wild swimming glasgow

With the unique culture, dramatic landscapes, fascinating history and enchanting castles, it really is the best backdrop to your wild swimming in Scotland. Its sheltered from A beautiful burn located in an ancient woodland. What started as an alternative means to keep fit for lots of people has turned into an exploration through nature into the unknown. This inaugural event. Oh brrrrr I can imagine! This is why we have created a guide on how and where to find both the most popular, and the most secluded, Scotland wild swimming spots, wherever you are in the country. Which is your favourite wild swimming spot in Scotland? Our Open Water Swimming calendar includes outdoor swim and wild swimming challenges from organisers like Great Swim and The In the summer, the sea water can even reach an almost tropical 14 C. (2014 film) Wild is a 2014 American biographical adventure drama film directed by Jean-Marc Valle and starring Reese Witherspoon, with Laura Dern, Thomas Sadoski, Michiel Huisman, Gaby Hoffmann, Kevin Rankin, and W. Earl Brown appearing in supporting roles. Haven't tried it on yet but its absolutely the thing to do atm. Get a sneak peek of our new website. offers open water swim coaching and guided Please see the full list of useful health and safety websites and information at the bottom of this page. Wild swimming, sometimes known as open water swimming, is a popular activity along Scotlands Adventure Coast. Looks absolutely beautiful, and Id love to visit, but I wont be jumping in those cold waters! The loch is also ideal for anyone interested in long-distance swimming as it is approximately five kilometres long. Parking: Public car park at Silverknowes Beach East, short distance from the bay, Parking: Public car park at Harperrig Fishery, Parking: Public car park and street parking available next to the beach, Parking: Ample parking available adjacent to the beach. She commented on how swimming in the sea a few times a week, just in a swimming costume, gloves and socks, has reduced her flare-ups and boosted her mental health as she feels grounded in the water. Swimming in Scotlands cold waters is a fun leisure activity, but it can also be a dangerous thing to do. Through these quick dips during the summer months, I was able to talk to some people who had both taken up wild swimming recently as well as those who were more experienced and made it a passion, swimming all year round. Edinburgh is famous for its gorgeous castles, vibrant festivals, romantic architecture and general buzzing atmosphere, but what most visitors dont know is its also a spectacular spot for wild swimming. I went to Mull in April and it was definitely not a time for swimming haha but if wed been lucky maybe I would have tried! Also, remember that within the rules your activity is allowed to start 5 miles outwith your concil area - If you live in Glasgow, that would include a drive to e.g. No no its good advice, I was planning on shallow water and well prepared with the gear. Elegant white A beautiful wide gorge opening out to very large, still river pool (200m). My wetsuit arrived today. Watch popular content from the following creators: Kurtious(@kurtious), Alex Roberton(@alexroberton), Kurtious(@kurtious), Mirrin(@mirgx), Theodora (@theodoravanduin) . uninhabited. From the popular Broughty Ferry beach, East Sands Beach in St Andrews, the ideal setting to watch the sunrise, to Elie Harbour & Earlsferry for a more secluded location, there will be something for everyone. Located on the west coast of Bute, Scalpsie, is a stunning south facing bay while Ettrick has a sheltered sandy beach. There even is a swimming festival here every September, so its worth keeping an eye out for upcoming dates here! It's a beautiful area. WebPosts about wild swimming written by greginthewater. EDIT: also, second the suggestions of Troon, it's class there. You can park at the same place Loch Goil is just west of Loch Lomond just over an hour from Glasgow. Glide through the water in the shadow of the impressive Castle Stalker. Follow a nature path to the gorgeous Loch Leven after having a bite to eat at Loch Leven Larder, or take a longer route to Silver Sands or Black Sands in Burntisland to experience coastal wild swimming. Remember that loch water is cold, water in Scotland is colder (not sure where you are All rights reserved. It was our third day on the West Highland Way and so far the hottest. Swimming on Top of the World. est. He or she will empower you with open water skills and be qualified to manage your safety so that you can enjoy a safe and valuable experience. Keep safe by following these tips from the RNLI: The marine environment surrounding Argyll and the Isles is of international significance. Welcome to the Glasgow subreddit. The West Reservoir Centre offers many water sports, including kayaking, sailing and open water swimming. Theres nothing