Active adventures: the best wild swimming spots near London

The UK is hot on the heels of summer, so if you’re looking to keep things cool on your next road trip, now might be the perfect time to dip your toe in wild swimming. And sure, London has its fair share of inner-city pools and lidos, but where’s the adventure in that? We’ve put together a list of the best wild swimming destinations near London to add to your next road-trip itinerary, so leave the crowds behind and get back to nature – together, we can make swimming wild again.

1. Frensham Great Pond, Surrey

Frensham Great Pond makes for a popular wild swimming spot near London, much loved for its easy-to-access warm(ish) waters and family-friendly vibe, making it a great introduction to wild swimming. Located a little over an hour’s drive from central London, Frensham Common is home to a series of shallow, open ponds and sandy beaches, all of which makes for a stunning day trip regardless of whether you swim or not. If you do choose to swim, however, you’ll find yourself submerged amidst gorgeous open heathland and the rolling hills of Surrey, complete with picnic areas and walking trails to round out the day. There’s also an excellent cafe on site, if that’s more your style, and while you’re in the area, why not check out some of the great day walks the South Downs National Park and Surrey Hills AONB have to offer too?

2. River Cam, Cambridge

After pure, unadulterated wild swimming? Head for the River Cam, just outside of Cambridge, which snakes its way through Grantchester Meadows and provides 2.5 miles of active riverfront for wild swimming with clean, deep and slow-flowing water. The reaches of the river are widely recognised for their excellent wild swimming potential, so much so that they have been designated specifically for swimming, meaning you won’t encounter anything more than the occasional canoe. This stretch of the River Cam is also quite a scenic one, as it winds through the picturesque meadows.

The Cam is a popular one with Cambridge locals, but well worth the trip from London. And while you’re in the area, why not pop down the road to the village of Grantchester for a post-swim meal at one of the (many) pubs? Or why not make a weekend of it and explore further upstream? It wouldn’t be Cambridge without a punt ride.

3. River Wey, Guilford

Another classic river swim, the River Wey just outside of Guilford is a great introduction to wild swimming. The waters of the Wey are wide and slow flowing with shallow banks and sandy beaches, making it a great spot for beginners and seasoned wild swimmers alike. The Wey is set against a stunning and idyllic country backdrop; with old bridges and historic mills all along the river, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were hours away from the big city. Fortunately, this spot can be reached in just over an hour from central London. Be sure to make the most of the journey and extend your stay by making camp and heading into the nearby Surrey Hills for a hiking adventure.

4. Pangbourne Meadow

On the edge of the Chilterns, a little under two hours from central London, you’ll find Pangbourne Meadows on the River Thames. I know what you’re thinking – who in their right mind would go wild swimming in the Thames? And don’t worry, we’re not suggesting you go swimming in Westminster or Waterloo. The upper reaches of the Thames are, in stark contrast, non-tidal, calm, crystal-clear and perfect for wild swimming. The section through the Chiltern Hills is one of best examples of this. This is considered some of the best wild swimming in the country, and one of our favourite areas is right outside of Pangbourne.

If you’re looking to get a little more wild, head slightly further upstream and you’re almost guaranteed to have the river to yourself (just keep an eye out for boats, please). And while you’ve made the effort to get out here, you’ll want to stay a while and explore the Chilterns.

Need a van to get you there?

Why stop at just the one swim? The best way to do a long weekend is to do it in a van, and we have you sorted. Camplify is home to an ever-growing list of vans, campers and motorhomes, including pet-friendly options, and you can even have your van delivered if you’d prefer. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to start planning that long weekend escape.