Wild Swimming in the New Forest: Best Rivers, Beaches & Swimming Spots 7m New Forest Jonathan 10/04/25 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. Wild swimming near Southampton and Winchester Many of the best wild swimming locations in Hampshire are found within the New Forest, making them easily accessible from both Southampton and Winchester. Popular options include Brockenhurst River Beach, Tanners Lane and Milford on Sea. More on each of these below. Wild sea 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 Tanners Lane Beach near Lymington is one of the New Forest’s quieter coastal swimming spots. While it isn’t a traditional sandy beach, the shoreline is a mix of sand, pebbles and silt, with salt marshes protecting this stretch of coast. These marshes help create calmer water conditions, making Tanners Lane a popular choice for wild swimming when other coastal locations are too exposed. The best access point for swimmers is from the end of Tanners Lane, where you can reach deeper water while minimising disturbance to the surrounding bird reserve. It’s worth planning your visit around high tide, as low tide can leave large areas of mud exposed and require a long wade before reaching suitable swimming depth. Hurst Castle Spit Just beyond Milford on Sea, Hurst Castle Spit offers great New Forest Wild 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, can be spied while you’re there, accessible by boat or a two mile walk. Freshwater wild swimming The New Forest is home to some of Hampshire’s best freshwater wild swimming spots, with clear streams, gentle rivers and shallow paddling areas hidden among ancient woodland and open heathland. Brockenhurst River Beach Brockenhurst River Beach is sometimes referred to locally as Brock Beach. It’s a shallow section of the Lymington River ideal for paddling, wild swimming and family days out. Expect a scenic riverside location, which offers gentle water, grassy banks and plenty of space for picnics. 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 in the Forest 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: 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. Prefer to glide on the surface? Here’s where to go paddle boarding in the New Forest. Practical Considerations for wild swimming Tide times & conditions Understanding tide times is crucial for safe swimming in the wild. 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 is 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. FAQs: Wild swimming in the New Forest Where to wild swim in the New Forest? The New Forest has a variety of wild swimming locations, from freshwater rivers and streams to coastal swimming spots. Popular places include Brockenhurst River Beach, Latchmoor Brook, Tanners Lane Beach near Lymington and Milford on Sea. The best New Forest streams for paddling? Some of the best New Forest streams for paddling include Latchmoor Brook and sections of the Lymington River around Brockenhurst River Beach. These shallow, gentle waterways are ideal for families and dog owners. Are there any lidos in the New Forest? There are no traditional outdoor lidos within the New Forest National Park itself. However, visitors will find a range of swimming pools and leisure centres in nearby towns including Lymington, Southampton and Bournemouth. Is wild swimming legal in the UK? Wild swimming is not illegal in the UK, but access rights vary depending on where you are. Always check local guidance, respect private land and follow any safety advice or restrictions at your chosen swimming location. Do you need a license to wild swim? No licence is required for wild swimming in most rivers, lakes and coastal areas in England. However, some privately managed sites may have their own access rules or entry charges, so it’s worth checking before you visit. You might also like… What to do with kids and teens in the New Forest? Best circular walks: New Forest Unusual things to do in the New Forest: Take the road less trodden Top 6 dog friendly things to do: New Forest Where to dine in the New Forest for fabulous food? New Forest by paddleboard Link copied
