Taking a plunge into the frigid waters of Britain is both invigorating and exhilarating. Wild swimming offers a multitude of advantages for your physical and mental well-being. In Hertfordshire, situated north of London, numerous locations beckon you to embrace the benefits of wild swimming this summer. Discover your next cherished spot with our curated list of the finest swim locations in Hertfordshire.
However, it's important to acknowledge that wild swimming entails certain risks. Safeguard yourself and enjoy a safe swim by being knowledgeable about the potential dangers and following safety advice for swimming in open water
H2Open Water Swimming at Westmill Farm
- Location: Ware
- Price: £6.50
- Swim course length: 50m & 340m
- Supervised?: Yes
- Requirements: Bright coloured swim hat & wetsuit (in water temperatures below 12°C)
Experience a fun-filled day at Westmill Farm, where you can enjoy the exciting inflatable aqua park and participate in various water sports, including open water swimming. To swim at this location, it is necessary to purchase an RFID wristband, which costs £7.50 and can be worn during your swimming sessions. Each swim session is priced at £6.50.
While no induction is required for swimming, Westmill Farm offers group and one-on-one coaching sessions to enhance your swimming technique and build your confidence. If you are already comfortable in the water, you have the option to directly engage in activities such as the 50-meter sprint or the 340-meter loop, all while being supervised by qualified RLSS staff.
Redricks Lakes
- Location: Sawbridgeworth
- Price: £6-8.50
- Swim course length: 750m
- Requirements: Bright coloured swim hat & a wetsuit or a tow float/bag
Located on the eastern border of Hertfordshire with Essex, you'll find Redricks Lakes—an excellent swim location catering to both novice and experienced wild swimmers. The site offers convenient amenities such as toilets, showers, a cafe, and a sandy beach with a gentle slope into the lake. Novice swimmers will be required to complete an induction before embarking on the 750m circuit, and additional coaching sessions are also available.
One of the highlights of this swim spot is a charming little island situated in the middle of the lake, providing swimmers with a perfect resting spot. If this sounds appealing, you can enjoy a taster swim here for £8.50. Should you fall in love with the place, just like we have, becoming a member will grant you the privilege of swimming for only £6 per session.
Stanborough Park
- Location: Welwyn Garden City
- Price: £7.50
- Swim course length: 400m
- Requirements: Bright coloured swim hat & a wetsuit or a tow float/bag
Stanborough Park, situated on the outskirts of Welwyn Garden City, encompasses two lakes spanning a total area of 126 acres. The south lake houses the Stanborough Park Watersports Centre, featuring a 400m swim circuit ideal for open water swimming. Additionally, the center offers convenient amenities like changing rooms and showers, allowing swimmers to dry off before enjoying a warming drink at the park cafe.
Hertz Young Mariners Base
- Location: Cheshunt
- Price: £8
- Supervised?: Yes
- Requirements: Bright coloured swim hat
The Hertz Young Mariners Base offers year-round adult swim sessions at a cost of £8 per swim. If you plan on swimming during the winter, it is highly recommended to start during the summer and acclimate yourself to wild swimming and the cold temperatures before attempting the even colder winter water temperatures. For those interested in swimming in water under 15°C during the winter (or any open water), the venue strongly advises undertaking their cold water swimming induction.
In addition to the cold water induction course, the Hertz Young Mariners Base provides various swimming courses, including a general wild swimming induction and a course focused on improving swimming technique. Now, all you have to do is grab your swim cap, dive into the water, enjoy your swim, and warm up afterward with a delightful hot drink from the cafe.
Hartham Common
- Location: Hertford
- Supervised?: No
A magnificent river swimming spot awaits you at the north-east corner of Hartham Common Park, where the River Beane meets the River Lea. The convergence of these rivers creates an ideal starting point, offering a multitude of swimming directions to explore. You can choose to swim past the houseboats, making your way up to Hertford Lock for a delightful route.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, another option is to challenge yourself by swimming against the strong current of the River Beane. Alternatively, if you prefer a leisurely and relaxed swim, we highly recommend heading downstream along the River Lea towards Ware.