Swimming outdoors can create a great cathartic connection with nature and there are more outdoor swimming pools and wild swimming lakes than you might realise in York and North Yorkshire.
Despite the great British weather, we have compiled a list of six, all within an hour’s drive of the historic City of York.
All have changing facilities and are staffed, not pure wild swimming lakes or rivers.
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Outdoor swimming pools
Helmsley Open Air Pool
For a family swim with a difference, Helmsley Open Air Pool is a volunteer-run facility that offers the chance to swim outdoors in a heated pool with a view of the North York Moors. It’s a one-of-a-kind Yorkshire experience with seasonal opening.
OG Tip pre-booking required.
Alpamare
For a full holiday waterpark vibe, Alpamare in Scarborough is a popular choice. For outdoor swimmers, there’s a heated outdoor pool plus infinity pool with fab views across the sea.
Inside, there’s a wave pool, slides and a splash area – meaning there’s loads for kids of all ages to enjoy.
OG Tip pre-booking recommended, particularly in summer and school holidays.
Wild swimming lakes
Pool Bridge Farm
A family-run wild swimming farm and campsite, located just outside Wheldrake, Pool Bridge Farm is a 15-minute drive from York city centre. There are three beautiful swimming lakes which are all landscaped for a feel natural. With a café and sauna as well, it’s a perfect way to while away a summers day.
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Yorkshire Spa Retreat
The beautiful outdoor Spa has been created around a unique wild swim pond inviting guests to reconnect with the natural world, breathe in the fresh Yorkshire air and enjoy the indulgence of pure relaxation.
Allerthorpe Lakeland Park
A short drive from York, Allerthorpe Lakeland Park is the ideal place to take energetic children. Set in 53 acres of grounds, it has plenty of space for kayaks, pedaloes and an inflatable aqua park. Even if your little ones are too young to enjoy the pleasures of falling off a paddleboard, there’s still plenty for them to enjoy around the lake including paddling in a cordoned off area.
North Yorkshire Water Park
A short hop from the Yorkshire Coast, North Yorkshire Water Park has a whole host of watersports and other activities for the whole family to enjoy. The aqua park, complete with a dedicated area for younger children, is one of the main attractions, but there’s also a zipline, climbing wall, kayaking, paddleboarding, electric boats and sailing.
