For many the concept of ‘wild’ swimming may be completely new, for others it may be something of a thrill or even hobby, either way the trend has been seen to grow somewhat in recent years and the South West of England has offers plenty of choice whether you’re an expert or a novice. Why find yourself confined to your local leisure centre, when you could just as easy step outside for free. Below are a few local hotspots to get you hooked on the idea of open water swimming…

Claverton Weir is located just south of Bath and has provided local residents with many hazy summer memories, with both shallow paddling areas and deeper stretches for swimming. The site itself is a picturesque setting for the views alone, but better enjoyed after a calming dip.

Tellisford Weir on the River Frome proves popular in when the sun shines for a free swim. Its tree-lined banks offering shade in those hotter months, with the large pools proving a possible challenge.

West Country Water Park provides an inviting open water lake hidden amidst the M4 and M5 motorways. This tropical pool can be found in Bradley Stoke near Bristol and offers 11 acres of clear water in rural surrounds from which to enjoy a range of sporting activities.

Meanwhile, there is plenty of open water at Vobster Quay near Radstock as well, proving a great place from which to get to grips with open water swimming with more than 36 acres of freshwater to practice your technique.

Take yourself off to Stowford Manor Farm near Trowbridge in Wiltshire if you want to join a rare open water club with both membership and pay-per-swim options.

Cotswold Country Park is home to Waterland Outdoor Pursuits, which also offers an opportunity for wild swimming in a naturally fed lake that is approx 6ft in depth, with buoyed courses of varying lengths and even aquathon events for those experienced with the open-water.

Based on the outskirts of the historic city of Bath, Tucking Mill provides luxury holiday lets in the city and the country to suit individual needs. We recommended you check out the rural self-catering cottages if you’re keen to venture out and explore the surrounding regions mentioned in the article above. To take your pick of our award-winning properties, take a look at our website here.