Wild Swimming spots, Exmoor and West Somerset

Wild Swimming on Exmoor

Tarr Steps, Exmoor

There’s something elemental about slipping into a river or natural pool under open skies - no chlorine, no crowds, just the hush of trees and the tug of cool water.  Exmoor is one of the UK’s most beautiful and unspoilt places to try wild swimming, with moorland rivers, secret waterfalls, and wooded combes waiting to be explored.  If you’re staying at Middle Stone Farm, you’re perfectly placed to discover some of the area’s best hidden spots.

Here are a few of our favourite wild swimming locations nearby:
Tarr Steps, River Barle (approximately 25 minutes away)
A classic Exmoor location - ancient clapper bridge, shady woodlands, and the gently flowing River Barle. The pools downstream of Tarr Steps are shallow and pebbly, perfect for paddling or a refreshing dip on a warm day.  It’s also a lovely place for a picnic, riverside walk or stop in at the Tarr Inn for lunch or a cream tea.  
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Watersmeet, near Lynmouth (approximately 60 minutes away)

For those who enjoy a walk before their swim, the dramatic gorge at Watersmeet is worth the trip. The East Lyn River rushes through a deep wooded valley, creating clear pools and small waterfalls along the way. It’s a magical spot – especially in early morning or golden light – and there are wilder, quieter places if you follow the paths away from the main footbridge.

​Near Withypool, this picturesque medieval bridge spans the River Barle as it winds across open moorland. There are gentle banks for easing into the water and deeper spots upstream for a proper swim. The views across the moor are wide and soul-soothing.

Landacre Bridge (approximately 30 minutes away)

​Near Withypool, this picturesque medieval bridge spans the River Barle as it winds across open moorland. There are gentle banks for easing into the water and deeper spots upstream for a proper swim. The views across the moor are wide and soul-soothing.

Horner Woods, (approximately 35 minutes away)

Tucked within the ancient woodland of Horner, this shallow stream offers cool, ferny pools and peaceful shade. While it’s not deep enough for full-on swimming, it’s a lovely place for children to play, or to simply soak your feet and take in the birdsong and wildness.  

A Few Tips for Wild Swimming on Exmoor:

• Always check water depth before diving or jumping.
• Wear water shoes – riverbeds can be slippery or stony.
• Avoid swimming after heavy rain when rivers may be faster and colder.
• Be respectful of nature:  leave no trace, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• And don’t forget a towel!
  

Back at Middle Stone Farm, you can warm up around the firepit or under the stars in your wood-fired hot tub – the perfect end to a day of wild adventure.