The best places for winter wild swimming in Yorkshire

Yorkshire has some brilliant spots for a festive dip, from waterfalls like Janet’s Foss to big open lakes like Semerwater. Winter wild swimming is chilly but unforgettable, as long as you respect the cold and follow basic safety tips. Wear the right kit in and out of the water, and layer up fast afterwards. Grab your warmest TOG24 gear and you’re good to take the plunge.

Yorkshire’s winter waters aren’t for the faint-hearted, but that’s exactly what makes them so fun. We get it, wild swimming in winter isn't for everyone - it takes a certain brand of bravery (or madness, depending on who you ask) and chances are at least one mate will pull out last minute. 

But for those who do, a dip in a frozen tarn wakes you up like nothing else. The icy water bites at your skin, your breath puffs in crisp frosty clouds, and every nerve seems to wake up at once - leaving you tingling from head to toe and feeling completely alive. Plus, there’s that smug satisfaction of knowing you've done something most people wouldn't dream of.

Luckily, for those brave enough to take the plunge, Yorkshire's packed with stunning spots perfect for a festive dip, from moorland tarns to waterfalls tucked away in the Dales.

So, whether you're a New Year’s Day dip newbie or a cold-water pro, this guide's got you covered. We'll walk you through the best spots for winter wild swimming Yorkshire has to offer, cover the safety essentials you absolutely need to know, and, crucially, explain what to wear after cold water swimming, so you don’t freeze your icicles off!

Top winter wild swimming spots in Yorkshire

Yorkshire is basically made for wild swimming in winter. It’s packed with spots that are as stunning as they are chilly - from hidden waterfalls and crisp, frosted lakes to dramatic dales that make a winter dip feel extra special.

Janet's Foss 

A stone’s throw from Malham sits this brilliant little waterfall and plunge pool hidden in the trees. Come winter, it looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. It’s named after Janet (or Jennet), the fairy queen who folklore says lived in the cave behind the falls. The pool’s not huge, but it’s deep enough for a proper dunk - and with the waterfall crashing behind you, it’s an unreal experience.

Catrigg Force

Skip the crowds at Stainforth Force and head here instead - it’s well worth the short trip from Stainforth. A waterfall drops between tall rocks into a little woodland pool that’s tucked neatly into the woodland, and that feels like it’s straight out of legend. In winter, it’s quiet, frosty, and perfect for a cheeky dip (screams and shivers guaranteed) without anyone watching.

Semerwater 

Up in Upper Wensleydale, Semerwater is North Yorkshire’s second-largest natural lake and a cracking spot for wild swimming in winter. With a half-mile of open water, there’s plenty of room to splash (or flail) about, and the eastern shore is nice and quiet with shallow entry points - perfect if you’re testing the cold-water waters for the first time.

Wain Wath Force

If you want a wild swim without the trek, Wain Wath Force near Keld is spot on. You can park nearby and walk straight to the water’s edge, making it accessible for all abilities. The plunge pool has deeper sections for confident swimmers and shallower bits for paddling, plus the rocks under the waterfall can be used as seats - a free, frosty meditative spa treatment courtesy of Mother Nature.

Saltburn-by-the-Sea

For a proper coastal tradition, head to Saltburn-by-the-Sea for a legendary New Year’s Day swim, Yorkshire-style - running strong since the 1960s. Swimmers (and their dogs) gather by Saltburn Pier at 10:30am, with the plunge starting at 11:00am. Fancy dress is highly encouraged: think Santa hats, onesies, or just whatever’ll make you laugh while you scream your way into the North Sea. It's got a fantastic community feel, and the cheering crowd makes it almost worth the icy bite… almost.

Staying safe in cold water

Winter wild swimming in Yorkshire is brilliant, but cold water demands respect. Understanding how your body reacts when you plunge into freezing water is essential for staying safe while having fun.

Cold water shock hits your body the second you hit icy water - that sharp gasp, heart racing, lungs panicking. It’s dangerous if you panic, so take it slow, keep your face out at first, and focus on steady breathing. Leave the diving and cannonballs for the pool - cold water shock hits harder when you’re fully submerged.

Then there’s afterdrop, which catches out loads of swimmers. You get out feeling fine, even buzzing with adrenaline, and then 10–20 minutes later the shivers hit hard. That’s because cold blood from your arms and legs returns to your core as you warm up, which is why proper rewarming after a winter swim is just as important as the swim itself.