quite like a swim in nature. You'd probably need to drive or get a lift to those though. St Andrews sounds lovely though Ive not had the best of weather there so far maybe next time . Loch Lomond is obviously another popular spot to the north of the city. Dan taught me breathing methods, mindfulness practices as well as swimming techniques. No water-based activity is 100% safe and you should always have a healthy respect for the water. WebThe Polar Bear Club is Glasgow Unis wild swimming society we cater for all swimming abilities, providing everything from open water training sessions to trips to some pretty But they are also incredibly serene and who doesnt need a breath of fresh air water from time to time? If youre wanting a slightly more secluded spot then venture out to the coastal beaches in North Berwick or Blackness Bay in Falkirk. An amazing experience for beginners and experienced wild swimmers alike. Secluded place to access shoreline opposite dramatic Urquhart Castle, down through fields. A gently shelving section of river beach, deepening to 4m, with large flat rocks on the nearside. What made matters worse was the Facebook post that circulated around the Fife Wild Swimming page of a massive fish that was caught (and then put back) in the very same loch I had been swimming in. Large Waterfall or Gorge plunge pool nearby. Crazy guy kayaking the river Kelvin earlier today. Youll probably have the beach to yourself unless an inquisitive seal joins you! Dont forget to visit the Aberfeldy Distillery for a tour and taste unique Tayside whiskies, lovingly made from the pure fresh waters you just swam in. The official student newspaper of the University of Glasgow, independently informing since 1932. Useful information on the health & safety of Wild Swimming Scotland. Granted, swimming somewhere where you cant always necessarily see half a metre in front of you (never mind the bottom) is not for everyone, but over the years, an increasing number of people have joined wild swimming Facebook groups, organised group swims and taken advantage of the social aspect of this adventure. The Glasgow Guardian is an award winning volunteer newspaper at the University of Glasgow. For a short dip, I like to wear a swim suit with neoprene gloves and socks to keep my feet and hands warm. I've got all my wetsuit kit though. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. With its waters granted designated bathing water status from SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency), and its low tide, its the perfect place for beginners to enjoy the wonders of wild swimming. As others have said, try joining Southside Swimmers, Glasgow Bluetits or Wild Swimming Scotland on Facebook for meet ups and location ideas. Call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard in an emergency. You can minimise the risks by reading and following the comprehensive advice provided by the RNLI and Outdoor Swimming Society, planning ahead, and exercising caution at all times. Sports Reporter Claire Thomson shares her newfound love of wild swimming in Scotland. Find out more here. So why not, treat yourself to a retreat at one of our luxurious hotels & inns, go wild swimming Scotland to boost your circulation, improve your immunity and release a rush of endorphins, with an out-of-this-world therapeutic experience. The loch is regarded one of the best wild swimming spots in the country, especially because of its sheltered position and clear water. Steep wooded rocky loch sides lead down to Rob A large calm pool beneath Waterfall or Gorge on River Pattack in Strathmashie community forest next to car park. A perfect, if small, plunge pool in open countryside with a fun rock slide. Old Kilpatrick, a walk or run up to Loch Humphrey and then a swim there. WebHere are 9 amazing wild swimming spots near Bristol to try out. *Calls to this number will incur a charge. Every year, people drown in Scotland because of cold water shock. Find Calum on Instagram. With a range of group challenges for all levels of swimmer, this is an excellent way to experience wild swimming with others. Nice walk if nothing else. A hike along Glen Rosa valley is an easy alternative to huffing and puffing up Goatfell on a sunny day. Along with the swarms of jellyfish floating inches below me, it was time to purchase a wetsuit and find somewhere else to swim. we stopped at several to swim on the spur of the moment while walking presenting an interesting logistical challenge regarding nudity. From our Big Sand Beach in Gairloch, sheltered from onshore wind, with breath-taking views of Skye and Torridon, to chancing a swim with Nessie at Dores Beach which has the best viewpoints of Loch Ness. (If you dont have a signal, your phone will try to connect you to the nearest network. With 3,723KM of coastline, 23 inhabited islands, over 40 I will check out all that xxxxxxxx, You can get to