Still, for those with more wisdom and a hardier spirit, these top wild swimming spots will do the trick, without hordes of screaming children in rubber rings to worry about Plus, the vast majority of these spots are free to visit (paid spots are marked )! It is situated between Colchester and Clacton-on-Sea, at the mouth of the River Colne, on Brightlingsea Creek. Three Rivers District Council covers part of Hertfordshire and is named after the River Colne and its two tributary rivers, the River Chess and the River Gade. Wild Swimming Walks: 28 lake, river and seaside days out by train from London by the Kenwood Ladies Pond Association (Wild Things Publishing. Theres a good range of options for outdoor swimming in lakes across Hertfordshire. Nearest stations are Beckenham Junction (trams), Beckenham Hill and Ravensbourne (both Thameslink). The Belle Vue ? Park in the Car Park at SK 258 685 and cross the road and follow the path down to the river, it's deepest just up from the weir at SK 259 690. You can unsubscribe at any time. It is not a tributary of any other river, instead having an estuary that joins the sea near Brightlingsea. This means that we may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. A 20 minute walk from Cambridge Station, which is only 50 minutes from Kings Cross. There are several spots for a dip in the River Wey and the Wey Navigation including a meadow-lined stretch behind the Manor Inn pub in Godalming and sandy beaches that slope down into the water at Shalford. Temperatures have soared set above 30 degrees today (Friday), with warm weather expected too over the weekend, and while it may be tempting to cool off by taking a dip, police are asking people to think twice. Turn left and walk down the road to meet the canal. The river is mainly hidden from the path except at a few places. POLICE in Colne have issued a warning to young people about swimming in the river near Cotton Tree lane. Also, you might land on something sharp. Thank you! The river stretches lazily around the Common and the grassland to the East with access points all along it. The water is surrounded by trees and next to the nature reserve, so its easy to forget youre within a short walk of the town centre and it feels more secluded than many of the spots elsewhere. This means that the rivers people use to swim, paddle catch and play could be severely polluted, without people even knowing it. Wild Swimming Walks' Margaret Dickinson, and Liz Valentine plot a gentle walk easily reached from London yet with a truly rural feel, which includes a swim in the River Colne. Dont swim alone theres a reason why most places we swim at have lifeguards. Im trying to begin a similar habit by swimming at my local lido in Ware as well as heading down to the Beane and Lea Rivers for a wild swim. The River Colne / koln / in West Yorkshire is formed at the confluence of two brooks that originate in the Pennines close to Marsden. The muddy area with access from st leonards church next to the footbridge (as mentioned above) is situated on private land. These eight swimming spots in rivers, lakes and ponds (and even a secret beach! There's a 400m course and it's a perfect training venue for open water swimmers. 124. Shallow swallow holes of the two brooks are in North Mymms' Water End, centred on so-named combined surface flow. If youre going to be in the water outdoors, its a good idea to ensure youre kitted out with the right gear. Theres also a separate company Aqua Splash who offer a seasonal inflatable assault course on one of the lakes. Ive recently updated this post after hearing that the landlord does not want people picnicking or entering the water at the muddy beach area which is shown in the photo above. Signposts are advising this. The beaches are sandy and pleasant for sitting on too. Activists, including Extinction Rebellion Colchester,. Not so much a bouyancy aid (although they do support your weight if you need a quick rest mid-swim), a tow floats main purpose is to keep you visible to others whilst youre in the water. Here, just after a bridge over a side stream, go slightly to the right and then left to follow a track (signed Batchworth Lake Circular Walk) parallel to the canal and beside a lake which leads you round and then towards a car park. The most recent . We've rounded up five spots in Hertfordshire where you can enjoy open water swimming across the county. You will receive one message a day. Check out Decathlon for swim boots and socks. And finally, check out my bumper list of things to do in Hertfordshire. For those more concerned about cooling off in the hot weather, Runnymede Pleasure Ground is a great place to swim in the Thames. London's getting a heat wave this week with temperatures going as high as 30C on Saturday. [6] The Slough Arm was built in 1882 which required three aqueducts to carry it close to its junction with the Grand Junction, to cross the Fray's River, the River Colne and the Colne Brook. Alternatively, you can swim down the Lea which flows towards Ware. The footpath from Bury Lake will take you into the river, which is fast-flowing but shallow. 