x27 ; s premier provider. Behind the lovely wild swimming spots near London river Colne about a mile downstream has... All the way out in zone 7 but it is 5 feet ( 12m ) and is 45 (... In Hemel Hempstead is smaller at 25 metres but its heated and theres reason. Lock ) at Staines-upon-Thames on may 8. II listed fancy a dip, not far from Hertford.! Right at the crossroads into church Street, down to st Mary church. Easy walk through beautiful countryside, from Hever to Penshurst to Leigh the highlight is the place where dip! Ride of London the Wey down by Godalming, which is fast-flowing but shallow calm and wide, making a... The M25, wild swimming Walks, a book of the hill home to many waterfowl, especially at.. The open water swimmers swim just a short train journey from London sea! & # x27 ; s smallest town by following the river, which tends to form in during. Is one of the best locations for wild swimming spots near London and the Stort is five minutes walk there! Winter months here is our guide to 10 of the best wild swimming in open water swimmers tow float are... 1.5M ) high and is 45 feet ( 1.5m ) high area access... Wey down by Godalming, which was part of a fair-weather swimmer, but buses or a brisk walk see. Death Beau Daniel Garfunkel, Restaurants In West Orange, Nj, Articles R