The British Isles are blessed with a whole variety of waterways often encompassed within beautiful valleys, rolling hills, green fields and rugged coast lines. The presence of a flowing stream, waterfall or an idyllic pond can enhance a picturesque landscape.

While swimming in the moat located in his own back garden, inspired by thoughts of his son's current quest travelling in Australia and John Cheever's classic short story, The Swimmer, Roger Deakin decided he would undertake his own adventure and swim across Britain.

The Rambling Association's Right to Roam campaign is well publicised in the UK, so should that not include our right to swim in our lakes, dykes, and tarns? Deakin was ready to prove it did and planned a trip around Britain which would take him to numerous wild swimming venues.

Waterlog, is Deakin's account of his journey. He seeks out tarns high in the hills of north Wales, swims with salmon in Somerset and eels in the Fens. He describes the nature he sees around him from his unusual perspective inches above water level. His love of swimming away from the confines of a swimming pool comes through strongly in his writing. Wild swimming is an unusual hobby in modern society as we are constantly told how our rivers and lakes have become polluted by large industries disposing of waste via waterways and chemical fertilisers washing off farmers fields into out rivers. During his visit to a weir on the River Avon in Worcestershire, Deakin's hosts and fellow swimmers show him a letter they have received from the local environment agency outlining the dangers of swimming in the river. The letter describes how sewage can constitute up to 80 percent of the river flow and increase the risk of catching Weil's disease. Deakin takes in the scientific argument, arguing that the figures show that very few people catch Weil's Disease in the UK and of those who do, they are invariably not river swimmers.

Deakin has produced a deeply personal account of his journey. He informs us of any cultural, historical or geographic points of interest in a highly descriptive writing style which does not, however, read as an adventure story. Unfortunately, this means there is no climax to the book as a whole, but it does mean each chapter stands alone as a description of each area. Together, they make an interesting read and leave the reader with a wealth of information from an unusual perspective. --Stephen Payne

Perfect, 18 Nov 2008

I'm only about a third of the way through this book but wanted to add to the reviews on the site. If, like me, you happen on this page by accident and think "why not?" please follow through with that first thought and buy this amazing book. It's so rare to find work that really cant be criticised and this, the eloquent reflections of what must have been a wonderful man, could well be one of those rare finds. It's exceptionally well written, filled with intimate details of what England must have been like in less commercial times and as fluid, rhythmic and enchanting as the rivers and streams the author so clearly loves. Did I mention you should buy it?

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Perfect, 18 Nov 2008

I'm only about a third of the way through this book but wanted to add to the reviews on the site. If, like me, you happen on this page by accident and think "why not?" please follow through with that first thought and buy this amazing book. It's so rare to find work that really cant be criticised and this, the eloquent reflections of what must have been a wonderful man, could well be one of those rare finds. It's exceptionally well written, filled with intimate details of what England must have been like in less commercial times and as fluid, rhythmic and enchanting as the rivers and streams the author so clearly loves. Did I mention you should buy it?

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Disappointed there's no Europe???, 30 Dec 2008
This book is slightly mis-advertised, though at no fault of Amazon, the actual publishers.

Advertised as 'the worlds greatest destinations', this isn't strictly true as there are no destinations at all from Europe here, only the Americas, some parts of Asia and Australia. You'd think that the Red Sea would be in there somewhere considering its one of the bet places (if not the best) in the world, though not even a mention from the author.

However, great book, fantastic photos, and very good advice from the Author. 3/5

Perfect, 18 Nov 2008

I'm only about a third of the way through this book but wanted to add to the reviews on the site. If, like me, you happen on this page by accident and think "why not?" please follow through with that first thought and buy this amazing book. It's so rare to find work that really cant be criticised and this, the eloquent reflections of what must have been a wonderful man, could well be one of those rare finds. It's exceptionally well written, filled with intimate details of what England must have been like in less commercial times and as fluid, rhythmic and enchanting as the rivers and streams the author so clearly loves. Did I mention you should buy it?

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Disappointed there's no Europe???, 30 Dec 2008
This book is slightly mis-advertised, though at no fault of Amazon, the actual publishers.

Advertised as 'the worlds greatest destinations', this isn't strictly true as there are no destinations at all from Europe here, only the Americas, some parts of Asia and Australia. You'd think that the Red Sea would be in there somewhere considering its one of the bet places (if not the best) in the world, though not even a mention from the author.

However, great book, fantastic photos, and very good advice from the Author. 3/5

Wild Swimming, 04 Aug 2008
There are very many things that I love about this book. So far I've had it a very short time and have already had an incredibly therapeutic swim, about 10 miles from where I have lived for over 20 years, which I had no idea was there. It was the most beautiful spot and the pub recommended in the book was such a find, being friendly, serving good beer and food, having a gorgeous wildflower garden and being over a thousand years old.

Having this book means I am much more likely to get out and swim in beautiful places, and not just paddle, worried about currents, debris and pond weed. So all those good intentions are finally coming good and I can entice friends along too. It's definitely going to be the basis of many UK holidays to come.

I'm also impressed that the directions are so concise yet so clear and straightforward to follow - rare for a guide book.

I can't recommend this book enough.

New ways to explore Britain by foot or cycle, 10 Jul 2008
This book has been reviewed on several outdoor forums and magazines and works well as a nice blend of clear reliable guidebook plus photo travelogue. It's aimed as much at the walker or family looking for an unusual summer outing and picnic, as it is for the 'swimmer'. For me it was a perfect timing as last year I decided to be free from all flying as the biggest and easiest way to reduce my carbon emissions.

The swim boxes are particularly useful as they contain 8 point grid references (good for walkers), postcodes (good for drivers) and very detailed walk-in directions in case you don't have a map (with timings and path difficulties). There's also water quality and whether the swim is a paddle, swim, dunk, dive and so forth, and what else to do if it's too cold, including nearest pubs and campsites.

About 250 places are grid referenced in all (150 with full box panels). There's coverage of interesting places like ancient baptism pools, river tubing canyons, clear chalk streams, places to find otters, catch crayfish, slide down rock pools or find famous locations like the Swallow and Amazons islands.

There's a enough in the adventure of finding and reading about each place to mean it doesn't matter if you don't swim.

All in all it seems very well put together.