124. But if you head back towards the headwaters of the river, youll find slow, wide sections ideal for a swim. It is a vital asset to our area providing swimming facilities to people of all ages. As always you can unsubscribe at any time. Walk: From Kirby Cross train station head to Frinton and walk around 5 miles along the coast towards Walton on the Naze, from where you can get a return train. Just on the Herts border but still easily accessible is Mechant Taylors' School and lake in Northwood. Surrey is turning out to be quite the wild swimmers destination of choice, isnt it? Nearest stations are Didcot and Cholsey, but youll need to drive or catch a bus to Shillingford. Looking for other activities in Hertfordshire? Downstream, it forms the boundary between Buckinghamshire and the London Borough of Hillingdon. Added bonus of having a bridge to jump off. Swim: in the River Colne, just after the footpath from Bury Lake reaches the river. [9] The second is a stone obelisk, 13 feet (4.0m) high, with a square base, which was erected at Colne Bridge in 1861. For those wanting a taster session, Swing England are also running an induction led by qualified coaches here, between 8.30am and 10.30am on May 9. One of the few non-London swim spots accessible via the tube, while you might not be far from civilisation you'll certainly feel a million miles away. Nearby Stocker's Lake is home to many waterfowl, especially during the winter months. At the 2011 Census, it had a population of 8,076. Along with the tow float, a swimming hat will help to keep you seen in the water. The sessions happen four times a week, with a professional water safety team on board to ensure it's a completely safe experience. We've set up a new WhatsApp group so you can receive the latest London headlines straight to your phone. Theres also a decent playground and a splash park for children. The museum's volunteer archivist Christine Orchard said: "Until an indoor swimming baths was built in Watford in 1933, bathing was open air and located in the Colne near to the Five Arches. Theres also stand up paddle boarding, sailing and other water-based activities at Stanborough and an inflatable assault course during the summer months. The last of our wild swimming spots you can reach on the Tube, this dip is worth the slog out to Zone 7. If you're feeling brave you could go for a jump off the bridge but make sure you've checked the depth before hand. The first is on the north side of the river in Colney Heath Local Nature Reserve, and is a square-section cast iron pillar made by Henry Grissell at his Regents Canal ironworks and erected in 1861 or 1862. Plus, dont miss my complete guide on where to take afternoon tea in Hertfordshire it covers everywhere from vintage tea rooms to luxury hotels. Nearest station is Cambridge, but buses or a brisk walk should see you to Grantchester. (HOWLS stands for Herts Open Water and Lido Swimmers). Walk: An easy walk through beautiful countryside, from Hever to Penshurst to Leigh. Learning to swim 1920s and 30s style. A CAMPAIGNING environmentalist has launched a petition calling on Colchester's MP to take a swim in the River Colne amid pollution fears. Just over half its course is in south Hertfordshire. Its a lovely swimming pool with a great community of regulars. A 120-year-old Dutch barge has travelled up a river to highlight the history of the River Colne. You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter. Please familiarise yourself with the open water swimming safety tips on the Royal Life Saving Society website. [3]. Another Thames treasure, the stretch at Shillingford encourages people to float as much as swim. Instead of punting on the River Cam in Cambridge, head upstream for Granchester Meadows and swim in it instead. Nearest station is Rickmansworth; its then a short walk to the river. Youll encounter the odd punt, which is the perfect invitation for a race, methinks. The confluence with the River Thames is on the Staines reach (above Penton Hook Lock) at Staines-upon-Thames. We may be basking in a heatwave but police are warning people about the dangers of swimming in open water. The sessions run on Mondays between 4pm and 7pm, and on Saturdays between 7.30am and 9.45am. We did not see a 'No swimming' sign, but there was no barrier separating a swimming area from boats as there used to be in the days when it was a recognised bathing spot. Nearest station is Guildford; its then a short walk to the river. After 10 years working in the travel industry selling and marketing holidays across the globe, I decided to set up the Smudged Postcard blog to share my knowledge of family travel. However, there is plenty of outdoor swimming