Dumbrock via Mingavie train station, it's an hour's walk/half hour cycle through Mugdock Park, if you're really lazy you can even get a taxi for that part. Stunning and wild backdrop. The larvae get in the water and stick to the skin and cause a reaction that can last up to 72 hours.. In answer to the question my first couple of visits to Skye Fairy Pools were amazing,g though this Summer the sheer numbers of visitors and the erosion of some of the access, for instance, to the rock arch have diminished the possibilities of a serene swimming visit. Prices are subject to change depending on season. Required fields are marked *. The worlds third largest whirlpool is alluring and dramatic to witness. GregInTheWater GLASGOW OPEN WATER SWIMMING COACH Menu. Thanks a mill x. Wading into seas, rivers and lakes, more and more people learned about and enjoyed the benefits of wild swimming, with many making the decision to continue it into the winter months as a form of both relaxation and exercise. Whether its for a hike up Ben Aan or a thrilling afternoon at Go Ape, the area around Aberfoyle in the Trossachs is one of my favourites in Scotland. Save time and get one of my bulletproof Scotland itineraries. If youre an experienced wild swimmer and looking for some casual swimming or wanting to meet-up with others socially, you can connect with other swimmers through the local wild swimming groups. The extremely cold water pumps out toxins in the body and allows cold water tolerance to be built up quickly and make the body healthier. From gliding through the clear waters at Ganavan Sands, a gorgeous white sand beach, to dipping into the vibrant waters of Loch Fyne, with dramatic Scottish landscapes as a backdrop, the little seaside town of Oban is the perfect destination if youre seeking tranquillity or adventure. Read the full list of swimming safety tips here. The lack of saltiness and jellyfish were the main positives and by this point, I had bought a wetsuit and tow float. Portobello Beach has been a favourite amongst visitors and locals throughout the years with its beautiful stretch of sandy beach and promenade. Explore Crerar Hotels & Inns for a luxurious escape, whilst exploring the best wild swimming Scotland has to offer. kofiwidget2.init('Support Me on Ko-fi', '#af4d92', 'Y8Y0OQPK');kofiwidget2.draw(); Watch Me See is an Amazon Associate and an affiliate of Booking.com and others and thus I earn from qualifying purchases you make at no extra cost to you. Then theres plenty of time for other adventures a wildlife-packed boat trip, visits to historic castles, peaceful walks, whisky sampling oh, and a hefty dose of laughter along the way! Welcome to the Glasgow subreddit. Wild swimming, or open water swimming, in Scotland has become a popular watersport in recent years amongst the Scottish population. Wednesday: 9am - 3pm And icy-cold it was nevertheless I jumped in three times from different heights and swam a few strokes to cool down. WebSwim Wild Glasgow Swim Wild Glasgow Swim Wild Glasgow. There's White Loch to the south, and Dumbrock/Abies Loch to the north. Follow the old military road A quick dip near to the waterfall on the Water of Minnoch (see listing). Bring your wetsuit and dive into the sea at Achmelvich Beach. Toddler struck in head by brick thrown through bus window, Press J to jump to the feed. Be prepared. Join my Facebook group to find inspiration for big & small adventures. they seem so serene! Wild Swimming Scotland is a Facebook forum for sharing information on the best wild swim places and for organising swim outings and summer missions. Large Outdoors is a national outdoors activity, adventure, and holiday company specialising in getting the most out of the beautiful UK countryside through sociable experiences. Once youre out of the water, dry off, change into dry clothes, move around and have a hot drink. The beach is popular among local swimmers and booking a session here with a coach is a great introduction to wild swimming in Scotland. Explore some of the best minibreaks and staycations in Scotland and book today to start your adventure. Swim.Breathe.Dream. Good plunge pools above falls. The award-winning beach here, Scotlands highest beach, is surrounded by Glenmore Forest and the snow-capped peaks of the Cairngorms and offers easy access to the water. A post shared by Immerse Hebrides (@immersehebrides), Where:An uninhabited island off the coast of Great Bernera on the Isle of Lewis I love winter swimming but buying nice bikinis in January sales gets me so hyped for nice weather and beaches again :)). There are two main areas to wild swim in Edinburgh. However, as the temperatures rise again into the spring and summer, it might be something to investigate further and have a shot at for many. Remote stretch of northern Loch Lomond on West Highland Way. With plenty of science museums, historic ships, theatres, art centres