Where To Wild Swim In The New Forest

It’s easy to picture the New Forest as just woodlands, but this national park spans 220 square miles of diverse landscapes, from ancient forests to meandering rivers and stunning coastlines. This variety makes it a paradise for wild swimming, offering everything from tranquil lakes to invigorating sea swims—all within easy reach. Here are some top spots to take a dip and connect with nature.

Coastal Wild Swimming

Milford on Sea

At high tide, Milford on Sea appears to be just another shingle beach, but as the waves recede, a stunning sandy shoreline emerges. With breathtaking views of the Isle of Wight, it’s a fantastic spot for saltwater swimming. At very low tide, a sandbar forms a shallow lagoon—perfect for wild paddling, making it a great choice for families. 

Tanners Lane

Tucked away near Lymington, Tanners Lane offers a tranquil coastal swim in calm, shallow, coastal waters. While there’s no traditional beach due to the protective salt marsh, the best access is from the lane’s end to minimise disruption to the bird reserve. Sheltered by the Isle of Wight and the marshland, the water here is typically calm, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing swim.

Hurst Castle Spit

Just beyond Milford on Sea, Hurst Castle Spit offers great swimming in the right spots. The tidal waters at the spit’s end are dangerous, but the sheltered lagoon side is much calmer. You can take a boat taxi to the end for a peaceful swim or try the wooden crabbing bridge near the moored boats, though the Keyhaven River and quay should be avoided due to strong currents and boat traffic. Hurst Castle itself, set on a scenic pebble spit, is worth a visit while you’re there, accessible by boat or a two mile walk.

Freshwater Wild Swimming

Brockenhurst River Beach

Near the charming village of Brockenhurst, Brock Beach offers a peaceful freshwater swim in the shallow, gentle waters of the Lymington River. Framed by shingle beaches and grassy banks, it’s perfect for families, casual paddling, and summer splashes. With plenty of space for a riverside picnic, it’s an idyllic spot to relax and unwind if you don’t fancy a dip. 

Latchmoor Brook

Tucked away in the New Forest, Latchmoor Brook near Frogham offers a refreshing dip in a slow-moving stream, perfect for a summer paddle. The wide, shallow waters reveal a hidden surprise—New Forest fossils like gastropods, bivalves, and even shark teeth, easily spotted along the riverbanks. Accessible from the Telegraph Hill car park, it’s a peaceful spot to cool off and explore.

Other Popular Wild Swimming Spots

Lymington Seawater Baths

For a safe and family-friendly open-water swim, Lymington Seawater Baths is a great choice. As the UK’s oldest open-air, lifeguarded lido, it offers a controlled yet refreshing seawater experience—perfect for first-timers. 

Andark Lake

Just six miles from Southampton, Andark Lake is a purpose built open-water swimming facility with clear, calm waters, ideal for technique practice in a monitored setting. Originally designed for scuba diving training, it offers a quiet, grassy spot for swimmers seeking a controlled environment.

Ellingham Lake near Ringwood

Ellingham Lake is a pristine freshwater spot perfect for a tranquil swim. Known for its exceptionally clean water, it features marked swim loops of 400m, 750m, and 1200m, with yellow buoys guiding the way for distance swimmers.

Practical Considerations for Wild Swimming

Tide times & conditions

Understanding tide times is crucial for safe swimming. Milford on Sea experiences a transformation between high and low tide, revealing a sandy shore and forming a shallow lagoon at very low tide—ideal for family-friendly swimming. However, Hurst Castle Spit requires caution, as the tidal waters at the spit’s end are dangerous. Swimmers should stick to the sheltered lagoon side and avoid the Keyhaven River due to strong currents and boat traffic.

Accessibility & amenities

Many locations offer easy access, but some require extra effort. Milford on Sea and Lymington Seawater Baths provide convenient access, with amenities such as picnic spots and lifeguarded areas. Latchmoor Brook and Tanners Lane, on the other hand, are more remote, requiring a walk from designated parking areas. Andark Lake and Ellingham Lake cater to those looking for a structured environment, with designated swim loops and clear entry points.

Year-round swimming

For those who swim year-round, locations like Lymington Seawater Baths and Andark Lake offer controlled conditions, making them suitable in all seasons. Ellingham Lake provides well-marked routes for distance swimming, ideal for those training in different weather conditions. Coastal spots such as Milford on Sea can be enjoyed year-round, but swimmers should be aware of seasonal changes in water temperature and tide conditions.

Look for dog friendly New Forest locations

Some wild swimming locations are more suited to canine companions. Milford on Sea has been named the most dog-friendly beach in Hampshire, making it a great option for those with pets. Brockenhurst River Beach offers grassy banks and gentle waters, also making it a great spot for dogs to splash around. Tanners Lane, with its coastal access, is another dog-friendly choice, though owners should be mindful of the nearby bird reserve. 

Where to Stay in the New Forest

The New Forest is home to incredible swim spots, offering everything from invigorating sea swims to peaceful river dips. Whether you’re looking for a challenging swim or a gentle paddle, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, these locations are easily accessible from Green Hill Farm Holiday Village, our holiday park in the New Forest—making it the perfect base for your next wild swimming adventure.

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