Waterfalls are one of nature’s simple joys. Whether they are tall and powerful as they pour over cliffs, or small streams trickling over smooth stones, they always seem to leave you feeling amazed. The UK has some truly stunning waterfalls, and many of the best can be found among the fells and lakes of the Lake District, making them an easy trip from Greater Manchester. Aira Force at Ullswater and Rydal Falls near Rydal are two of the most famous, but there is another waterfa

A waterfall in Northumberland that crashes into a deep natural pool has been ranked as one of the top five wild swimming spots in England. Found in the beautiful Breamish Valley, the walk to the waterfall is a three mile round trip starting from the village of Linhope, and the path is clearly signposted. Along the way you might spot red squirrels, and if not, you may see Scots pine cones scattered on the ground where they have been eating. David Squire / Pool Below Linhope Sp

Sometimes the most magical places are closer than you realise, and the Peak District is full of pretty towns and villages that anyone who loves the outdoors will enjoy exploring. Set among the rolling hills of Derbyshire, one of the country’s best known spa towns sits just an hour by car from Derby. Right on the edge of the Peak District, Buxton is a peaceful getaway with breathtaking scenery to explore and a lovely town centre to stay in while you are there. Photo © Deego

Waterfall selfies, quick dips in rivers and early morning swims in the sea are everywhere right now. Wild swimming has clearly become a favourite outdoor activity for many people. This popular activity, also called open water swimming, means swimming in natural places like rivers, coves, the sea or under waterfalls, often for the refreshing feel of cold water. Wales is full of amazing wild swimming spots, as well as organised swims in lakes, rivers and along the coast. Photo

A lovely sheltered lagoon in Greater Manchester has been named one of the top places in the UK for outdoor swimming. This hidden gem took third place in a national list of swimming spots, judged by the number of online searches and social media tags each place received, according to the AA. The park gained an impressive 33,100 Google searches each month and more than 13,000 Instagram tags. Photo © Phil Champion ( cc-by-sa/2.0 ) It is the only site outside London to appear i

If you’re looking to escape the buzz of London and discover enchanting corners where water tumbles, flows and invites you in, then you’re in for a treat. This guide explores ten hidden waterfalls and wild-swimming spots within reach of the capital, each one offering something unexpected: secret plunge pools, woodland whispers, the ripple of cool water under dappled light. Many of these places lie under the radar, so you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon your own private retre

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A wild swimming spot in Mid Wales has been ranked among the top three most beautiful in the UK. This hidden gem, which is a chain of...

Planning a trip to the Lake District soon? If you are heading out on a walk, this hidden treasure is one to look out for. The Lake...