Not too long ago, wild swimming was just a plunge in Ilkley’s White Wells on New Years’ Day, quickly put to the back of your memory. Maybe those behind that tradition were onto something, because the hobby has returned in force, and there’s more people taking up (and enjoying) wild water swimming than ever before. 

In this blog, we float the idea of taking to Yorkshire’s crystal-clear waters, unpacking those all-important health benefits along the way, before wrapping up with our top five outdoor beauty swim spots.

Get in while it’s hot out

It takes a hardy person to wild swim in summer, never mind the colder months. So, before you fire up the group chat, take a look at our live availability and get some dates to hand while the weather is on your side. Top tip: it’s a lot easier to take your wetsuit off in a yurt and warm right back up by a log burning stove. Just saying.

Benefits of wild swimming

Cold exposure is the aim of the game for wild swimmers. According to experts, the practice increases hormones that are directly responsible for elevating your mood, attention, focus and vigilance – all while decreasing inflammation and pain. Here are some more widely understood facts about wild swimming:

Good for the dome

Repair damaged brain synapses and reduce the symptoms of depression

Increases immunity

Harden your body naturally

Puts you in better shape

Support metabolic rate, fat burning and exercise recovery time

Why is Yorkshire a magnet for wild swimmers?

While wild swimming is not a vanity sport, let’s face it, location is everything. We won’t be taking a plunge in the Thames anytime soon, after all. Thanks to its rolling mountains and picturesque waterfalls, the north, and especially Yorkshire, has become known as the home for great bathing opportunities.

Our top five local wild swimming spots

1. Appletreewick
   We may be biased, but there’s nowhere better for great day out than our very own doorstep. The banks and waters are a real crowd-pleaser, offering gentle rapids, a rope swing and soft grass to picnic on.
2. Bolton Abbey
   The ruins of the abbey are perched next to the banks of the River Wharfe, an open, sandy area that looks right out of a postcard. It’s easy to see why swimmers of all abilities have flocked here for decades.
3. Janet’s Foss, Malham
   The trail between Janet’s Foss and Malham Cove is paved with limestone, making the gentle waterfall a perfect place for first-time wild water swimmers.
4. Grassington Weir
   Tucked between the villages of Grassington and Linton, you’ll find a patch of shallow river common that’s just asking for an inflatable ring.
5. Loup Scar, Burnsall
   Accomplished swimmers frequent this grassy riverside for a refreshing plunge while taking in the dramatic limestone mountain views and treelines.

Staying safe in open water

If you’re used to a nice warm bath, this is going to be a shock. In fact, it’s not uncommon for first time swimmers to go into actual cold-water shock. This feels like panic symptoms such as quickened breathing and gasping. Letting your body adapt to changes in your swimming temperate habits is really important.

Getting wrapped up in the excitement and anticipation of it all has its own risks too. While planning your first plunge, make sure you’ve factored in the following:

• An experienced swimming buddy or group – they’ll also boost your confidence!
• Swimming close to the shore or edge is much safer than going right across the middle
• Plan your exit strategy before you get in, and be careful in case it’s slippery
• Stay hydrated to avoid cramp
• Check for any strong currents
• Avoid staying in the water for longer than 20 minutes

Water you waiting for?