MAKE A SPLASH
The ‘incredible’ secret swimming spot you can have all to yourself – with stunning views and crystal clear water
And some of the UK's best outdoor swimming spots
A SECRET wild swimming spot in the UK could be one of the most scenic places to cool off this summer.
The UK is home to some magnificent outdoor swimming locations, but one in the Lake District has been rated among the best.
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Buckstones Jump in the Rydal Valley is a small natural plunge pool overlooking Rydal Beck and Lake Windermere from a perch high up in the hills.
Visitors say its waters are some of the bluest they've ever seen - and that it even warms up a bit during the summer, for those who aren't keen on the cold.
Among its biggest fans are UK travel Instagram page, , who shared a video of the site on their page.
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In the video, they said: "Come with us to an incredible wild swimming spot in the heart of the Lake District.
"This hidden gem is called Buckstones Jump, which sits in the Rydal Valley with incredible views and some of the bluest waters we've ever seen.
"While the majority of tourists head to Rydal Hall, which is down the road, you can have this wild swimming spot all to yourself.
"The best thing about this place is that there are plenty of plunge pools to go around, with some pretty amazing backdrop views to be admired too, with Lake Windermere in the background.
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"This hidden gem is exposed to the sun all day so you'll be greeted with a heated warm pool and on a clear day the water sparkles a beautiful blue and is crystal clear."
Their followers were very impressed with the swimming spot, with plenty saying they wanted to visit.
One wrote: "I need to find this!"
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Another said: "This looks stunning. What an environment for a cold dip and plunge."
A third added: "One of the most crazy places I’ve been. It’s like a beach in the summer. Kids loved it."
The spot is still worth a visit for people who aren't interested in taking a dip.
The walk up to the pool passes by waterfalls and other amazing scenery, while there are plenty of places nearby for a picnic.
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1. Bristol
The arty harbour city was the top spot on the list and is bursting with culture and trendy cafes scattered along the River Avon.
A bubbling hub for creatives, Bristol is the birthplace of street artist Banksy, and you can admire some of his best early works on a free walking tour.
2. Hull
The Humberside port city started to get recognition last year, and it has a thriving nightlife scene - if that's something you're after.
The old town is crawling with history and classy buildings, whose walls have many stories to tell and The Deep is a fascinating aquarium attraction.
3. Isles of Scilly
Just off the Cornish coast, it's easy to see why the archipelago made it into the top three.
Here, you can expect golden sandy beaches where you will be able to spot dolphins beyond the shoreline, as well as seafront pubs serving up hearty grub.
Bloggers wrote: "If you’re looking for an incredible wild swimming walk in the heart of the Lake District, look no further.
"The walk up to Buckstones Jump takes in a series of stunning waterfalls, all with picture perfect swimming holes.
"Even if you’re not looking to go for a dip, this walk is gorgeous and there are plenty of spots to sit and relax with a picnic."
It's not the only secret wild swimming spot where you could have a quiet dip during the summer months.
Wales
The Watkin Path offers a challenging and steep route up Snowdon.
And a section of the trail runs alongside pools of crystal clear waters where hikers will often cool themselves off after spending the day trekking.
Instagrammers Emily and Krystina, who run the account said: "I think it speaks for itself. This place has the most beautiful natural infinity pools and so many to choose from."
Berkshire
One of several places along the Thames Path suitable for swimming is Sonning in Berkshire, where the calm waters towards Shiplake can be entered via several river beaches.
The nearby Bull Inn offers people another way to refresh themselves after cooling off in the river.
London
What was once the largest docklands in the world is now a giant private lake, open to outdoor swimmers.
Lifeguards in kayaks ensure that it is a safe place for a dip, while 400m, 750m and 1,500m markers are available for anyone planning to cover some distance.
A floating bar that serves pizza is the perfect place to relax following a splash.
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Meanwhile, this hidden beach can only be accessed through a tunnel.
And these are the best secluded spots to spend a day out in the UK.
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