KEEN to cool off but want to avoid crowded beaches? Here is a list of alternative places where you can go for a dip in Dorset...
- Pamphill near Wimborne. The River Stour is a wide river, deep and clear in the middle, with easy access and riverside walks. At Pamphill the river opens up in wide meanders with a deep ford and bridge.
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Colber Bridge on the River Stour at Sturminster Newton. Described as a little weedy and slow, but clean and deep. The best place is on the east bank by the old railway bridge.
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Cutt Mill is a little further north near Hinton St Mary. Here the water is clear and slow moving. There is a weir with deep water as well as shallows for a paddle. Park at the end of Cutt Mill Lane nearby.
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Moreton Ford on the River Frome . A wide, gravel ford and shallow pool, lined with willow and tree swings.
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Wareham Bridge on the River Frome. A popular spot for swimming, picnics and boating on a hot summer’s day.
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Lymington Sea Water Baths. Set within the popular Georgian market town of Lymington, you will find the oldest open air sea water baths in the UK. Facilities include a fully staffed 110m sea water pool wit 200 metres of inflatable obstacle courses, stand up paddle boards, aqua jousting and a children’s splash pool. See lymingtonseawaterbaths.org.uk
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Tanner's Lane Lymington. Great remote location for pool swimming at mid tide. Tucked behind in the woods is a massive lake and although very enticing for swimming, although according to several websites the pond weeds can be a bit hard to contend with.
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The Quomps Splash Park on Christchurch Quay is a free family day out with a well-equipped play area, enclosed splash park, a shallow paddling pool and fountains.
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New Forest Water Park, situated in 50 acres of New Forest countryside, where you can learn a variety of watersports including wakeboarding, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding or have fun in the aqua park.
And here's some safety tips too
- Acclimatise
- Never swim on your own
- Wear the right kit
- No diving
- Know your limits
- Warm up slowly
The RNLI also advise to check conditions before entering the water, consider wearing a wetsuit or flotation device.
Treat water with respect.
IF YOU SEE SOMEONE IN TROUBLE AT THE COAST, CALL 999 OR 112 AND ASK FOR THE COASTGUARD
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