Cold Water Swimming In Cornwall
I’ve just celebrated my first anniversary as a sea swimmer in Cornwall – and it really does feel like
something worth celebrating. Cold water swimming has made such as difference to my health and
wellbeing, and I manage to fit in a swim every day.
There’s been a lot written recently in the press and social media about the benefits of open water
swimming, and I’ve discovered that for once, the hype is absolutely right.
Cornwall, with over 400 miles of coastline, is the best place to live or visit if you love sea swimming.
In this latest blog for Newlyn Maids, I’ve written about my favourite outdoor swimming spots in
West Cornwall, as well as a bit more about this wonderful way to relax and keep fit.
How sea swimming helps
Swimming is one of the best all-round exercises you can do. Taking it outside increases the benefits,
especially when it comes to mental health. Mind Cornwall has a really helpful page about how cold
water swimming has a positive impact on our mental health, by boosting dopamine and happy
endorphins, and reducing anxiety through resilience building.
It’s also a mindful exercise. Swimming along each morning, it’s just me and the sea. Stock takes,
school runs, what to cook that evening… these everyday thoughts all take a back seat for a while.
There’s also a real sense of community. Even if you prefer to swim by yourself, when you get out of
the water (especially at a popular spot like Battery Rocks in Penzance), there are always fellow
swimmers to chat with.
And thanks to all those minerals, your skin feels great!
Preparing for a sea swim
Before taking the plunge, check the tide times, sea conditions and water quality. If any of these
aren’t right, I try a different location. An app like the one from marine charity Surfers Against
Sewage is really handy. Wherever I decide to swim, I always make sure my family knows where I am.
The right kit is important. For a quick summertime dip, a normal swimming costume is fine; however
for year-round swimming, rainy day dips and early mornings, a season-appropriate wetsuit is
essential, as well as neoprene gloves, shoes and a head covering.
One of the real pleasures of a sea swim is getting cosy again afterwards! A towelling robe is a great
idea for instant warmth, and I always pack a flask from Newlyn Maids.
My favourite sea swimming spots in Cornwall
Battery Rocks
I’ve already mentioned my favourite spot, Battery Rocks, behind the lido in Penzance. Swimmers of
all ages congregate here throughout the day, as they have done for generations. If you’re looking for
a community of swimmers, this welcoming place is the best.
Bamaluz Beach
Out of all the St Ives beaches, pretty little Bamaluz is my favourite, not least because it’s dog-friendly
so Teddy can join me. This sandy cove is reached down steep steps, so isn’t easily accessible
(Porthminster is another good St Ives swimming beach if you need level access).
Prussia Cove
This series of sandy coves near Rosudgeon has beautifully clear water (if you and your family like
snorkelling, Prussia Cove is an excellent place to try). Again, access isn’t easy because it’s quite a long
walk from the car park field down to the cove. However, it’s worth it for the joy of swimming in such
a gorgeous spot.
Nanjizal
Head way out west for the current favourite sea swimming spot, Nanjizal. You’ll need to park in
Porthgwarra or Land’s End and walk here along the coast path (both are about 2km from Nanjizal).
Once here, you’ll encounter sparking seas, gleaming sands and maybe even a seal or two. For
summer swimming only.
Tidal pools for chilled-out swimming
Abbey Basin
If the sea’s too rough off Battery Rocks, I walk down the road to Abbey Basin, a lake-like space
created by Penzance harbour. It’s a popular spot for swimmers, paddleboarders and families; so
again, if you’re looking for a community feel, it’s a good choice. Aim for just before or after high tide.
Bude Sea Pool
This is a lovely place for a swim. Bude Sea Pool started out as a natural pool, and was developed in
the 1930s to provide a safer place for swimming. It’s open all year and operates on a donations-only
basis. (Sorry, Teddy – no dogs allowed in the pool.
Porthtowan Tidal Pool
Unlike Bude, Porthtowan is completely man-made – I love the fact that it was blasted from the rocks
using explosives! It dates back to 1908, and since then, countless local kids have learned to swim
here. It’s still really popular, so come early or off-season if you want a peaceful dip.
Lidos: a great starting point
If you’re new to cold water swimming, start by (literally) dipping your toes in the water. A lido is an
excellent place for your first outdoor swim. If you’re swimming in West Cornwall, try these two.
Jubilee Pool
This beautiful Art Deco lido in Penzance is sea-fed, making Jubilee Pool a popular place among the
outdoor swimming community. There’s even a special Cold Water Club, which is held at 8am every
Tuesday and Thursday (this may vary).
Hayle Lido
Hayle Lido is smaller and less well-known than Jubilee, so it’s usually easy to get a few quiet lengths
in. The volunteer team has planted aromatic herbs and flowers around the poolside: floating on your
back, gazing up at the blue sky, you could almost be in a villa pool on a Greek island. You need to
book ahead: find Hayle Outdoor Swimming Pool on Facebook for details.
Maybe I’ll see you soon at Battery Rocks or the Basin? If you have a favourite swimming spot of your
own, please let me know – it’s always great to try new places.