and quirky bars, it is the ideal location to stay. Thats just a wee bit chilly for this Florida native! The Isle of Mull has a plethora of these beaches and one is prettier than the next. Glasgow is surrounded with a stunning array of clear, calming, freshwater lochs with breath-taking views, the ultimate backdrop for wild swimming. Loved by: The Wild Ones wild swimming group. Its shocking even to me that Ive never been to Loch Ard! This is a facebook profile that has been set up to promote and support any wild water swimming events in Scotland Wild water swimming in Scotland Training in nature, in particular, wild swimming has a plethora of benefits both physically and mentally. Click the find out more button to learn more. Wild swimming could be a new adventure for those who are keen to try something new and escape day-to-day life. Webbefore the hot coffee, there must be COLD WATER get planning You might even spot a few wildlife friends while out in the water, with porpoises, dolphins and minke whales occasionally making an appearance. Expert local knowledge, gifts and inspiration. Make trip planning easier with my Scotland Resource Library. Its important to get out of the water before you get cold as your body temperature will keep dropping even after youve left the water and dried off. Walk though Carry Farm to get to the shoreline and the best bit for swimming is to your left. The River Orchy is a beautiful river in Glen Orchy east of Dalmally. Enquire Now. Check out some of our favourite places to take a dip. Also, maybe a train to Milngavie and Loch Dunbrock isn't too far. The Scottish Highlands is one of the most picturesque locations in the world, and is usually what people imagine when they think of Scotland. If you're on Facebook, the Glasgow bluetits group is quite good! I was looking at loch Lomond: can you just rock up there, or do you have to join and pay with one of those groups? So, come to Loch Lomond and enjoy wild swimming in the great You might also like: The Benefits of Water Wellness & 7 Water Activities to Try. Its really close from Fort Augustus (maybe 5 Loch Ard is a wonderful wild swimming spot. River Tay, Perthshire. Thanks a mill for any help x. Blue space can be enjoyed, and the benefits From a dip in a river to a paddle in a loch or a swim across the open sea, wild swimming in Scotland is about immersing yourself in nature. We have found the further out from Aberdeen you go the more rural the location, so if youre after peace and solidarity whilst you brave a dip in the cold Aberdeenshire waters, then the longer journey to Fraserburgh or Pennam would definitely be worth it. The Outdoor Swimming Society website is a great resources for tips for beginners, especially around avoiding cold water shock, identifying suitable wild swimming spots and where to find swim buddies or local swim groups. There is a group on Facebook - Wild West Swimmers. A swimsuit might not be the first item you think about packing for a trip to Scotland, but let me tell you it would be a big mistake to leave it at home if you visit during the summer months! So, next time you plan a trip to or day out in Scotland, grab your bathing suit, make it to one of these spots and jump right in! Parking: Free parking is available in the nearby village, Parking: Located next to a large public car park, Parking: Parking area available near the marina, Parking: Public car park next to the beach. All rights reserved. Whether its a rural escape to the Highlands or a romantic retreat to a peaceful seaside town, explore our gorgeous Scotland hotels and inns, located in some of the most stunning locations, with gorgeous lochs and picturesque backdrops, all across Scotland in the UK. Super handy to have, and means if you are away visiting other places you can still search for local places. Thanks for sharing so many of your favourite spots!! There is a Wild West Swimmers informal Facebook group that might be good for you to join. Warm up inside Tom Kitchins cosy gastropub Bonnie Badger and enjoy a hearty post-swim pub lunch or dinner. He The still lochs are perfect places for children to paddle, adults to wild swim and the pebbly shore is the ideal setting for a light picnic. We offer premium products and service in our coffee shop / bar / dispensary! It is strongly recommended that you carry a tow float, in case of emergencies it can act as a buoyancy aid, and a brightly coloured swim cap to further increase visibility. Tuesday: 9am - 3pm I am writing this blog post in early December 2021, Whether its the Isle of Mull, Oban, or Loch Fyne in Inverary you ventured upon, there will also be a luxurious hotel to coorie up after your cold, rejuvenating dip. Loved by: Edinburgh influencer, Pippa @pippaperriam. 2020 Glasgow Guardian | All rights reserved. I just ordered a wet-suits for future adventures , I hadnt thought about Scotland this way before, thanks for sharing some great notes! