Best Wild Swim Spots in Grasmere

Grasmere is home to a number of inviting tarns, a lake and rivers to enjoy a swim, both in winter and summer! Wild swimming can be fun and invigorating, but it is important to stay safe and research the water before you dive in. Wearing a wetsuit if you’re planning on a winter swim will help keep you warm.

Here are some of the best spots in and around Grasmere to go for a dip…

  • Grasmere Lake

Grasmere and its neighbour Rydal Water are two of the smallest and shallowest lakes in the Lake District, meaning the water tends to be warmer compared to the larger lakes. The water is fed by the River Rothay and Wray Gill and is calm and clear making it a favourite amongst wild swimmers. Grasmere is nestled amongst fells providing the perfect mountain backdrop for a picturesque swim. For open water swimmers, the lake is around 1500 metres in length providing a fair amount of area to cover. There is an island to swim to as a marker however it is privately owned and cannot be landed. Although Grasmere isn’t a particular busy lake, people often rent kayaks and rowing boats so keep an eye out for them. Faeryland Tea Gardens is situated on the shoreline for an after swim refreshment!

  • Rydal Water

This mile long stretch of water dotted with pretty islands is a great place for a peaceful swim. Rydal Water is a small, shallow lake making it a warmer swim compared to most and is sheltered by fells. You can easily reach the lake via a short walk from White Moss car park. The lake is surrounded by trees to change and dry off behind and there are a few rope swings dotted about for a fun jump! Rydal Water is home to a small otter population; you may spot some if you’re lucky! Post swim, take a trip over to the nearby Badger Bar for a warm up and tasty bite to eat or drink.

  • Easedale Tarn & Sourmilk Ghyll

A dip in Easedale Tarn is the perfect reward after the steep hike to reach it! The tarn sits in the upper valley of Easedale, nestled below Tarn Crag and is reached via a footpath passing the Grasmere youth hostel, winding up past the waterfall of Sourmilk Ghyll. For two wild swims in one, take a dip in the crystal clear rock pool before ascending up to the tarn. Easedale Tarn itself is one of the larger tarns in the Lake District at around 480 metres long, making this a favourite spot for wild swimmers who like to cover a fair bit of distance. The tarn has a few sandy spots on its shoreline, ideal for entering the water and a picnic afterwards!

  • Loughrigg Tarn

A beautiful, small tarn sitting under the skyline of the Langdale Pikes, Loughrigg Tarn is ideal for a secluded, quiet swim. The tarn is set in a remote spot and no major rivers feed into it, making this a great, warm swim. The tarn can be accessed via a walk or bike ride from The Three Shires Inn pub. 

  • Alcock Tarn

Wild swimming in Alcock Tarn is a perfect for swimmers who like a rugged, wild swim high up the mountains. A steep walk from Grasmere through woodland emerges at Alcock Tarn set behind Grey Crag.  Your hike up is rewarded with crystal clear waters and a stunning mountain backdrop! Due to the tarns position high up in the mountains, the water can be quite cold.