Here’s why wild swimming in Devon should be on your to-do list…
It’s no secret that in recent years, wild swimming has grown hugely in popularity in rural parts of the UK. But, did you know that cold water swimming is known to have huge health and wellbeing benefits? These include reducing inflammation, benefits to the immune system, improvements to circulation, helping to maintain a healthy metabolism, boosts to your mood and mental health, plus many other fantastic attributes can be linked to swimming in cold water.
Being located on the doorstep of Dartmoor National Park and the coastline of North Cornwall, we have put together a short list of our favourite wild swimming destinations to try during your stay with us at Lower Longwood.
Meldon River Pools, Dartmoor National Park
A stone’s throw from the nearby town of Okehampton, and on the northern edge of Dartmoor National Park, you can find Meldon River Pools. These crystal-clear pools are the result of a series of naturally formed waterfalls, made up of granite boulders. The pools are around 6ft at their deepest, but the rocky riverbed makes for a safe, gradual incline from which to walk into the deeper waters.
Bude Sea Pool
Run by a group of local volunteers, Bude Sea Pool is a man-made 1930s open air Lido, fed by the ocean. At low tide, the sea pool offers a huge expanse of calm seawater to bathe in and is only a few steps from both Summerleaze and Crooklets beaches in central Bude.
Chagford Outdoor Swimming Pool
If you’re apprehensive about swimming in open rivers or tidal zones, a fantastic spot to acclimatise to lower temperatures is Chagford swimming pool. A man made swimming pool with sunbathing deck, fed by the River Teign, Chagford pool is a firm favourite for tourists and local residents alike.
Scorhill Stone Circle and The River Teign
For a unique wild swimming adventure combined with historical intrigue, head to Scorhill Circle, a Bronze Age stone circle on Northern Dartmoor. Just a short walk from the circle, you’ll find an unspoilt stretch of the Teign River. The river meanders through the moorland, creating natural pools and waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing swim.
