Sarah Banks, author of Wild Swimming Walks Yorkshire, shares five of the best wild swimming spots in the Yorkshire Dales.
Yorkshire, often called ‘God’s Own Country,’ is a paradise for wild swimmers and walkers alike. From glacial valleys (dales) and heather-covered moorlands to shimmering tarns and cascading waterfalls, the region offers some of the best wild swimming spots in England. Many of these spots are perfectly linked by scenic walking routes, making it easy to combine adventure on foot with refreshing dips in the water.
Here, we explore five spectacular wild swimming spots in the Dales, along with nearby walking routes, offering breathtaking scenery, plunging waterfalls and peaceful river pools.
1. Muker, Swinner Gill & Kisdon Force
Location Highlights: Hidden in the heart of Swaledale, this walk captures a quintessential Dales scene, with the River Swale winding between Kisdon Hill and Ivelet Moor, and the higher fells dotted with the remnants of old lead mines, echoes of the region’s industrial past. Along the way, you pass through the vibrant, species-rich hay meadows of Muker, which burst into colour from late May to early July.
Top Wild Swim Spot:
- Kisdon Force: A spectacular double waterfall hidden in a wooded gorge, flowing into wide plunge pools perfect for a refreshing dip.
Walk Details: 7 miles, moderate terrain with steep, rocky paths. Amenities include a pub and tearoom in Muker.
2. Janet’s Foss & Gordale Scar
Location Highlights: Janet’s Foss is one of the Yorkshire Dales’ most treasured waterfalls, set in leafy ancient woodland cared for by the National Trust. This hike takes you through a geological wonderland of limestone features, following the deep, dry canyon of Watlowes Valley with views of the dramatic amphitheatre of Malham Cove. Higher along the route, limestone pavements reveal grykes – narrow fissures that shelter delicate ferns and woodland plants.
Top Wild Swim Spot:
- Janet’s Foss: An iridescent plunge pool beneath a moss-covered tufa screen, with local folklore claiming a fairy queen once lived in a cave behind the falls.
Walk Details: 6.5 miles, moderate route through a limestone wonderland. Refreshments available at Gordale Bridge.
3. Catrigg Force, Stainforth Force & The Eel Pool
Location Highlights: This walk, from Langcliffe to Stainforth, focuses on some of the Dales’ most captivating waters and scenery. Passing through the upland hay meadows of Lower Winskill Farm, hikers can enjoy spectacular views of the Yorkshire Three Peaks: Ingleborough, Whernside, and Pen-y-Ghent.
Top Wild Swim Spot:
- Catrigg Force: A hidden, almost 20m-high waterfall in a wooded chasm on the moor edge.
Walk Details: 5 miles, moderate paths and quiet lanes. Nearby Craven Heifer pub and public toilets in Stainforth.
4. Semer Water & Bardale Beck
Location Highlights: Semer Water, one of only three natural lakes in the Yorkshire Dales, is rich in legend and local folklore, making it a magical and memorable spot for a wild swim. The route passes the Semer Water Nature Reserve, a peaceful haven for wildfowl, before climbing a quiet country lane that offers sweeping views of the lake sparkling below the surrounding moorland slopes
Top Wild Swim Spot:
- Semer Water: Enjoy lake swimming in the silvery-blue waters, accessible via a pebbly wade.
Walk Details: 6 miles, easy route over footpaths and country lanes. Map and compass recommended due to patchy mobile signal.
5. Keld Waterfalls
Location Highlights: Keld, in Upper Swaledale, is famous for having the highest concentration of waterfalls in England within a mile. Its name comes from the Norse word Kelda, meaning spring or well.
The route offers spectacular views back towards the crags of Kisdon Gorge and the grassy mound of Kisdon Hill. The village of Keld sits at the summit of the river valley, encircled by a patchwork of rolling green hills, criss-crossed with dry stone walls and speckled with traditional stone cow barns.
Top Wild Swim Spot:
- Wain Wath Force: Broad roadside falls flowing into a large plunge pool.
Walk Details: 2.5 miles, easy terrain. Cafés are available in Keld.
Safety Tips for Wild Swimming in the Dales
- Always check the weather and river conditions before swimming. Avoid fast-flowing or murky waters.
- Test currents with a stick or leaf, and ensure you know your exit points.
- Many walks feature nearby pubs and cafés – plan for refreshments and rest stops.
Discover 28 inspiring wild swimming walks across Yorkshire, leading you to hidden waterfalls, tranquil river pools, and stunning coastal spots.