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Wild Swimming in Somerset

Lots of people are beginning to discover the thrill of wild swimming, and there are a few options not too far from The Cottage Beyond worth exploring.

 Outdoor swimming: wet, wild and invigorating!

 

An activity that has soared in popularity during lockdown, thousands of people are finding the escape and invigoration of outdoor swimming.  Some are regular pool swimmers who have missed their weekly lengths, and others are thrill seekers, unable to travel further afield, looking for an accessible low cost activity with a multitude of benefits!

Just below the farm

The River Tone flows by, on its way to Wellington and on through Taunton.  We don't have a large 'swim spot' here, but its great for a short dip, with a deep section under the bridge.  Watery Lane itself is perfect for children to paddle in - and walk all the way through, and many hours have been spent there arleady this summer! There are a few other spots not far away with footpath access to the river bank - take a look at a good OS Map and head off for an explore!

 

 Further afield up on Exmoor

Around half an hour drive up onto the moor you come across the beautiful River Barle, a crystal clear river which flows down off the moor and through the picturesque town of Dulverton (well worth a visit on your way home!). When we went for a swim at the end of July the river was flowing at a perfect 'training pace' - it was great fun swimming against the current up-stream and was our very own infinity pool! Glorious!  There are a couple of well known swim spots, just above Dulverton and also further upstream at Tarr Steps and Pinkery Pond. 

 

Elsewhere in Somerset

There are many other wild swimming spots - both the North and South coasts have sea swimming opportunities, and Clevedon Sea Pool is a great spot for a dip on your way down the M5.  There are many rivers which flow through our county, most of which have sections which are perfect for a swim.  If you are coming up from Devon then there are glorious swimming spots on the River Dart, along with other pools accross Dartmoor. 

Wild swimming also has a host of benefits, both for your body and mind:

🦠 It boosts your immune system
🙌It gives you an endorphin high
💓It enhances your circulation
😆It increases your libido
🏊‍♀️It burns more calories
🧠It reduces stress

Check out this website https://outdoorswimmer.com/open-water-safety for top tips on water safety. Never swim alone, and always swim within your personal abilities!

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