The best outdoor swimming spots near Manchester

There’s a special kind of magic to swimming outdoors – whether it’s in a glassy lake at sunrise, a lido echoing with chatter and laughter, or a city rooftop pool with those beautiful skyline views.

Although it’s great for exercise, it also offers something even better: escapism. A way to disconnect from the daily rush and reconnect with something more natural, more mindful, more you.

Across Greater Manchester and beyond, you’ll find a growing number of places to dive in – from wild swims surrounded by countryside to heated heritage pools, and even a few luxurious spots for a slow, stylish soak.

Whether you’re chasing endorphins, calm, clarity or just a bit of summer fun, these outdoor swimming spots have something to offer.

Please note that swimming in open water carries risks. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service advise people not to swim in open water where there is no lifeguard. Check out their safety guidelines.

The best outdoor swimming spots near Manchester

Hathersage Lido, Peak District

For a dip steeped in tradition and charm, Hathersage Lido delivers. Nestled in the Hope Valley, this outdoor heated pool has a vintage vibe, complete with a charming bandstand, poolside café, and loyal local crowd. The water is kept toasty year-round, and while it’s popular in summer, hardcore swimmers keep it alive through winter with icy dips during the solstice and New Year. The views are just as much of a draw – rolling hills surround the pool, and a post-swim stroll into the village rewards you with great pubs and tearooms. The lido’s community spirit shines through: it’s cared for, well-staffed, and much-loved. It’s a step back in time that just so happens to be brilliant for your health.

Oddfellows Rd, Hathersage, Hope Valley S32 1DU

King Street Townhouse, Manchester

For those who prefer skyline views over open countryside, King Street Townhouse offers a luxury rooftop escape right in Manchester city centre. The showstopper here is the heated infinity spa pool, open exclusively to hotel guests. While it’s not built for serious swimming, it’s perfect for soaking in style while admiring the Town Hall and city rooftops. Pair your dip with a facial or massage from the in-house spa for a full wellness experience. A dip here feels indulgent, elegant, and photogenic – ideal for anyone who enjoys a city break with a side of serenity.
10 Booth St, Manchester M2 4AW

Nantwich Outdoor Brine Pool

Ignore the salty-sounding name – Nantwich’s outdoor brine pool is a hidden gem. Built in the 1930s, it’s one of the few saltwater lidos in the UK, and the high salinity actually helps you float more easily – perfect for lazy bobbing on hot days. The pool is heated, open year-round, and surrounded by sun beds, changing rooms, and showers. It’s surprisingly peaceful too, often ranking among the quietest open-air pools in the country. Whether you’re after a swim, a sunbathe, or just a saltier alternative to your usual session, Nantwich delivers.
Wall Ln, Nantwich CW5 5LS

Salford Quays & Salford Watersports Centre

A far cry from its industrial past, Salford Quays is now a thriving open water destination. Thanks to a major clean-up ahead of the 2002 Commonwealth Games, it’s now safe and popular for year-round swimming. The watersports centre runs three weekly sessions with 300m and 500m loops, professional supervision, and full changing facilities. It’s ideal for swimmers training for events or anyone who enjoys the structure of circuit swimming with a city backdrop. With sleek urban views and the added safety of an accredited centre, this is city swimming at its best.
Salford Watersports Centre, 15 The Quays, Salford, M50 3SQ

Wild Shore Delamere, Northwich

Adventure-seekers, look no further. Wild Shore Delamere is a thrilling outdoor playground nestled near Delamere Forest. Open water swimmers are welcome here, but you’ll also find Aqua Chimp (a floating obstacle course), wakeboarding, paddleboarding and more. It’s the kind of place where you might come for a swim and end up jumping off a rope swing. The setting is stunning – peaceful yet full of action. You can go solo or bring the whole family for a wet and wild day out.
Lake Holiday & Sailing Park, Chester Rd, Delamere, Northwich CW8 2JL

