There’s nothing quite as freeing as taking a refreshing dip in the great outdoors. Wild swimming has some fantastic benefits, but as it is England, wild swimming is very often cold-water swimming which can be an initial shock! Once you’ve pushed through the discomfort, immersing yourself in cold water has some additional benefits to wild swimming in warmer weather. You’ll have to believe us when we say that the more you do it the more you enjoy it! The cold water helps to improve your circulation, you burn more calories, and the thrill of spending invigorating time in nature boosts your mental health.
While the Cotswolds are best known for idyllic rolling countryside, the rivers Windrush and Thames and the Cotswold Lakes provide plenty of opportunities. As always with wild swimming, there are a couple of things you’ll need to bear in mind. Always take care and do not swim alone, keeping a close eye on everybody with you. If you haven’t been wild swimming before you can attend an introductory session at Lake 32 on the Cotswold Lakes.
Minster Lovell and the River Windrush
Minster Lovell is what you picture when you think ‘Cotswold village’. Thatched cottages line the quiet street, there is a quaint Cotswold stone pub, and endless countryside surrounds you. The River Windrush flows by, passing the ruined remains of the old Minster Lovell Hall and dovecote. This is a serene setting perfect for picnics with the river providing a great place for swimming. Just beyond the ruins there is easy access to the riverbank. If you follow the water out of Minster Lovell, passing a bridge, you will find a larger reeded pool.
Bring a towel along with you and head to the Old Swan after your swim for a hearty meal!
Stay nearby?
Japonica
Minster Lovell | Sleeps 6 | 3 bedrooms
Staying at Japonica you can start your days with country walks heading to The Farmer’s Dog or Burford Garden Centre to get a taste of Cotswold life. If you stay in, the spacious open plan living area lets you gather for meals and conversations, stepping out to the garden for evenings drinks as the sun goes down.
Set across the ground floor with two double rooms and a bunk it suits families or groups of friends and has everything you need for a Cotswold break.
Stonesfield and the River Evenlode
The pretty village of Stonesfield, not far from Blenheim Palace, has a lot of hidden history. The first dinosaur fossil was found here, with many following after when slate-mining started. The site of an ancient Roman villa is just outside the village, and a beautiful historic church sits at its centre. When you visit, go for a paddle in the River Evenlode. Curving through Stonesfield Common you can easily reach the river’s edge along a footpath leading south of the village. It can get quite busy on summer days as it is the perfect place to lay your picnic blanket down and spend a few hours dipping in and out of the water.
There is a little bay beside a footbridge and the water doesn’t get too deep making it a good choice for families.
Stay nearby?
Charlbury | Sleeps 4 | 2 bedrooms
Neatly positioned within a stone’s throw of Soho Farmhouse and less than 4 miles from Stonesfield, Little Oakley Cottage is a gorgeous Cotswold stone cottage that is just perfect for those seeking an adult-only country retreat. this Charlbury cottage. This beautiful abode has been the lucky recipient of a seriously stylish makeover by the current owner and is now an elegant house filled with charm and personality.
With two charming bedrooms, a swoon-worthy bathroom, a wood-burning stove and a dining area that will turn everyday meals into special occasions, Little Oakley Cottage is a heavenly place to stay.
Cotswold Country Park and Beach
Have a day at the beach in the middle of the Cotswolds! Bring your bucket, spade and inflatable doughnut and head to the Country Park and Beach to feel the sand between your toes as you run to plunge into the lagoon. Safe swimming spots are clearly marked, and for extra peace of mind these are under lifeguard observation. In between swimming and sunbathing, why not book a watersports session or time on the inflatable aquaventure waterpark?
Along with food options on site you can also choose to hire a BBQ!
Stay nearby?
South Cerney | Sleeps 2 | 1 bedroom
Honouring its history, Filly Island is the perfect romantic retreat for two. This truly unique stay dates back to the 1700s and remains steeped in history throughout with its idyllic style and ambience. The elegant interiors make use of one-of-a-kind materials, giving the space both character and undeniable charm. Enjoy an evening together by the fire before retiring to your cosy bedroom, or savour a morning coffee in the front terrace, surrounded by the soothing sound of flowing water.
South Cerney is a picturesque village set beside the River Churn. With peaceful riverside scenery and easy access to the surrounding Cotswold Water Park, South Cerney is the perfect base for walking, exploring – and wild swimming!
Lake 32 at the Cotswold Lakes
Lake 32 is the best place to start if you’ve never been wild swimming. One of the many lakes in the Cotswold Lakes, you can attend an open water swimming induction. A talk and Q&A with a member of their experienced team will get you up to speed. This means you can head out for a swim in this beautiful location knowing you’ll get the most out of your session. If you’re a seasoned pro, you can book Lake32 for a pay as you go swim and take your time to unwind in these secluded waters.
If you get find the love for spending time in the open water, Lake32 offer a range of other activities to try.
Stay nearby?
Isis Lake | Sleeps 6 | 3 bedrooms
Wake up to lakeside views from the sun deck and soak in the open-plan lodge at this beautiful three-bedroom home sleeping up to six. This New England-style lodge perched on the edge of Isis Lake is perfect for lakeside living with family or friends. With cosy bedrooms, open plan living areas and a waterside sun deck, this house really makes the most of the beautiful views across Isis Lake. The fishing opportunities from Mayfly Lodge are particularly fantastic, with three lakes close by to choose from.
Lechlade and the River Thames
Lechlade is a popular spot for all manner of watersports. Where the ha’penny bridge crosses the river you will see canal boats, paddle boarders and canoes sailing gently by. The Thames Path follows the flow of the river and you will find some quieter areas to take a dip. Just outside the town, Cheese Wharf was where cheeses were loaded onto barges to be transported to London. Today you can spend some time riverside with a picnic, relaxing in and out of the river.
A handy National trust car park is beside Cheese Wharf.
Stay nearby?
Coln St Aldwyns| Sleeps 5 | 3 bedrooms
Less than six miles from Lechlade, this elegant retreat is nestled in the beautiful village of Coln St Aldwyns. Golden stone, a peaceful garden, exposed beams and thoughtfully styled rooms are your home here. Start your days with breakfasts in the secluded garden while cosy evenings beside the fire are well deserved after exploring the surrounding countryside on foot. With a welcoming village shop and charming pub, you are in a wonderful location to discover the delights of the Cotswolds.
Love swimming but don’t fancy braving the elements? Discover the best open-air swimming pools and lidos in the South West instead.
