Is it illegal to swim in lakes UK?

In England and Wales, a “right to roam” law means most lakes and rivers are open to swimming but there are some exceptions so it is important to confirm that you have access before you start swimming.



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Stay out of the water if Cloudy water can be a warning that there are more germs in the water than normal. Discolored or smelly water could mean there is a harmful algal bloom (HAB) in the water.

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Best places for wild swimming in the UK
  • River Isis, Port Meadow, Oxford. ...
  • Linhope Spout, Northumberland. ...
  • Falls of Falloch, Crianlarich, Scotland. ...
  • Goldiggins Quarry, Minions, Cornwall. ...
  • Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, Margate. ...
  • Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire, Wales. ...
  • Loch Morlich, Highlands. ...
  • Hampstead Heath Ponds, London.


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The deepest lake in the UK is Loch Morar, Scotland at 310m depth. This is 80m deeper than Loch Ness, the second deepest lake in the UK and deeper than the height of the Shard, the highest building in London. The largest lake by perimeter length in the UK is Loch Awe, Scotland at 41km.

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“No swimming” signs: This one should go without saying. If there are “no swimming” signs posted near the waterway, don't enter it! Chances are, there are concealed hazards underwater that you may not notice from up above. If you see a sign posted, don't risk it—it's better to find somewhere more desirable to swim.

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