Pennington Flash, Leigh

Pennington Flash, part of a sprawling nature reserve near Leigh, is one of the most accessible open water spots for Greater Manchester swimmers. The NOWCA-approved lake means it meets high safety standards, and regular sessions are held all year – even in winter. It’s a favourite with triathletes and serious swimmers thanks to its 750m and 400m courses, but also popular with locals wanting a cold plunge. Surrounded by wildlife and greenery, it’s a little patch of wild within easy reach of the city.
Green Ln, Lowton, Warrington WA3 1BJ

Boundary Water Park, Cheshire

Ideal for beginners or families, Boundary Water Park offers a relaxed and welcoming environment. The shallow, calm lake creates the perfect setting for anyone curious about outdoor swimming, with safety crews and coaches on hand for reassurance. Run by Uswim, sessions take place twice a week, and the vibe is more “Sunday morning chill” than “military triathlon training.” It’s affordable too, with the option to hire wetsuits and access on-site amenities like toilets, showers, and free parking. The surrounding Cheshire countryside adds to the sense of escape. If you’ve ever fancied giving open water swimming a go without diving into the deep end – figuratively and literally – this is your starting point.

Boundary Water Park, London Rd, Allostock, Crewe, CW4 8HT

Ilkley Lido, West Yorkshire

Few lidos offer views like Ilkley’s. Overlooking the majestic Ilkley Moor, this vast, open-air pool is one of the UK’s most scenic places to swim. Open between May and September, the lido features a distinctive semi-circular shape, with plenty of room for leisurely laps or playful splashing. On dry days, bring a picnic and enjoy the adjacent tennis courts, bowling greens and putting area. The space feels like a proper day out for all ages. During cooler months, a large indoor pool offers swimmers a warmer alternative. But let’s be honest – it’s that open-air swim under wide skies that makes Ilkley Lido a standout.

Denton Rd, Ilkley LS29 0BZ

Alderford Lake, Whitchurch

Alderford Lake is less of a swim spot and more of a full-blown adventure destination. The lake sits in beautiful Shropshire surroundings and is open year-round for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and inflatable aqua park fun. Whether you’re doing laps or letting the kids loose on the floating obstacle course, there’s something for everyone. Foodies will love the on-site café and events ranging from outdoor cinema nights to festive swims. It’s all geared towards creating a proper family day out, but swimmers looking for a peaceful solo dip will still find quiet pockets to enjoy. Bring a wetsuit in winter – and your energy all year round.
Tilstock Rd, Whitchurch SY13 3JQ

The Farm Club, Pickmere

Tucked away just outside Knutsford, The Farm Club is the kind of place that feels like it belongs on a wellness retreat in rural Scandinavia. The lake at Pick Mere, already a stunning natural location, has become a hotspot for those chasing that feel-good cold water buzz. Visitors can expect more than just a swim – think lakeside yoga, breathwork classes, and even sound baths to help reset body and mind. It’s about more than fitness; it’s about connection, clarity, and that post-dip euphoria. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with experienced guides helping you ease into open water if you’re new to it. Whether you’re seeking serenity, or just a really good excuse to hang out by a lake, this is the place to go full Wim Hof without leaving the Northwest.
The Farm Club, Mere View Farm, Park Ln, Pickmere, Knutsford WA16 0LG

Manley Mere, Frodsham

Once a working dairy farm, Manley Mere has been transformed into a hub for outdoor adventure. The man-made lake is used for wild swimming, paddleboarding, and sailing, but it’s the quirky adventure trail and floating inflatable park that really sets it apart. There’s a café for refuelling and a family-friendly atmosphere throughout. It’s not the place for a zen swim, but if your idea of fun involves mud, splashes, and giant obstacles, this one’s for you.
Manley Ln, Frodsham WA6 0PE

Gaddings Dam (Tod Beach), Todmorden

A real northern legend, Gaddings Dam isn’t your average wild swim. Perched on a hill above Todmorden, it requires a 30-minute uphill walk to reach – but it’s worth every step. The old Victorian mill dam is surrounded by rugged moorland and even has a small sandy beach. There are no facilities, so pack light and bring everything you need. Its raw beauty has earned it cult status – and even a documentary. Combine your trip with a pint at the pub at the bottom, and you’ve got a full day’s micro-adventure.
Lumbutts Rd, Todmorden OL14 6JJ