7 cities with amazing swimming locations

After a day of exploring, wild swimming in an urban setting offers travelers a unique perspective on a destination—turning an ordinary finish into an exciting splash.

From swimming in lakes in London to refreshing dips in a Sydney tidal pool, these seven locations are perfect for a wild city swim. Get ready, swimmers!

1. Hampstead Heath Ponds in London

London's expansive and stunning Hampstead Heath features three historic bathing ponds: the mixed pond near Parliament Hill, Highgate Men’s Pond, and Kenwood Ladies’ Pond. The latter two are open throughout the year, drawing courageous ice swimmers as well as newcomers eager to experience the excitement of entering cold water for the first time. A fee of £4.50 is required for swimmers.

The mixed pond operates from May to September and includes a small lawn for sunbathing, along with rustic changing facilities. The banks, lined with trees, host coots, moorhens, and grebes, ensuring lively company whenever you take the plunge.

Where to warm up afterwards: The charmingly old-fashioned Parliament Hill Café offers generous bowls of pasta, large slices of cake, and pots of tea—perfect for warming up after a refreshing swim.

2. Boekenberg Swimming Pond in Antwerp

Nestled within Boekenberg Park in the Deurne suburb, this stunning pond is a swimmer’s dream. The water is purified using an eco-friendly reed bed system, ensuring crystal-clear conditions, complemented by a stylish clubhouse and modern changing facilities.

From May to September, swimming here is free, although members enjoy exclusive access during winter when the pond often freezes over. Originally a municipal swimming pool, the transformation into a natural pond has been warmly welcomed by the community. It’s conveniently accessible from central Antwerp via the efficient tram network.

Where to warm up afterwards: Return to the city for a coffee at Frits Koffiebar, situated in the historic Zurenborg district.

3. Ingierstrand Beach in Oslo

With your swimwear on and your bravest face ready, climb the rungs of the functionalist-style diving board that juts out into the chilly waters of the Bunnefjord, just 25 minutes southeast of Oslo. Once at the top, take a deep breath, close your eyes, and leap... splash! Few things can shake off an aquavit hangover quite like a plunge into the sea at Ingierstrand Beach.

Featuring a blend of smooth flagstones, grassy areas, and sandy spots, this is a popular gathering place for families during Norway's warm, sunny months. The facilities, including restrooms and showers, were designed in the modernist style of the 1930s by architects Eyvind Moestue and Ole Lind Schistad. And the water? Crystal clear and refreshing. Wonderful.

Where to warm up afterward: The on-site snack bar serves excellent hot dogs and coffee. Since outside food isn’t allowed, make sure to have some cash handy before you stash your belongings.

4. Aare River in Bern

The Aare River in Bern is renowned as one of Europe’s cleanest and most stunning rivers for wild swimming. The refreshing blue glacial meltwater offers a delightful swim, even during the height of summer. It's become so popular that many locals have taken to swimming to and from work when temperatures rise.

Red bars indicate exit points, making it simple to climb in and out of the water. Be sure to get out at Marzili, where you'll find ample space to sunbathe and even a freshwater pool if you'd like to linger a bit longer.

Where to warm up afterward: While ice cream might not be the first thing that comes to mind after a chilly swim, Gelateria di Berna, located across from the Marzili entrance, serves the best in Bern—ideal for a hot afternoon.

5. St James Pool in Cape Town

Located less than an hour's drive from Cape Town, this delightful, sheltered pool is flanked by vibrant Victorian bathing boxes, making it an ideal spot for a swim and a photo opportunity! There are natural rock pools filled with intriguing wildlife for children to explore, as well as a spacious man-made tidal pool featuring calm, relatively warm waters.

Entry is free, and the pool is open around the clock, though it’s best enjoyed on a sunny day with a picnic in tow.

Where to warm up afterward: Just steps from the beach, the trendy Folk Cafe offers a cozy spot for breakfast and a hot drink. They also have a fantastic play area for kids.

6. The Forty Foot in Dublin

Renowned as Ireland's most iconic wild swimming destination, The Forty Foot is located at the southern end of Dublin Bay in Sandycove. Its swimming tradition reportedly stretches back about 250 years, with James Joyce furthering its mythos by featuring Buck Milligan taking a brisk dip in his classic work, Ulysses.

Originally a men-only locale, The Forty Foot now welcomes everyone and has transformed into a year-round hub for jumping in and swimming longer distances, offering a joyful experience that allows you to take in the shifting sea and changing weather.

Where to warm up afterward: Just a brisk 10-minute walk away, dog-friendly Hatch Coffee ensures a warm reception along with the perfect cup of coffee.

7. Bronte Baths in Sydney

Sydney boasts some of the finest ocean baths in the world, making it tough to choose just one. However, the magnificent Bronte Baths, located next to the beach of the same name, stands out as one of Australia's premier wild swimming spots. While the ocean can be tumultuous, this sheltered pool offers a fantastic way to enjoy the salty water and experience a wild swim during a hot Australian summer.

The baths cater to serious swimmers looking to stretch their legs, while also providing shallow areas for younger swimmers to hone their skills. The best part? It's free and accessible all year long.

Where to warm up afterward: Visit Bronte Belo, a Brazilian-themed café offering stunning beach views and irresistible coffee.