Wild swimming - a must-have, 08 Jul 2008
Wild Swimming manages to be both a delightful coffee-table book that one can dip into on a cold winter evening, and also a practical and well-organised guide book. Daniel Start's stunning photographs and lively commentary will entice would-be swimmers to seek out his favourite spots, and the systematic information will enable them to find them. The book lists the key details for each site including the map reference, post code, water quality, a brief description of type of swim and how to get there. It's not just a book for hardened swimmers, Daniel doesn't forget the children suggesting good places to paddle and some innovative ideas for fun on the banks. It's a book for anyone who enjoys wild swimming - or who would like to try it.

what a great book!, 08 Jul 2008
I was really excited to discover this book. I am a keen swimmer and have always really enjoyed swimming outdoors. I wanted to explore 'wild swimming' but didn't know where to start. This book gave me lots of ideas and now I'm hooked! Highly recommmended!

Making Waves, 08 Jul 2008
I am considered to be rather keen to want to swim in any water I come across, in any weather. This book makes me realise that I am not alone, and that my passion even has a name - 'wild swimming'. It is a fantastically user friendly, and not to mention beautifully illustrated, guide to some of the best fresh-water swims around the UK. It is a delight to dip into or read from cover to cover and has given me tons of ideas about new places to jump into.

Go on - get the book, get on your bike and then get into that water. You know you want to!

Perfect, 18 Nov 2008

I'm only about a third of the way through this book but wanted to add to the reviews on the site. If, like me, you happen on this page by accident and think "why not?" please follow through with that first thought and buy this amazing book. It's so rare to find work that really cant be criticised and this, the eloquent reflections of what must have been a wonderful man, could well be one of those rare finds. It's exceptionally well written, filled with intimate details of what England must have been like in less commercial times and as fluid, rhythmic and enchanting as the rivers and streams the author so clearly loves. Did I mention you should buy it?

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Disappointed there's no Europe???, 30 Dec 2008
This book is slightly mis-advertised, though at no fault of Amazon, the actual publishers.

Advertised as 'the worlds greatest destinations', this isn't strictly true as there are no destinations at all from Europe here, only the Americas, some parts of Asia and Australia. You'd think that the Red Sea would be in there somewhere considering its one of the bet places (if not the best) in the world, though not even a mention from the author.

However, great book, fantastic photos, and very good advice from the Author. 3/5

Wild Swimming, 04 Aug 2008
There are very many things that I love about this book. So far I've had it a very short time and have already had an incredibly therapeutic swim, about 10 miles from where I have lived for over 20 years, which I had no idea was there. It was the most beautiful spot and the pub recommended in the book was such a find, being friendly, serving good beer and food, having a gorgeous wildflower garden and being over a thousand years old.

Having this book means I am much more likely to get out and swim in beautiful places, and not just paddle, worried about currents, debris and pond weed. So all those good intentions are finally coming good and I can entice friends along too. It's definitely going to be the basis of many UK holidays to come.

I'm also impressed that the directions are so concise yet so clear and straightforward to follow - rare for a guide book.

I can't recommend this book enough.

New ways to explore Britain by foot or cycle, 10 Jul 2008
This book has been reviewed on several outdoor forums and magazines and works well as a nice blend of clear reliable guidebook plus photo travelogue. It's aimed as much at the walker or family looking for an unusual summer outing and picnic, as it is for the 'swimmer'. For me it was a perfect timing as last year I decided to be free from all flying as the biggest and easiest way to reduce my carbon emissions.

The swim boxes are particularly useful as they contain 8 point grid references (good for walkers), postcodes (good for drivers) and very detailed walk-in directions in case you don't have a map (with timings and path difficulties). There's also water quality and whether the swim is a paddle, swim, dunk, dive and so forth, and what else to do if it's too cold, including nearest pubs and campsites.

About 250 places are grid referenced in all (150 with full box panels). There's coverage of interesting places like ancient baptism pools, river tubing canyons, clear chalk streams, places to find otters, catch crayfish, slide down rock pools or find famous locations like the Swallow and Amazons islands.

There's a enough in the adventure of finding and reading about each place to mean it doesn't matter if you don't swim.

All in all it seems very well put together.


Wild swimming - a must-have, 08 Jul 2008
Wild Swimming manages to be both a delightful coffee-table book that one can dip into on a cold winter evening, and also a practical and well-organised guide book. Daniel Start's stunning photographs and lively commentary will entice would-be swimmers to seek out his favourite spots, and the systematic information will enable them to find them. The book lists the key details for each site including the map reference, post code, water quality, a brief description of type of swim and how to get there. It's not just a book for hardened swimmers, Daniel doesn't forget the children suggesting good places to paddle and some innovative ideas for fun on the banks. It's a book for anyone who enjoys wild swimming - or who would like to try it.

what a great book!, 08 Jul 2008
I was really excited to discover this book. I am a keen swimmer and have always really enjoyed swimming outdoors. I wanted to explore 'wild swimming' but didn't know where to start. This book gave me lots of ideas and now I'm hooked! Highly recommmended!

Making Waves, 08 Jul 2008
I am considered to be rather keen to want to swim in any water I come across, in any weather. This book makes me realise that I am not alone, and that my passion even has a name - 'wild swimming'. It is a fantastically user friendly, and not to mention beautifully illustrated, guide to some of the best fresh-water swims around the UK. It is a delight to dip into or read from cover to cover and has given me tons of ideas about new places to jump into.

Go on - get the book, get on your bike and then get into that water. You know you want to!

A nice book, strangely organized though., 28 Dec 2008
This is a really nice book for a read or browse at home. The swimming sites aren't listed geographically though, so if you're planning a holiday, in Cornwall say, you have be constantly flicking around the book to find relevant listings. This means you almost need to make notes to make use of it. Otherwise very interesting.

Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

Perfect, 18 Nov 2008

I'm only about a third of the way through this book but wanted to add to the reviews on the site. If, like me, you happen on this page by accident and think "why not?" please follow through with that first thought and buy this amazing book. It's so rare to find work that really cant be criticised and this, the eloquent reflections of what must have been a wonderful man, could well be one of those rare finds. It's exceptionally well written, filled with intimate details of what England must have been like in less commercial times and as fluid, rhythmic and enchanting as the rivers and streams the author so clearly loves. Did I mention you should buy it?

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Disappointed there's no Europe???, 30 Dec 2008
This book is slightly mis-advertised, though at no fault of Amazon, the actual publishers.

Advertised as 'the worlds greatest destinations', this isn't strictly true as there are no destinations at all from Europe here, only the Americas, some parts of Asia and Australia. You'd think that the Red Sea would be in there somewhere considering its one of the bet places (if not the best) in the world, though not even a mention from the author.

