Winter Wild Swimming Guidance in Lochs and Rivers
For many of us, inland wild swimming doesn’t stop when the temperature drops—it simply changes. Winter swimming can be deeply
Orkney Wild Swim Adventure: Sea, Sun & Soul in the Far North
Sometimes, the magic of a wild swim lies not just in the water, but in the people you share it with—and Orkney offered us both in abundance.
Our journey began in Kirkwall, where a purposefully small, wonderfully varied group of swimmers came together from Scotland, England, and Italy. Some had never swum in the sea before, and what a revelation it would be—calm waters, golden light, and a landscape that felt both ancient and alive. With two experienced safety crew alongside us, we travelled in convoy, weaving our way across the Orkney mainland and forming friendships as fabulous as the waters we swam in.
Over 3½ days, we explored the length and breadth of this remarkable island, averaging three swims a day in wildly different locations. Each stop offered something new—from puffins to ancient stones, seaweed forests to white sand bays. Every dip had its own character, its own story, and its own kind of joy.
We eased into our adventure with two swims around Kirkwall, giving everyone a chance to acclimatise and take in the quiet power of sea swimming in this northern seascape. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect—a soft light, calm conditions, and the gentle hush that falls when swimmers first connect with cold water.
Our second day took us along the east coast of Orkney, swimming through secret coves, walking across causeways, and admiring the puffins as we paused between swims. A peaceful harbour dip brought smiles and laughter, and we finished the day with a spiritual visit to the Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar. There’s something about cold water that opens your heart—and standing among these Neolithic sites, we felt just how long people have drawn energy and reflection from this land.
We set off west from Kirkwall, and our first swim of the day was like stepping into a dream—crystal aqua water and a thoughtfully crafted stone path that led us gently into the sea. We climbed down the steps, surrounded by birdsong and wildflowers, the view from the top nothing short of breathtaking. And yes, a welcome bonus: a toilet on-site!
From there, we rolled into Stromness, ambling through the charming town, where swimmers indulged in crab rolls, bought locally ground flour, and Orkney wool—each item a small memento of place. Then it was back in the cars and off to a rugged clifftop, where we picked our way carefully over rocks to reach a swim like no other. We waded through shimmering kelp forests into a wide, wild bay. The water was invigorating, the views from the cliffs above awe-inspiring.
Our next stop was Skara Brae—an unforgettable opportunity to be immersed in history. The sweep of white sand below the Neolithic village added its own magic, a reminder of how long people have lived alongside this sea.
And finally, as the sun softened, we made our way to Ness Point to wind down with a sauna and sea dip combo with Orkney Hot Tubs. A perfect end: the deep heat of the sauna followed by a cool, clean dip off the slipway, as the joy of the day was embedded
Our final day took us south to Deerness and South Ronaldsay—and what a finale. Some say this was the best swim of all: through sea caves and around great sea stacks, a thrilling yet peaceful swim full of wonder and exploration.
We paused for sugary sustenance at the Polly Kettle café before heading to our next spot—a swim around the hauntingly beautiful sacrificial shipwreck at Churchill Barrier No. 3. Then a final walk along the Gloup’s clifftops, soaking in the last of the island’s vast skies and windswept beauty.
We ended the trip where it began—back in Kirkwall, with fish and chips by the harbour and heartfelt goodbyes. New friendships forged, confidence built, and a shared sense of joy and accomplishment wrapped around each swimmer like a warm towel.
There were so many firsts on this trip—for so many swimmers. First sea swims. First time navigating kelp. First time swimming through a cave or floating in ancient bays. It was a privilege to witness everyone grow more confident with each dip, supporting one another, swapping tips, and soaking up every salty second.
We left Orkney with tired limbs, full hearts, and plans to meet again on another swim adventure. Because once you’ve shared waters like these, the connection stays with you.
For many of us, inland wild swimming doesn’t stop when the temperature drops—it simply changes. Winter swimming can be deeply
I reached out to the pals I swim with as the magic of water resonates with so many people and
I asked my swim buddy to share with me his experience of cold water dipping and what I received was