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Olney Pool

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Riverside, Valley

Swimming

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Michael Trolove via Geograph.org.uk

Olney Pool is a wild swimming spot on the River Great Ouse beside the market town of Olney in Buckinghamshire, better known locally as the Swimming Steps. A curved run of stone steps set into the bank gives an easy way in and out of the river, reached on foot along the riverside from the church or a...

3

Parking nearby

0

Food Spots nearby

1

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

2 day, 1 overnight

Eakley Manor Farm Glamping

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Olney Pool?
Buckinghamshire contains this lovely river bend just on the edge of a historic market town. Swimmers can reach the water by walking down through the flat grassy water meadows.

What type of place is Olney Pool?
Olney Pool is a historic wild swimming spot on the River Great Ouse in Buckinghamshire.

When is the best time to visit Olney Pool?
Bright, warm midsummer mornings offer the finest conditions if you want to avoid the busy weekend crowds. Sunnier days also guarantee the best light for seeing the distant church spire while floating along the channel.

What can you do at Olney Pool?
Plunging into the refreshing river channel lets you experience a traditional English outdoor swim. Many people also enjoy listening to the wild water birds calling from the thick reeds or relaxing on the grassy bank.

How long should I spend at Olney Pool?
Allocating roughly an hour or two provides plenty of time for a proper refreshing dip and a quick dry off in the meadow. A longer stay works perfectly if you fancy bringing a picnic to enjoy under the willow trees.

Where do I park at Olney Pool?
Motorists can utilise three available spaces nearby, split into two day and one overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Olney Pool?
There are no food spots recorded immediately near Olney Pool, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

Where can I stay near Olney Pool?
Eakley Manor Farm Glamping provides one option for a local stay nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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