The best wild swimming spots in the UK

"These twin lakes on the outskirts of Capel Curig boast one of the most beautiful (and most photographed) views in Snowdonia, over the dramatic Snowdon horseshoe."

"This pool by a sloping field and a large weir is a real bucolic haven and one of the few wild-swimming spots that's deep enough for jumping into. The best launch pad is from a nearby tree stump, as the local kids have discovered."

"The River Wharfe is a picturesque spot in front of the spectacular Bolton Abbey ruins. It's the ultimate place for living out to your period-drama fantasies."

"No visit to Chatsworth is complete without a swim in the River Derwent. Wander downstream from the main bridge to make sure you're away from the prying eyes of visitors, then it**'** s an easy stroll down the grass bank into the river. Or, if you feel like making more of a splash, jump in via one of the tree swings."

"This heart-shaped lake halfway up Snowdon is the perfect swimming spot for lovers. Even more romantic, Welsh folklore has it that this was where King Arthur had Sir Bedivere throw Excalibur and where Arthur's body was later placed in a boat to be carried away to Avalon."

"This is outdoor**-** swimming heaven, with invigorating temperatures and stunning views. Windermere is the undisputed king, but the wild swimmer is spoilt for choice in the Lake District - why not also take a dip in Lake Buttermere?"

"A little way outside of London is the pretty village of Pangbourne, a couple of miles upstream of London's River Thames. Here you'll find an unspoilt little spot, with grassy banks and no buildings. If you're lucky, you might just have it all to yourself."

"Surrounded by bracken and pink-tinged waterfalls, and with an underwater arch to swim through, the Fairy Pools really are true to their name. Wriggle into your prettiest swimsuit and pretend you are some sort of water nymph. Be warned - the temperature might ruin the magic, but you'll warm up in no time."

"This is where wild swimming gets really wild, with plenty of sky-high jumping spots - the more casual bather may want to swerve this one. For those diving in, you can expect to swim alongside wild salmon, which may make you feel rather cumbersome, especially when they leap in and out of the water."

"A swimming spot so beloved it has its own devoted club - the oldest swimming club in Britain. Join their ranks for a chance to take a dip in the surrounds of London’s beautiful Hyde Park."

"This curvy stretch of babbling water is so pretty Lewis Carroll apparently drew inspiration from it for Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. You'll float past little beaches and grassy meadows filled with cattle. Just watch out for boats."

"If you're not too afraid of the Loch Ness monster, wild swimming in Britain's longest lake is a must for the bucket list. Experts recommend starting from the small beach opposite Urquhart Castle and wading down through the fields. Hopefully it'll just be the cold that nips..."

"One of the capital’s most loved swimming spots, these glorious pools have reopened once more – with a limited number of swimming sessions each day to maintain social distancing. Choose from the men’s, ladies and mixed ponds or the impressive Parliament Hill Fields Lido."

"With its honey-coloured, crumbling cliffs and fossils from the ancient Jurassic Coast, Burton Bradstock is a sight to behold. Slip in from the pebbly Hive beach and make your way down the twinkly blue expanse."

"So you've walked Snowdonia (well done you) and, as a result, turned into a hot, sweaty mess. What to do? Jump into Llyn Cau, the melted glacier slap-bang in the middle of the crater of Cadair Idris, that's what. The 1,150-foot ascent will have you gagging for a chilling dip, even if you're surrounded by freshly fallen snow."

"The serene River Barle sits beneath the ancient hill fort Cow Castle and is surrounded by grassy green banks bursting with wild flowers. Along the way you'll discover tucked-away pools with crystal-clear water. Get that waterproof camera ready."

"Bordered by grazing cows and pristine salt marshes, gliding down the slow-moving Waveney is picturesque. You'll want to do a two-mile loop around Outney Common - just watch out for canoes."