With an abundance of stunning landscape, a swim in the open water makes for an idyllic outdoor experience in Kent. Whether you're looking for somewhere calm and serene, or an exhilarating dip along the coast, there are plenty of options to choose from. To make your search easier, we've rounded up some of the best locations in Kent for wild swimming.
Although these spots make for a great day out, it's important to remember safety advice at all times - such as checking water quality before taking a plunge.
Lake Swimming
St Andrews Lakes
Location: Halling
Price: £7.50-£15
Swim course length: 200m & 600m
Supervised?: Yes
Requirements: Tow float/bag, brightly coloured swim cap, & NOWCA wristband
Induction required?: Yes
St Andrews Lakes is the place to choose if you are looking for a swimming experience protected by a lifeguard and boasting 'outstanding' water quality. Aside from offering up normal pool sessions, there is also cold water swimming, moon swimming and specialized coaching workshops available meaning, at St Andrews Lakes, your aquatic requirements will be well looked after.
Laybourne Lakes
Location: Aylesford
Price: £7
Swim course length: 400m, 550m, 750m, & 1330m
Supervised?: Yes
Requirements: Tow float/bag & brightly coloured swim cap
Induction required?: Yes
Located in the gorgeous surroundings of suburban Laybourne, Laybourne Lakes provides a great spot to engage in water-based activity. If you are looking for a recreational spot to splash around and enjoy the summer sun, then the lakes provide an ideal environment just don't forget to be considerate of the resident ducks.
Haysden Lakes
Location: Tonbridge
Price: £12
Swim course length: 600m & 1000m
Supervised?: Yes
Requirements: Brightly coloured swim cap
Induction required?: Yes
Haysden Lakes is the perfect place to swim during summer months. Located in peak season from May to September, it not only offers a beautiful swim location, but also has changing rooms and toilets for convenience of swimmers. All visitors must first complete an induction, which consists of a test and 400m swim. However, once this is finished you'll be free to explore the 600m or 1km circuits in all their beauty.
Chipstead Lake
Location: Sevenoaks
Price: £12
Swim course length: 200m, 400m, & 750m
Supervised?: Yes
Requirements: Brightly coloured swim cap
Induction required?: Yes
Whether you're a newcomer to open water swimming or simply want to build your confidence, this swimming venue is the ideal place for a dip. With shallow and shielded areas in the lake, swimmers can enjoy the peaceful environment and practice at their own pace. Its excellent water quality also draws in experienced swimmers from around the region.
Bewl Water Reservoir
Location: Lamberhurst
Price: £12
Swim course length: 400m & 750m
Requirements: Bright coloured swim cap
Bewl Water Reservoir is an idyllic spot of 800 acres of scenic scenery, including the reservoir lake and lush forest. And with the chance to take part in open water swimming sessions with Triswim, you can choose between either the 400m or 750m swim circuits.
Sea Swimming
Minnis Bay
Location: Birchington
Supervised?: In peak season
Beach type: Sandy
Blue flag?: Yes
Minnis Bay is located on the northeast coast of Kent, providing a lovely sandy beach and periodic sunshine to enjoy. During peak summer months, the waters are supervised by lifeguards, making it a popular destination for swimming in the sea.
Botany Bay
Location: Broadstairs
Supervised?: In peak season
Beach type: Sandy
Blue flag?: Yes
Perfect for those looking to spend a sunny day at the beach, Botany Bay is situated right on the coast between Margate and Broadstairs. Its 200m long blue flag sandy beach provides comfort and facilitated with a cafe and lifeguard supervision make it an ideal spot.
St Margarets Bay
Location: Near Dover
Supervised?: No
Beach type: Shingle
Blue flag?: No
Located near Dover is the stunning St Margarets Bay, also known as Hellfire Corner. A beautiful shingle beach can be accessed with a winding journey down a narrow road, and it is an experience not to be missed. Those brave enough to take a dip in the majestic English Channel will be in awe of the chalk cliffs that tower above them - and if luck would have it, you may even catch a glimpse of faraway France!
Tankerton Beach
Location: Near Whitstable
Supervised?: In peak season
Beach type: Shingle
Blue flag?: Yes
Tankerton Beach is an ideal destination for a summer day by the sea. Boasting a blue flag beach, this shingle shoreline is popular with swimmers and sunbathers alike. Splashing around in the vibrant waters of this bay is much safer due to the lifeguard supervision in peak season.
Walpole Bay Tidal Pool
Location: Margate
Supervised?: No
Beach type: Sandy
Blue flag?: No
From a unique swimming experience to a historically rich location, Walpole Bay Tidal Pool offers something for everyone! Located in the UK, it is the largest tidal pool of its kind with over 4 acres of space and 6ft of water in some areas. When visiting this bay, you can be sure to find a safe and secluded area for swimming in the sea.
Mermaid Beach
Location: Folkestone
Supervised?: No
Beach type: Shingle
Blue flag?: No
A pleasant drive down the coastline from Dover will get you to Mermaid Beach in Folkestone. On a clear day, the tranquil view of the English Channel with France in the backdrop are an exceptional sight. Unfortunately, this beach does not have a lifeguard and so visitors need to take necessary safety precautions before venturing out for a swim.