WHAT even is a ‘Wild Swimming Retreat’? We swear they didn’t exist a few years ago.

Wild swimming, also known as open-water swimming, is about swimming in natural, unchlorinated waters like rivers, lakes, and the sea. It’s a liberating experience that can connect you to nature while offering loads of health benefits. North Wales has a great mix of lakes and coastline, it’s perfect for wild swimming that combines adventure, fitness, and exploring the great outdoors.

Wild swimming is defo still gaining popularity in the UK, with more people diving in for cold water for the health benefits and the opportunity to explore brilliant landscapes.

What is a Wild Swimming Weekend

A wild swimming weekend can be the perfect way to escape the everyday grind and immerse yourself in nature. It’s all about exploring natural swimming spots, connecting with other nice humans, and learning to safely enjoy swimming in the great outdoors.

Wild swimming weekends are usually guided experiences that mix swimming with exploring and hillwalking. They’re designed for everyone – from beginners looking to dip their toes into open water to more experienced swimmers looking for new places to swim.

Why Should You Try Wild Swimming?

Wild swimming is more than just a swim, it’s an adventure, here’s why you should give it a go…

• Connect with nature: You’ll explore some beautiful landscapes and feel a unique connection to nature.
• Boost your health: Swimming outdoors improves endurance, circulation, and mental health, with cold water releasing endorphins and reducing inflammation.
• Challenge yourself: Open water is unpredictable, making every swim a new and exciting experience.

Why Pay for a Wild Swimming Experience?

You can, absolutely, find your own swimming spots – but a guided experience adds lots of value and benefits.

• Expert guidance: Learn essential techniques, safety tips, and the best local spots from experienced, professional, guides.
• Community: Share the experience with other people who love the great outdoors, cold water and exploring wild places.
• Convenience: Professional guides handle logistics; from catering and transport to checking water quality and finding the safest swimming areas.

The Benefits of a Wild Swimming Weekend

A wild swimming weekend offers lots more than just a few dips in open water…

• Physical and mental wellness: Enjoy a full-body workout while calming your mind. The combination of nature and exercise is unbeatable.
• Learn new skills: From water safety to open-water techniques, you’ll leave feeling more confident in your swimming abilities.
• Memorable experiences: Whether it’s the camaraderie of the group or the beauty of your surroundings, these weekends create lasting memories.

The Best Accommodation for a Wild Swimming Weekend

Stay at Ty Newydd Writers Retreat in North Wales

Nestled in the stunning Welsh countryside, Ty Newydd Writers Retreat offers a superb base for wild swimming adventures. Located near some of the UK’s most beautiful swimming spots, this cozy retreat combines comfort with convenience.

• Relaxing spaces: After a day in the water, unwind in comfortable rooms and enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere.
• Stunning surroundings: With breathtaking views and access to rivers, lakes, and coastal waters, it’s the ideal location for a wild swimming weekend.
• Great for groups: Whether you’re coming with friends or joining a guided experience, Ty Newydd provides the perfect setting for shared adventures.

Wild Swimming Guides UK | Qualifications and Experience

You should only consider wild swimming weekends that are led by qualified, experienced, guides who can keep you safe and add to your experience. Look for guides with:

• Lifesaving qualifications: Like RLSS or Open Water Lifeguard qualifications.
• Walking or Mountaineering qualifications: Like ‘Lowland Leader’ or ‘Mountain Leader’ from Mountain Training.
• Local knowledge: Guides who live in the area and know the best (and safest) swimming spots, don’t be afraid to ask how often the guides swim themselves.
• Experience: In wild swimming and working with lots of different groups – ask how long the guides have been leading groups in the outdoors.

FAQs About What is Wild Swimming

What is wild swimming?

Wild swimming is swimming in natural, outdoor water – like rivers, lakes, or the sea.

Is wild swimming legal in the UK?

Yes, wild swimming is legal in the UK, though it’s important to check local access and ensure the water is safe.

What are the health benefits of wild swimming?

Wild swimming boosts circulation, improves mental health, and provides a full-body workout. Cold-water immersion also reduces inflammation and releases endorphins.

Who is Emma Senior?

Emma Senior is a North Wales based advocate for wild swimming and outdoor adventures, sharing her love of nature through writing and guided experiences.

Why stay at Ty Newydd Writers Retreat for wild swimming?

