Wild swimming and a major city aren’t two things that you’d usually put together but just outside York lies a perfect wild swimming haven. If you want to do some wild swimming near York then Pool Bridge Farm needs to be your next destination. With multiple lakes surrounded by lush greenery, adult only areas, saunas and a larger family friendly lake for paddleboarding, kayaking and general water fun there really is something for everyone.

Where is Pool Bridge Farm?

Pool Bridge Farm is just 10 minutes from York City Centre near Crockey Hill. You’ll find it just off Wheldrake Lane from the A19.

Where can I park for Pool Bridge Farm?

Pool Bridge Farm has its own large car park at the entrance – and it’s free!

How much does it cost to wild swim at Pool Bridge Farm?

Costs vary for each activity and depending on whether you visit mid week or at the weekend. Check their website for up to date pricing. At the time of writing, rates were as follows;

• Mid week day ticket – from £8 p.p.
• Weekend day ticket – from £9 p.p.
• Paddleboarding (2 hour session) – from £9 p.p. Includes day access to the lakes for swimming.
• Sauna – from £15p.p. This includes day access to the lakes for swimming.

Do you need to pre-book for Pool Bridge Farm?

Yes – tickets should be purchased before arrival. Tickets are also checked upon entry at the car park. Sometimes day tickets sell out, especially during busy months and at weekends, so it’s best to book in advance. You can book tickets through their website here.

Wild swimming at Pool Bridge Farm

There are three adult only lakes (for those 18+) at Pool Bridge Farm and one family friendly one.

The Monet Lake

The Monet Lake is where you’ll find the most peaceful wild swimming near York. It’s 200m long and running up the centre are beautiful lily pads. There are steps down into the lake to make access easy and there is a large changing barn next to the lake. There are also benches to sit on and a large grassy bank to relax.

The M Lake

The M Lake is literally shaped like the letter M and gives a longer swim. If you swim around the whole perimeter it’s around 500m. Two saunas also sit lakeside to the M Lake.

The Horseshoe Lake

You’ll often find swimmers here doing laps of the 300m circuit as it is often used for exercise and training. However, it still remains very peaceful.

Q-Lake

The Q-Lake is the family friendly lake and children are welcome here. This is the newest – and largest – lake on the site with plenty of space and ideal to spend the day. Jumping off the jetties is a must do here to bring out your inner child . The lake is split into two; one side for paddleboarding/kayaking and the other for swimming/fun inflatables.

Paddleboarding and kayaking at Pool Bridge Farm

Paddleboarding and kayaking in York is perfect at Pool Bridge Farm and takes place on the Q-Lake.

• Sessions are 2 hour slots and
• Slots can be booked online
• Slots are available from 10am every day except Tuesday
• Equipment is not currently available for hire so bring your own paddleboards and kayaks
• Paddleboarding and kayaking only permitted on half the lake
• Your ticket also gives day entry to the rest of the lakes

Pool Bridge Farm additional info

• Dogs prohibited on site (unless they are guide dogs)
• No all male groups allowed without prior permission
• All under 18s must be accompanied (3:1 ratio)

Pool Bridge Farm is a wonderful site and one which I’m sure you’ll love. Let me know if you go because I love to hear about other people’s adventures. You can also follow me on Instagram (Wild_0utdoors) or, if you’re new to wild swimming, check out my beginner tips here. I’d also recommend checking out these waterfall wild swims in the Lake District: