Wild Swimming North Wales: 7 Magical Spots to Dive Into

North Wales water has a magic all of its own – clear and untamed, often framed by mountains that feel straight out of a dream. Whether you’re after a bracing plunge, a gentle swim, or somewhere great for a paddle board, these wild swimming spots in North Wales will cool your skin and fill your soul.

1. Dolgarrog Circular Pool, Conwy

• Parking: Just past Dolgarrog School
• Walk in: Around 40 minutes to the pool
• Why we love it: Swim with the mountains behind you – it feels like you’ve stumbled into a secret. It’s not a natural pool, but a man-made one, now overgrown and disused. It’s a popular spot for those interested in exploring the area’s industrial past and enjoying scenic views.

2. Park in the Past, Hope – Flintshire

• Parking: On-site parking at Park in the Past (fees apply)
• Walk in: Minimal – just a short stroll from the car park
• Why we love it: A large freshwater lake (one of the cleanest in the area) in a rewilded landscape, perfect for open-water swims and paddle boarding (hire available). There’s always someone on-site during opening hours, making it a safer choice for newcomers to wild swimming. Find out more here.

3. Llyn Geirionydd – Near Betws-y-Coed

• Parking: Car parks at either end of the lake
• Walk in: Optional – drive right up or walk in from nearby lakes for the scenic route
• Why we love it: A ribbon of water edged by forest. Ideal for lengths, or for floating on your back with the sound of the breeze in the trees.

4. Watkin Pools, Snowdonia National Park

• Parking: Small lay-by or the Watkin Path car park near Nant Gwynant
• Walk in: About 30–40 minutes along the Watkin Path, one of the walking routes up Snowdon
• Why we love it: A series of crystal-clear, emerald pools fed by mountain streams. Pair it with a walk up Snowdon for a full day of adventure.

5. Llynnau Mymbyr, Capel Curig – Snowdonia National Park

• Parking: Lay-bys and small car parks right off the main road
• Walk in: None – it’s right there
• Why we love it: Big mountain views of Snowdon. At dawn or dusk, the light and reflections feel cinematic.

6. Aber Falls Pools, Near Abergwyngregyn – Gwynedd

• Parking: Aber Falls car park (pay-and-display)
• Walk in: About 45 minutes on a well-marked path
• Why we love it: The pools beneath the waterfall are pure refreshment, with mist that catches the light like glitter.

7. Horseshoe Falls, Llangollen

• Parking: Small lay-by and car park near the falls (pay-and-display)
• Walk in: 5–10 minutes on a riverside path
• Why we love it: A UNESCO World Heritage Site where the river fans out into a calm, shallow basin above the weir. Best for paddling or a slow float rather than full swimming – ideal for hot summer afternoons

Our Gentle Reminder to Stay Safe While Wild Swimming in North Wales

• Check conditions: Weather here changes fast – keep an eye on rain, wind, and temperature.
• Ease in: Even the warmest lakes can give you a shock – let your body adjust.
• Swim with company: Take a friend or join a local wild swimming group.
• Know your exits: Scope your exit points before you get in.
• Respect the wild: Leave no trace, and keep noise low to preserve the peace.

Your Base for Wild Swimming Adventures

After a day in the water, nothing beats warming up by the fire, wrapped in a blanket, with nature as your soundtrack. Stay in one of our North Wales shacks – your cosy, wild basecamp for exploring these swim spots. Visit North Wales Shacks.

Thanks to Maddy Aspinall for her wild swim spot suggestions during her stay at Castor, North Wales.