Wild Guide Wales and the Marches (Wild Guides)

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After dipping into the emerald green pool, it’ll be no surprise that this wild swimming in North Wales spot is steeped in folklore. This spot has been the subject of many a poem, telling tales of faeries and sprites, concealed behind toadstools under the moonlight. If you are feeling more adventurous, why not try the swimrun route here? Combine running through the open clifftops, and dashing through the forest trails before heading straight into the sea, boasting crystal clear waters. Feeling inspired by our wild swimming in Wales guide? If so, use our guide complete guide to wild swimming in the UK to uncover all you need to know. Alternatively, secure your Welsh cottage break or perhaps a cottage with a swimming pool is more on your wavelength! Daniel Start is an award-winning travel writer and photographer. He is the author of the best-selling Wild Swimming and Hidden Beaches, as well as several Wild Guides. He was brought up on the River Wye and later lived on a hill farm in Gwynedd. Most have heard of the ‘lady of the lake’ who gave the sword Excalibur to King Arthur. But did you know about the lady who inhabits the watery lakes of Wales?

New from the award-winning Wild Guide series, with 600 secret adventures and 450 wilder places to eat and sleep. Taking you to places no other guidebook reaches Llyn Idwal is a favourite amongst many for wild swimming in Wales. It’s easy to get to, making it accessible for families and those with dogs. Our next swimming in Wales spot is the remote tidal island off the coast of the Isle of Anglesey. Llanddwyn Island can only be accessed on foot; you can either go through Newborough Warren or along the sands. Whichever you choose, you are promised sublime views. Nikki Squires is an avid camper, photographer and English teacher who runs her school’s bushcraft programme. Richard Clifford is a wild swimmer, triathlete, PE teacher and adventure leader. John Webster grew up sea swimming and surfing and now raises his two children on a diet of wild adventures. They all live and work in the Midlands near Leicester and have spent the last decade wild camping, swimming, climbing and exploring Central England. PhotographyThis Brecon Beacon waterfall is another superb location for wild swimming in Wales. Located on the majestic River Mellete is the secluded waterfall and pool of Sgwd y Pannwr. It is recommended that you get to this North Wales swimming spot early in the morning. This is because it can get rather busy from midday onwards in the summer. Moreover, the area is superb for a picnic, with breath-taking views to savour! First on our guide to wild swimming in Wales is Pen-ffordd-goch Pond, also known as The Keeper’s Pond. Located on the hill above Blaenavon, this spot is ideal for a scenic swim as the sun sets over Monmouthshire.

Sgwd Gwladys is arguably one of the best wild swimming in Wales spots there is, set amidst enchanting scenery. It is located near the village of Pontneddfechan and is an impressive 7-meter high waterfall.This man-made pond was built in the early 19th century to provide water for the Garnddyrys Forge, which was later dismantled in the 1860s. Since then, it has become a beauty spot, perfect for swimmers, walkers and those alike! From river swims to serene lagoons and cascading waters, there are so many wild swimming in Wales opportunities. Wild swimming in Wales is perfect for a refreshing dip on a summer’s afternoon but has also been proven to make a positive impact on mental wellbeing. Some of the largest and most productive slate quarries in the world were situated along this belt. The region was known to have "roofed the 19th century world", which in its turn had a significant effect on the lives of the region's people and communities as well as the landscape with its traces still found today.

Bala Lake is four miles long and a mile wide at its widest point, making it the largest natural lake in Wales. The lake is famously deep and clear, perfect for wild swimming in Wales. Built by a local farmer, Wyn Mostyn Jones, this wild swimming in Wales spot is a tranquil location that has become one of Snowdonia’s key attractions. While we do not want to be the ones who give the location away, we can give a couple of clues to ease your search! Concluding our guide to wild swimming in Wales is the River Conwy, in Betws-y-Coed. This is a great spot for a dip while admiring the Fairy Glen, a secluded gorge located on the river itself. The hardest of all is the Minffordd Path, where good fitness and navigation skills are required. It is recommended that you complete the hike to the peak and dip into the lake on your return. Promising a refreshing end to a strenuous walk.

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This inspiring travel compendium reveals the most exciting hidden places in Wales, and the Herefordshire and Shropshire Marches. Shortly after, the lake is revealed. From here, take the walking trail that runs around the lake to find the pebble beach at the northern end. Find several high and thin waterfalls that feed the lake, making for superb photo opportunities. After a refreshing dip, be sure to visit the National Slate Museum before exploring the impressive Dinorwig quarry.