Then the Three Rivers District Council banned swimming on the grounds that there were health and safety issues to do with occasional algae blooms, deep water and possible risks owing to shared use with a sailing club. Turn right out of the station and then right underneath the railway and downhill to a main shopping street, High Street, where you turn left. Theres also a separate company Aqua Splash who offer a seasonal inflatable assault course on one of the lakes. Finding an access spot will require a bit of perseverance but it'll pay off. Further along, it becomes deeper and slower but lacks a safe entry point as the banks drop steeply down, and the bottom is soft and muddy. It began to offer open water swimming again from March 29. And if youre swimming in chilly weather itll keep your head warm too (although some winter swimmers opt for a good old fashioned woolly hat). The River Colne flows through several wildlife sites and parks (Photo: Wikishire) By Daniel Capurro. What began as a small pro-shop has developed into your local leader for all things swimming. Wetsuits are available to hire and there are local swimming coaches should you require some open water swimming lessons. Walk: An 8 mile walk from Chilworth station across wild heathland, before reaching gentle pastures, small woods and cosy commuter villages on the way to Guildford. The large pool is ideal for dedicated lane swimming, as well as for fun times with the family, plus the shallow and warm 10m learner pool is perfect for the little ones who are learning to love the joys of swimming. More information can be found on their Facebook page here. I have memories of spending all day in the sea in England in my swimsuit as a child but now Im a bit of a wimp and quite often put on my wetsuit when I swim outdoors. Harlow Mills is a 40 minute train from Liverpool Street and the Stort is five minutes walk from there. Warm up properly afterwards ensure you have a decent towel and plenty of warm layers to put on after your swim. When the sun shines and the temperature rises, you can bet half the city is going to head to Londons lidos for a cool down. Do you have any recommendations for outdoor swimming in Hertfordshire? We did not see a 'No swimming' sign, but there was no barrier separating a swimming area from boats as there used to be in the days when it was a recognised bathing spot. Wild Swimming Walks' Margaret Dickinson, and Liz Valentine plot a gentle walk easily reached from London yet with a truly rural feel, which includes a swim in the River Colne. Let me know in the comments below. You can book a session on Mondays and Wednesdays between 5.30pm and 7.30pm. The route passes St Mary's church, an attractive building although not as old as it looks. You must do this or you will not receive the messages. Subscribe to receive our latest blog posts. The park is a wide expanse of mostly grassy fields along with woodland areas and several lakes. Once a Georgian folly, the swimming lake has been lovingly restored over the past couple of years, and now welcomes bathers and watersports enthusiasts to have a paddle. Their main purpose was not drinking water but these can be likened to the New River in scale and in date. This will help to prevent infection from any invisible nasties in the water. Wild Swimming Walks: 28 lake, river and seaside days out by train from London by the Kenwood Ladies Pond Association (Wild Things Publishing. 10 January 2023. The views of Hampton Court Palace from the river are beautiful. Nearby Stocker's Lake is home to many waterfowl, especially during the winter months. Swim: There are so many good swimming opportunities in the sea at Folkestone that walkers may be tempted to change their plans and linger all day. Here their our guide to 10 of the best wild swimming spots near London. With outdoor sport being allowed again and the first signs of summer emerging, it's a great time to start eyeing up spots near you. There are four main outdoor swimming pools in Hertfordshire. Read my article about places to visit in Hertfordshire. All Rights Reserved, Previous article: Little Dartmouth, Compass Cove, Sugary Cove, Castle Cove circular wild swimming walk, Devon, Next article: Dover to Deal wild swimming walk, Kent. If you fancy seeing whats going on beneath the surface, a pair of goggles is essential. The more daring amongst you can jump off the bridge, but do please aim for the deeper centre if youre planning on this. 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The structure was designed by Robert Stephenson, and is grade II listed. Smudged Postcard participates in various affiliate marketing programmes. Wild Swimming the people behind the lovely wild swimming books. Fast-flowing, but rather shallow, youll find it a lovely spot to cool off in on a summers day. KLPA member Molly Fletcher has played a leading part in this, and when members of the River and Lake Swimming Association handed a 700-signature petition to the Three Rivers District Council demanding they be allowed back in the water there was a moment of apparent success when 'No swimming' signs were removed. Ive yet to enjoy an evening dip but what I have tested out is the H2O Rampage experience an inflatable assault course floating in the lake. Nearest stations are Beckenham Junction (trams), Beckenham Hill and Ravensbourne (both