However, great book, fantastic photos, and very good advice from the Author. 3/5

Wild Swimming, 04 Aug 2008
There are very many things that I love about this book. So far I've had it a very short time and have already had an incredibly therapeutic swim, about 10 miles from where I have lived for over 20 years, which I had no idea was there. It was the most beautiful spot and the pub recommended in the book was such a find, being friendly, serving good beer and food, having a gorgeous wildflower garden and being over a thousand years old.

Having this book means I am much more likely to get out and swim in beautiful places, and not just paddle, worried about currents, debris and pond weed. So all those good intentions are finally coming good and I can entice friends along too. It's definitely going to be the basis of many UK holidays to come.

I'm also impressed that the directions are so concise yet so clear and straightforward to follow - rare for a guide book.

I can't recommend this book enough.

New ways to explore Britain by foot or cycle, 10 Jul 2008
This book has been reviewed on several outdoor forums and magazines and works well as a nice blend of clear reliable guidebook plus photo travelogue. It's aimed as much at the walker or family looking for an unusual summer outing and picnic, as it is for the 'swimmer'. For me it was a perfect timing as last year I decided to be free from all flying as the biggest and easiest way to reduce my carbon emissions.

The swim boxes are particularly useful as they contain 8 point grid references (good for walkers), postcodes (good for drivers) and very detailed walk-in directions in case you don't have a map (with timings and path difficulties). There's also water quality and whether the swim is a paddle, swim, dunk, dive and so forth, and what else to do if it's too cold, including nearest pubs and campsites.

About 250 places are grid referenced in all (150 with full box panels). There's coverage of interesting places like ancient baptism pools, river tubing canyons, clear chalk streams, places to find otters, catch crayfish, slide down rock pools or find famous locations like the Swallow and Amazons islands.

There's a enough in the adventure of finding and reading about each place to mean it doesn't matter if you don't swim.

All in all it seems very well put together.


Wild swimming - a must-have, 08 Jul 2008
Wild Swimming manages to be both a delightful coffee-table book that one can dip into on a cold winter evening, and also a practical and well-organised guide book. Daniel Start's stunning photographs and lively commentary will entice would-be swimmers to seek out his favourite spots, and the systematic information will enable them to find them. The book lists the key details for each site including the map reference, post code, water quality, a brief description of type of swim and how to get there. It's not just a book for hardened swimmers, Daniel doesn't forget the children suggesting good places to paddle and some innovative ideas for fun on the banks. It's a book for anyone who enjoys wild swimming - or who would like to try it.

what a great book!, 08 Jul 2008
I was really excited to discover this book. I am a keen swimmer and have always really enjoyed swimming outdoors. I wanted to explore 'wild swimming' but didn't know where to start. This book gave me lots of ideas and now I'm hooked! Highly recommmended!

Making Waves, 08 Jul 2008
I am considered to be rather keen to want to swim in any water I come across, in any weather. This book makes me realise that I am not alone, and that my passion even has a name - 'wild swimming'. It is a fantastically user friendly, and not to mention beautifully illustrated, guide to some of the best fresh-water swims around the UK. It is a delight to dip into or read from cover to cover and has given me tons of ideas about new places to jump into.

Go on - get the book, get on your bike and then get into that water. You know you want to!

A nice book, strangely organized though., 28 Dec 2008
This is a really nice book for a read or browse at home. The swimming sites aren't listed geographically though, so if you're planning a holiday, in Cornwall say, you have be constantly flicking around the book to find relevant listings. This means you almost need to make notes to make use of it. Otherwise very interesting.

Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

Learn to love the water and do it with ease, 28 Dec 2008
Learn to love the water and do it with ease

A couple of years ago I joined the gym against my better judgement. I started by doing yoga as there were three classes a week so I felt I got my moneys worth. I then discovered as one of the few blokes in the class that I was not strong enough to hold certain poses.I went to the very nice pool and started doing a few lengths of the breast stroke.

I considered myself an average to good swimmer but I only do the breast stroke.I started on twenty lengths then built up to as much as an hour in which I could do a mile or 81 lengths.

As I watched other swimmers overtaking me I realised I was an average to poor swimmer but satisfied myself by thinking that maybe the people who use the pool and hammer up and down doing lengths are a self selecting group of good swimmers.

I then toyed with the idea of learning the crawl. I can do one length by sheer willpower and strenght and mainly holding my breath.

I signed up for some classes and at the same time started reading total immersion.At first I made all the basic mistakes. I would thrash up the pool holding my breath then expire at the end.

She gave me some drills particularly for the legs as I had never ever done a crawl leg movement, When I followed her instructions and relaxed into the stroke it got better.

I now use the ideas from the book on breast stroke that is long stokes and it works. I am now faster and less tired.

It is difficult describing and teaching a skill from a book but it does pay dividends if you keep going back to it and thinking about what you are doing as you swim.

Last night at my swimming class I achieved what I thought I would never do that is two whole lengths .I can do any number of lengths on the breast stroke so if I have got the method right I should be able to apply the same to the crawl.

If I can do two I can do four etc.

I have read a lot of the reviews of this book and yes the techniques could have been shortened to just a few pages. I was not taught any method of swimming and I learnt to swim on my own but adopted a breast stroke style. All revolutionary ideas sound easy but are more difficult to perform particularly if we have learn the wrong method.

When I watch the best swimmers in the pool I see they hardly disturb the water whereas the less able do exaggerated arm and legs movements which cause waves.A good swimmer like any great performer makes it look easy. It is because if looks easy that we think it is easy. If it is the application of a lot of practice and learning a new technique that makes it look so.

Subject to it being over long and prone to hype this is a great book and I will be noting the drills and doing them until I can do eighty lengths of the crawl on a regular basis.

I started out by hating the crawl as it was a chore now I look forward to it as every time I do it I improve. I have still not cracked the breathing problem but I think about it a lot less and think more about my technique.In ten months since I started the crawl I have come a long way but long strokes are the best.I can now do 81 individual lengths with short breaks.

If you want to improve your swimming this is the book for you.

