Black Moss Pot has got to be one of the best spots for Wild Swimming in the Lake District, it’s a really deep plunge pool perfect for jumping in. Read on to learn  where it is and other wild swimming spots in the same area

Langstrath valley – one of the Lake DISTRICTS BEST wild swimming SPOTS

Tucked away in the Borrowdale Valley, the beautiful Langstrath Valley is one of the Lake District’s most rewarding wild swimming locations. Surrounded by dramatic fells and ancient woodland, the valley is home to crystal-clear mountain streams and deep plunge pools fed by fresh water flowing down from the surrounding hills. The walk into the valley adds to the sense of adventure, with peaceful trails following the River Derwent through some of the most unspoilt scenery in the National Park. On warm days, the clear emerald pools and smooth rock formations make it an ideal place to cool off far from the crowds.

Two of the valley’s standout swimming spots are Black Moss Pot and Galleny Force. Black Moss Pot is famous for its deep, dark pool enclosed by steep rock walls, creating a hidden natural swimming hole that feels almost untouched. Nearby, Galleny Force offers a series of cascading waterfalls and refreshing plunge pools, with water so clear you can often see straight to the rocky riverbed below. Together, these spots capture everything that makes wild swimming in the Lake District special — clean mountain water, peaceful surroundings, and a real sense of escape into nature.

Below you will find detaisl on 4 of the best wild swimming spots in this area all the way up Langstrath Beck to Angle Tarn.

4 Best wild swimming spots on langstrath Beck in the Lake District

In this part of the Lake District you are spoilt for choice for wild swimming spots and 4 of the best places for wild swimming in the whole of the Lakes can be found on this route from Rosthwaite, following the source of Langstrath Beck all the way to Angle Tarn. The numbered locations on this map route from Rosthwaite (which is the only place to park in the area -follow the signs to the pay and display car park) are shown in more detail below. the closest spots to Rosthwaite are likely to be busy in the summer months, so for a bit of solitude I suggest you go early (pre 9am) or when the kids are not off school.

1. Galleny Force, wild swimming spot in the Lake District

1.6 mile walk from Rosthwaite

This wild swimming spot is near Galleny Force and the emerald coloured clear waters are idyllic and deep enough for a swim around.

This wild swim spot at Galleny Force is very accessible being only a 1.6 mile flat walk from Rosthwaite. It’s even closer if you are staying on Stonethwaite Campsite, and is likely to be busy in warm summer days. The footpath to the north of the river is the best one to take and you’ll know you are at the swim spot when you pass Galleny Force waterfall and arrive at the wooden bridge

Black Moss Pot is one of the most well-known locations in the Lake for wild swimming as it has all the attributes you need – deep crystal clear emerald waters, a stretch of about 30m to swim in and little cliffs to jump off (pictured right of the pool) – so it’s a favourite for adventure seekers. You’ll even see little brown trout swimming around! If you get this place to yourself it’s simply perfect. I suggest taking swim shoes with you here for climbing on the rock.

You can’t miss Blackmoss Pot really when you get there, and more than likely others will be there due to its popularity. If you are continuing on the path after Blackmoss Pot then I like to cross the shallow river (barefoot! there is no bridge here) and continue south on the western path

This stretch of Langstarth is not the deepest as previously mentioned spots, but if you are after a cold water dip and a bit of solitude as there are others at the two previous locations, then this is the place to get in the water.

You’ll know when you get to this wild swimming spot at Tray dub as its right near, and just below the first wooden bridge you come too.

Angle Tarn is one of the finest tarns in Lakeland, and if you are prepared to walk, and don’t mind a trek uphill – then it’s a stunning reward for more extensive wild swimming! The path takes you straight to this point pictured, where where you can gently edge your way into the tarn on the fine shingle underfoot. It really is a beautiful and dramatic place to hang out and have a picnic too.

Angle Tarn is around a 6 mile walk from Rosthwaite and the path gets rather steep for the last mile or so, so be prepared for that. Also the route is not immediately clear in some parts as you approach the tarn – so I suggest you have a map and Mobile Map Ap too to show your exit location to avoid taking the wrong turn! After Angle tarn you can retrace your steps – or extend your walk up onto Allen Crags and Glaramara where you will get some of the finest views in the Lake District!

SUMMARY – WILD SWIMING IN THE LAKE DISTRICT  at LANGSTRATH BECK

From the dramatic plunge pools of Black Moss Pot and the cascading waterfalls at Galleny Force to the peaceful waters of Tray Dub and the breathtaking mountain setting of Angle Tarn, Langstrath Beck offers some of the most memorable wild swimming experiences in the Lake District. Whether you’re looking for deep clear pools to dive into, scenic tarns surrounded by fells, or quieter hidden spots away from the crowds, this valley has something for every wild swimmer. The combination of crystal-clear water, rugged scenery and complete tranquillity makes Langstrath one of the best places in the National Park to experience the magic of swimming in nature.

If you’re planning more adventures in the Lakes, be sure to check out my guide to the 10 best wild swimming spots in the Lake District, featuring even more stunning waterfalls, tarns and hidden pools perfect for your next outdoor escape.