Running through the county, the River Great Ouse has long held a tradition of river bathing. The charming market town of Olney, just over the Bucks border, is on a beautiful stretch of water. Just downstream from the stone bridge at the town’s north end is a historic bathing place—once popular with Victorian and Edwardian swimmers. The river here is wide and gently shelving, and the meadows on both banks offer grassy access and space to spread a towel or picnic blanket. You’ll find remnants of steps or stonework where locals used to wade in, and in summer, children still paddle while families picnic under weeping willows.
Upstream and downstream of Olney, you’ll find long, meandering sections through pasture and wooded banks, with deeper pools, slower bends, and fewer people. At Felmersham, there is an easy family-friendly beach beside the bridge, with numerous swimming spots downstream for those looking for a longer swim. The river is also very easy to access by canoe. Further along the Great Ouse, Pavenham offers a wonderfully bucolic stretch of river, with willows, a deep swimming spot and rope swings. These spots are less formal, but often more magical—perfect for a quiet dip, a heron’s call echoing in the still air.
Ready to explore further? Discover more wild swimming and off-the-tourist-track places in Wild Swimming Britain, The Wild Guide London & South East & Wild Swimming Walks Thames and West