Better Technique = Better Swimming, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not a big swimmer, but I heard so much about this book that I had to check it out- and I'm glad I did. This book will save a lot of people who are trying to learn to swim better a lot of time. Here's why:

-the book concentrates on swimming technique, correct position, and how you're suppose to feel in the water
-the book gives you drills to reinforce the most efficient way to swim
-the book is very scientific and the info is based on hydrodynamics

The book covers a lot of ground, but the authors writing style makes is go by quickly (at least it did for me). The pictures were good and I thought the explanations of the techniques and the "why" behind them was very understandable. Not sure about the rotator cuff routine in Chapter 16 though- it's kinda long and I'm not sure if some of the exercises like the reverse biceps curl is really necessary (rec. Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff for swimmers who have shoulder issues).

In conclusion, I found the book very enlightening and recommend it to anyone (young OR old) who wants to learn how to swim more efficiently by learning the correct swimming techniques. The author obviously loves swimming and has brought all his years of experience and research into one handy resource.

YOU MUST FINISH THE BOOK..PLEASE!, 14 May 2008
While i completely agree with the prognosis that the first 100 pages are mostly a self promotion exercise, this book will totaly change your swimming ability, both in open water and the pool. I bought it off the back of "Triathlon 101"[another awesome book]and like one of the other reviewers, was not capable of more than a couple of lengths without being very out of breath, now however it seems the skys the limit. I now swim good distances at sea with no problem, just really enjoying the exercise.
So stick with it, dont give up, its one of the few "revolutionary method" books out there that does what it promises..good luck

Strung out and waffly - hoping it has potential, 08 May 2008
I'm sure this book has potential, as the reviews suggest, but it is very waffly and there is a lot of hype in the book. The first few chapters kept talking about how revolutionary the idea is and how it really works. After a few chapters of this, I got bored and impatient and put the book down. I hope that once I've overcome these frustrations, I'll try to reference the necessary information, which I'm sure is very useful.

Persist with the book please!, 20 Mar 2008
If you are like me - a cheap student who likes to teach themselves everything, this book is perfect! yes it can be alot to get through, especially the 1st 100 pages! But the drills are excellent, I have made such and improvement in only a few days. Not only that but i enjoy swimming now! and manage to find the time to go everyday! where before I used to dread it!

for 5.99 what have you got to loose? you will not be dissappointed!

Perfect, 18 Nov 2008

I'm only about a third of the way through this book but wanted to add to the reviews on the site. If, like me, you happen on this page by accident and think "why not?" please follow through with that first thought and buy this amazing book. It's so rare to find work that really cant be criticised and this, the eloquent reflections of what must have been a wonderful man, could well be one of those rare finds. It's exceptionally well written, filled with intimate details of what England must have been like in less commercial times and as fluid, rhythmic and enchanting as the rivers and streams the author so clearly loves. Did I mention you should buy it?

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Disappointed there's no Europe???, 30 Dec 2008
This book is slightly mis-advertised, though at no fault of Amazon, the actual publishers.

Advertised as 'the worlds greatest destinations', this isn't strictly true as there are no destinations at all from Europe here, only the Americas, some parts of Asia and Australia. You'd think that the Red Sea would be in there somewhere considering its one of the bet places (if not the best) in the world, though not even a mention from the author.

However, great book, fantastic photos, and very good advice from the Author. 3/5

Wild Swimming, 04 Aug 2008
There are very many things that I love about this book. So far I've had it a very short time and have already had an incredibly therapeutic swim, about 10 miles from where I have lived for over 20 years, which I had no idea was there. It was the most beautiful spot and the pub recommended in the book was such a find, being friendly, serving good beer and food, having a gorgeous wildflower garden and being over a thousand years old.

Having this book means I am much more likely to get out and swim in beautiful places, and not just paddle, worried about currents, debris and pond weed. So all those good intentions are finally coming good and I can entice friends along too. It's definitely going to be the basis of many UK holidays to come.

I'm also impressed that the directions are so concise yet so clear and straightforward to follow - rare for a guide book.

I can't recommend this book enough.

New ways to explore Britain by foot or cycle, 10 Jul 2008
This book has been reviewed on several outdoor forums and magazines and works well as a nice blend of clear reliable guidebook plus photo travelogue. It's aimed as much at the walker or family looking for an unusual summer outing and picnic, as it is for the 'swimmer'. For me it was a perfect timing as last year I decided to be free from all flying as the biggest and easiest way to reduce my carbon emissions.

The swim boxes are particularly useful as they contain 8 point grid references (good for walkers), postcodes (good for drivers) and very detailed walk-in directions in case you don't have a map (with timings and path difficulties). There's also water quality and whether the swim is a paddle, swim, dunk, dive and so forth, and what else to do if it's too cold, including nearest pubs and campsites.

About 250 places are grid referenced in all (150 with full box panels). There's coverage of interesting places like ancient baptism pools, river tubing canyons, clear chalk streams, places to find otters, catch crayfish, slide down rock pools or find famous locations like the Swallow and Amazons islands.

There's a enough in the adventure of finding and reading about each place to mean it doesn't matter if you don't swim.

All in all it seems very well put together.


Wild swimming - a must-have, 08 Jul 2008
Wild Swimming manages to be both a delightful coffee-table book that one can dip into on a cold winter evening, and also a practical and well-organised guide book. Daniel Start's stunning photographs and lively commentary will entice would-be swimmers to seek out his favourite spots, and the systematic information will enable them to find them. The book lists the key details for each site including the map reference, post code, water quality, a brief description of type of swim and how to get there. It's not just a book for hardened swimmers, Daniel doesn't forget the children suggesting good places to paddle and some innovative ideas for fun on the banks. It's a book for anyone who enjoys wild swimming - or who would like to try it.

what a great book!, 08 Jul 2008
I was really excited to discover this book. I am a keen swimmer and have always really enjoyed swimming outdoors. I wanted to explore 'wild swimming' but didn't know where to start. This book gave me lots of ideas and now I'm hooked! Highly recommmended!

Making Waves, 08 Jul 2008
I am considered to be rather keen to want to swim in any water I come across, in any weather. This book makes me realise that I am not alone, and that my passion even has a name - 'wild swimming'. It is a fantastically user friendly, and not to mention beautifully illustrated, guide to some of the best fresh-water swims around the UK. It is a delight to dip into or read from cover to cover and has given me tons of ideas about new places to jump into.

Go on - get the book, get on your bike and then get into that water. You know you want to!

A nice book, strangely organized though., 28 Dec 2008
This is a really nice book for a read or browse at home. The swimming sites aren't listed geographically though, so if you're planning a holiday, in Cornwall say, you have be constantly flicking around the book to find relevant listings. This means you almost need to make notes to make use of it. Otherwise very interesting.

Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

Learn to love the water and do it with ease, 28 Dec 2008
Learn to love the water and do it with ease

A couple of years ago I joined the gym against my better judgement. I started by doing yoga as there were three classes a week so I felt I got my moneys worth. I then discovered as one of the few blokes in the class that I was not strong enough to hold certain poses.I went to the very nice pool and started doing a few lengths of the breast stroke.

I considered myself an average to good swimmer but I only do the breast stroke.I started on twenty lengths then built up to as much as an hour in which I could do a mile or 81 lengths.

As I watched other swimmers overtaking me I realised I was an average to poor swimmer but satisfied myself by thinking that maybe the people who use the pool and hammer up and down doing lengths are a self selecting group of good swimmers.

I then toyed with the idea of learning the crawl. I can do one length by sheer willpower and strenght and mainly holding my breath.

I signed up for some classes and at the same time started reading total immersion.At first I made all the basic mistakes. I would thrash up the pool holding my breath then expire at the end.

She gave me some drills particularly for the legs as I had never ever done a crawl leg movement, When I followed her instructions and relaxed into the stroke it got better.

I now use the ideas from the book on breast stroke that is long stokes and it works. I am now faster and less tired.

It is difficult describing and teaching a skill from a book but it does pay dividends if you keep going back to it and thinking about what you are doing as you swim.

Last night at my swimming class I achieved what I thought I would never do that is two whole lengths .I can do any number of lengths on the breast stroke so if I have got the method right I should be able to apply the same to the crawl.

If I can do two I can do four etc.

I have read a lot of the reviews of this book and yes the techniques could have been shortened to just a few pages. I was not taught any method of swimming and I learnt to swim on my own but adopted a breast stroke style. All revolutionary ideas sound easy but are more difficult to perform particularly if we have learn the wrong method.

When I watch the best swimmers in the pool I see they hardly disturb the water whereas the less able do exaggerated arm and legs movements which cause waves.A good swimmer like any great performer makes it look easy. It is because if looks easy that we think it is easy. If it is the application of a lot of practice and learning a new technique that makes it look so.

Subject to it being over long and prone to hype this is a great book and I will be noting the drills and doing them until I can do eighty lengths of the crawl on a regular basis.

I started out by hating the crawl as it was a chore now I look forward to it as every time I do it I improve. I have still not cracked the breathing problem but I think about it a lot less and think more about my technique.In ten months since I started the crawl I have come a long way but long strokes are the best.I can now do 81 individual lengths with short breaks.

If you want to improve your swimming this is the book for you.

Better Technique = Better Swimming, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not a big swimmer, but I heard so much about this book that I had to check it out- and I'm glad I did. This book will save a lot of people who are trying to learn to swim better a lot of time. Here's why:

-the book concentrates on swimming technique, correct position, and how you're suppose to feel in the water
-the book gives you drills to reinforce the most efficient way to swim
-the book is very scientific and the info is based on hydrodynamics

The book covers a lot of ground, but the authors writing style makes is go by quickly (at least it did for me). The pictures were good and I thought the explanations of the techniques and the "why" behind them was very understandable. Not sure about the rotator cuff routine in Chapter 16 though- it's kinda long and I'm not sure if some of the exercises like the reverse biceps curl is really necessary (rec. Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff for swimmers who have shoulder issues).

In conclusion, I found the book very enlightening and recommend it to anyone (young OR old) who wants to learn how to swim more efficiently by learning the correct swimming techniques. The author obviously loves swimming and has brought all his years of experience and research into one handy resource.

YOU MUST FINISH THE BOOK..PLEASE!, 14 May 2008
While i completely agree with the prognosis that the first 100 pages are mostly a self promotion exercise, this book will totaly change your swimming ability, both in open water and the pool. I bought it off the back of "Triathlon 101"[another awesome book]and like one of the other reviewers, was not capable of more than a couple of lengths without being very out of breath, now however it seems the skys the limit. I now swim good distances at sea with no problem, just really enjoying the exercise.
So stick with it, dont give up, its one of the few "revolutionary method" books out there that does what it promises..good luck

Strung out and waffly - hoping it has potential, 08 May 2008
I'm sure this book has potential, as the reviews suggest, but it is very waffly and there is a lot of hype in the book. The first few chapters kept talking about how revolutionary the idea is and how it really works. After a few chapters of this, I got bored and impatient and put the book down. I hope that once I've overcome these frustrations, I'll try to reference the necessary information, which I'm sure is very useful.

Persist with the book please!, 20 Mar 2008
If you are like me - a cheap student who likes to teach themselves everything, this book is perfect! yes it can be alot to get through, especially the 1st 100 pages! But the drills are excellent, I have made such and improvement in only a few days. Not only that but i enjoy swimming now! and manage to find the time to go everyday! where before I used to dread it!

for 5.99 what have you got to loose? you will not be dissappointed!

back to basics but well worth having, 30 Mar 2008
I'm a masters swimmer who trains most of the time on my own so a book like this is a reall boon. There are some very noddy beginners drills but the stroke development drills are well explained and the reasons for doing them set out.

Think it would make a good additon to most club coaches collection - most of the drills you'll be familiar with but good to have them in one collection an so clealy explained.

Perfect, 18 Nov 2008

I'm only about a third of the way through this book but wanted to add to the reviews on the site. If, like me, you happen on this page by accident and think "why not?" please follow through with that first thought and buy this amazing book. It's so rare to find work that really cant be criticised and this, the eloquent reflections of what must have been a wonderful man, could well be one of those rare finds. It's exceptionally well written, filled with intimate details of what England must have been like in less commercial times and as fluid, rhythmic and enchanting as the rivers and streams the author so clearly loves. Did I mention you should buy it?

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Disappointed there's no Europe???, 30 Dec 2008
This book is slightly mis-advertised, though at no fault of Amazon, the actual publishers.

Advertised as 'the worlds greatest destinations', this isn't strictly true as there are no destinations at all from Europe here, only the Americas, some parts of Asia and Australia. You'd think that the Red Sea would be in there somewhere considering its one of the bet places (if not the best) in the world, though not even a mention from the author.

However, great book, fantastic photos, and very good advice from the Author. 3/5

Wild Swimming, 04 Aug 2008
There are very many things that I love about this book. So far I've had it a very short time and have already had an incredibly therapeutic swim, about 10 miles from where I have lived for over 20 years, which I had no idea was there. It was the most beautiful spot and the pub recommended in the book was such a find, being friendly, serving good beer and food, having a gorgeous wildflower garden and being over a thousand years old.