in Hertfordshire if you know where to find it. Once youre outside the M25, wild swimming spots become ever more bucolic, perfect for idyllic weekend swims. Let me know in the comments below. Colne Valley swimming baths has been in the village of Slaithwaite for over 50 years. The Thames winds along the west of the meadow and the open space lends itself to incredible skies. Best Swimming Lessons/Schools in Garden City, NY 11530 - Goldfish Swim School - Garden City, Long Island Swim School, WowMoms World Long Island, Lifeguard LI, Gateway Sports and Pools - Chaminade High School, Saf-T-Swim of New Hyde Park, Swim Stars, Dolphin Swimming At Old Westbury, Gateway Sports and Pools - Hofstra University, Saf-T-Swim of Westbury The river, meadows and lakes form the Colne Valley regional park covering 43 square miles (110km2). We also may change the frequency you receive our emails from us in order to keep you up to date and give you the best relevant information possible. You can also find another great stretch of the Wey down by Godalming, which tends to be a tad quieter. You can also find another great stretch of the Wey down by Godalming, which tends to be a tad quieter. There are two experiences on offer here as the name suggests you can do open water swimming in one of the lakes at Westmill Farm. Plus Pool, coming soon to the East River . Some of my posts contain affiliate links. Lets be honest, no-one in their right mind is going to be hopping in the Thames near Waterloo Bridge. [5], There are two London Coal Duty markers beside the river, which mark points at which duty became payable on coal entering the London area. They run open-water swimming sessions, or if you fancy staying dry(ish), you can try your hand at sailing, kayaking, and even canoe polo. This means that we may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. You can either park next to Hartham Common (there are various car parks near Sainsburys) and walk across the park to the rivers from there or park at St Leonards Church in Bengeo and walk down through the fields. Hop in at the end of Wharf Road (shoes are required for the last stretch), and then bob your way downstream until you reach Shillingford Bridge of course, if you keep floating youll eventually hit London. All Rights Reserved, Previous article: Little Dartmouth, Compass Cove, Sugary Cove, Castle Cove circular wild swimming walk, Devon, Next article: Dover to Deal wild swimming walk, Kent. Walk: A 6.5 mile coastal walk from Margate, where JMW Turner spent his holidays, to Broadstairs, loved and frequented by Charles Dickens. While youre unlikely to come across legendary monsters or giant fish, you are likely to step on glass, rusted metal or other objects left by pesky humans. Go for a dip in the Thames in this proper scenic spot on the outskirts of Reading (get off at Pangbourne station if youre going on the train). Should you click to purchase, I will make a small commission at no cost to you which goes towards the running of this blog. An hour and 15 minutes after leaving London Bridge you'll be at this idyllic spot. Look out for good swimming spots at Streatley, before Moulsford,and just before Cholsey. If you're interested in trying out wild swimming but don't quite know where to start, take a look at our guide to wild swimming in Britain. Redricks Lake has drawn people in from London just to swim in the picturesque surroundings. A sandy bank means access to the river is easy. Turn left here for a short distance then first right into Plough Lane, following the London Loop signs. Nearest stations are Farnham and Bentley, and youll need to hit the roads to reach the pond. 10 January 2023 A 120-year-old Dutch barge has travelled up a river to highlight the history of the River Colne. Swim: in the renowned Walpole Bay sea pool. This is true wild swimming at its finest - pitch up with your swimmers, a picnic and find yourself a spot. Most Londoners are desperate for a dip but with the lidos packed you might have to go a little further afield. Free swimming is very gratifying but you do need to exercise a bit of caution. A stones throw from Guildford, this sandy stretch of river is slow-moving and shallow, making it a fine spot for wild swimming newbies. Nearest station is Goring & Streatley, and its a short walk to the river. This article is about the River Colne in Hertfordshire. The Beane and the Lea are the rivers to head to for a Hertfordshire wild swim. If you dont want to spend a fortune on wetsuits for your family kids grow out of them so quickly check on local Facebook groups or Ebay for second hand wetsuits. And if you fancy a trip to a local pub post-swim, Ive put together a list of some of the best family-friendly pubs in Hertfordshire. Mostly renowned as an angling lake, the sandy stretch of beach at Frensham Great Pond has a couple of buoyed areas reserved for swimmers and as the depths never exceed 1.4 metres, its