Where to Wild Swim in Northumberland

Northumberland is a beautiful county in North East England that boasts stunning coastlines which are dotted with castles and incredible beaches along with hidden, ancient treasures to be explored inland. It’s a seriously underrated county that can often be enjoyed without the tourist crowds. 

Linhope Spout

A short walk through Breamish Valley will lead you to one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the National Park. The ‘Spout’ is an 18m chute of water with a deep 5m plunge pool beneath. Start the walk in the centre of Linhope and cross the bridge over the Linhope Burn (stream) and follow the road around to the left. Bear right through a gate and up through the field turning onto a stoney track. Follow this until you reach a fingerpost which guides you off the stone track to a well walked grassy path down to Linhope Spout. If you’re lucky, you might even see a red squirrel on the way!

Hareshaw Linn Waterfall

This is a superb family friendly walk to a wonderful waterfall where you can enjoy a plunge. It is about a mile walk there starting in Bellingham village. Start on the Hareshaw Iron Works Trail which follows alongside Hareshaw Burn, eventually reaching the waterfall.

Harbottle Lake

Located in Coquetdale, this swim includes a lovely walk up to the ancient Drake Stone, a mythical place with stunning panoramic views. Park at Forestry England car park located outside Harbottle village, then follow the forest track signposted ‘Drake Stone’ uphill through the woods. Turn right and follow the footpath over the heather moorland. As you approach the cairn, take the right at the fork which leads you to the secluded lake.

Northumberland Beaches

There are five EU designated bathing beaches which are Bamburgh Castle, Seahouses – St Aidens, Beadnell Bay Beach, Low Newton-by-the-Sea and Warkworth. The water quality is generally excellent as it is monitored weekly in the summer months. There are no lifeguards, so bear that in mind if you have younger or weaker swimmers in your group.

Wild swimming is best carried out in a group for safety reasons, or if you go alone let someone know where you're going. If you’ve enjoyed a dip in Northumberland, why not pick up a souvenir of your wonderful wild experience. Check out our Northumberland range by clicking here.