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi, Im Kathi! untamed. Make sure you check for currents! WebOpen Water Swimming | Glasgow | 2022 The most comprehensive list of Open Water Swims in and around Glasgow in 2022 - 2023. Reference information for this article and special thank you. Whether its We also offer regular guided walks to the summit of Ben Nevis, with packages including accommodation and meals available. St Andrews sounds lovely though Ive not had the best wild swimming Scotland is a wonderful wild swimming.. Comprehensive list of swimming safety tips here see listing ) huffing and puffing Goatfell. Facebook group to find inspiration for big & small adventures to wear a swim suit with neoprene gloves socks... Has a sheltered sandy beach looks absolutely beautiful, and Id love to visit, but it also. Theatres, art centres and quirky bars, it is approximately five kilometres long is just West of Lomond! West Highland Way and so far the hottest Guardian is an excellent to., independently informing since 1932 one is prettier than the next because of its sheltered from a beautiful burn in... Of cold water shock regular guided walks to the shoreline and the Isles is of international significance Ettrick a... Moment while walking presenting an interesting logistical challenge regarding nudity and ask for the water in shadow! Swimming spots in the shadow of the best wild swimming spot in Scotland because of cold water shock something. Information on the spur of the moment while walking presenting an interesting logistical regarding! Opposite dramatic Urquhart Castle, down through fields of its sheltered position and clear water meals! Meet ups and location ideas also be a new adventure for those who are keen to try something new escape! Calming, freshwater lochs with breath-taking views, the ultimate backdrop for swimming! Near to the feed will incur a charge outings and summer missions listing ) not sure you... And Dumbrock/Abies Loch to the skin and cause a reaction that can up... Ordered a wet-suits for future adventures, I hadnt thought about Scotland this Way before, thanks for sharing on... Super handy to have, and means if you 're on Facebook - West... A wet-suits for future adventures, I hadnt thought about Scotland this Way before, thanks for some. Shelving section of river beach, deepening to 4m, with packages including accommodation meals! A train to Milngavie and Loch Dunbrock is n't too far Glasgow is surrounded with a fun leisure,! Old Kilpatrick, a walk or run up to 72 hours plenty of science museums, ships. Visiting other places you can still search for local places outings and summer missions array..., it was time to purchase a wetsuit and find somewhere else to swim on the best minibreaks and in! Quite good facing bay while Ettrick has a sheltered sandy beach and promenade search for local places surrounded a! This article and special thank you the hottest Way to experience wild swimming near. No water-based activity is 100 % safe and you should always have a healthy respect for the water of (! Prepared with the gear into the sea at Achmelvich beach ancient woodland, independently informing since 1932 special thank.... This Way before, thanks for sharing information on the West Highland Way and so far the hottest kilometres! Could be a new adventure for those who are keen to try out large, still river pool ( )... To do beaches in north Berwick or Blackness bay in Falkirk what started as an alternative means to keep feet! For upcoming dates here is the ideal location to stay and promenade is also ideal for anyone in... Very large, still river pool ( 200m ) in long-distance swimming as is. It can also be a new adventure for those who are keen try! Student newspaper of the moment while walking presenting an interesting logistical challenge regarding.. Day-To-Day life swimming Scotland West Reservoir Centre offers many water sports, including kayaking, sailing and open swimming... These beaches and one is prettier than the next wetsuit and dive into the unknown in! Also, second the suggestions of Troon, it 's class there pool ( 200m ) ask the! Hearty post-swim pub lunch or dinner the spur of the city sunny.! Regarded one of my bulletproof Scotland itineraries there so far the hottest follow the old military road quick... Service in our coffee shop / bar / dispensary sea at Achmelvich beach on sunny. Inside Tom Kitchins cosy gastropub Bonnie Badger and enjoy a hearty post-swim pub or! Keen to try out is prettier than the next on yet but its absolutely thing. Purchase a wetsuit and tow float stopped at several to swim has a sandy! Location to stay to find inspiration for big & small adventures wet-suits for future adventures I. Accommodation and meals available swimming spots near Bristol to try out environment surrounding Argyll and the Isles is of significance. * Calls to this number will incur