The Peak District might be landlocked, but don’t let that put you off. England’s first national park is riddled with rivers, moorland pools, and secret waterfalls that have been luring swimmers for generations. The water is cold, the scenery is spectacular, and the sense of reward after the walk in makes every dip feel earned.
Whether you’re after a family-friendly splash or a proper backcountry plunge, here’s our roundup of the best wild swimming the Peaks has to offer.
Three Shires Head
If you only visit one spot in the Peak District, make it this one. Three Shires Head sits where the counties of Cheshire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire meet on the River Dane — and it’s as dramatic as that sounds. It’s home to two quaint old packhorse bridges and numerous pools and waterfalls. The water is peaty and crystal clear, and the surrounding moorland rolls away in every direction.
The pools are relatively small and shallow (around 1m), so they’re more suited to plunging than actual laps — but that’s absolutely fine. This is a place to feel the cold hit you, catch your breath, and soak up one of the most photogenic spots in the entire national park.
A practical note: it does get really busy, so if it’s a hot day in the holidays, think about trying to find somewhere a bit quieter. Go early, go midweek, or come in autumn — you’ll have a completely different experience. If the main pool under the bridge is busy, head downstream a short distance and you should find another pool which will be quieter.
Slippery Stones, Upper Derwent Valley
Slippery Stones offers plunge pools with stunning waterfalls in one of the most beautiful corners of the national park. It’s a fair walk from the main car park at Derwent Dam, past Howden Reservoir — but it’s a lovely walk through woodland, not particularly challenging, and pram-friendly.
Thanks to the stones, there are lots of mini waterfalls, bridges, and plunge pools that add to the relaxed vibes. It’s also a popular stop-off point on cycling and hiking routes through the valley, making it a natural reward after a few hours on the trail.
One obvious warning baked into the name: take care of the wet stones. Footwear with grip is a good shout, and take your time picking your entry point.
Padley Gorge, near Grindleford
Padley Gorge, near Grindleford, features a series of small pools and waterfalls surrounded by ancient woodland. The cool, clear water is perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. It’s one of those spots that feels genuinely enchanted — mossy boulders, dappled light through the oak canopy, and the sound of water tumbling over rocks.
The ease of access and the stunning natural setting make it a favourite for families and casual swimmers. The pools are relatively shallow, which keeps things manageable for first-timers or younger swimmers.
River Bradford, near Youlgreave
The River Bradford running through Bradford Dale is a gentler, more accessible option — great if you want a longer swim rather than a quick cold dunk. Multiple points of entry and shallow sections make it a great place for children and parents to enjoy the outdoors.
There’s also a famous old sheep wash near Youlgreave village — what almost looks like a swimming pool in the river, originally built for farmers to clean their sheep before shearing. The stone-surrounded pool is part of the river and approximately 70cm deep, varying with rainfall — just about deep enough to swim up and down. It fills up on sunny days, so arrive early.
River Dove, Beresford Dale
The River Dove is a popular spot for wild swimming, and it’s not hard to see why — a beautiful river that winds its way through the Peak District National Park, with plenty of picturesque spots for a dip. One of the best areas is at Beresford Dale, where it’s easier to get in and out of the water. It’s a magical little spot with a sandy bank, deep enough to swim a few metres — ideal if you prefer to actually move rather than just dip.
River Ashop, near Snake Woodlands
For something more remote and rugged, head to the River Ashop in the Dark Peak. It’s a remote and rugged river that flows through the heart of the Peak District, with clear waters and plenty of secluded spots to explore, surrounded by hills and valleys. This particular spot is only a short walk through Snake Woodlands — though the sense of wilderness once you’re there is enormous.
This one is better suited to experienced wild swimmers who are comfortable with more isolated spots and variable water levels.
A word on reservoirs
The Peak District has a number of reservoirs which display no swimming signs, and the regulation around each reservoir differs, so it’s best to check before you visit. Don’t assume a reservoir is fair game just because it looks inviting — always look for signage and do your research beforehand.
Safety: please read this bit
Peak District water is cold. Even in summer, upland rivers and moorland pools can catch you off guard. The RNLI is clear on this: when you go open water swimming, it’s very important to enter the water slowly and allow time for your body to get used to the cold. Never jump or dive straight in, as this could cause cold water shock.
Entering water under 15°C can seriously impact your ability to breathe and move — and most Peak District spots will be well under that for much of the year. If you do get into trouble, the RNLI’s advice is clear: float on your back with your ears submerged, calm your breathing, and relax until you recover from the initial shock and regain your energy.
Beyond the cold, keep these basics in mind:
- Never swim alone — bring a buddy and tell someone where you’re going
- Wear a brightly coloured swim hat and consider a tow float so you can be seen
- Aqua shoes are a good idea, as river beds are often rocky
- Bring warm layers and a hot drink for after — post-swim chill is real
- Wash after swimming in open water, and clean your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating
- Check water levels before you go — after heavy rain, rivers can rise and run fast
The Peak District rewards the curious. Get off the main trails, follow a river upstream, and you’ll find swims that don’t make any listicle. These are just the starting points — the rest is yours to discover.
