Best Wild Swim Spots in Kirkby Lonsdale

Kirkby Lonsdale borders the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, which both provide stunning wild swimming spots, ranging from river bathing, lake swims and exciting waterfall dips…

  • River Lune

The River Lune runs through Kirkby Lonsdale and has a number of popular wild swimming spots dotted along its banks.  Denny Beck is a nearby stretch of the River Lune within the Lower Lune Valley that is well-known amongst local swimmers. The banks here aren’t beachy but there are a few pebbled places to enter the water, providing easy access. The area is spotlessly clean and the water is beautifully clear. Crook O’Lune is another pretty section of the river, providing a stunning wild swim set amongst mountain views and endless greenery. The site is right beside a picnic spot with parking, toilets and a snack bar, making this a busy spot in summer.

  • River Kent

Less than 20 minutes away from Kirkby Lonsdale, the River Kent flows between Sedgwick and Sizergh Castle. An idyllic walking route follows the Old Lancaster canal system, which used to run parallel in sections, with the River Kent. The route has a number of little spots which intertwine with the river, providing perfect pools for a cold-water dip. The river is perfect for a remote, undisturbed swim amongst the woodland. The river is close to local farmland, so don’t be alarmed in the summer months if a local, wandering cow comes to join you in the river!

  • Ingleton Gorge

The waterfalls along the nearby Inglelton Waterfall Trail provide endless swimming spots along the many gorges. The route is popular in the summer, with Thornton Force known to be particularly crowded with swimmers and divers. However, if you take some time to explore the area, you’ll likely come across a smaller, private spot amongst the other waterfalls or surrounding becks.

  • Leck Beck

Ideal for wild swimmers who like a little paddle or a relaxing dip, Leck Beck is nestled away beside the River Lune near Nether Burrow. The beck can be accessed via a 50-minute walk from Kirkby Lonsdale and is a beautiful, hidden spot. The beck is the home to a number of natural plunge pools, perfect for a quick dip. These pools come and go dependent on the weather and time of year. If you are lucky enough to come across one, the opportunity to take a dip cannot be missed. Take a shower under the waterfall or just take in the stunning surroundings as you paddle your feet. 

  • Windermere Lake

The longest natural lake in England, Windermere has plenty of space to enjoy a large, open water swim. The lake has many access points and jetties along it’s shores with Rayrigg Meadow Jetty being the closest to Kirkby Lonsdale, and can be accessed via a 30 minute drive. The ribbon lake has 19 islands you can take a swim too, although Belle Island is private. The jetty is ideal for a run and jump into the crystal clear waters! Be aware or boats and water sports on the lake; it is advisable to wear a colourful tow-float on busy parts of the water.