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Borrowdale Pool

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Mountain, Riverside, Valley

Walking, Swimming

Summer

Photo: Michael Graham via Geograph.org.uk

Borrowdale holds some of the finest river swimming in the Lake District, in clear, cold pools scooped out of the rock along the becks that drain the valley. In the wooded, fell-ringed valley south of Derwentwater, the streams gather into deep, still pools between the boulders, the water peat-tinged ...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

7 day, 3 overnight

The Glaramara Hotel Bar – Seatoller, Langstrath Country Inn – Stonethwaite, Wasdale Head Inn​

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Borrowdale Pool?
Cumbria contains this deep river canyon, hidden well within the mountainous Lake District landscape. Hikers track down the deep basin by following a scenic valley trail up the rocky riverbeds.

What type of place is Borrowdale Pool?
Borrowdale Pool is a wild swimming spot in the Lake District National Park in England.

When is the best time to visit Borrowdale Pool?
Summer offers the safest conditions for dipping because the mountain weather remains warmest and driest. Avoid the deep gorges completely after heavy rainfall to ensure the current stays manageable.

What can you do at Borrowdale Pool?
Swimming and diving into the clear glacial water provides an invigorating challenge for outdoor enthusiasts. People also enjoy walking through the steep slate canyon to photograph the rugged volcanic rock formations.

How long should I spend at Borrowdale Pool?
Allocating roughly two hours provides ample opportunity to enjoy a refreshing swim and explore the adjacent gorge. Packing a picnic allows families to easily extend their stay on sunny afternoons.

Where do I park at Borrowdale Pool?
Vehicles can utilise ten spaces nearby, split into seven day and three overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Borrowdale Pool?
The Glaramara Hotel Bar – Seatoller, Langstrath Country Inn – Stonethwaite, and Wasdale Head Inn provide three options for dining nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Borrowdale Pool?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Borrowdale Pool, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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