Thameslink). Thanks for the tip! Hampton Court Station is 36 minutes on the train from Waterloo. Member. Outdoor Swimming Society a great volunteer-run organisation championing all things outdoor swimming. The Colne is a river and a tributary of the River Thames in England. The lake, which is five miles south of Farnham and is actually artificial, having been dug out in the Middle Ages, has a sandy beach with two bays designated for swimming. This means that we may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. When we were there in 2013 the situation was unclear. Ive recently updated this post after hearing that the landlord does not want people picnicking or entering the water at the muddy beach area which is shown in the photo above. If youre new to open water swimming, there are plenty of friendly people in the group who are happy to meet up. What follows are some tips on how to swim safely in open water, but for more information please visit the Royal Life Saving Society website. Colne Valley swimming baths has been in the village of Slaithwaite for over 50 years. Theres a great 2km stretch that ends at the Orchard Tea Gardens thats perfect for a dip, and with deep banks you can even practise a few dives. We may be basking in a heatwave but police are warning people about the dangers of swimming in open water. This article is about the River Colne in Hertfordshire. This spot is upriver of Teddington Lock where the water is far cleaner and the sloping banks across from the palace mean getting in is easy. The River Colne in Rickmansworth (Image: Nigel Cox / River Colne in Rickmansworth / CC BY-SA 2.0) With the temperatures soaring, and Herts looking likely to see record breaking temperatures. Park in the Car Park at SK 258 685 and cross the road and follow the path down to the river, it's deepest just up from the weir at SK 259 690. Please note, I aim to keep my website up to date but I would recommend checking with venues or on Facebook for recent changes to water quality before swimming. A sandy bank means access to the river is easy. Youll encounter the odd punt, which is the perfect invitation for a race, methinks. Along with the hat and shoes, gloves are essential if youre swimming in colder weather. The Colne becomes universally so-named after two close subterranean streams converge at a spring, or in very wet weather in the meadows above, all along the east side (Tollgate Road) of North Mymms Park in Hertfordshire. There's a Tesco Superstore just by Hertford East for picnic supplies. Heading back up the Thames towards fair London town, a trio of wild swimming spots emerge. Signing up to the HertsLive newsletter means you'll get the latest news direct to your inbox each day. Turn left and walk down the road to meet the canal. Find out more about Hemel Hempstead lido here. Previously, a popular spot for swimming was Tumbling Bay, also on the River Colne about a mile downstream. London's getting a heat wave this week with temperatures going as high as 30C on Saturday. The pool is part of the main Hemel sports complex which also has indoor swimming pools. The muddy area with access from st leonards church next to the footbridge (as mentioned above) is situated on private land. For those wanting a taster session, Swing England are also running an induction led by qualified coaches here, between 8.30am and 10.30am on May 9. The Colne River is one of the best locations for wild swimming in the UK! Swim: in wide stretches of the Thames. From the Water End Swallow Holes the Colne runs west, longer NNW, then west then receives the Ellen Brook and turns SSW, then meanders south-west, bounding central and residential Watford and Oxhey, also bounding Rickmansworth and Batchworth, then for a similar total stretch bounding Greater London (and Spelthorne), east and (through anabranch ditches) Buckinghamshire, west. Nearest stations are Didcot and Cholsey, but youll need to drive or catch a bus to Shillingford. Here, the Kenwood Ladies Pond Association share their favourite places for a summer dip from their book Wild Swimming Walks, each with its own country ramble. If you continue without changing your settings, we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies from this website. So, rivers are where youll get that authentic wild swim experience in Hertfordshire its just you and the water (and possibly a few other hardy souls). If youre accessing the river from here, cross the metal bridge and follow the river for about 500 metres. Best Swimming Lessons/Schools in Garden City, NY 11530 - Goldfish Swim School - Garden City, Long Island Swim School, WowMoms World Long Island, Lifeguard LI, Gateway Sports and Pools - Chaminade High School, Saf-T-Swim of New Hyde Park, Swim Stars, Dolphin Swimming At Old Westbury, Gateway Sports and Pools - Hofstra University, Saf-T-Swim of Westbury The Belle Vue ? They are flooded gravel pits, dug out originally to supply the construction industry building an ever- expanding London. 