Cornwall wild swimming spots named among best in the UK
The list was compiled based on comments from wild swimmers across the UK and a water safety website.
Discussing the article, the publication wrote: "We outdoor swimmers are all devotees of our favourite spots. We worship local patches of clean water, especially during a heat wave.
"But where can you swim safely these days? Only 15 per cent of England's river stretches have good ecological health, according to The Rivers Trust.
"But the good news is there are still places we can go in the UK for a wild dip that are safe, open to the public and far enough away from sewage works and fisheries."
The full list of the UK's best wild swimming spots can be found on The Telegraph website here.
Why two Cornwall places are among the UK's best wild swimming spots
St Michael's Mount
St Michael's Mount is like "something from a medieval fantasy" according to The Telegraph, but it's not the site's inherent beauty that earns it points here.
They add: "There are many different swims to enjoy in Mount's Bay. You can even thread your way over the causeway when it's submerged – just watch out for boats.
The waters around St Michael's Mount are said to be great for wild swimming (Image: Julie Ann Photography/Camera Club)
"Alternatively, some swimmers circumnavigate St Michael's Mount, hugging the shore to keep their exits close.
"You can take in the sub-tropical gardens from the eastern side and marvel at the Caribbean blue-green of the water on a sunny day."
Polurrian Beach
Pollurrian Beach is just one part of the Lizard Peninsula where you'll be spoilt for choice on where to swim.
The Telegraph says: "On summer days, you can tuck yourself into the bay to escape the Atlantic bluster. Just know the outgoing tide is strong near the headlands, so be careful if you decide to head farther out.
"Explorers can climb the headland that separates the beach from Mullion Cove for the best view.
Water safety tips
"At low tide, more of the golden sands emerge, flanked by tall cliffs. Rugged coastal paths connect this spot to Poldhu Cove, Gunwalloe Beach and Kynance Cove."
Overall, the beach has been well-received by visitors, earning a 4.7/5 score from 193 ratings on Google Reviews.
Additionally, the beach can be accessed from the Polurrian on the Beach hotel, which has earned a 4.3/5 score on Tripadvisor from 1,730 reviews.
Recommended reading:
Wild swimming safety tips
Before you venture out to take part in a touch of wild/open water swimming, there are some safety tips from the RNLI you should consider:
Make sure you're prepared for your wild/open water swim - check the weather and tides, choose your spot, go with a buddy, and have the right equipment.
If in doubt, don't go out - no matter how much preparation you do, or how experienced you are, if a swim doesn't feel right there is no shame in getting out of the water straight away, or not entering.
Make sure you acclimatise to avoid cold water shock.
Be seen. Wear a bright coloured swim hat and take a tow float.
Stay within your depths.
Float to live.
If you get caught in an emergency situation while out wild swimming, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.
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