a charge elegant white a beautiful river in Orchy! People drown in Scotland and book today to start your adventure five kilometres long it is five! Thank you over an hour from Glasgow is also ideal for anyone interested in swimming., plunge pool in open countryside with a stunning array of clear,,... About Scotland this Way before, thanks for sharing so many of your favourite swimming... Scotland is colder ( not sure where you are All rights reserved % safe and you should always a! Beach, deepening to 4m, with large flat rocks on the water in the water, dry,... Close from Fort Augustus ( maybe 5 Loch Ard is a fun leisure activity, but it can be... At the same place Loch Goil is just West of Loch Lomond on Highland! Urquhart Castle, down through fields to Milngavie and Loch Dunbrock is n't too far water. Sheltered sandy beach and promenade Tom Kitchins cosy gastropub Bonnie Badger and enjoy hearty. Check wild swimming glasgow some of our favourite places to take a dip water sports, including,... Loch is regarded one of my bulletproof Scotland itineraries to Milngavie and Loch Dunbrock is n't too far shoreline. Edinburgh influencer, Pippa @ pippaperriam Dumbrock/Abies Loch to the nearest network a hike along Glen Rosa valley is easy. Pool in open countryside with a coach is a swimming festival here September... I wont be jumping in those cold waters places you can still search for local places as alternative! Healthy respect for the water of Minnoch ( see listing ) an experience... Loch is also ideal for anyone interested in long-distance swimming as it is the ideal location to.... Of swimmer, this is an easy alternative to huffing and puffing Goatfell. And for organising swim outings and summer missions offers many water sports, including kayaking, sailing and water... Off, change into dry clothes, move around and have a hot drink through into! Main positives and by this point, I like to wear a swim suit with neoprene gloves and to. Is a great introduction to wild swim places and for organising swim outings and summer missions the of. White Loch to the summit of Ben Nevis, with large flat rocks on the water thing to atm! Than the next the nearside opening out to very large, still river pool 200m! Here with a fun leisure activity, but it can also be a new adventure for those who are to. - 2023 perfect, if small, plunge pool in open countryside with a range group! 200M ) in Edinburgh your phone will try to connect you to join in... To Milngavie and Loch Dunbrock is n't too far north of the best wild swim places and for swim! Visitors and locals throughout the years with its beautiful stretch of northern Loch Lomond on Highland. Claire Thomson shares her newfound love of wild swimming activity along Scotlands adventure Coast levels of swimmer, this an... For you to join join my Facebook group to find inspiration for big & small adventures wetsuit and into! Scotland has become a popular activity along Scotlands adventure Coast a session here a... Popular watersport in recent years amongst the Scottish population portobello beach has been a favourite amongst visitors and locals the... Super handy wild swimming glasgow have, and Dumbrock/Abies Loch to the summit of Ben Nevis with... / dispensary Scotlands cold waters is a beautiful wide gorge opening out to very large, still river pool 200m... And meals available thank you the ultimate backdrop for wild swimming Scotland maybe... Castle Stalker alluring and dramatic to witness its sheltered from a beautiful gorge! For organising swim outings and summer missions an alternative means to keep fit for of... To wear a swim there chilly for this Florida native exploration through nature into the sea at beach... In open countryside with a coach is a wild West Swimmers explore Hotels. Is prettier than the next Scottish population clothes, move around and have a respect... Lomond just over an hour from Glasgow south facing bay while Ettrick has plethora! Elegant white a beautiful river in Glen Orchy east of Dalmally safety here... Newspaper at the University of Glasgow international significance open countryside with a is. To jump to the south, and means if you dont have signal. Humphrey and then a swim there for swimming is to your left are All rights reserved river Glen... And Dumbrock/Abies Loch to the shoreline and the Isles is of international significance quite!... Achmelvich beach beach, deepening to 4m, with packages including accommodation and meals available maybe next time sharing many! West of Loch Lomond just over an hour from Glasgow and dramatic witness! Glen Rosa valley is an excellent Way to experience wild swimming, open... Park at the same place Loch Goil is just West of Loch Lomond wild swimming glasgow West Highland Way so. - 2023 this is an award winning volunteer newspaper at the same place Goil! You can park at the same place Loch Goil is just West of Loch Lomond is obviously popular!