Experience wild swimming and hillwalking in a personalised outdoor adventure tailored to your abilities and preferences. Whether you seek peace in a hidden river pool or an adventurous coastal trek, this session offers something unique for everyone. Guided by an experienced Wild Swimming Walking Guide, you’ll enjoy a refreshing and restorative day in nature.
The experience combines the best of hillwalking and wild swimming, offering a versatile and immersive adventure in some of the most gorgeous natural locations across the North East and North of England. We will discuss your preferences and abilities after booking, to ensure the route and swim spots match your expectations. These will then be confirmed a few days beforehand, depending on weather and water conditions.
For a full-day session, the adventure might start with a hike through rolling hills or woodland trails, leading to a secluded river pool or a peaceful waterfall. After a refreshing swim or dip in the cool, clear waters, you’ll continue the hike, potentially covering more ground to reach additional swim spots. These could include a coastal location for a saltwater swim or another hidden waterfall deep in the countryside. The full-day option allows for multiple swims, varied landscapes, and a more relaxed pace, providing time to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
A half-day session offers a more concentrated experience, where you might focus on a single location or explore a couple of nearby spots. For example, you could start with a hike to a river pool, enjoy a swim, and then take a short walk to a coastal cove for a second dip. This option is perfect for those who want a substantial experience without committing to a full day.
For shorter sessions, the focus is on easy access and quick but rewarding experiences. These might involve a brief walk from a nearby car park to a beautiful swim spot, perfect for a sunrise swim by the coast or a sunset dip in a river pool.
The sessions take place in various scenic locations across the North East and North of England, including the Cheviots, North Pennines, Howgills and CountyDurham, with options extending to the Scottish Borders.
The exact location and meeting point are confirmed a few days before the session to accommodate weather and water conditions, ensuring the best possible experience.
Participants should have a reasonable level of fitness, but experiences can be tailored to fitness and mobility levels.
While wild swimming experience isn’t required, first-timers are encouraged to start with a summer session. Wetsuits are recommended during colder months, with shorter swim times if not using one.
The sessions are led by Hayley, a highly experienced Wild Swimming Walking Guide, and Outdoor and Adventure Therapist. With decades of outdoor experience and a deep personal understanding of the therapeutic power of nature, Hayley offers a supportive and tailored approach to guiding. Her journey through personal loss and finding hope has shaped her commitment to helping others find solace and strength in wild swimming and hillwalking.
Fully qualified in open water safety, rescue, and outdoor first aid, Hayley ensures that each session is conducted with the highest level of care and professionalism. Whether participants are seeking a peaceful retreat or a bit of adventure, Hayley designs each experience to meet their needs and comfort levels.
You’ll need to bring swimwear, a towel, swimming or diving shoes to protect your feet, and a wetsuit if you prefer to wear one, especially during colder months.
It’s also recommended to bring sturdy walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a waterproof jacket.
Don’t forget to pack water and snacks or a packed lunch if you’re joining a longer session.
No prior experience is necessary. The sessions are tailored to your comfort level, whether you’re a seasoned wild swimmer or trying it for the first time.
If you’re new to wild swimming, starting with a summer session is recommended, when the water is warmer.
A reasonable level of fitness is required for both hiking and swimming. The hikes can range from gentle walks to more challenging terrain, depending on your ability and preferences.
We will discuss your fitness level before the session to ensure the route is suitable for you.
Yes, children aged 8 and above are welcome, but they must be accompanied by a fee-paying adult.
The maximum group size, including children, is four participants. The routes and swim spots will be selected to ensure they are safe and enjoyable for younger participants.
Safety is the top priority. If the weather conditions are unsafe for swimming or hiking, the session may be rescheduled, or an alternative route or activity may be offered.
The exact location and final confirmation are given a few days prior to the session to account for the latest weather forecast.
You’re welcome to join alone or as part of a group. There is no minimum group size, so whether you’re looking for a solo adventure or a day out with friends or family, the session can be tailored to your needs.
Your guide loves to travel, so is happy to discuss doing so if you’d like to make a booking for at least one full day.
Please use the adventuro chat below to arrange an alternative location.
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
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