Wild Swimming Benefits, Stories and Safety Tips

Outdoor swimming, or wild swimming as it is also known, is a refreshing way to blow away the cobwebs. Cold water swimming has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more people discovering the joy of lakes, rivers, tidal pools and sea swims.

Many swimmers describe it as uplifting for both body and mind. Some people find the cold, the rhythm of the water and the sense of achievement help them feel calmer and more present. It is important to treat cold water with care, though, and to seek medical advice before starting if you have any health concerns.

The benefits people often find in wild swimming

• A stronger sense of mindfulness and wellbeing.
• A natural lift in mood and a sense of achievement.
• A chance to feel more connected to nature.
• A sociable way to spend time with others.
• A refreshing challenge for body and mind.
• A reason to get outdoors, even in colder months.

You do not need to live by the sea to try outdoor swimming. Lakes, rivers and managed open water swimming venues can be lovely alternatives, provided they are safe and suitable for swimming. If open water is not nearby, some people begin gently with cold showers or supervised cold dips before building confidence.

We spoke to members of the Open Water Swimming UK Facebook group to find out why they love it so much.

"My favourite place to swim in Kent, where I'm based, is Bewl Water. It's the largest body of water in the South East and is fantastically run by my friends at TriSwim. My favourite places to swim in Cornwall are the Gazzle because it's so wild and unpredictable, and the tidal pools all along the North Coast.

On my annual winter trip to Scotland, I love to swim in the lochs around Aviemore with a friend who has local knowledge. All these places are so different yet familiar, cold yet delicious, and after all, it doesn't matter where you go, because swimming is swimming!" – Camilla Gollege

"I swim off the coast in North Wales all year round, just five minutes from my home. I swim with one, two, maybe five people on a special day. I especially love the walk in, slow but purposeful.

The sinking of my shoulders under the water, the view out to sea that brings the vastness of everything in and the ever-changing skies. I love the cold. The cold is why I do it, the achievement when a strong woman puts her mind to something outside her comfort zone. I particularly love a sunrise or moonrise swim, one with our glorious world." – Sian Roberts

"I had never swum in cold, open water. I was so in awe of the women who did. It was a love letter to them, those brave wild women. Less than a month later, in mid-December, I took my first swim at Porth and immediately fell in love. The strong women in my life are reflected in my work, memories of my mum swimming with me in the Mediterranean Sea.

The way someone's hair blows in the wind, the cheeky sparkle in their eyes as they plunge into ice-cold water with no fear. To come to the surface laughing.

To stand on the beach looking at the sea in complete calmness when ten minutes earlier she'd been panicking about how to juggle work, kids and the house. Those breathtaking women I see in my everyday life influence the people in my work." – Lu Cornish

Whistlefish artwork often draws on the colour, movement and feeling of the coast. You can explore more sea-inspired pieces in our Whistlefish artwork collection.

"My name is Hazel Fulker. I'm an open water coach, athlete and RNLI ambassador. I teach all ages to swim because I love the water and helping people enjoy getting into it. Bewl Reservoir is magical, and Camber Sands, with its dramatic dunes and tough currents, is especially beautiful when the kite surfers are out. I'm hoping to organise a Help for Heroes swim soon and run various other workshops." – Hazel Fulker

Swimming for community and confidence

Joining a local swimming group can be a wonderful way to socialise, build confidence and challenge yourself gently. Many people report a lasting lift after a swim, helped by the cold water, the open air and the feeling of doing something brave.

"We swim on the south coast. We laugh hysterically, put the world to rights, feel high for the rest of the day, and ease pain and inflammation with vitamin sea more than any medication. Nearly two years in, LOVE LOVE LOVE IT. 60th birthday dip coming up." – Nikki Fuge

"I started open water swimming in July and have kept going. I find it hard to put into words how it makes me feel; each place and each swim is different.

I suffer from chronic pain, which can affect my mood and outlook. Being in nature, the freedom of movement in water, and the community all help. There's a sense of achievement, of release, of adventure. I've only swum in a few places, but right now this is my favourite." – Ruth Scott

You can often find an outdoor swimming group near you by searching online or through local community groups. Groups such as Open Water Swimming UK offer a supportive, non-competitive community where people share stories rather than stats. The focus is on celebrating the joy of swimming, rather than comparing swim times or water temperatures.

If you're a female beginner, The Bluetits groups, based across the UK coastline and beyond, are a friendly and inclusive place to start.

What do you need to start outdoor swimming?

In truth, not a lot: just safe water, sensible preparation and yourself. Some people wear wetsuits, while others prefer swimsuits. It is personal preference, but comfort and safety should always come first. These extras may help:

• Wetsuit or bathing suit.
• Bright swim hat or woolly hat.
• Gloves, if helpful.
• Wetsuit shoes, if helpful.
• Tow float, especially in open water.
• Dryrobe, towel or warm layers for afterwards.
• Sugary snack and warm drink for afterwards.
• A sense of humour.

Outdoor swimming safety

Cold water can be risky, even for confident swimmers, so start slowly, swim with others and choose a safe location. Check conditions before you enter, avoid swimming alone and make sure you have a clear way out of the water.

The National Water Safety Forum open water swimming guidance is a helpful place to start. RoSPA also has useful advice on cold water shock.

Disclaimer: This blog is not written by a doctor or medical professional. Please consult your GP before taking up cold water swimming, outdoor swimming or any activity you are unsure about, especially if you have an existing health condition.