Cold water swimming in North Devon has become increasingly popular with visitors and locals who want more than just a beach walk or a summer paddle. For many people, cold water swimming has become a wellness ritual that they engage in to help improve their mental health and physical wellbeing. For others, it is a fun outdoor adventure that pushes them to their limits and challenges what they believe to be possible for themselves physically. For the rest, it is a social activity that allows them to connect with others who share their adventurous nature and enjoy being in the great outdoors.
When done sensibly, cold water swimming has many benefits and North Devon is a great destination to try it for yourself. North Devon boasts a dramatic coastline, numerous accessible beaches, tidal pools and a strong outdoor culture. Visitors come throughout the year looking to experience cold water swimming in North Devon and enjoy this exhilarating and restorative activity.
Why Has Cold Water Swimming Become So Popular?
You would have to live under a rock not to notice the enormous surge in popularity of cold water swimming. Practically all year round there dry robe clad swimmers shivering on the beaches, clutching steaming coffee to warm up after a chilly dip.
The trend seemed to really take off post-pandemic When you ask people why they enjoy cold water swimming in North Devon, many say that it feels like the antidote to modern life and gives them a break from screens, stress, and busyness whilst helping them reconnect to nature. The community element of sharing the experience is also part of the appeal.
Since 2020, when indoor swimming pools and gyms closed their doors, millions of Brits turned to local seas, rivers, and lakes for their daily exercise, mental health relief, and outdoor social connection. Since then, social media has been awash with people sharing their cold water escapades making it feel both aspirational and accessible.
The Benefits of Cold Water Swimming
The benefits of cold water swimming are often spoken about with almost evangelical enthusiasm, but it helps to separate what people report from what science is still trying to fully understand. Below are just a few of the cold water swimming benefits to be had.
A Natural Mood Boost
One thing that is reported repeatedly by cold water swimmers is that they often end up feeling calmer, clearer and more energised after a cold water dip. According to the science, the shock of cold water may trigger the release of endorphins, which are linked to mood and pain relief. It has also been suggested that dopamine may have a role to play, particularly when linked to motivation and rewards, whilst oxytocin has been linked to bonding and connection, which may help explain why group swimming can feel so powerful. Research is still developing in this area but many swimmers report these effects.
Connection With Nature
Whilst the effects of the cold water on the body are often discussed, cold water swimming in North Devon has the further benefit of allowing swimmers to connect with nature. Being outside enables cold water swimmers to notice the tides, watch the seasons change and feel part of the natural landscape.
North Devon is the perfect place to take advantage of these benefits and immerse yourself in the beauty of the rugged landscape through the changing seasons.
A Feeling of Community
The sense of community is probably one of the biggest draws of cold water swimming in North Devon. For many people, it isn’t a solitary activity, but something they do as a shared ritual with other like-minded people. Imagine turning up on the beach and doing something brave before the day even really gets started. Or marking the end of the day with a sundowner dip before going home for a night of peaceful sleep.
Those who gather to immerse their bodies in the icy waters, later emerge to wrap themselves in cosy dry robes, sharing hot chocolate or steaming coffee, perhaps a biscuit or two, while the sound of laughter and the glow of rosy cheeks helps them realise that they are in fact alive.
The social connection of cold water swimming in North Devon is a huge part of the attraction and the reason why so many people put themselves through the discomfort over and over, when it would be so much easier to stay on dry land.
The Science Behind Cold Water Swimming
The science clearly explains why people find cold water swimming so powerful. Through controlled exposure to cold temperatures, the body is put under stress. When the body enters cold water, blood vessels in the skin constrict, the heart rate rises, blood pressure increases and stress hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline are released.
For those who are not used to cold water water swimming, a real physiological shock occurs and involuntary rapid breathing can occur. This can feel particularly exhilarating but can carry with it real risks.
The Challenges and Risks of Cold Water Swimming
Cold water swimming may be trendy, but the risks are not imaginary. The water is powerful and must be approached with respect.
Cold Shock
One of the most immediate dangers is cold shock. That involuntary gasp, rapid breathing and the accompanying panic can lead to a loss of control. Because of this, it is advisable to enter the water slowly and calmly as opposed to jumping straight in. That way, you have a better chance of controlling your body’s response to the cold water.
Hypothermia and Afterdrop
Hypothermia is a real risk and can happen when the body’s core temperature drops too far. Cold water draws heat away from the body much faster than cold air, so swimmers can get into difficulty more quickly than expected. This is why you will often see lots of little wooly hats bobbing about in the sea, as swimmers do their best to retain as much body heat as possible.
