For those living in and around Manchester, there are several wild swimming spots that offer the opportunity to dip into these natural waters. From the ‘secret lake’ at Levenshulme, tucked away behind an industrial estate, to the highest beach in the UK at Gaddings Dam in Todmorden, each location offers a unique experience for seasoned swimmers and beginners alike. Given that Manchester doesn’t exactly scream natural beauty or beach life, it can be difficult to find places to swim that aren’t leisure centres. That’s why we’ve hunted around to find the best wild swimming spots in and near Manchester to help you out!
1. The ‘secret lake’ at Levenshulme
This lake is tucked away behind an industrial estate and is a bit of a community project. It took 8 years to get it swim-ready, although it is mainly advertised as a wild fishing spot so watch out for wildlife and any debris beneath the surface. You can find it via the Fallowfield loop or Longford Lane, however the Fallowfield loop is the more scenic route. Keep an eye out for the parakeets, kingfishers and swans often hanging out around here and be sure to respect local wildlife on your visit.
2. Slippery Stones, Peak District
The Slippery Stones offers wild swimming, plunge pools and fairytale like trail walks throighout the upper Derwent Valley. be sure t follow the signs to the designated swimming area and avoid swimming in the actual Derwent reservoir as they are not the same thing. It is easiest to access by car, with parking available on weekdays at Kings tree or at the Upper Derwent Visitor Centre however the walk itself is fairly flat and accessibility friendly. The walk along the Ladybower reservoir is about 2.8km each way depending on where you start and boasts beautiful views of the Derwent Dam, Howden reservoir, and the Packhorse bridge leading into the wild swimming areas and the valleys surrounding the main plunge pool perfect for a sunny day out for a picnic and a plunge. This website has some useful information if you are planning your trip solo or with friends.
3. Pickmere Lake, Cheshire
Home to one of the early battlegrounds of the River and Lake Swimming Association, this lake has exceptionally clear water. Since 2023, The Save Pickmere Lake campaign has successfully preserved this spot for local swimmers and nature fans wanting to visit for a peaceful day out. It’s a bit trickier to get to and you might need to park away and walk, however it offers natural, peaceful and most of the time quiet access to wild swimming less than 40 minutes outside of the city centre.
4. Gaddings Dam, Todmorden
It’s not only one of the best wild swimming spots near Manchester, but it’s also the highest. Gaddings Dam is a huge 355 metres above sea level, so it’s dubbed as the highest beach in the UK. Although it has become more popular in recent years, this disused reservoir at the top of the moor near Walsden is a beautiful, albeit windy, spot to cool off in the summer or try your hand at a more challenging walk even with the cooler months coming up.
A group of volunteers have been maintaining it for over 20 years, and have managed to keep it clean depsiet the increase in footfall. It’s a great place to swim not too far from the city, however it’s important to stay close to the walls and not dive as there are lots of rocks at the bottom. Access can be found via Lumbutts Road, Todmorden. If you are driving its recommended to park opposite the Shepherds Rest Inn and you’ll fine Gaddings Dam at the end of a steep footpath up the hill opposite.
5. Wild Shore Delamere
Wild Shore Delamere is a water-based adventure hub, offering a safe and secure environment for open water swimming. This is a good option for those new to wild swimming or if you’re a regular nature lover looking to for a fun day out near Manchester. Safety instructors on stand-up paddleboards and rest pontoons are available throughout the course to ensure your well-being. They have wakeboarding as well as a 400m and 750m loop available in their inflatable aqua-park, so you can do as much or as little as you like. You do need to wear a hat and tow float though! Open water sessions take place on Wednesdays from 12pm to 7pm, Saturdays from 10am to 12pm, and Sundays from 5pm to 7pm. It costs £6 to swim too, which you can book online, as well as other events on their website like Ladies Nights and wakeboarding Jam sessions!
If you’re in need of more inspiration to make the most of the sun in Manchester, check out the best parks.
I’m Mia, a student at Manchester University studying History and Sociology. I love writing all things advice, tips and tricks to maximise your experience here in the big city. When my friends can’t reach me, I’m probably taking pictures at some random rave and dabbling in the world of photojournalism or curled up in bed with my kindle and phone on DND.
