Where to Wild Swim in Windermere

You can't visit the Lake District without taking a wild swim in Windermere. Did you know that it's not a lake, but actually a mere? But even the locals just call it a lake.

There are lots of tarns and meres to wild swim in in the Lakes, but Windermere is the most accessible as it has ample parking spots and it's within walking distance from Windermere village, Bowness and Ambleside.

• Millerground - Located along Rayrigg road, there is some free and paid parking available here. A quick and easy walk down to the waters edge leads you to numerous piers and beaches. It's popular with families, groups having summer BBQs and early morning wild swimmers.
• Fell Foot - Owned by the National Trust, this area of the southern tip of Windermere is great for families and big groups as there is a huge car park and a large grassy bank area that leads right to the water. The water is quite shallow here and ideal for learning to paddle board.
• Harrowslack - The easiest way to access this back side of the lake is to take the Windermere ferry from Bowness to Far Sawrey and head up the western shoreline.
• Low Wray - Another National Trust owned area, you can park at the castle then follow the public footpaths to the lake edge. There are some stoney beach areas where you can leave your towel and take a dip.

Wild swimming is best carried out in a group for safety reasons, or if you go alone let someone know where you're going. Windermere is a beautiful area of the Lake District and swimming in it can leave you feeling invigorated and at one with nature.

If you've been swimming in Windermere, why not purchase a souvenir from our online shop here.