Afterdrop can happen after leaving the water, when the body continues to cool during the early stages of rewarming. This is why it is so important to get dry and warm as quickly as possible after leaving the water. Make sure you have everything ready to help you do that: dry robe, towel, fluffy socks, warm clothes, wooly hat and gloves.
Know your own limits
Cold water affects everyone differently, so it’s important to listen closely to your own body and not compare your timing to somebody else’s timings. There is a common myth that you can safely stay in the water for one minute per degree of water temperature, however, you should never override the signals from your own body.
If you have any medical conditions such as heart conditions, high or low blood pressure, asthma, epilepsy, pregnancy or other medical concerns, you should seek proper advice before taking part in cold water swimming in North Devon.
Why North Devon is Perfect for Cold Water Swimming
North Devon has a rare combination of rugged coastline, sandy beaches, coves, tidal pools and open Atlantic water making it a perfect location for cold water swimmers. If you’re looking for an active break, wellbeing weekend, coastal adventure or simply a bracing way to start the day, North Devon could be just what you are looking for.
If you’re planning a holiday in Ilfracombe, our location allows you to combine sea swims with coastal walks, harbour strolls, good food, art, independent shops and trips to nearby beaches.
Best cold water swimming spots near Ilfracombe
There are a number of great wild swimming spots near Ilfracombe but as expected, the conditions vary wildly by tide, weather and location, so always check conditions and speak to local experts or cold water swim coaches in Ilfracombe before swimming to ensure safety.
Tunnels Beaches, Ilfracombe
Tunnels Beaches in Ilfracombe is a historic and atmospheric place to experience the sea in Ilfracombe. The tidal Victorian bathing pool is great if you want a memorable local experience without travelling far from town. Just remember to check opening times, access, tides and conditions before planning your dip.
Ilfracombe Harbour and nearby watersports
Ilfracombe has a strong relationship with the sea, from its working harbour to local leisure activities. If you’re a total newbie to cold water swimming, you can also take part in organised water activities near Ilfracombe, coaching or group sessions as a safer route than simply heading into open water alone.
Woolacombe Beach
Woolacombe is a beautiful, wide, sandy beach near Ilfracombe and one of North Devon’s best-known coastal spots. However, this location is better suited for confident swimmers and those who understand surf, currents and flags. It is important to remember that bigger beaches can mean bigger conditions.
Barricane Beach
Barricane is a smaller beach near Woolacombe with a more tucked-away feel. It is better known for shells and summer curry evenings, but worth visiting if a cold water dip is on the cards.
Rockham Beach, Mortehoe
Rockham beach is a secluded bay that feels wilder and more remote. If you love quieter, more atmospheric coastal places, this might be worth a visit. It is important to note that access is restricted at high tide, so checking tide times is essential.
Cold water swimming safety tips for beginners
The sea demands respect and should always be treated with absolute caution. Remember never to swim alone. Always go with experienced swimmers, a group, an instructor or someone who knows the area really well.
Enter the water slowly. Do not jump straight in, especially in winter. Always check tides, currents, weather, waves and access before entering the water and remember to plan your exit before you get in. Stay close to shore and do not swim out of your depth unless you have a lot of experience.
Wear suitable cold water swimming gear: swimsuit, wetsuit, neoprene gloves, boots, hat, tow float. You can get cold very quickly so wearing approriate protective clothing will help to keep you warm and safe. Don’t forget to get out before you feel cold or out of control and get dry and warm quickly afterwards.
Avoid swimming altogether if you feel unwell or exhausted, or if you are under the influence of alcohol, or unsure about the conditions.
It is important that you do not drive until you feel fully back to normal.
Make a Cold Water Swim Part of a North Devon Break
Cold water swimming is an excellent activity to include in a slow, restorative North Devon break. Start your day with an early cold water dip, followed by a hot drink, breakfast, a coastal walk, a lazy afternoon nap, then a wholesome locally-sourced, and seasonal dinner.
Spring breaks, autumn getaways and winter weekends are great for those of you looking for bracing coastal experiences. And The Carlton is a comfortable base where you can warm up, eat well and explore Ilfracombe, Woolacombe, Exmoor and the surrounding coast.
If you’re looking for adventures in North Devon and are ready to take the plunge, please call us on 01271 862446 to book your stay at The Carlton or email eliot@ilfracombecarlton.co.uk for further information.
Please call us on 01271 862446 to book your Art Trail stay or email eliot@ilfracombecarlton.co.uk for further information.
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