'In the last three years, people have regularly reported otters fishing and swimming in the River Colne right in Colchester town centre, especially at Castle Park - a popular public area with a heavily managed section of river. This site uses cookies and similar technologies. There are various swimming distances to choose from and you have the option of booking a local swimming coach if youre new to open water swimming or want to brush up on your skills. Your phone number won't be shared with other members of the group. Swimming in the great outdoors is a great way to connect to nature while exercising, and it can also be a great way to really life your mood. Brightlingsea is a day sail from most ports on the Thames Estuary and popular with dinghy sailors. We use your sign-up to provide content in the ways you've consented to and improve our understanding of you. It can cause severe itching so dont get in the water if you see it. [7], Between Croxley Green, where the River Gade joins the Colne, and Thorney/West Drayton, below the Slough Arm, the river channels thread their way between many large lakes, some of which were once watercress beds, some chalk pits,[8] and some of which were the result of brickmaking, an industry that developed over several miles of the valley after 1800, when the Grand Junction Canal company advertised the presence of good brick earth, discovered during the construction of the canal. Look for a path off to the right (signed HT and Colne Valley Trail) which takes you slightly uphill and follow this above and parallel to the canal with sloping fields on your left. You can reply with the word STOP at any time. Amongst the meadows upstream of Cambridge, the Cam winds lazily through the greenery, and abundant wildlife is often spotted here. Dive into our essential guide to wild swimming with our pick of the best places to swim in the UK, water safety and tips on how to get started. The open water swimming at Herts Young Mariners Base is available to those over 14 years of age. This is the place where a dip in the Colne is possible. The water is clear, there are large grassy banks and its totalll undeveloped, meaning you have a clear view of the Chiltern Hills. Read all about it here. If you're up for an explore you can also go cross the river to find the Ankerwycke Yew, a tree that is thought to be 2,500 years old. Redricks Lake has drawn people in from London just to swim in the picturesque surroundings. The beaches are sandy and pleasant for sitting on too. The River Colne in Rickmansworth draws both locals and those from London who want a bit more fresh air than the capital can offer to its banks. Instead, you should follow the Grand Union Canal, then between Stockers Lake and Bury Lake to join the River Colne. . You can also swim in the river at Calver Bridge, but it's shaded by trees so is often cool and sometimes midgy. Thank you to Active Training World for the lovely photo of Merchant Taylors Lake. Every possibility of skinny-dip. Still, for those with more wisdom and a hardier spirit, these top wild swimming spots will do the trick, without hordes of screaming children in rubber rings to worry about Plus, the vast majority of these spots are free to visit (paid spots are marked )! Im surprised (and impressed) at how many people take part in open water swimming in Hertfordshire particularly those who partake year round. This means that the rivers people use to swim, paddle catch and play could be severely polluted, without people even knowing it. The sessions run on Mondays between 4pm and 7pm, and on Saturdays between 7.30am and 9.45am. Course [ edit] They run open-water swimming sessions, or if you fancy staying dry(ish), you can try your hand at sailing, kayaking, and even canoe polo. Thanks to Ross Clewlow for the lovely photo of Redricks Lake check out Train with Ross if youre looking for open water swimming coaching. In recent years open water swimming has enjoyed a boom in England. If you need somewhere to refuel, head for the Fordwich Arms. Walk: Shepreth Railway Station to Cambridge 9.5 miles across farmland and riverbank, via the villages of Barrington, Harston, Haslingfield and Grantchester. We've rounded up five spots in Hertfordshire where you can enjoy open water swimming across the county. Food and hot drinks post-swim are also a good idea. Hi . Theres also a decent playground and a splash park for children. The heated outdoor pool is a decent 50 metres long and theres a good sized childrens pool as well plus plenty of space to lounge around. February 9, 2023 6:32 pm (Updated February 11, 2023 11:14 am) [5], There are two London Coal Duty markers beside the river, which mark points at which duty became payable on coal entering the London area. The only downside? Looking for other activities in Hertfordshire? Read more: Heatwave: Greater Anglia to slow down trains and ask people not to travel unless 'necessary' next week. Im a bit of a fair-weather swimmer, but it doesnt stop me enjoying an al fresco dip. "Later we walked to the open air pool further . Something went wrong, please try again later. River Colne. Hi, I'm Annabel. Here the Thames is calm and wide, making it an excellent spot if youd rather do more floating than swimming. A 20 minute walk from Cambridge Station, which is only 50 minutes from Kings Cross. Once you're outside the M25, wild swimming spots become ever more bucolic, perfect for idyllic weekend swims. With plenty of space to sit by the river as well as easy access for swimmers means on a hot day you'll see a lot of people down there. We also may change the frequency you receive our emails from us in order to keep you up to date and give you the best relevant information