When the weather is good, we all want a quick splash but if you’re not near a pool, you don’t have to miss out. East Devon is full of wonderful spots where you can enjoy some wild swimming, which is growing in popularity as a mindfulness activity, as well as being funny and giving you the chance to enjoy the natural environment.

We’ve put together some of our favourite spots to go wild swimming in East Devon that are within easy reach of Sidmouth. That way, if you’re visiting and you fancy giving it a go, you have plenty of options!

Of course, there is always Sidmouth Town Beach which is lovely for a spot of paddling and is a safe and clean place to enjoy a swim. During the summer, the beach can get quite busy, so do be aware of other beach users.

Not that far from Sidmouth’s town centre is Ladram Bay with its iconic sea stacks. The beach is perfect for swimming and is a popular with anglers, water sports enthusiasts, families and swimmers alike. While the beach is private, you don’t have to be a guest at the adjoining holiday park to use the beach itself, but being attached to the park, you can be sure that the water is safe to swim in and there are a host of facilities and amenities just a short walk away.

For those of you on the hunt for something a little more wild, make the short journey to the nearby village of Ottery St Mary where you can swim in the River Otter. Often listed as one of Devon’s best wild swimming spots, the river can be easily accessed via a field which is often visited by those wanting a picnic or to sunbath. Swimmers will want to head to Fluxton Weir which is a calmer area of the river and even has a natural jacuzzi and a rope swing for additional fun.

Another spot just outside of Sidmouth is at Pounds Pool Beach, which you can find in the village of Beer. Head to Beer Head where you can see those incredible cliffs and enjoy a swim from the bay. Though this is a relatively safe space to swim without strong currents, the beach does descend steeply which can take less confident swimmers by surprise, so as always when swimming around the county, be aware and make sure not to head out alone in case you get into any trouble.

Where are your favourite swimming spots? You can let us know on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!