Having this book means I am much more likely to get out and swim in beautiful places, and not just paddle, worried about currents, debris and pond weed. So all those good intentions are finally coming good and I can entice friends along too. It's definitely going to be the basis of many UK holidays to come.

I'm also impressed that the directions are so concise yet so clear and straightforward to follow - rare for a guide book.

I can't recommend this book enough.

New ways to explore Britain by foot or cycle, 10 Jul 2008
This book has been reviewed on several outdoor forums and magazines and works well as a nice blend of clear reliable guidebook plus photo travelogue. It's aimed as much at the walker or family looking for an unusual summer outing and picnic, as it is for the 'swimmer'. For me it was a perfect timing as last year I decided to be free from all flying as the biggest and easiest way to reduce my carbon emissions.

The swim boxes are particularly useful as they contain 8 point grid references (good for walkers), postcodes (good for drivers) and very detailed walk-in directions in case you don't have a map (with timings and path difficulties). There's also water quality and whether the swim is a paddle, swim, dunk, dive and so forth, and what else to do if it's too cold, including nearest pubs and campsites.

About 250 places are grid referenced in all (150 with full box panels). There's coverage of interesting places like ancient baptism pools, river tubing canyons, clear chalk streams, places to find otters, catch crayfish, slide down rock pools or find famous locations like the Swallow and Amazons islands.

There's a enough in the adventure of finding and reading about each place to mean it doesn't matter if you don't swim.

All in all it seems very well put together.


Wild swimming - a must-have, 08 Jul 2008
Wild Swimming manages to be both a delightful coffee-table book that one can dip into on a cold winter evening, and also a practical and well-organised guide book. Daniel Start's stunning photographs and lively commentary will entice would-be swimmers to seek out his favourite spots, and the systematic information will enable them to find them. The book lists the key details for each site including the map reference, post code, water quality, a brief description of type of swim and how to get there. It's not just a book for hardened swimmers, Daniel doesn't forget the children suggesting good places to paddle and some innovative ideas for fun on the banks. It's a book for anyone who enjoys wild swimming - or who would like to try it.

what a great book!, 08 Jul 2008
I was really excited to discover this book. I am a keen swimmer and have always really enjoyed swimming outdoors. I wanted to explore 'wild swimming' but didn't know where to start. This book gave me lots of ideas and now I'm hooked! Highly recommmended!

Making Waves, 08 Jul 2008
I am considered to be rather keen to want to swim in any water I come across, in any weather. This book makes me realise that I am not alone, and that my passion even has a name - 'wild swimming'. It is a fantastically user friendly, and not to mention beautifully illustrated, guide to some of the best fresh-water swims around the UK. It is a delight to dip into or read from cover to cover and has given me tons of ideas about new places to jump into.

Go on - get the book, get on your bike and then get into that water. You know you want to!

A nice book, strangely organized though., 28 Dec 2008
This is a really nice book for a read or browse at home. The swimming sites aren't listed geographically though, so if you're planning a holiday, in Cornwall say, you have be constantly flicking around the book to find relevant listings. This means you almost need to make notes to make use of it. Otherwise very interesting.

Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

Learn to love the water and do it with ease, 28 Dec 2008
Learn to love the water and do it with ease

A couple of years ago I joined the gym against my better judgement. I started by doing yoga as there were three classes a week so I felt I got my moneys worth. I then discovered as one of the few blokes in the class that I was not strong enough to hold certain poses.I went to the very nice pool and started doing a few lengths of the breast stroke.

I considered myself an average to good swimmer but I only do the breast stroke.I started on twenty lengths then built up to as much as an hour in which I could do a mile or 81 lengths.

As I watched other swimmers overtaking me I realised I was an average to poor swimmer but satisfied myself by thinking that maybe the people who use the pool and hammer up and down doing lengths are a self selecting group of good swimmers.

I then toyed with the idea of learning the crawl. I can do one length by sheer willpower and strenght and mainly holding my breath.

I signed up for some classes and at the same time started reading total immersion.At first I made all the basic mistakes. I would thrash up the pool holding my breath then expire at the end.

She gave me some drills particularly for the legs as I had never ever done a crawl leg movement, When I followed her instructions and relaxed into the stroke it got better.

I now use the ideas from the book on breast stroke that is long stokes and it works. I am now faster and less tired.

It is difficult describing and teaching a skill from a book but it does pay dividends if you keep going back to it and thinking about what you are doing as you swim.

Last night at my swimming class I achieved what I thought I would never do that is two whole lengths .I can do any number of lengths on the breast stroke so if I have got the method right I should be able to apply the same to the crawl.

If I can do two I can do four etc.

I have read a lot of the reviews of this book and yes the techniques could have been shortened to just a few pages. I was not taught any method of swimming and I learnt to swim on my own but adopted a breast stroke style. All revolutionary ideas sound easy but are more difficult to perform particularly if we have learn the wrong method.

When I watch the best swimmers in the pool I see they hardly disturb the water whereas the less able do exaggerated arm and legs movements which cause waves.A good swimmer like any great performer makes it look easy. It is because if looks easy that we think it is easy. If it is the application of a lot of practice and learning a new technique that makes it look so.

Subject to it being over long and prone to hype this is a great book and I will be noting the drills and doing them until I can do eighty lengths of the crawl on a regular basis.

I started out by hating the crawl as it was a chore now I look forward to it as every time I do it I improve. I have still not cracked the breathing problem but I think about it a lot less and think more about my technique.In ten months since I started the crawl I have come a long way but long strokes are the best.I can now do 81 individual lengths with short breaks.

If you want to improve your swimming this is the book for you.

Better Technique = Better Swimming, 29 Sep 2008
I'm not a big swimmer, but I heard so much about this book that I had to check it out- and I'm glad I did. This book will save a lot of people who are trying to learn to swim better a lot of time. Here's why:

-the book concentrates on swimming technique, correct position, and how you're suppose to feel in the water
-the book gives you drills to reinforce the most efficient way to swim
-the book is very scientific and the info is based on hydrodynamics

The book covers a lot of ground, but the authors writing style makes is go by quickly (at least it did for me). The pictures were good and I thought the explanations of the techniques and the "why" behind them was very understandable. Not sure about the rotator cuff routine in Chapter 16 though- it's kinda long and I'm not sure if some of the exercises like the reverse biceps curl is really necessary (rec. Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff for swimmers who have shoulder issues).

