I Love Wild Swimming - and You Might Too
Cold water. Cloudy skies. Period? No problem.
That voice in your head saying “maybe not today”? Ignore it.
Because wild swimming isn’t just a hobby - it’s power. It’s freedom. It’s a full-body hell yes.
This week, we’re handing the mic to the incredible Ashlea from Manchester - wild swimmer, outdoors advocate, and total force of nature. She dives into how cold water has become her go-to for connection, clarity, and unapologetic joy... even on her period.
Yep, she’s doing it all - thanks to our leak-proof swimwear that lets nothing hold her back!
Let’s dive into Ashlea’s story…
Tell us about the first plunge. When did you first dive into wild swimming – and what made you say, “yep, I’m doing this”?
From secret festival dips to mid-hike swims, Ashlea’s always been called to water. Here’s how a lifelong love turned into a pandemic passion - and a full-blown community.
I’ve always been a water baby, there’s something about being near or in water that instantly puts me at ease. It feels like a safe tranquil space where I can properly breathe and just be. Wherever I go, I’ll always find a spot to dip, whether it’s mid-hike or sneaking in a swim between bar shifts at festivals, the photos say it all!
I started getting more consistent with wild swimming during the pandemic. It was fab for my health, and a great way to meet new people and reconnect with nature close to home. I even set up a swim meet-up group through the Manchester Girl Facebook group, where we’d post swim spots and hang out after. A few of us still swim together now, mostly in the spring and summer at Salford Quay
Ok, how about the why (even when It’s bloody freezing). What keeps you coming back, even when it’s freezing and your bed is very convincing?
Freezing temps? Rainy skies? No match for Ashlea’s wild swim mindset. Here’s what gets her out of bed when the water’s calling louder than the duvet.
Like I mentioned before, the water is my safe space, it’s where I feel most myself. Even when it’s freezing, or classic rainy Manchester doing its thing, I still go because I know how good I’ll feel during and afterwards, both physically and mentally. There’s something powerful about being active outdoors, whatever the weather. That mix of cold water, fresh air, and movement clears my head. It’s always worth it, no matter how cosy my bed is…
What's the payoff? What do you get out of it – body, mind, soul, whatever?
It’s more than a swim - it’s a total reset. Ashlea shares the mind-body magic that keeps her coming back for more (and why it never gets old).
Ahh, it’s hard to put into words, but as soon as the back of my head slips under the water, it’s like everything else just melts away. All the noise, stress, or overthinking disappears. Afterwards, I feel this perfect mix of calm and energised, like my body and mind have reset. It’s grounding, uplifting, and completely addictive in the best way.
Have you got one piece of advice for someone tempted to try it but still hovering at the edge?
On the fence? Ashlea’s got the pep talk, the practical tips, and the gentle push you need to stop hovering—and start dipping.
Go for it! Start somewhere supervised like Salford Quays or Sale Water Park, it’s a great way to build your confidence in a safe setting. I’m someone who thrives on the social side of being active (I’m also the captain of a grassroots football team), so I’d really recommend finding a swim community or meet-up group. It makes the whole experience safer, more fun, and a lot less intimidating. You might not love it, and that’s totally fine, but give it a go. You never know, it might just become your thing.
Ok, so please share your dip list goals... what are your favourite wild swim spots - and what is still on your to-do list?
From Peak District plunges to dreamy French coastlines, Ashlea’s always hunting her next swim spot. Here’s her fave so far - and what’s coming up next.
One of my all-time favourites has to be the dip l along the Three Shire Heads walk in the Peak District, absolutely freezing, but so worth it! I don’t really have a set wish list because I’m the type of person who’s always thinking, “right, where can I swim?” wherever I go.That said, I’m getting married at the end of this month (eek!) and we’re heading to Marseille and La Ciotat for our mini-moon, so I’m buzzing to explore swim spots around there, especially in the Parc des Calanques. Crystal-clear water and dramatic cliffs? Yaaas please!
So if you’ve been waiting for a sign? This is it. Grab your towel. Text that mate. on your period? Slip into your WUKA leak-proof swimwear. Find the nearest lake, river, or supervised swim spot - and just try it. Not for the likes, not for the brag - just for you. Because the water’s not just cold. It’s freeing, it’s healing, and it might just be exactly what you need.
Dive in. 💧
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