Ty Newydd offers a comfortable, picturesque base close to some of Wales’ best wild swimming spots. Its tranquil setting is ideal for relaxing after a day of adventure.

https://explorewildwales.co.uk/wild-swim-retreats/

https://www.instagram.com/wildwales_/

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Emma’s Top Tips – What to Wear Wild Swimming.

Are you ready to jump into wild swimming but wondering what to wear? Wild swimming is getting more and more popular as a way to connect with the great outdoors and offers fantastic physical and mental health benefits. 

Knowing what to wear can be tricky, especially with so many gear options. 

So we decided to put together a guide that covers everything from swimsuits to accessories.

What You Wear Wild Swimming

Swimming outdoors, in wild places like rivers, lakes, or the sea, means you’ll be dealing with a variety of conditions – underfoot and in the water.

The water will be colder, there will be currents and you WILL encounter mud, rocks and plants. 

Your choice of clothing should help you stay comfortable, warm, and safe – let’s look at some essentials.

Wild Swimwear

Swimsuit or Wetsuit?

One of the first things you’ll need to decide is whether to wear a swimsuit or a wetsuit. 

• Swimsuits – Perfect for warmer days, a one-piece swimsuit or swim shorts can be great options. They allow for easy movement, but they don’t provide any extra warmth. Bikinis are fine but make sure they’re robust and that you have both bits of your bikini with you.

• Wetsuits – Ideal if you’re swimming in colder water or planning to stay in the water for longer. Wetsuits offer insulation, they help maintain your body temperature, 

Wetsuits can restrict movement slightly. For colder months or colder waters, look for a wetsuit with a thickness of 2-3 mm for the best balance of warmth and flexibility.

Wild Swimming Accessories

Swimming Cap (or wooly hat)

A swimming cap (or wooly hat) helps keep your body heat in, especially in chilly waters. A brightly coloured swim cap also increases your visibility, which can keep you a bit safer.

Swimming Shoes

For rocky or uneven ground, swimming shoes protect your feet and provide extra grip. These can prevent cuts and make getting in and out of the water loads more comfortable.

Tow Float

A tow float is a popular wild swimming accessory that can serve two purposes…

It increases your visibility in the water and acts as a waterproof storage bag for valuables like your phone or keys – keeping your phone close enough and DRY is important, especially in wild places.

Staying Warm

Once you’re out of the water, it’s important to warm up quickly, these things can really help.

• Towel or Changing Robe: A large towel or water-resistant changing robe makes drying off easier, and a changing robe can keep you warm while you move around and get changed.
• Extra Layers: Socks, a hat, and gloves can help warm you up, even on a sunny day. Cold water can chill you more than expected, so bringing a few cozy layers is a good idea.
• A Flask: Something warm to drink makes a difference to how quickly you’ll feel warm – it’s also a great way of getting some sugar on board.

Different Conditions

Cold Tolerance and Personal Preference

Everyone’s tolerance for cold is different. Don’t feel pressured to ‘tough it out’ if you get chilly easily.

A wetsuit, along with neoprene gloves and socks might be just what you need.

If you feel more comfortable in a simple swimsuit, that’s fine too.

Focus on what makes YOU comfortable and don’t worry about what other people are wearing.

Consider the Type of Swim

For a quick dip, you might not need much gear beyond a swimsuit.

But for longer swims, some extra insulation, like a wetsuit or thermal rash vest, can help.

If you’re swimming during winter or colder days, consider gloves and socks to protect your hands and feet.

FAQs About What to Wear Wild Swimming

What type of wetsuit is best for wild swimming?

A wetsuit with a thickness of 2-3 mm provides a good balance of warmth and flexibility.

Look for a wetsuit with added flexibility around the shoulders to allow for easy movement while swimming.

Can I wear regular swimwear for wild swimming?

Yes, a swimsuit is fine, especially in warmer conditions. Just be aware that it won’t provide insulation, so limit your time in the water if you start to feel cold.

Should I use a tow float when I’m Wild Swimming?

A tow float improves visibility and can store valuables like keys and a phone safely. It’s especially helpful in areas where boats or other swimmers may be around.

Is wild swimming in Wales safe?

Yes, Wales offers many beautiful wild swimming spots, but always check water conditions and local guidelines. Joining a local wild swimming group can help you learn the safest places and practices.

Or book a guide – we can take groups of up to 10 people swimming for £25 per person.

https://explorewildwales.co.uk/wild-swimming/

https://www.instagram.com/wildwales_/

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