Introduction
Wild swimming at waterfalls can be so much fun and is a brilliant way to experience the outdoors, especially on a warm day when you’ve reached a beautiful waterfall and found a pool at the bottom.
I’m not here to put a downer on anyone’s plans or tell you that you shouldn’t enjoy wild swimming. However, as a former lifeguard and someone who works in the emergency services, I know how quickly things can go wrong around water.
So, before planning any wild swimming near waterfalls, please take a few minutes to read the advice below and make sure you understand the risks.
Is It Safe To Swim At Waterfalls?
There isn’t a simple yes or no answer.
Every waterfall is different and conditions can change considerably depending on rainfall, water levels and the time of year.
Water that looks calm can still have strong currents underneath, particularly close to the waterfall. There can also be submerged rocks, branches and other hazards that you can’t see from above.
Never assume that because you’ve seen other people swimming somewhere, it is automatically safe.
Check The Conditions First
Before getting in, check the recent weather and look at the water itself.
After heavy rainfall, waterfalls can become much more powerful and water levels can rise quickly. A pool that looked calm during a dry spell could be completely different after several days of rain.
It’s also worth checking recent information about the area, including social media posts, as these can sometimes highlight recent changes that older information doesn’t.
And don’t forget water quality. Natural water can contain harmful bacteria and pollution, so check for any local water-quality information or warnings before swimming.
It’s also important to look out for blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), particularly during warmer weather. If you see algae, scum or unusual discolouration on the water, check for local warnings and avoid entering the water if you suspect blue-green algae is present. You can’t tell whether an algal bloom is harmful simply by looking at it, so when in doubt, stay out. Blue-green algae can also be harmful to dogs and other animals.
If you’re looking for waterfalls to explore, my How to Find Waterfalls in the UK guide explains some of the different ways I find and research new waterfalls.
Be Careful Getting In and Out
Think about how you’re going to get into the water and, just as importantly, how you’re going to get back out.
Rocks around waterfalls can be extremely slippery, particularly when wet or covered in algae.
Never jump or dive into water when you don’t know how deep it is or what’s underneath. There could be submerged rocks, branches or other hazards.
If getting out looks difficult before you’ve even got in, that’s a pretty good reason not to swim.
Cold Water
Natural water can be much colder than you expect, even in summer.
The RNLI considers water below 15°C to be cold water, which can seriously affect your breathing and ability to move. Enter the water slowly rather than jumping straight in and give yourself time to adjust.
Make sure you have warm, dry clothing ready for afterwards.
If you’re planning a full day exploring waterfalls, my What to Pack for a Waterfall Walk guide covers the things I recommend taking with you.
Don’t Swim Alone
I would always recommend swimming with somebody else rather than going alone.
I also tell my partner or family where I’m going whenever I’m exploring waterfalls, even when I’m not planning to swim. If you’re heading somewhere remote, let someone know which waterfall you’re visiting and roughly when you expect to be back.
Don’t rely on your phone either. Many waterfalls are in valleys, gorges or wooded areas where mobile signal can be limited or unavailable.
Know Your Limits
Wild swimming isn’t a competition.
You don’t need to swim across the whole pool, get as close to the waterfall as possible or stay in the water for a certain amount of time.
Stay within your ability and don’t let other people encourage you to do something you’re uncomfortable with.
And never mix swimming with alcohol or drugs, as they can affect your judgement and ability to respond if something goes wrong.
If something doesn’t feel right, get out.
What If Something Goes Wrong?
If you get into difficulty in the water, try not to panic.
The RNLI’s Float to Live advice is to tilt your head back with your ears submerged, relax and control your breathing, then gently move your hands and legs to help you float. Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety if you’re able to.
If someone else gets into trouble, don’t jump into the water after them. You could end up in difficulty yourself. Call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard, and if you can do so safely, throw something that floats towards them.
Be Visible and Respect The Environment
If you’re swimming in open water, a brightly coloured swim hat can make you easier to see. A tow float can also be useful for open-water swimming, but it doesn’t make an unsafe swimming spot safe.
Remember that you’re swimming in a natural environment too. Take everything you bring with you home, don’t leave rubbish behind and avoid damaging plants or disturbing wildlife.
Check My Waterfall Guides
If you’re planning to swim somewhere I’ve covered on The UK Waterfalls Guide, have a look through the individual waterfall guide before you go.
If you’re new to my guides, How to Use the Waterfall Guides explains what each section means and how to quickly see whether a route is right for you.
I’ll include information about swimming where it’s relevant, but my experience on the day I visited shouldn’t be taken as confirmation that a waterfall is safe to swim at.
Conditions change, so always assess the situation for yourself when you arrive.
What If You Decide Not To Swim?
You can still have a brilliant waterfall visit without getting in the water.
Some of the most beautiful parts of a waterfall are best appreciated from the surrounding paths and viewpoints.
I’d much rather come home having enjoyed a waterfall safely than take a risk because I felt like I had to swim once I’d got there.
There will always be another waterfall and another day to enjoy it.
Final Thoughts
Wild swimming can be an amazing way to experience the outdoors, but waterfalls aren’t swimming pools and they shouldn’t be treated like one.
Check the weather, water conditions and water quality, think carefully about how you’ll get in and out, know your limits and never underestimate the power of moving water.
If you’re unsure, stay out.
Your safety is more important than getting the perfect photograph or being able to say you’ve swum at a particular waterfall.
For more detailed water-safety advice, I recommend checking the RNLI’s current guidance before heading out.
