The Best Way to Adventure Without Breaking the Bank: Wild Swimming in Derbyshire
Wild swimming has exploded in popularity over the last few years. From a practical ancient pastime, it is now a mainstay swimming mania in the UK.
The "Wild things" book series and inspirational adventurers like Freya Bromley and her book The Tidal Year have brought the healing nature, adventure and magic of swimming in outdoor pools and rivers to the door of any adventurous spirit.
Wild swimming is a gorgeous activity that delivers adventure and magic, BUT won't break the bank. In this post, we're diving into the exhilarating world of wild swimming near Hill Farm, Derbyshire.
Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an affordable, yet memorable holiday experience, this blog is for you. We'll explore swimming in one of the top UK wild swimming spots.
It's also perfect for a FREE family day out.
What is Wild Swimming, and Why the HYPE?
Wild swimming, also known as natural swimming or outdoor swimming, involves taking a dip in natural bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, or secluded lagoons. It's not only a thrilling outdoor activity, it also offers tonnes of health benefits. Research and studies suggest a plunge into cold water helps our psychological wellbeing.
Wild Swimming Cornwall has put together a page of studies looking at stress reduction, blue mind theory (new research, revealing we feel calmer around bodies of water), increased confidence, resilience and bravery. It's pretty cool - the power of a cold dip.
And now countless people wouldn't be without a cold outdoor swim.
Because of this, you ask us all the time if there are any local swimming spots. And this blog post gives it away - yes - we have one of the top ten wild swimming spots in the UK (as listed in the Guardian), just around the corner from Hill Farm Caravan and Camping.
It's called Anchor Church Caves and Black Pool in Ingleby…
The Where, How and When: Wild Swimming at Anchor Church, Ingleby, Derbyshire
You can visit Anchor Church and Black Pool by parking in a layby just past Ingleby and walking west, dropping straight down to the caves and lagoon (a ten-minute walk), or I recommend you do things properly and walk a leisurely 2 and half hours through history!
This beautiful historical walk starts in Ingleby, passing through Heathwood, the only known Viking Cemetery with 60 burial mounds… then onto Foremark Hall and St Saviour's Church, where famous local blacksmith Robert Bakewell made the altar rails.
Finally, if that wasn't enough history - you reach picture-perfect Black Pool for a much-needed wild outdoor swim in the beautiful lagoon, and you can explore over 100m of four interconnecting caves known as Anchor Church Caves.
The caves are sandstone, soft and easily damaged - so as much fun as climbing is, if you are visiting with kids, keep them exploring the insides of the caves, rather than the walls!
There are rooms, fireplaces and all sorts of interesting nooks. It is believed to date back to the 9th century, and a king-turned-saint lived there.
Swat up before you explore and read this fascinating article on the discoveries made here - published by ITV.
The Black Pool Lagoon sits just below Anchor Church Caves, it’s an idyllic setting with shingle beaches and extended stretches of water. It is the perfect place for a picnic, natural dipping and creating magical moments.
Remember what they say - take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints…
What three words:
Signature.recruited.baked
Walking instructions map and YouTube video: Click Here
3 Tips for Wild Swimming at Anchor Church Caves:
Swim Safe: Before taking the plunge, ensure you're equipped with appropriate swimwear, towels, and any other essentials. Remember to check weather conditions and water safety guidelines before diving in. Swim within your abilities and never swim alone. The River Trent can cover the caves and/or make them difficult to access, so be mindful of the height of the river.
Exploring the Lagoon: Once you've arrived at Anchor Church, explore the lagoon. There are 100 metrer stretches where you can really extend your distance swimming.
Immerse Yourself in Nature: Take your time to soak up the beauty of your surroundings, as you glide through the cool waters of the lagoon. Feel the stress melt away, as you connect with nature in this idyllic setting.
On a hot summer day, there is nothing quite like climbing out of cold natural waters. Sprawl on a sun warmed rock, with a soft towel, and watch the light dance on the water's surface. Maybe you'll bring a book or sit and soak it all up in a lazy daze. However you choose to pass the time at Black Pool, wild swimming in Derbyshire connects you with nature and creates fantastic lasting memories. So why wait?
Plan your adventure today and make Hill Farm Caravan and Camping your home away from home. We can't wait to welcome you to our family-friendly campsite and help you make your camping stay truly magical!
Ready for your wild swimming adventure?
Book your stay at Hill Farm Caravan and Camping today and experience the beauty of Derbyshire's countryside firsthand. Don't miss out on summer dates. Click here to book your pitch or glamping pod!
P.S. If wild swimming isn’t your cup of tea or the weather isn’t on your side when you stay, then we have something for you.
Within walking distance of Hill Farm Camping and Caravanning is The Paddocks Pool. An indoor private heated pool for up to 6 people with parking and changing facilities on site.
The pool is heated to a warm and comfortable 28/29 degrees Celsius and £22 for an hour.
To book - get in touch with Claire via email claire.flinn@hotmail.co.uk or phone 07825 985909.
Download the flyer here:
Tara runs the day-to-day at Hill Farm Caravan and Camping. When you make a booking, you will find Tara at the end of the phone.
Ollie Cotton and his family have owned and run Hill Farm Caravan and Camping for generations and love nothing more than to provide high-quality and affordable escapes for outdoor enthusiasts, adventurous families, gig-lovers and multi-people rallies & get-to-gathers.
2024 Improvements & changes:
✨ Gazebos make our pods and belle tents gorgeous all-weather havens; hot tubs are tucked under them too!
✨ Two new belle tents opening in April (stay tuned)
✨ Closed last season, the pond field is back open. Five seasonal belle tents will tuck around its banks. It's the perfect place for a family and friends retreat!