a good one for kids. Downstream, it forms the boundary between Buckinghamshire and the London Borough of Hillingdon. The water is clear, there are large grassy banks and its totalll undeveloped, meaning you have a clear view of the Chiltern Hills. Its a really lovely location and Im looking forward to trying it out this summer. Take a dip in one of Britain's most spectacular lidos this spring and summer with our pick of the best lidos in the UK, plus a brief look at the history of the lido and its recent revival. From its mouth to its source, the Colne's named tributaries, anabranches and to-Thames distributaries are: Coordinates: 512559N 03055W / 51.43306N 0.51528W / 51.43306; -0.51528. Nearest station is Manor House, Finsbury Park isnt far off either. Follow the path through several fields, eventually joining a track which takes you out to the busy Harefield Road. West of where the path crosses the River Colne from Bury Lake you can enjoy a dip. It began to offer open water swimming again from March 29. Whilst nearby Cambridge offers you the chance to take a punt on the River Cam, I reckon youd be just as happy taking a punt on a swim. To reach the Midlands it continued along the river channel until its junction with the River Gade, which it ran parallel to, but did not take over the channel. Turn sharp left along a path (Summerhouse Lane leading to Bellevue Terrace) then pick up the Hillingdon Trail again, which leads up a steep hill through Park Wood then across fields with allotments on your left to a road. It's even been featured in Wild Swimming Walks, a. No matter the age or skill level . A large section of the picturesque River Cam has been designated as suitable for swimming. The open water swimming in Stanborough Park is operated by Better the organisation which runs the adjoining Gosling leisure centre. If you need somewhere to refuel, head for the Fordwich Arms. Finding an access spot will require a bit of perseverance but it'll pay off. Refreshed from your swim, continue along the path beside the River Colne, bearing right with the river after the weir, until you reach a road (opposite Willow Court). It is believed to be a mainly man-made anabranch north of the confluence with the River Pinn to feed watermills in the Parish of Hillingdon. The Herts Young Mariners Base in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, has been open more than 60 years and offers a range of outdoor activities. This was a really useful article, thank you! For those wanting a taster session, Swing England are running an induction led by qualified coaches between 1.30pm and 3.30pm on May 8. Go under the bridge, continuing in a westerly direction. With outdoor sport being allowed again and the first signs of summer emerging, it's a great time to start eyeing up spots near you. Our river projects aim to improve the rivers and waterways of the River Calder catchment for both people and wildlife . It's 25 minutes walk from the nearest station of Egham, which is just over half an hour train from Waterloo. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The River Colne in Rickmansworth draws both locals and those from London who want a bit more fresh air than the capital can offer to its banks. Henley itself may be better know for rowing, but remains a popular swimming destination further east, you can get in the water near Hurley Lock and Marlow Lock. Its close to where I live but I havent had a chance to check it out yet. Environment Correspondent. Steer clear of blue-green algae this stuff tends to form in lakes during the summer. The weather can affect water quality in lakes and rivers so its important to check conditions regularly some open water swimming venues may close at short notice if the water is deemed unsafe. When the sun shines and the temperature rises, you can bet half the city is going to head to Londons lidos for a cool down. Swim through Englands smallest town by following the River Stour in Fordwich. Established in 1997 HobieSwim is Long Island's premier swim provider. Two of its distributaries, constructed in the 1600 1750 period largely for aesthetic reasons for Hampton Court and for Syon Park, have been maintained. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. River Colne. Dive into our essential guide to wild swimming with our pick of the best places to swim in the UK, water safety and tips on how to get started. On this stretch, its shallow but allows you to have a dip during an autumn heatwave, and it does get gradually deeper for those with more experience of wild swimming. They all date back to the lido heyday of the 1930s. [11], At London Colney, there is a seven-arched brick bridge which carries Barnet Road over the river. Although this walk is within the M25, much of it feels like deep countryside. The Lea are the rivers and waterways of the river inflatable assault on. 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