It’s officially summer and you just want to find ways to cool off while having fun with friends and family, right? But you don’t want to go somewhere packed with other people – you want to find a “secret” spot not many know of – we understand that. In fact, our team used to want the same thing too so we made it our mission to find a secluded and private area where we could go take a swim – and we found some of the best places near Manchester.

Of course, we decided to share them with you so you can enjoy these wild swimming spots as well!

Top 3 Wild Swimming Spots Near Manchester You Should Visit!

Pickmere Lake, Cheshire

This spot is pretty easy to find and there is parking nearby. The water is clear and warm – exactly what you are looking for!

It’s just a 45-minute drive from Manchester’s center. Please keep in mind that there are some pretty large stones and debris at the bottom of the lake – in general, this place isn’t ideal for children and you must wear swim shoes to avoid getting hurt.

Gaddings Dam, Todmorden

Gaddings Dam is under an hour drive from Manchester. You can easily find it off Lumbutts Road on the path opposite the Shepherd’s Rest Inn!

This is the highest beach in England and it can only be reached by a 20-minute uphill climb so if you are a wild swimmer and you enjoy hiking you might really enjoy Gaddings Dam.

This place is pretty safe for swimming since the water is clean and there are no tides, however, there are a lot of rocks near the edges under the water so be avoid diving and stay far from the walls.

Lumb Falls

Lumb Falls is perfect for those of you that want a wild swim. It’s an hour and 15 minutes away from Manchester, however, finding it can be pretty challenging.

Be advised that you won’t be able to park right where the destination is and you will need to walk for a bit down a steep cobbled path.

Once you do manage to find Lumb Falls you can both take a relaxing swim or climb up the waterfall and jump into the waters!