Take the Plunge and Go Wild Swimming in Rural Worcestershire

Wild swimming, also known as open water swimming or cold-water therapy, is all the rage in 2021. It involves swimming in a natural body of water and is understandably extremely popular during the summer months. Wild swimming is a great activity to enjoy here in Worcestershire; there’s plenty of enchanting rivers and magical lakes to discover.

So, why not ditch the over-chlorinated pools this summer and take the kids for a swim in a lake or river instead?!

Holistic Health Benefits

Open water swimming allows you to stay fit and healthy, whilst discovering the true wonders of mother nature. It poses many health benefits, including:

  • Eases muscle soreness and aching
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Releases serotonin and dopamine
  • Reduces anxiety and depression
  • Boosts the immune system
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Increases energy levels
  • Improves sleep
  • Aids weight loss
  • Reduces stress
  • Good for skin and hair

Staying Safe Whilst Swimming

Although wild swimming is fun and enjoyable, there are many potential health risks that you should be aware of. Wild swimming should be enjoyed at your own risk, and you should always keep children under close supervision. Try following the below steps to stay safe in the water:

  • Only swim in shallow lakes and river pools
  • Find out where your exits are
  • Check for depth, obstructions, and flow
  • Cover cuts with waterproof plasters
  • Stay away from blue-green algae
  • Stay visible with coloured swimming caps
  • Always swim with others
  • Don’t get too cold
  • Know your limits

Lovely Locations for Wild Swimming

Rural Worcestershire contains some perfectly pristine pools of water, which are ideal for a spot of wild swimming. Check out our recommended list below…

Worcestershire Aqua Park is based at the Aztec Activity Centre in Upton Warren. The floating inflatable aqua park boasts climbing towers, trampolines, balance bars and slides, and is open from 1st May – 26th September 2021. The aqua park costs just £15 per person for 1 hour and is suitable for children aged 6 years and above who can swim 25 metres.

The remarkable River Teme meanders through Worcestershire and has many plunge points for wild swimming, one of which is near the historic Powick Bridge. Park in the car park off the roundabout and follow the path over the bridge to reach a pretty beach. The waters are shallow and fresh, but can be fast-flowing; therefore, this spot is not suitable for inexperienced swimmers.

The picturesque River Avon provides a plethora of safe, slow swimming opportunities. Eckington Bridge has easy access to the water, offering the ideal location for a fun dip in the river. There is also a designated picnic area nearby – perfect for a bite to eat after an enjoyable swim.

Lenches Lakes offers open water swim sessions to suit all abilities, whether you are a recreational or event swimmer. The lake is spring-fed and delightful to swim in, allowing you to swim at your own pace around a 350-metre buoyed course. The depth of the lake varies from 5-15 feet, so it is important that swimmers are confident enough to deal with the change in depths.

The idyllic village of Bodenham sits on the bend of the river Lugg. Follow the path behind the church and cross over the bridge to discover some beautiful beaches in a quiet, secluded spot. The water slowly flows along, past sandy shores and river pools, and features both shallow and deep areas to cater for all the family.

Enjoy a Spot of Open Water Swimming at Swallowfields

Our glorious glamping retreat in the spectacular South Worcestershire countryside is home to two luxurious spa lodges; Betony and Meadowsweet. Nestled at the foot of the Malvern Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, our site provides the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature and your loved ones.

Our spa lodges are fully booked up for the summer season, with some limited availability during the autumn. Click here to book your glamping escape in rural Worcestershire today!

  • WELLBEING BREAKS

    Malvern has long been associated with healthy living, ever since it originated as a spa town. Many benefits have been linked to its spring water, as well as people. Charles Darwin, Queen Victoria and Florence Nightingale are all said to have enjoyed its therapeutic qualities.

    It’s a legacy that’s lived right on to this day and one we wholeheartedly embrace. Not only are we fortunate to be nestled at the foot of the Malvern Hills, we live and breathe nature and its many benefits.

    There’s no pounding the treadmill at Swallowfields, just beautiful walks with wonderful vistas provided by nature. Come visit our retreat and enhance your wellbeing in the best way for you, from reading a book and taking naps in your own hammock to cooking on a campfire and enjoying spa treatments. Our world awaits you…

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  • FAMILY BREAKS

    Nothing beats a great family break! When you laugh so much your sides hurt and enjoy yourself so much, you’re thinking, talking (and giggling) about it for many weeks to come.

    Swallowfields is geared up for families. You’ll find that all of our safari lodges, which easily sleep six people, are located on a child-friendly site. There are also plenty of things for the whole family to see and do too.

    Take a wander in our lovely wildflower meadow, toast marshmallows on the camp fire, explore the Malvern Hills and beyond and check out our Adventure Castle and Nature Hideout! You can even bring the dog too!

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  • ACTIVITY BREAKS

    You just bring yourself, we’ll point you in the direction of the action! And there’s lots of it!

    Maybe you want to challenge yourself and try something different, like paddleboarding or kayaking, or perhaps you want to practice your favourite hobby, such as mountain biking or hiking?

    There are lots of things to do all around Swallowfields and, when you’re back at your lodge, there’s a relaxing hot tub waiting for you.

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  • DOG FRIENDLY BREAKS

    We’re animal-lovers here at Swallowfields and we understand that your dog is a big part of your family, so why leave them behind?

    They’ll be right at home in our pet-friendly safari lodges. There’s oodles of room for them, their bed, bowls and fave toy! All that we ask, is that you keep them on a lead when walking around on-site and don’t leave them unattended.

    For just £25 per dog, per stay*, you can make sure the entire family get their hands (and paws) on our wonderful glamping experience! Oh, and don’t forget to ask us about our complimentary doggie essentials pack too!

    * Maximum of two dogs per lodge

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