Find the best places for wild swimming in Staffordshire with our guide to safe, scenic open water locations ideal for nature lovers.
Open water swimming has become increasingly popular over the recent years with many people taking cold water dips all year round. Staffordshire offers some stunning and tranquil spots for wild swimming, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while cooling off in a fresh, outdoor setting.
For the Hello Stafforshire team, wild swimming is one of our favourite things to do in Staffordshire and we’ve done the research for you. So whether you’re looking for a gentle paddle or a full swim, here are some of the best wild swimming spots in Staffordshire to try.
Some of the spots listed below are also great for stand up paddleboarding in Staffordshire if you fancy mixing up your time on the water. We’ve also highlighted a few locations where wild swimming is not recommended, even though they’re sometimes suggested elsewhere. Plus, towards the end of this guide, you’ll find a handful of wild swimming gems just beyond Staffordshire’s borders, perfect for exploring if you’re happy to venture a little further.
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Things to consider with wild swimming
Wild swimming is a wonderful way to connect with nature, but it’s important to stay safe and protect the beautiful places we all enjoy. Before you head out, keep these key tips in mind:
- Respect the local area – Be considerate of nearby residents, other visitors, and wildlife. Keep noise to a minimum, stick to designated paths, and leave no trace by taking all your rubbish home.
- Swim only where it’s permitted – Not every body of water is safe or legal to swim in. Always check that swimming is allowed and choose spots known for being safe.
- Be mindful with parking – Park responsibly without blocking access or gates, and avoid creating congestion in small villages or rural areas.
- Never swim alone – Wild swimming is always safer (and more fun) with a friend. Better still, why not join an organised open water swimming group or event?
- Check water quality and conditions – Before you swim, research the water conditions and avoid swimming after heavy rainfall, which can wash pollutants into open water.
- Brush up on safety advice – Take a look at open water safety guidance from the Royal Life Saving Society and RNLI before you go.
Taking a little extra care helps to keep wild swimming in Staffordshire safe, enjoyable, and sustainable for everyone.
Outdoor swimming gear
If you are thinking about trying your hand at outdoor swimming then it is worth thinking about the kit that you might need. A wetsuit is very much recommended of you’re a first-timer.
- Wetsuit
- Tow float
- Swimming boots/shoes
- Googles
- Swimming hat
- Changing robe
- Flask
- Bobble hat
Map of the top 3 wild swimming spots in Staffordshire
1. Whitmore Lakes
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Nestled in the Staffordshire’s Whitmore Estate, Whitmore Lakes is a hidden gem and a perfect location for wild swimming. There are a number of lakes that are easily accessible and offer a wide range of activities for all to enjoy.
Whitmore Lakes have also collaborated with Kuotos Swim to offer various swimming coaching and courses including 1-2-1 swimming lessons and introduction to wild swimming courses.
Swimming is bookable in 2 hour sessions and costs £7 per session. Please note that there is no entry for children under 11 at the wild swimming lake. Parking and toilets available, and refreshments are available in the Cake Shack. You can also book the sauna as an optional add-on to wild swimming in Swan Lake (£13 per person, per hour); now that’s a lovely way to warm up after your cold dip!
2. Pillaton Hall Farm
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Pillaton Hall Farm is one of the best campsites in Staffordshire, offering touring caravan and camping pitches with excellent facilities, children’s play areas, fishing pools, and a café bar with takeaway options.
For those looking to try wild swimming in a safe, managed environment, Pillaton Hall Farm also runs open water swimming sessions open to everyone. To take part, you’ll need to be registered with the National Open Water Coaching Association (NOWCA).
Non-members are also welcome, with swim sessions available for £10.00.
3. Three Shires Head
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Where the counties of Derbyshire, Cheshire and Staffordshire all meet, this stretch of the River Dane makes for a perfect wild swimming dip. Whilst parts are rocky and shallow, there is a deep pool which can be 7 feet deep at the foot of one of the waterfalls. It is a lovely spot to combine with the beautiful Three Shires head walk. A dip in the refreshing waterfalls is a welcome reward half way around.
You can either park here, from where it’s a 1.5 km walk down to Three Shires Pools. However, parking here is very limited and the path down can get busy. Alternatively, there’s the lovely, 6.2km circular Three Shires Head walk from Gradbach Car Park.
