The walks in Dartmoor speak for themselves, and the wild swimming opportunities are equally unmissable. From perfect plunge pools to luscious lagoons, each pool has unique characteristics that make them truly unforgettable. Surrounded by secluded scenic spots, they are worth the refreshing swim when you are exploring Dartmoor’s rich history.
With hidden gems dotted all around, a refreshing dip should be added to your Dartmoor itinerary during your stay at the Mill End Hotel in Chagford.
SPITCHWICK COMMON
Arguably the most popular wild swimming spot in Dartmoor is Spitchwick Common, also known as Deeper Marsh. One of the best qualities of this pool is how clean the water is. However, this is well known by both tourists and locals, so be sure to plan your visit.
With a large grassy area, it is the perfect picnic spot for families to spend the day. This spot is easily accessible from Ashburton.
SHARRAH POOL
Just up from the Spitchwick Common is the Sharrah Pool. This is an excellent spot for a more experienced wild swimmer due to the uneven water floor. You will have plenty of space to get your laps in as this pool is over 164ft long.
The route to this location will take a bit longer on foot, but the spectacular scenic views are worth every step.
Image Credit: Derek Harper
CHAGFORD WEIR
The closest wild swimming spot to Mill End Hotel is Chagford Weir. You will find the river located over the bridge and through a gated footpath; if you follow it to the end, you will see this swimming spot. With the water ranging from medium to deep, this is an excellent place to get some lengths in whilst enjoying your surroundings.
FOGGINTOR QUARRY
For something a little different, Foggintor Quarry offers wild swimming with a dramatic backdrop. This abandoned granite quarry has filled with water to form a deep, dark pool, surrounded by steep stone walls and remnants of Dartmoor’s industrial past. It’s a short walk from the road near Princetown and makes for a memorable swim, especially for those who enjoy an eerie, cinematic atmosphere. Be aware that the water is very cold and the depth drops off quickly.
CRAZYWELL POOL
Shrouded in local legend and mystery, Crazywell Pool is formed from an old mine, fed by a natural spring, high on the moor near Burrator Reservoir. It’s large, deep, and eerily still, with no inflow or outflow visible, a fact that’s fuelled many Dartmoor ghost stories. It was once believed to be bottomless and haunted! Despite the spooky reputation, it’s a fantastic place for an open, uninterrupted swim with incredible views of the moor. There’s a short walk from Burrator to reach it, making it one of the more accessible high moorland swims.
SALMON LEAPS
The Salmon Leaps provide the perfect natural spa experience not far from Chagford. A vast swimming spot, this location offers a thrilling wild swimming adventure in the beautiful river Teign. Frequent swimmers advise you to throw on a wetsuit before your swim to avoid any scratches or scrapes while exploring the tighter river corridors.
If you are not interested in taking a dip, there is also a lovely grassy spot to sun yourself whilst you leave the mermaids to it.
Image Credit: Herbythyme (CC-BY 2.0 license)
CADOVER BRIDGE
Located near Plymbridge, Cadover Bridge is a family-friendly wild swimming location on the River Plym. The water here is cool and shallow in many parts, with deeper areas further upstream. It’s easy to access from the road, and there’s often an ice cream van nearby in the warmer months. The wide, open moorland surrounding the river gives it a classic Dartmoor feel, rugged, remote, and beautifully raw.
TAVY CLEAVE
A remote gem in the north-western reaches of Dartmoor, Tavy Cleave is a wilder, more challenging location, ideal for experienced walkers and swimmers. The River Tavy tumbles through this steep-sided valley, forming natural plunge pools along the way. Pristine water, solitude, and dramatic moorland scenery. It’s not for beginners, but a dream for seasoned adventurers.
CHAGFORD SWIMMING POOL
Chagford is home to the largest fresh water open air swimming pool in the South West, so this is a fantastic place for people who want to experience ‘wild swimming’ in calmer water than the local rivers. The pool was opened in 1934, after being dug by hand by local residents. The water comes from the mill leat, a stream off the river, and it is filtered, with a minimal amount of chlorine added to make it safe for swimming. Open May to September, the pool is kept warm through the use of solar covers, so it is better to visit in the afternoon once the sun has warmed the pool.
HAYTOR QUARRY
If you are looking for a shallower, more secluded spot, Haytor Quarry might be just up your street. With a car park just a short walk away, this is a wild swimming area to check out!
Surrounded by tall rocks that shield swimmers from the wind, you can relax in the water without worrying about getting too chilly. This quarry is also a known walking and climbing route if you prefer to keep your feet on land.
Image Credit: Paul Hutchinson
If you’re planning a trip to experience the many wonders of Dartmoor, why not stay with us at Mill End? After a morning of wild swimming, you could retreat to one of our lounges for a classic Dartmoor afternoon tea to set you up for even more adventuring!
We really are located in a prime spot, making the ideal base for your countryside adventures. Check out our comprehensive guide to the local area to discover all the other great things to do near Chagford.