The 10 best wild swimming spots near London – and there’s no need to book

There’s nothing quite like taking a refreshing dip in cool, calm waters on a hot sunny day.

There are plenty of wild swimming spots near London that don’t need to be booked. Even better, they’re completely free.

Here are a few cool options.

River Wey, Surrey

The slow-moving waters and shallow, sandy banks of the Wey make this pretty river ideal for families keen to escape the heat with a day of paddling. From London, an hour’s train ride to Chilworth, or 40 minutes to Guildford, carries you out into proper countryside – from either station you can follow the river’s footpath to find shady spots and tiny beaches.

Getting there: Take the train to Chilworth Station and follow signs for the Wey Navigation to swim near the Manor Inn, or get off at Guildford and follow the river’s footpath, swimming just outside the edge of town.

Hotels in Surrey

Pangbourne, Berkshire

You may not want to swim in the River Thames in the heart of the Big Smoke, but head just 40 minutes out into the countryside and London’s storied river is a very different – and far cleaner – place. The Thames Path between Pangbourne and Goring is lined with lovely meadow-backed spots for a laid-back wild swim – follow the path by foot or by bike to seek them out. The wide area of the river near Hook End Lane, 2km from Goring and 5km from Pangbourne, is a great place to swim.

Getting there: Take the train to Pangbourne or to Goring & Streatley stations and follow the Thames Path between them.

Hotels in Berkshire

Frensham Great Pond, Surrey

Dreaming of hitting the beach? It may lack salt water, but Frensham Great Pond in Surrey has everything else you could want – golden sands to relax on and calm waters for a cooling dip, with shallows perfect for younger swimmers to splash about in. The pond, which is an hour and a half from London, can be popular on the dog days of summer, but if you’re dreaming of a day at the “seaside’”that’s still close to home, you can’t beat it.

Getting there: Frensham Great Pond is an hour and half drive from London, and parking is available on-site.

Hotels in Surrey

River Colne, Hertfordshire

There’s a real pleasure in reaching a beautiful slice of nature on the tube. Rickmansworth may still be within the confines of Zone 7, but once you’ve stepped off the tube, which takes an hour from London Victoria,…