Please note that there are no toilet facilities here and you must take all litter home with you. There have been reports over the warmer, summer months of visitors to this beautiful spot leaving piles of rubbish.
4. Chasewater Reservoir
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Chasewater Reservoir offers calm waters for wild swimming. It’s a popular spot for a variety of water sports (including paddleboarding), and while the reservoir isn’t specifically designated for wild swimming, Chasewater sports centre offers open water swimming for beginners, intermediate swimmers and advanced swimmers. The surrounding area is a lovely nature reserve, providing a peaceful setting.
Tow floats are compulsory. Using the Nowca app to book a time slot, swimming is £10 a session for guest swimmers and you can also opt for wetsuit hire.
5. Blake Mere Mermaid Pool
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Blakemere Pond, also known as Blake Mere Mermaid Pool, is a mysterious spot near The Roaches, famous for its eerie local legend. The story goes that a woman accused of witchcraft was drowned here, and her spirit became the mermaid said to haunt the waters. Locals even claim that no animal will drink from the pond and no bird dares to fly over it!
While the setting is undeniably beautiful, swimming at Blakemere Pond is not advised. The water is deep and dark, with hidden submerged objects that make it unsafe. Whether you believe in the mermaid’s curse or not, this is one to admire from the shore rather than taking a dip.
However, we’ve included Blakemere Pond in this Staffordshire wild swimming guide because it’s a spot that often gets mentioned by others. While it’s frequently suggested as a wild swimming location, we want you to have the full picture, including the safety concerns and local legends, so you can make an informed decision and stay safe.
Places not suitable for wild swimming in Staffordshiredshire
While researching wild swimming spots, you might come across a few popular locations that sound tempting but unfortunately do not allow swimming. These places are often suggested, but wild swimming isn’t permitted:
- Westport Lake
- Rudyard Lake
- Barton Marina
- Tittesworth reservoir
Outdoor Swimming locations just outside of Staffordshire
If you’re willing to travel a little beyond Staffordshire, there are some fantastic outdoor swimming spots nearby. From organised open water venues to scenic wild swimming locations, these places are perfect for a refreshing dip just over the county border.
1. Nantwich Outdoor Swimming Pool
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Just over the border in Cheshire, the outdoor brine pool at Nantwich Leisure Centre is a real treat for outdoor swimmers. Filled with naturally salty water, the pool is heated to around 24°C, though thanks to solar gain it often feels even warmer on sunny days. It’s a great option if you’re looking for an open-air swim with a bit of extra comfort, and the brine water is believed to have therapeutic benefits too.
Online booking is essential, so make sure to secure your spot before you visit.
2. Youlgreave, Derbyshire
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The Youlgreave wild swimming spot, set on the River Bradford and just a short drive from Bakewell in the Peak District, is a popular place for a family-friendly paddle or dip. This peaceful section of the river has been adapted to create a safe area for swimming, making it a great spot to cool off on a warm day.
Please note that inflatables aren’t allowed, and it’s asked that dogs stay out of the water to help protect the local wildlife. Most importantly, remember to leave no trace; take all litter home and help keep this beautiful spot clean for everyone.
3. Hathersage Outdoor Swimming Pool
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The Hathersage Open Air Swimming Pool, located in the beautiful village of Hathersage in the Peak District, is one of the region’s most iconic outdoor swimming spots and well worth the trip from Staffordshire. This heated, 30-metre pool is open year-round and offers a unique swimming experience surrounded by stunning countryside views.
An adult swim costs around £7.50, and the pool is kept at a comfortable temperature, making it ideal for both leisurely swims and more energetic lengths. On-site facilities include toilets, hot showers, and changing rooms, plus there’s often a welcoming community atmosphere, especially during special events like night swims and live music sessions.
It’s a great option if you’re looking for the feel of outdoor swimming with the reassurance of lifeguards and modern facilities.
4. Pickmere Lake
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Pickmere Lake is a beautiful, peaceful spot that’s become popular with swimmers, located just a short drive from Altrincham and around an hour from Newcastle-under-Lyme, depending on traffic. The lake is known for its clear water and relaxed atmosphere, making it a lovely place for an open water swim,especially if you time your visit to catch one of its stunning sunsets.
Parking is limited, with only a small car park nearby, so please park considerately and be mindful of local residents.
Before your go, check out these useful reads for your visit:
