Lincolnshire is the perfect place for open water swimming. From the city of Lincoln and the east coastline, there are plenty of spots to indulge in this activity. To make it easier for you, here's a list of the best wild swimming locations in this beautiful county.
Remember, it's important to be aware of the dangers and know how to swim safely in open water before taking a dip in any of these places.
Activities Away
Location: South Hykeham
Price: £10 one off membership
Swim course length: 200m & 800m
Supervised?: Yes
The Open Water Swimming Centre, managed by Activities Away, is located in South Hykeham, just a short distance from the city of Lincoln. Despite its small size of only ¼ of a mile, the lake boasts two swim circuits, one spanning 200m and the other 800m.
What sets this lake apart is the exceptional quality of its water. Regular testing is conducted, with consistently high scores of 'Excellent' owing to the use of fresh rainwater and groundwater.
To gain access to the lake, a membership is required. The membership fee is a one-time payment of £10, although an additional £10 will be charged for replacing lost membership cards. Once you have your membership card, you can visit the lake every year without needing to renew your membership. Induction is not mandatory, but coaching sessions are available for those who wish to improve their swimming skills.
Ocean Walker
Location: Langton By Wragby
Price: £11.50
Supervised?: Yes
Requirements: Bright coloured swim cap & swim goggles
This 7-acre lake is reputed to have therapeutic properties due to its construction on top of calcite crystals. It is open for wild swimming all year round and is an ideal location for both beginner and experienced open water swimmers.
During the summer months, no induction is necessary to swim in the lake, but it is recommended. However, for winter swimming between October and March, a cold water induction is mandatory.
The lake offers a range of depths, making it suitable for all levels of open water swimmers. If you are new to open water swimming or lack confidence, there are shallower areas that are perfect for you. On the other hand, if you are an experienced swimmer looking for a challenge or training for an event, deeper water is available for you to explore.
To ensure a smooth swimming experience, advanced booking is required for all swimmers, regardless of ability level.
Tallington Lakes
Location: Tallington
Price: £7
Swim course length: 750m
Requirements: Tow float/bag
In South Lincolnshire, on the border of Cambridgeshire, lies the picturesque Tallington Lakes. This 205-acre lake is spring-fed and open all year round for swimming sessions. With its 750m circuit, it's safe and peaceful to take a dip. For added safety and convenience, don't forget to bring a tow float or dry bag. Whether you're here for swimming or other watersports, a visit to Tallington Lakes will be sure to be an enjoyable experience!
Beaches
The Lincolnshire coast offers a stunning stretch of 50+ miles, with beaches perfect for swimming. Whether you're looking for an idyllic sandy beach or a pebbly one, a busy spot or somewhere calmer, and above all a lifeguard-supervised beach, you'll be sure to find it on the Lincolnshire coast. With its crystal waters, swimming here will be a refreshing and enjoyable experience.
Here's our pick of some of the best beaches in Lincolnshire for swimming:
Skegness
Skegness Beach is a blue flag beach, renowned for its safety and beautiful sand. The ideal location makes it popular among holiday-makers who want to make the most of their vacation.
Cleethorpes
Cleethorpes Beach is a popular sandy beach, where families and holiday-makers can enjoy the comfort and safety of a lifeguard on duty.
Chapel St Leonards
If you're looking for a quieter swim, Chapel St Leonards is the perfect spot. This beach combines both sand and shingle, offering a peaceful atmosphere – however, please bear in mind that there's no lifeguard on duty here.
Sutton-on-Sea
If you're looking for a quieter beach experience, Sutton-on-Sea is the place to go. Unlike other Lincolnshire beaches such as Skegness and Cleethorpes, this blue flag beach offers a more laidback atmosphere – but still with the added safety of a lifeguard on duty.
Ingoldmells
Ingoldmells is a popular holiday spot with a sandy beach, though it can get crowded. Parents should be aware that this beach does not have a lifeguard on duty, making it unsuitable for children when swimming.
Moggs Eye
Moggs Eye (or Huttoft Beach) is a secluded beach between Chapel St Leonards and Sutton-on-Sea, perfect for wild swimmers looking for an escape. With no lifeguard on duty, this beautiful sandy beach makes it suitable only for those with more experience in open water swimming.