Wild Swimming Retreat
Swaledale
Wild Swimming Retreat in the Yorkshire Dales
Crowtrees Bunk Barn, Swaledale | 9–12 July
£399 per person – fully inclusive - £100 Deposit
Join me for a joyful, nourishing wild swimming retreat in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. Set amongst some of the most beautiful landscapes in England, this long weekend is about swimming in stunning natural waters, slowing down, sharing good food, and reconnecting — with nature, with others, and with yourself.
Whether you’re a seasoned wild swimmer or relatively new, this retreat is welcoming, friendly, and all about having a great time together.
The Location: Crowtrees Bunk Barn, Swaledale
We’ll be staying at Crowtrees Bunk Barn, a beautifully restored, modern barn tucked away in the heart of Swaledale.
Crowtrees offers:
Comfortable, high-quality accommodation finished to a modern standard
A large, well-equipped communal kitchen
Warm, welcoming indoor community spaces
A beautiful outdoor area perfect for relaxing, chatting, and gathering
A fire pit for evening conversations under the stars
Plenty of on-site parking
It’s the perfect base for a retreat — practical, cosy, and designed for groups to come together. You can find more details about the venue at:
👉 https://crowtreesbunkbarn.co.uk
Wild Swimming with The Dales Dipper (That’s Me!)
Over the weekend, I’ll be guiding you to some of my favourite wild swimming spots in the Yorkshire Dales — including rivers, pools, and beautiful waterfalls that showcase just how magical this area is.
One full day is dedicated to exploring the Dales together, with:
Carefully chosen swimming locations
Time to swim, float, relax, and enjoy the scenery
Coach travel included, so once you arrive, there’s no driving required
A relaxed, supportive group atmosphere
All transport during the retreat is taken care of, allowing you to fully switch off and enjoy the experience.
Nature Connection Activities with Sue Barker
One half day will be spent with my wonderful friend Sue Barker, who will guide us through a few hours of gentle, playful nature-connection activities.
These may include:
Barefoot walking
Creative nature art
Lighthearted games and exercises
Activities that help us slow down and reconnect with our inner child
This session is relaxed, inclusive, and about enjoyment rather than performance — a chance to see the landscape through fresh eyes and simply have fun.
Food: Fully Catered, Vegetarian & Delicious
You’ll be fully catered for throughout the retreat with beautiful vegetarian food, including:
Breakfast each morning
Packed lunches for our adventure days
Nourishing evening meals
All meals are designed to support active days outdoors while still feeling comforting and satisfying.
Community, Comfort & Connection
This retreat is about more than just swimming. It’s about:
Sharing meals around a table
Warming up by the fire pit
Laughing, chatting, and relaxing in beautiful communal spaces
Feeling part of a welcoming group
The group size will be approximately 20 people, keeping the experience friendly, supportive, and personal.
What’s Included
✓ 3 nights accommodation at Crowtrees Bunk Barn
✓ All vegetarian meals (breakfasts, packed lunches & evening meals)
✓ Guided wild swimming across the Yorkshire Dales
✓ A full day exploring waterfalls and swimming spots with coach transport
✓ A half day of nature-connection activities with Sue Barker
✓ Fire pit evenings and access to indoor & outdoor communal spaces
✓ Plenty of parking on arrival
✓ Ample free time for relaxing or exploring
Struggling financially?
I am committed to offering one FREE place to someone in financial need.
Drop me an email at hello@thedalesdipper.co.uk and I will add you to a list and randomly choose one person at the end of April.
A Few Final Words
Expect fantastic landscapes, great fun, and a strong sense of community. This retreat is about swimming wild, living simply, and enjoying the magic of the Dales together.
If you’d like to join us from 9–12 July we’d love to welcome you.
£399 per person – fully inclusive - £100 Deposit
Spaces are limited