River
Wharfebank Mills, Otley
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A lovely stretch of river for swimming. You can park in the visitor carpark at the mills, and then walk about 10m down a short track to the water. It's a big step in, waist deep almost immediately. A nice option is to swim the 'Otley Mile', downstream with the current and get out just after the big bridge.
Location
Getting there
Put 'wharfebank mills' into your satnav, and park in the visitor car park.
Accessibility
Very close to the car park, bit of a step down into the water and a bit muddy/stoney but easy enough. Get quite deep quite quick.
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Plan your swim
Before you go
- Check recent rainfall. Rivers rise fast after heavy rain.
- Never swim in fast-flowing or flooded water
- Test entry/exit before you commit. River banks can be undercut.
- Cold water shock is real. Enter slowly and control your breathing.
- Watch for submerged obstacles like branches, weirs, and rocks
Conditions change fast. Always check the latest data, read recent community reports, and swim within your ability.
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Frequently asked questions
Is this river safe for swimming?
Check the Conditions tab for current flow rate and recent rainfall. Rivers can become dangerous after heavy rain. Review community reports for hazards like weirs, strong currents, or access issues.
How cold is the water?
Check the Temperature tab for the current estimate and 7-day trend. River temperatures respond quickly to weather changes. In the UK, expect 5-10°C in winter and 15-20°C in summer at most locations.
What should I bring?
A tow float, shoes with grip for slippery banks, and warm layers for after. Water shoes protect against rocks and debris on the riverbed.