Scotland's top two wild swimming spots have been revealed amidst reports that temperatures in the country are expected to rise this week.

As reported by the Daily Record, Scotland is set to experience warmer weather and blue skies this weekend. With the sun shining, there is no better way to connect with nature than taking a dip in one of the country's many rivers and lakes.

To help people across Scotland and the UK decide where to take the plunge, travel experts at South Western Railway have compiled a list of the 10 best wild swimming spots in the UK and South West. Coming in at numbers four and nine respectively are the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye and Hopeman East Beach and Bay in Elgin.

The Fairy Pools are among Scotland's most iconic and beloved beauty spots, consisting of a series of natural pools and waterfalls in Glen Brittle. Known for their vivid aqua blue colour, the pools have long been believed to possess magical properties.

The idyllic and mysterious site is an incredible spot for a dip if you are brave enough to face the chilly waters. It is also a great destination to head if you are looking to immerse yourself in the magnificent Skye wilderness, situated at the foot of the Cuillin mountains and home to a wealth of flora and fauna.

If you are interested in visiting the Fairy Pools yourself, the beauty spot can be reached on foot from a car park near Glenbrittle. Meanwhile, there is also a bus that leaves from Skye's capital town of Portree that takes visitors to the site.

Hopeman has two large sandy beaches split by the man-made harbour. The West Beach is the smaller. The East Beach is surrounded by large, grassy sand dunes, and has colourful beach huts and large rocky areas with excellent rockpools (the one at the eastern edge is known as Daisy Rock). Further to the east is a smaller hidden beach with stones and large rock formations.
Hopeman East Beach is beloved for its soft sand and sweeping views

Elsewhere, Hopeman East Beach is a picturesque sand and rock beach found near Elgin in Grampian. Featuring fascinating rock pools and breathtaking views out towards the Moray Firth, it is the ideal destination for the whole family.

The beach is also a top spot for surfers thanks to its impressive waves. Even if you aren't interested in getting out into the water, it is perfect for a scenic walk — especially since it is dog-friendly.

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Topping South Western Railway's list of the top wild swimming spots in the UK is Kailpot Crag in the Lake District National Park, due to its pretty location and sunset views. Rounding out the top five are Nolton Haven Beach, Vobster Quay, and Devil's Point Tidal Pool in second, third, and fifth respectively.

Read on for the full list of the 10 best wild swimming destinations across the UK. Meanwhile, more information can be found on the South Western Railway website.

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The top wild swimming spots in the UK

  1. Kailpot Crag — Lake District National Park
  2. Nolton Haven Beach — Haverfordwest, Wales
  3. Vobster Quay — Radstock, Somerset
  4. Fairy Pools — Isle of Skye, Scotland
  5. Devil's Point Tidal Pool — Stonehouse, Plymouth
  6. Buttermere — Lake District National Park
  7. The Valley of Desolation — Yorkshire Dales
  8. Swanage Beach — Swanage, Dorset
  9. Hopeman East Beach & Bay — Elgin, Scotland
  10. Blue Lagoon — Abermawr, Wales

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