Bathing Pool

Wild swimming doesn't get much more dramatic than this. The Bathing Pool sits carved into the rocky coastline near Ilfracombe, a natural tidal pool that fills with crystal-clear seawater at high tide. On a calm day, it's like having your own private lido with waves gently lapping the edges.

This isn't your typical lake - it's pure Atlantic Ocean, just contained within granite walls that have been shaped by centuries of storms. The water stays properly cold year-round, so bring a wetsuit unless you're one of those hardy types who relish the shock. Strong swimmers will love it most, though cautious paddlers can enjoy the shallower edges when conditions are right.

Timing matters here. Check the tide tables before making the trip - you want high tide for the best swimming depth. The rocks can be slippery, so decent footwear is essential for the scramble down.

Families staying at nearby Hele Valley Holiday Park or any of the Woolacombe spots will find this makes a brilliant adventure for older children who are confident in the water. It's free to use, naturally, and you could easily spend a morning here if the weather's kind. Just remember this is wild swimming at its most authentic - no lifeguards, no facilities, just you and the sea.