Wain Wath Force in Upper Swaledale is a perfect spot for some wild swimming. Plus of course with a wonderful scenic and relaxing backdrop.
With its location being beside the road that runs up the valley the chance to get out and enjoy a cold water swim here is made even easier. No long walk or trek to get down to and into the water.
With the Yorkshire Dales having more famous waterfalls in abundance you can often, avoiding weekends and hot days, get to swim at this gorgeous spot with it all to yourself. It is also a perfect place for a family picnic beside the water.
Location
Wain Wath Force located just less than a mile north of the village of Keld on the B6270 that heads on to Kirkby Stephen.
You can park, if there are spaces, on the verge right next to the waterfall. Parking there is free but please respect other road users and allow access along the road.
The Name
Wain Wath comes from Old Anglo Saxon with ‘Wain’ meaning ‘wagon’ or ‘cart’, and Wath meaning ford. It is most likely then that back in Anglo Saxon times there was a ford here for wheeled wagons to cross the river.
Swimming
I would say that Wain Wath is a perfect place for beginners as well as accomplished wild water swimmers. Especially in the summer months the water is calm and you can gradually make your way into the water. It gradually gets deeper as you carefully tread the large limestone pebbled rocks.
This means you can paddle, go up to your waist or go deeper towards the waterfall itself for a full bloodied swim.
The water here at this point of the River Swale has only started up the valley at the area of Nine Standards so you know it is going to be wonderfully fresh and clean. Plus on a sunny day the pool beneath the waterfall is directly in the sun almost all day so it is a bit warmer than some other wild swimming spots.
When we have swam there we often see youngsters diving into the water from the top of the waterfall. It appears to be deep enough for them but I personally would advise against this as you really don’t know how shallow it gets, even more so in the drier warmer times when the river looks low.
It is hard to really get accross how idylic this waterfall and swimming area is. Upper Swaledale is a truly enchanting area and to be able to easily swim beneath one of its special waterfalls, surrounded by the hills, trees and fauna is an absolute joy.
A sign that this is not just another packed paddling spot is the number of people of all ages that you see coming here to relax, wind down and enjoying a swim in the cool water.
Wild swimming has so many benefits for the body and mind. And the goodness factor is greatly increased when surrounded by such beautiful nature.
Nearby Places to Explore
A visit to this part of Swaledale near Wain Wath is incredible for an escape or for outdoor adventures. Being just by Keld you are perfectly placed for the Keld to Muker Walk with the famous meadows. You are also just a couple of miles away from Buttertubs Pass and its stunning drive over to Hawes.
And from Wain Wath Force you are literally only 10 minutes drive up the hills to get to Tan Hill Inn, Britain’s Highest Inn.
Conclusion
Wain Wath Force is one of the best places to wild swim in the Yorkshire Dales. The waterfall behind the natural pool is a gorgeous backdrop. Because it is not as high or famous as other Dales’ waterfalls it allows it to be that much quieter. The water is so fresh and a large area that allows a real proper swim.
Go ahead, make a splash.
