Summary
After a full day of touring, engaging in wild swimming within a city can unveil a markedly different aspect of the location, ultimately offering new significance to concluding the day with a dip.
From freshwater swimming in London to rejuvenating in a Sydney tidal pool, the following seven locations represent the foremost destinations to indulge in an exhilarating city swim. Assemble your swim gear!
1. London’s Hampstead Heath Ponds
London’s magnificent and expansive Hampstead Heath features three historic bathing ponds: one for mixed bathing situated near Parliament Hill, in addition to Highgate Men’s Pond and Kenwood Ladies’ Pond. The latter two remain open year-round, drawing in adventurous swimmers, while also warmly inviting newcomers to embrace the exhilaration of immersing themselves in cold water for the first time. A nominal fee of £4.50 is required to enter.
The mixed pond is accessible from May to September and includes a small area for sunbathing alongside rustic changing facilities. The banks are lined with trees that serve as a habitat for coots, moorhens, and grebes, ensuring you are never alone when you take the plunge.
Where to warm up afterward: The quaint Parliament Hill Café offers hearty servings of pasta, generous slices of cake, and steaming pots of tea, making it ideal for warming up after a chilly swim.
2. Antwerp’s Boekenberg Swimming Pond
Nestled within Boekenberg Park in Deurne, this picturesque pond stands as a veritable oasis for swimmers. The water is meticulously filtered through an ecological reed bed system, resulting in crystal-clear water, complemented by a stylish clubhouse and contemporary changing facilities that enhance its appeal.
From May to September, swimming is free, though members enjoy exclusive access during the winter months when ice often forms. Originally a municipal pool, the transition to a natural swimming pond has been warmly embraced by the local community and is easily accessible via the efficient tram system from central Antwerp.
Where to warm up afterward: Return to the city for a warm beverage at Frits Koffiebar, strategically located in the historic Zurenborg area.
3. Oslo’s Ingierstrand Beach
Equipped with both your swimwear and a spirited attitude, ascend the functionalist-style diving board that extends into the cool Bunnefjord, located just 25 minutes southeast of Oslo. At the summit, take a deep breath, close your eyes, leap… splash! Few activities can rival the revitalizing experience of plunging into the sea at Ingierstrand Beach.
Characterized by a mix of smooth flagstones, grass, and sand, this location often becomes a hub for families during Norway’s warmer months. The facilities, including bathrooms and showers, were constructed in the distinctive modernist style of the 1930s under the vision of architects Eyvind Moestue and Ole Lind Schistad. The water? Crystal clear and crisp, highly refreshing.
Where to warm up afterward: The on-site snack bar serves excellent hot dogs and coffee. As bringing your own food is prohibited, ensure you have some cash available before stowing away your belongings.
4. Bern’s Aare River
The Aare River in Bern has garnered acclaim as one of Europe’s cleanest and most picturesque rivers for wild swimming. The blue glacial melt water offers a delightful swim, despite its brisk temperature even in the height of summer. Its popularity has soared, prompting locals to swim to and from their workplaces when the weather permits.
Exiting points are well-marked by red bars, ensuring a safe and easy entry and exit from the water. It is advisable to depart at Marzili, where ample space exists for sunbathing, along with a freshwater pool for those wishing to extend their aquatic enjoyment.
Where to warm up afterward: While it may not be conventional, indulging in ice cream post-swim is a treat at Gelateria di Berna, located conveniently across from Marzili’s entrance—a perfect choice for a hot afternoon.
5. Cape Town’s St James Pool
Situated less than an hour’s drive from Cape Town, this delightful, sheltered pool is framed by colorful Victorian bathing boxes, making it an ideal spot for both swimming and photography. Natural rock pools offer intriguing opportunities for children to explore, while a spacious man-made tidal pool features calm, relatively warm waters.
Entry is free, and the pool is accessible at all times, though it is best enjoyed on sunny days, accompanied by a well-stocked picnic.
Where to warm up afterward: Almost on the beach, the trendy Folk Cafe provides a welcoming environment for coffee and breakfast, along with a delightful play area for children.
6. Dublin’s Forty Foot
The premier wild swimming destination in Ireland, The Forty Foot is located at the southern end of Dublin Bay in Sandycove. Swimming at this site is believed to date back approximately 250 years, with literary icon James Joyce contributing to its folklore by depicting Buck Milligan taking an icy plunge in his renowned work, Ulysses.
Originally a site exclusive to men, The Forty Foot now welcomes all, having evolved into a year-round location for both casual jumps and longer swimming excursions—ideal for enjoying the changing tides and weather.
Where to warm up afterward: Approximately a ten-minute walk away, the dog-friendly Hatch Coffee guarantees a warm reception along with an exceptional brew.
7. Sydney’s Bronte Baths
Sydney boasts some of the world’s finest ocean bathing spots, making the selection of just one a delightful challenge. However, the stunning Bronte Baths, located adjacent to Bronte Beach, stands out as one of Australia’s premier wild swimming locations. Although the ocean can be fierce, this protected pool offers an excellent way to experience salty waters and enjoy a lively swim on an Australian summer day.
There’s ample space for serious swimmers to extend their strokes, along with shallow sections for younger swimmers to develop their skills. Notably, the baths are free and accessible year-round.
Where to warm up afterward: Adjacent to the swimming area, Bronte Belo serves delicious Brazilian-inspired food and offers breathtaking views of the beach, complemented by extraordinary coffee.