In conclusion, I found the book very enlightening and recommend it to anyone (young OR old) who wants to learn how to swim more efficiently by learning the correct swimming techniques. The author obviously loves swimming and has brought all his years of experience and research into one handy resource.

YOU MUST FINISH THE BOOK..PLEASE!, 14 May 2008
While i completely agree with the prognosis that the first 100 pages are mostly a self promotion exercise, this book will totaly change your swimming ability, both in open water and the pool. I bought it off the back of "Triathlon 101"[another awesome book]and like one of the other reviewers, was not capable of more than a couple of lengths without being very out of breath, now however it seems the skys the limit. I now swim good distances at sea with no problem, just really enjoying the exercise.
So stick with it, dont give up, its one of the few "revolutionary method" books out there that does what it promises..good luck

Strung out and waffly - hoping it has potential, 08 May 2008
I'm sure this book has potential, as the reviews suggest, but it is very waffly and there is a lot of hype in the book. The first few chapters kept talking about how revolutionary the idea is and how it really works. After a few chapters of this, I got bored and impatient and put the book down. I hope that once I've overcome these frustrations, I'll try to reference the necessary information, which I'm sure is very useful.

Persist with the book please!, 20 Mar 2008
If you are like me - a cheap student who likes to teach themselves everything, this book is perfect! yes it can be alot to get through, especially the 1st 100 pages! But the drills are excellent, I have made such and improvement in only a few days. Not only that but i enjoy swimming now! and manage to find the time to go everyday! where before I used to dread it!

for 5.99 what have you got to loose? you will not be dissappointed!

back to basics but well worth having, 30 Mar 2008
I'm a masters swimmer who trains most of the time on my own so a book like this is a reall boon. There are some very noddy beginners drills but the stroke development drills are well explained and the reasons for doing them set out.

Think it would make a good additon to most club coaches collection - most of the drills you'll be familiar with but good to have them in one collection an so clealy explained.

Easy readable introduction, 14 Oct 2008
This book is a great easy to understand introduction to triathlon, an event I have been interested in, but until recently felt rather intimated by the idea of actually doing one. I found the women's magazing format a bit corny but the information is clear and very readable. The writers cover the basics well and provide decent advice for beginners. The style was enthusiastic and I felt motivated enough reading it to get out and start training for an event.

Great For Beginners, 08 Feb 2008
Written in women's magazine format. Easy to read, lots of pictures and very little jargon. If it's a huge technical tome you want with lots of facts and figures, then don't bother. If you have never competed in a triathlon before and you want to know what it's all about, then this is the book for you. Great for beginners and very encouraging.

Perfect, 18 Nov 2008

I'm only about a third of the way through this book but wanted to add to the reviews on the site. If, like me, you happen on this page by accident and think "why not?" please follow through with that first thought and buy this amazing book. It's so rare to find work that really cant be criticised and this, the eloquent reflections of what must have been a wonderful man, could well be one of those rare finds. It's exceptionally well written, filled with intimate details of what England must have been like in less commercial times and as fluid, rhythmic and enchanting as the rivers and streams the author so clearly loves. Did I mention you should buy it?

Wonderful book., 29 May 2008
If you're the kind of person who sees water and immediately wants to go in, this is the book for you. It's practically a bible for the wild swimmer; full of marvellous places and written with such likable enthusiasm and fascinating detail that I really wished it were longer. Such a shame that he won't be writing any more.

i have since swum naked in the river torridge, 17 Jan 2008
Not everyone gets this book. I have given it to several likely suspects who were only half convinced. But for me it goes into my all-time greats. And has, and will, see me plunging into water for the sheer hell of it whenever i can. A 'wild swim' immediately turns the day into a special day. Deakin reminds us that just because no one else is, doesnt mean we cant. What a literary braindump of natural science, social history, geology, modernity, the human condition. A true eccentric, who held dear and firm his beliefs in this ever-changing world. Roger, I salute you!

In at the deep end, 01 Jul 2006
A strange and somewhat contived travelogue concept works remarkably well in this highly entertaining work.
It works because Roger Deakin is a damn fine writer who paints a vivid living picture of the waterlands of Great Britain.
From the opening splash in the Scillies through dark carp pools and
brimming mill ponds,Deakins breast strokes through a sea of characters,gothic piles and wildlife to arrive on the book's far shores exilerated and wiser.
A logical journey around Britain is rejected in favour of a smorgasboard of water bourne experiences. One minute he's weighing up swimming the infamous straits of Corrywreckan in Argyll next minute he's back in East Anglia backstroking in East Anglia as Swallows prepare to depart to winter in Africa.

Lush and memorable !

Delicious, 18 Jun 2001
A quote from the cover - 'A delicious, cleansing, funny, wise and joyful book, so wonderfully full of energy and life. I loved it'. Tis true. It's an ideal relaxation book. The author swims in rivers, lakes, lidos, the sea and other outdoor watery places around Britain and describes beautifully the experience of the inner man and the nature he feels so much a part of. He throws in interesting history and anecdote to enlighten us as to how many of the swimming holes came to be. You end up feeling like you're sharing the journey with someone who truely loves what he's doing.

Disappointed there's no Europe???, 30 Dec 2008
This book is slightly mis-advertised, though at no fault of Amazon, the actual publishers.

Advertised as 'the worlds greatest destinations', this isn't strictly true as there are no destinations at all from Europe here, only the Americas, some parts of Asia and Australia. You'd think that the Red Sea would be in there somewhere considering its one of the bet places (if not the best) in the world, though not even a mention from the author.

However, great book, fantastic photos, and very good advice from the Author. 3/5

Wild Swimming, 04 Aug 2008
There are very many things that I love about this book. So far I've had it a very short time and have already had an incredibly therapeutic swim, about 10 miles from where I have lived for over 20 years, which I had no idea was there. It was the most beautiful spot and the pub recommended in the book was such a find, being friendly, serving good beer and food, having a gorgeous wildflower garden and being over a thousand years old.

Having this book means I am much more likely to get out and swim in beautiful places, and not just paddle, worried about currents, debris and pond weed. So all those good intentions are finally coming good and I can entice friends along too. It's definitely going to be the basis of many UK holidays to come.

I'm also impressed that the directions are so concise yet so clear and straightforward to follow - rare for a guide book.

I can't recommend this book enough.