Our essential safety tips are simple: 

• Never swim alone - always have someone know where you’re going.

• Stay visible - wear a bright swim cap.

• Bring a tow float - great for visibility and handy if you need a breather.

• Keep it short - a few minutes is plenty; winter swimming is about thrills, not endurance.

• Check water conditions - if rivers are brown and fast-flowing after rain, leave it for another day.

What to wear cold water swimming (and after)

Getting your gear right is the difference between a glorious, teeth-chattering winter swim and a miserable splash. Here’s what you actually need.

Choosing what to wear for cold water swimming

When it comes to what to wear cold water swimming, there are a few ways to go. Some brave souls stick to a classic swimming costume or shorts (quick-drying fabrics and a snug fit are key), while others like a bit more protection. The best swimming shorts for cold water are usually tight-fitting nylon or polyester blends - they won’t drag or hold water.

Then there’s the big debate: wetsuit vs skins. Swimming in just your trunks or costume (skins) gives you the full icy thrill and helps your body build cold tolerance. Wetsuits keep you warmer for longer, but can feel a bit restrictive and take away some of that invigorating shock. Beginners, don’t stress - a wetsuit is a perfectly fine way to start before you graduate to full skins.

Don’t forget your extra bits: neoprene gloves and socks are worth their weight in gold for some. Your extremities get cold first, and nothing ruins a swim like fumbling with numb fingers while trying to get dressed afterwards.

What to wear after cold water swimming

Layering up afterwards is where things get crucial. You need to rewarm gradually and comfortably, and that means having the right layers ready before you even get in the water.

Sherpa fleece is your best friend for post-swim warmth. If you’re wondering what is sherpa fleece, it’s a synthetic fabric that mimics sheepskin - smooth on one side, fluffy and insulating on the other. It traps warm air brilliantly, dries quickly, and feels ridiculously cosy. A sherpa-lined hoodie or jacket, like the TOG24 Cameron for men or Emilie for women is perfect for slipping on straight after your dip.

Are ski jackets warm enough? Yes! Insulated ski jackets, like our Meribel and Samoens, are built for freezing, windy, or snowy conditions. Windproof and often water-resistant, they stop the chill better than a standard fleece and are great if it’s particularly blustery. Learn more at TOG24’s Ski School - our essential guide to skiwear!

What is the warmest winter coat to have in waiting? Well, down-filled parkas are hard to beat for sheer insulation - they're lightweight but trap heat like nothing else. There are also synthetic insulated coats, which work brilliantly too - especially if there's any dampness around (synthetic keeps insulating even when wet, unlike down). We’ve written about this in more detail in our guide to the best winter coats.

A proper changing robe is also worth the investment. These oversized, fleece-lined coats are designed specifically for swimmers - they're long enough to change under with dignity, absorbent, and incredibly warm. They might look a bit daft, but nobody cares when they're shivering, and you're toasty.

The golden rule: have all your warm, dry layers ready to go BEFORE you get in. Lay them out, keep them accessible, and the second you're out of the water, get dry and get dressed. A warm hat, warm socks, and a good flask of something hot are non-negotiables.

H3: Getting there - what to wear hiking in winter

If you’re thinking about going winter wild swimming, Yorkshire’s many spots often involve a bit of a trek - so knowing what to wear hiking in winter is just as important as your swim kit. Layering is your friend: a breathable base layer, a cosy mid-layer, and a windproof outer shell will keep you warm without overheating. 

Waterproof boots with good grip are essential too, especially if the path’s icy or slippery - and don’t forget a small backpack to carry your swim kit, towel, and post-swim layers! You’ll be glad you did on the walk back with damp hair.

Take the plunge

Winter wild swimming in Yorkshire might sound a bit bonkers at first… until you try it. Suddenly, you’re thinking about your next dip before you’ve even dried off! The mix of breathtaking scenery, that instant cold-water adrenaline hit, and the sense of achievement makes it a strangely addictive, totally unforgettable experience.

So grab your warmest layers, find a swimming buddy, and discover why Yorkshire's cold-water swimmers keep coming back for more. Just don't forget that flask of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate - trust us, you'll need it.

Ready to gear up? Check out TOG24’s sherpa fleeces, insulated jackets, and winter baselayers - everything you need to stay warm before, during, and after your Yorkshire adventures. And for more style and clothing advice, take a look at our fantastic blog!