Wild Swimming and Me

Long before the cold-water guru Wim Hof came along and the deluge of inflatable ice-baths popped up in middle class gardens across the country, I knew I loved cold water.  

‍

It was February half-term and I was 11 years old. My two siblings and I were staying with family friends and their three children; a playmate and best friend for each of us. 

‍

I don’t recall what inspired our behaviour. But, one very early damp and frosty morning, my friend and I decided to go swimming in her neighbour’s pool. We were an impulsive pair and thoughts of seeking adult permission were not forthcoming. Undoubtedly all rather dangerous and illegal, but I can’t help feeling wistful for that unencumbered 11-year-old boldness. Anyway, we had no prior knowledge as to the neighbour’s movements that morning but were undeterred. We were convinced we would slip in under their noses, two rather loud young girls that we were. It later transpired they were away, thank goodness.

‍

So, at 7.30am, we made our way up the drive to the neighbour’s house. We wore our cossies under our pyjamas and wrapped two inadequate towels over our shoulders for warmth. Without hesitation we rolled back the tarpaulin covering the pool and slowly eased ourselves into the icy water. 

‍

What followed was exhilarating, and the thrill and energy from our illicit swim made an indelible impression on me. I am convinced it’s from here that my love of ice-cold water was born (and not breaking and entering, that’s never been my thing.) 

‍

I soon realised cold water was more rousing and magical when it was experienced in the bosom of nature. Consequently, I sought out all available opportunities to immerse myself in the sea, rivers, streams and lakes. My Dad was happy to accommodate and encourage my new found love, my Mum less so. Now I sympathise of course. Suffice to say we had some pretty robust swimming lessons and I am very competent in the water. And, my love has endured. 

‍

Nothing awakens my soul quite like taking a dip in amongst the wild things. The cold gives an energy boost that seems to zing wildly through every cell in my body and stays there all-day-long. My mood becomes buoyant and bubbly. Then afterwards I’m also filled with calm and joy. 

‍

The world has caught on and calls it ‘wild swimming’. We know cold water can be good for us and enveloping ourselves in nature regularly is important, so it makes sense to combine the two. I really can’t recommend it enough. But water is dangerous, particularly cold water and safety is paramount. 

‍

Follow our tips on how to safely begin your wild swimming journey with a comprehensive list of the best places to go in the Cotswolds and surrounding areas. 

‍

How to begin wild swimming safely: 

‍

‍

Research where you will swim, check if the water is safe, that you aren’t trespassing, and that wild swimming is permitted. If in doubt, join a managed wild swimming group.

If you’re new to wild swimming, don’t jump in, wade in with purpose whilst giving your body time to adjust. Don’t sit on the edge, dangling your legs hesitating though, you’ll never do it.

Never go wild swimming alone, in threes is best safety wise.

Before you jump in, check the depth and flow of the water. Check for rocks or submerged trees or branches. Avoid rivers where there is a fast-flowing current.

Before you enter the water, work out how you will exit the water. Don’t rush in without having a clear plan.

Make sure you finish your swim before you begin shivering as you could let yourself become dangerously cold.

Consider a wetsuit and swimming shoes .

If you encounter weeds it’s important not to panic, let yourself float through them, using your arms to move, not your legs.

Avoid city rivers and canals as the water is more likely to be contaminated with harmful bacteria.

Avoid swimming where there’s algae, it can make you ill with potent bacteria.

Never swim after drinking alcohol.

‍

‍

Where to go Wild Swimming in the Cotswolds

‍

‍

Wallingford Beach 

‍

Wallingford Beach is on the east side (Crowmarsh) bank of the Thames immediately downstream. Shallow enough to paddle but also deep enough in places to swim for those who are more confident. It’s a popular spot and you’ll see paddle boards and canoes galore. Conveniently there’s also parking a few minutes away so you can easily bring a picnic and lounge around for a few hours after taking a dip. 

‍

Buscot Weir Lechlade 

‍

The river has carved a natural weir pool which is deep enough for confident swimmers to really enjoy the water. The surrounding trees also make great diving platforms. The grass is good for picnics and watching the world go by after swimming. 

‍

Cheese Wharf Lechlade 

‍

Upstream from Buscot Weir is the old river loading dock which once saw 20 tonnes of cheese a day pass over its banks. Buscot Weir offers a deep pool on the river bend, with a beautiful roadside glade for welcome shade on hot days. There’s a rope swing over the river for those who are feeling particularly adventurous. 

‍

River Windrush in Widford 

‍

Just off the footpath to St Oswold’s Church in Widford, towards Burford, along the river Windrush is a delightfully shallow spot to take a dip. Lots of places to swim and too shallow for boats making it feel like a safer option for beginners and families.   

Radcot Bridge 

‍

Radcot Bridge is famous for being the oldest bridge on the Thames. It’s also ideal for wild swimming and any other water pursuits you might fancy such as paddle boarding and canoeing. With a campsite and a pub, Ye Olde Swan, conveniently nearby you can make a weekend of it with all the family.

‍