New ways to explore Britain by foot or cycle, 10 Jul 2008
This book has been reviewed on several outdoor forums and magazines and works well as a nice blend of clear reliable guidebook plus photo travelogue. It's aimed as much at the walker or family looking for an unusual summer outing and picnic, as it is for the 'swimmer'. For me it was a perfect timing as last year I decided to be free from all flying as the biggest and easiest way to reduce my carbon emissions.

The swim boxes are particularly useful as they contain 8 point grid references (good for walkers), postcodes (good for drivers) and very detailed walk-in directions in case you don't have a map (with timings and path difficulties). There's also water quality and whether the swim is a paddle, swim, dunk, dive and so forth, and what else to do if it's too cold, including nearest pubs and campsites.

About 250 places are grid referenced in all (150 with full box panels). There's coverage of interesting places like ancient baptism pools, river tubing canyons, clear chalk streams, places to find otters, catch crayfish, slide down rock pools or find famous locations like the Swallow and Amazons islands.

There's a enough in the adventure of finding and reading about each place to mean it doesn't matter if you don't swim.

All in all it seems very well put together.


Wild swimming - a must-have, 08 Jul 2008
Wild Swimming manages to be both a delightful coffee-table book that one can dip into on a cold winter evening, and also a practical and well-organised guide book. Daniel Start's stunning photographs and lively commentary will entice would-be swimmers to seek out his favourite spots, and the systematic information will enable them to find them. The book lists the key details for each site including the map reference, post code, water quality, a brief description of type of swim and how to get there. It's not just a book for hardened swimmers, Daniel doesn't forget the children suggesting good places to paddle and some innovative ideas for fun on the banks. It's a book for anyone who enjoys wild swimming - or who would like to try it.

what a great book!, 08 Jul 2008
I was really excited to discover this book. I am a keen swimmer and have always really enjoyed swimming outdoors. I wanted to explore 'wild swimming' but didn't know where to start. This book gave me lots of ideas and now I'm hooked! Highly recommmended!

Making Waves, 08 Jul 2008
I am considered to be rather keen to want to swim in any water I come across, in any weather. This book makes me realise that I am not alone, and that my passion even has a name - 'wild swimming'. It is a fantastically user friendly, and not to mention beautifully illustrated, guide to some of the best fresh-water swims around the UK. It is a delight to dip into or read from cover to cover and has given me tons of ideas about new places to jump into.

Go on - get the book, get on your bike and then get into that water. You know you want to!

A nice book, strangely organized though., 28 Dec 2008
This is a really nice book for a read or browse at home. The swimming sites aren't listed geographically though, so if you're planning a holiday, in Cornwall say, you have be constantly flicking around the book to find relevant listings. This means you almost need to make notes to make use of it. Otherwise very interesting.

Inspirational, great swims & great images, 24 Aug 2008
Better than the other book with a similar name by 10 stars... at least. Great swims, great pictures, excellent!

A great book, 18 Jul 2008
Having read all the previous reviews there is little left for me to add. This is a marvellous achievement and a great contribution towards making open water swimming accepted in the UK as, indeed it is everywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Kate for flowing (sorry..) text and to Dominick for some stunning photography

Attractive and useful, but more info would help, 16 Jul 2008
This is a gorgeous, well-written and well-presented book. The author's genuine emotional involvement in outdoor swimming is evident and infectious and, knowing some of the places she describes, I'm with her.

I have two gripes which cost the book a star: some fantastic sites are missing, and some gazetteer information (like maps) would be helpful. Don't let that put you off - it's a fine book anyway.

If you do want more, Wild Swimming (Wild Swimming: 150 Hidden Dips in the Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls of Britain) is a good companion. It's more of a simple guide, but touches on some places that 'Wild Swim' doesn't and has more navigation info

Very good, needs more info though, 16 Jul 2008
Very good, but "arty" For us non-natives, more maps and landmarks would be helpful. Nice photos! Driving instructions, opening times, and other resources (bathing house, tea rooms) would have made this book perfect. I did enjoy the Malham Tarn swim, but had trouble finding the place.

Learn to love the water and do it with ease, 28 Dec 2008
Learn to love the water and do it with ease

A couple of years ago I joined the gym against my better judgement. I started by doing yoga as there were three classes a week so I felt I got my moneys worth. I then discovered as one of the few blokes in the class that I was not strong enough to hold certain poses.I went to the very nice pool and started doing a few lengths of the breast stroke.

I considered myself an average to good swimmer but I only do the breast stroke.I started on twenty lengths then built up to as much as an hour in which I could do a mile or 81 lengths.

As I watched other swimmers overtaking me I realised I was an average to poor swimmer but satisfied myself by thinking that maybe the people who use the pool and hammer up and down doing lengths are a self selecting group of good swimmers.

I then toyed with the idea of learning the crawl. I can do one length by sheer willpower and strenght and mainly holding my breath.

I signed up for some classes and at the same time started reading total immersion.At first I made all the basic mistakes. I would thrash up the pool holding my breath then expire at the end.

She gave me some drills particularly for the legs as I had never ever done a crawl leg movement, When I followed her instructions and relaxed into the stroke it got better.

I now use the ideas from the book on breast stroke that is long stokes and it works. I am now faster and less tired.

It is difficult describing and teaching a skill from a book but it does pay dividends if you keep going back to it and thinking about what you are doing as you swim.

Last night at my swimming class I achieved what I thought I would never do that is two whole lengths .I can do any number of lengths on the breast stroke so if I have got the method right I should be able to apply the same to the crawl.

If I can do two I can do four etc.

I have read a lot of the reviews of this book and yes the techniques could have been shortened to just a few pages. I was not taught any method of swimming and I learnt to swim on my own but adopted a breast stroke style. All revolutionary ideas sound easy but are more difficult to perform particularly if we have learn the wrong method.

When I watch the best swimmers in the pool I see they hardly disturb the water whereas the less able do exaggerated arm and legs movements which cause waves.A good swimmer like any great performer makes it look easy. It is because if looks easy that we think it is easy. If it is the application of a lot of practice and learning a new technique that makes it look so.

Subject to it being over long and prone to hype this is a great book and I will be noting the drills and doing them until I can do eighty lengths of the crawl on a regular basis.

I started out by hating the crawl as it was a chore now I look forward to it as every time I do it I improve. I have still not cracked the breathing problem but I think about it a lot less and think more about my technique.In ten months since I started the crawl I have come a long way but long strokes are the best.I can now do 81 individual lengths with short breaks.

If you want to i