🌺 Swim Retreats Guide: UK

The UK’s Best Wild Swimming Retreats for 2025.

Progress
January 28, 2025

Swimming isn’t just a sport – it’s an adventure, a way to connect with nature & an excuse to treat yourself to a truly unique getaway. Whether you’re after salty sea swims, secluded rivers, or glistening lakes, the UK is home to some incredible wild swimming retreats. These are a bit luxe, so if you’re looking to splash out, dive in.

The Salt Sisterhood, Falmouth, Cornwall

For women who love the water, this retreat blends serene swims, yoga & wholesome living. Stay in a chic Scandi-style house by the Helford River, where mornings start with a creek swim, followed by yoga & a hearty breakfast. Guided by founder Lauren Biddulph, you’ll explore secret Cornish swim spots like Godrevy’s Cove, reached after a stunning coastal hike. Evenings wind down with hot chocolate, yin yoga & vegetarian meals cooked by a private chef.

Check it out here

Chapel House, Penzance, Cornwall

Chapel House combines the charm of a historic townhouse with the magic of coastal swimming. Take sunrise dips at Jubilee Lido or Battery Rocks, then warm up in the sauna. Your days include guided trips to fairy pools, beaches & tidal pools, armed with a DryRobe, thermos & homemade packed lunch. With private rooms & cosy communal spaces, it’s ideal for solo travellers who like a mix of independence & community.

Check it out here

Another Place, Lake District

Set on the shores of Ullswater, this boutique hotel is all about wild swimming, yoga & unwinding in nature. Their three-day wild swim camp caters to all levels, offering swims in the lake, hidden tarns & rivers, plus a night of stargazing. Off the water, you’ll find paddleboarding, pilates, & a private jetty to just sit & soak up the views.

Check it out here

Wild Hebridean Swimming, Scotland

For something truly remote, the Hebrides are the perfect escape. Think sea lochs, waterfalls & secret coves that feel untouched by time. Winter visitors can brave Loch Pottie’s icy waters before retreating to a wood-fired hot tub. In spring, you’ll get the bonus of the Mull Folk Music Festival to pair with your swims.

Check it out here

Glow Retreats at Forest, Wales

Fforest blends Welsh charm & Japandi design to create a peaceful coastal retreat. Glow Retreats run in March, June & September, where women gather to share skills, swap stories & enjoy walks, wild swims & sauna time. The beach is just on your doorstep, & nearby rivers & coastal paths are perfect for exploring. The farmhouse accommodation is cosy, complete with a wood-burning stove & firepit for late-night chats.

Check it out here

Burgh Island, Devon

Burgh Island is a tidal island with a dreamy Art Deco hotel that feels straight out of the 1920s. Their Midweek Wellbeing Escape includes two nights of swimming, yoga & spa time. The island’s cliffside pool is a showstopper, & low tide offers the chance to swim 1.5km around the island – a stunning swim.

Looking for a budget option around here? There’s a great campsite near here called Mount Molly Farm just up the hill, which has pizzas & is a walk from Burgh Island. When the tide is low, you can swim around the island, which is about 1.5km & really beautiful.

Check it out here

River Flow Yoga, Wales

If rivers are more your thing, head to this retreat in Mid Wales. Based in a converted chapel on the banks of the River Wye, you can dive straight into morning swims from your doorstep. Other highlights include cold-water mountain lakes, hidden river pools & magical moonlit swims.

Check it out here

Rebecca Wetten

🦦 Wetsuits: The Ultimate Guide

How to choose the right swimming wetsuit for you. Whether you’re an open water swimmer or triathlete, we’ll get you kitted out with the best, comfiest wetsuit.

Read NowGo back and browse all blogs →

Want more?

Sign up to Catch Free

You’ll get access to the online swim community with training session ideas, mini courses, a swim content hub & local swim squad.

Get Free Access Now