Outdoor swimming in Scotland

‘Outdoor swimming in Scotland’ might seem like an oxymoron, but there’s always sunshine on Leith so there’s nothing to stop you from taking the plunge. David Lloyd’s Newhaven and Glasgow clubs have heated outdoor pools complete with sunloungers and parasols so if you squint your eyes you could be in the Med… honest.

For those a little braver, wild swimming has had something of a resurgence in the last few years, with wetsuit-clad fans taking to the country’s lochs and reservoirs for a dip. For two-time 10-kilometre open water world champion and Olympic silver medalist Keri-Anne Payne, the appeal lies in a sense of freedom. She says “there are no lane ropes, no fast lanes to navigate and no smell of chlorine, just an incredible buzz. Loch Lomond is my all time favourite place to swim, because the water is crystal clear.” Edinburgh’s Portobello beach is a popular spot, busiest during the summer months; while South Queensferry gives a pretty impressive view of the bridges if you take a pause to tread water. If you’re after a more serene swim, head to Threipmiur Reservoir in the Pentlands. Its high peat content means the water can be unseasonably warm, making for a less breath-stopping jump in.

Gourock pool (west of Glasgow) offers the best of all worlds. It ticks the outdoor and salt water boxes, but is also heated to 29 degrees and has changing facilities and showers. Best of all, on selected dates over the summer they’re open for midnight swimming, so you can gaze at the stars while you’re back-crawling. How nice does that sound? For details visit www.inverclydeleisure.com/ enterprise/GourockPool.