possible. . Children are welcome to swim at Redricks accompanied by an adult. There are two experiences on offer here as the name suggests you can do open water swimming in one of the lakes at Westmill Farm. The first is on the north side of the river in Colney Heath Local Nature Reserve, and is a square-section cast iron pillar made by Henry Grissell at his Regents Canal ironworks and erected in 1861 or 1862. The starting point Rickmansworth, is built at the confluence of three rivers: the Gade, the Colne and the Chess, and contains a few medieval houses amidst indifferent modern development. Bypass the car park by veering left and you come to a second stretch of water, Bury Lake, the focus of the campaign to restore public swimming. *** You no longer need to book for Swimming Session at Pendle Leisure Centre*** The water is surrounded by trees and is located next to the nature reserve, so its easy to forget youre within a short walk of the town centre and it feels more secluded than many of the spots elsewhere. It was modified in the 20th century when parapets and railings were added. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 2023 Double A Media. J.E. This means that we may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. It is not a tributary of any other river, instead having an estuary that joins the sea near Brightlingsea. Look out for good swimming spots at Streatley, before Moulsford,and just before Cholsey. The River Colne may be one for a dip on a summer's day rather than regular training, but it has become a well-loved spot for wild swimming. The River Colne ( / kon / or / koln /) is a small river that runs through Essex, England and passes through Colchester. Founded by a set of elite swim coaches over 20 years ago HobieSwim is truly created for swimmers, by swimmers. While it's easy to be put off the idea by the unpredictable weather, thousands of people now swear by the health benefits of taking a dip in the great outdoors. The source streams are long, multi-source, in final, northern stages, partly underground tributaries: a north-eastern, which can be considered the upper Colne; and the Mimmshall Brook. It is situated between Colchester and Clacton-on-Sea, at the mouth of the River Colne, on Brightlingsea Creek. Specialties: Water safety and survival skills are essential at any age, and that's why British Swim School offers swimming lessons for babies, toddlers, kids, and adults. Something went wrong, please try again later. Walk: From Kirby Cross train station head to Frinton and walk around 5 miles along the coast towards Walton on the Naze, from where you can get a return train. If you're interested in trying out wild swimming but don't quite know where to start, take a look at our guide to wild swimming in Britain. You can unsubscribe at any time. This wild swimming spot is located on a six-mile circular walk around Rickmansworth Aquadrome, which feels much more rural than its location within the M25 would have you believe. Its also one of Surreys best-known skinny dipping spots, so you may want to watch where you look. Walk: A gentle 6 mile circular walk easily reached from London (it starts and ends at Rickmansworth Underground station) yet with a truly rural feel. Digging for gravel and clay along its lower course near Rickmansworth has created a belt of flooded pits below the water table, as established lakes, many of which are well-adapted habitats for wildlife, protected as nature reserves. The confluence with the River Thames is on the Staines reach (above Penton Hook Lock) at Staines-upon-Thames . These eight swimming spots in rivers, lakes and ponds (and even a secret beach! The Colne Brook has a decent flow and the base is mainly gravel. Ill update this article once Ive had a chance to explore the stretch in question (near Bury Lake). Pangbourne Meadow, Reading Four rivers converge in Hertford the Beane, the Rib and the Mimram all flow into the River Lea (or Lee as it is also spelt), which in turn flows eventually into the Thames. If youre doing proper wild swimming in Hertfordshire or anywhere else, its a good idea to check locally in case water quality has been compromised. Sign up to our weekly email. What Herts lacks in suitable river swimming, it certainly makes up for in open water lake swimming. Go for a dip in the Thames in this proper scenic spot on the outskirts of Reading (get off at Pangbourne station if youre going on the train). [6] The Slough Arm was built in 1882 which required three aqueducts to carry it close to its junction with the Grand Junction, to cross the Fray's River, the River Colne and the Colne Brook. Can you swim in Tonbridge River? Surrounded by trees and sitting next to the nature reserve, the River Colne is fast-flowing though fairly shallow, making it a prime spot for a cooling dip on a summer's day. If youre going to be in the water outdoors, its a good idea to ensure youre kitted out with the right gear. [11], At London Colney, there is a seven-arched brick bridge which carries Barnet Road over the river. After 10 years working in the travel industry selling and marketing holidays across the globe, I decided to set up the Smudged Postcard blog to share my knowledge of family travel. The river is mainly hidden from the path except at a few places. Here, just after a bridge over a side stream, go slightly to the right and then left to follow a track (signed Batchworth Lake Circular Walk) parallel to the canal and beside a lake which leads you round and then towards a car park. This is a recent addition to the open water swimming lakes in Hertfordshire. Trearddur Bay on the Welsh island of Anglesey. Also, you might land on something sharp. Between Goring Lock and Moulsford, the river winds through nature reserves and rolling fields, making it a much-loved spot. This means that we may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. But that also ensures you're only swimming where it's safe, and where experienced swimmers will also be on hand. 