We are in the midst of summer now, and with some bloomin’ hot weather we are in need of a dip and a paddle to cool off. And, these West Yorkshire wild swimming spots are the perfect places to cool off.
From Gaddings Dam’s beautiful inland beach to hidden gems located in the woodlands of West Yorkshire, there are some amazing spots for a swim in nature across this Yorkshire county.
It’s not just cooling down why you should be taking a dip, wild swimming has some fantastic benefits for the body and mind including boosting immune systems, improving circulation and boosting your brain power.
Although, it’s not to be taken lightly, there are a range of dangers that come with it and being aware of them is vital for anything that’s wanting to enjoy the benefits of wild swimming this summer.
Cold waters can be dangerous so make sure you don’t stay in for longer than 20 minutes. You should also make sure you don’t go in if you lack confidence swimming and be well aware that even in shallow waters there can be fast-flowing waters that will knock you off your feet o always think about whether you can exit the water and identify emergency exits.
Avoid rivers after a big rainfall and be aware that just because it looks calm on top, currents underneath could be dangerous so make sure you do your research on any river that you visit.If you’re a beginner in the world of wild swimming, check out this article on wild swimming safely.
1. Gaddings Dam, Todmorden – West Yorkshire Wild Swimming
Known unofficially as the highest beach in the country, Gaddings Dams is located above the town of Todmorden, which sits on the boundary between Yorkshire and Lancashire.
It has a real sand beach and is not too far from the Pennine Way. it was originally built in 1833 to supply the mill towns below. Be aware the water can be chilly and you can sometimes be joined be cows giving the beach its other name ‘Cow Beach’.
2. Lumb Falls, Hebden Bridge
Found near Hebden Bridge, Lumb Falls is a stunning West Yorkshire wild swimming spot. It is made up of a series of fantastic cascading waterfalls with a beautiful plunge pool below.
Just three miles north of the town, and just two miles from the National Trust spot Hardcastle Craggs, it’s a great spot for day trip and an fun outdoor adventure.
Read More: 7 Of The Most Fun Stepping Stone Walks In Yorkshire To Do
3. River Wharfe, Ilkley – West Yorkshire Wild Swimming
One of the top West Yorkshire wild swimming spots, part of the River Wharfe near Ilkley, which winds its way down from the Yorkshire Dales is a lovely place for a paddle and a dip.
Back in 2020 it was announce that it will become the first river bathing site in England, helping to make the water cleaner and safer for local swimmers.
It’s known as ‘Wharfe at Cromwheel, Ilkley’, and is located on the River Wharfe at Ilkley, close to Ilkley town centre. It is accessible via the Riverside Walk footpath alongside the river.
4. Jerusalem Farm, Halifax
A Halifax hidden gem located along a secluded section of the River Ludd on Jerusalem Farm is the perfect spot for a paddle.
It’s a short walk from the nearby car park and a perfect spot for a family picnic and a paddle to cool down this summer.
5. River Wharfe, Otley
Otley is a stunning village located on the outskirts of Leeds in West Yorkshire which has the beautiful River Wharf running through it.
The West Yorkshire wild swimming spot can be accessed via a range of locations including the garden of the Fleece, Wharfebank Mills and by Otley Police Station.
6. Hidden Dip, River Wharfe – West Yorkshire Wild Swimming
Named because of the handy road sign that indicates the access to the River Wharfe as it runs alongside the Castley Lane.
Be aware it is a bit of a steep walk down to the bank access that is a stunning area surrounded by trees in a wonderful wide area.
7. Spring Lodge Lake
Want a supervised swim? There are a couple of spots in the West Yorkshire area to enjoy a wild swim safely.
Costing just £4.25 for a session, Spring Lodge Lake offers swimming spots between Wednesday 6pm until 8pm, Saturday 8am to 10am and Sunday 8am to 10am during the summer.
8. Leeds Dock, Leeds City Centre
Located in the city centre for any young professionals or anyone in the Leeds region wanting to take a dip. Head down to Leeds Dock for sessions on Friday 11am to 2pm, Saturday 9am to 12pm and Sunday 10am to 2:30pm.
Read More: 10 Of The Best Yorkshire Dales Wild Swimming Spots
Feature Image Credit: Photo © Humphrey Bolton (cc-by-sa/2.0)