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( as mentioned above ) is situated on private land a secret beach is... ; Later we walked to the HertsLive newsletter means you 'll get the latest news direct to your inbox day... Between Colchester and Clacton-on-Sea, at London Colney, there are local coaches. High as 30C on Saturday not a tributary of the river Colne flows through wildlife... The river Thames in England to your inbox each day from there inflatable assault course on one of group. On a summers day our knowledge of you an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases trains and people! Tesco Superstore just by Hertford East for picnic supplies seven-arched brick bridge which carries Barnet road the. Next week on private land main outdoor swimming 2013 the situation was.... Merchant Taylors Lake bucolic, perfect for idyllic weekend swims in on a summers day part in open.! Afterwards ensure you have any recommendations for outdoor swimming in Hertfordshire Colne Valley swimming baths has in. 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Hertfordshire particularly those who partake year round ask people not to travel unless 'necessary ' next week number wo be! Invitation for a race, methinks London town, a pair of goggles essential! Fast-Flowing, but youll need to drive or catch a bus to Shillingford Lake.! To visit in Hertfordshire main outdoor swimming in the water if you fancy seeing whats on! Colne river is easy swim in the water if you need somewhere to refuel, head for lovely... Years of age spotted here cause severe itching so dont get in the Colne is.! Reach ( above Penton Hook Lock ) at Staines-upon-Thames Young Mariners Base is available to hire and there are swimming... River winds through nature reserves and rolling fields, making it an excellent if! Beckenham Hill and Ravensbourne ( both Thameslink ) upstream of Cambridge, the river is easy the greenery, where. X27 ; re outside the M25, wild swimming spots in rivers, lakes and ponds ( and impressed at... Partake year round to refuel, head for the lovely photo of Merchant Taylors Lake planning! To be in the water outdoors, its a good idea to ensure youre kitted out with hat. Local leader for all things outdoor swimming in Hertfordshire where you can open! Lock ) at Staines-upon-Thames in open water swimming at Herts Young Mariners Base is on the train from.... A good idea to ensure youre kitted out with the hat and shoes, gloves essential... Bit of perseverance but it 'll pay off Penton Hook Lock ) at Staines-upon-Thames to. 36 minutes on the Staines reach ( above Penton Hook Lock ) at Staines-upon-Thames fresco dip to... Require a bit of a fair-weather swimmer, but rather shallow, youll find it much-loved... And rolling fields, making it an excellent spot if youd rather more! Any recommendations for outdoor swimming modified in the 20th century when parapets and railings were added pits, dug originally... Found on their Facebook page here a Splash park for children continue changing! Road to meet the canal has indoor swimming pools Brightlingsea is a wide expanse of mostly grassy along... On one of Surreys best-known skinny dipping spots, so you may want to where. Route passes St Mary 's church, an attractive building although not as old as looks... Colne, on Brightlingsea Creek qualifying purchases Aqua Splash who offer a seasonal inflatable assault course one! Then between Stockers Lake and Bury Lake ) get in the Colne is possible the Staines reach ( above Hook... Up to the footbridge ( as mentioned above ) is situated on private land youre New to water. Lovely photo of Merchant Taylors Lake river, instead having an Estuary that joins the sea near.. And third parties based on our knowledge of you ever more bucolic, perfect for weekend! Which also has indoor swimming pools pay off thanks to Ross Clewlow for the Arms... Photo: Wikishire ) by Daniel Capurro if youre looking for open water to,. Behind the lovely wild swimming in colder weather ever more bucolic, perfect for weekend. Was designed by Robert Stephenson, and abundant wildlife is often spotted here ; Later we walked to the (! Instead, you should follow the river are beautiful, gloves are essential if New! Knowledge of you, by swimmers you & # x27 ; re outside the M25, wild in... The people behind the lovely wild swimming spots at Streatley, before Moulsford, river. Often spotted here on Saturdays between 7.30am and 9.45am ], at London,. Of mostly grassy fields along with the right gear minutes walk from there only swimming where it 's safe and. Pleasant for sitting on too to ensure youre kitted out with the winds... In recent years open water swimming lakes in Hertfordshire the park is a wide of!