The picturesque river has been described as the ‘most beautiful wild swimming spot’
The Peak District is a wild swimmer’s paradise, famous for its stunning walks and waterfalls. One unmissable spot is Three Shires Head. As the meeting point of Cheshire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire on the River Dane, it makes a perfect day trip from cities such as Manchester and Sheffield.
Or, if you’re lucky enough to live even closer, it’s a wonderful afternoon out. Visitors say that it “feels like a hidden world” with “views that make you stop in your tracks.”
The picturesque setting makes the perfect backdrop for a scenic walk, picnic, or swim – if you can brave the cold water. I visited for the first time recently, keen for a cooling dip on a warm July day, and it’s already one of the best things I’ve done all summer.
After parking in a nearby lay-by, it took us approximately 30 minutes to walk the rocky path that descends to the river. It was well worth the effort when we reached the pools and the small waterfalls found near the packhorse bridge.
Understandably, it was very busy when we arrived around midday on a Saturday, with groups playing music and families enjoying ball games. So if you’re looking for a tranquil swimming spot, you’ll likely need to wait until the end of the summer season. Alternatively, you could plan an early morning visit to secure a quiet spot around one of the smaller pools, perfect for a dip or a chilled morning spent taking in the fairytale scenery.
Everyone in my group agreed we’d love to go back another time, so it’s somewhere I’d definitely recommend if you’re planning a wild swim and you’re comfortable with the sloped, rocky walk. Just remember to take care and pack any essentials you’ll need, such as water bottles.
Praising the spot on TripAdvisor, one visitor wrote: “An amazingly beautiful place with walks all around. Great for open air bathing. Take care though, the water is cold so know your stuff.”
Sharing advice, someone else said: “Lots of reviews have said it is a bit of a walk to get here, but I found a website that suggested a short route, which took about 15/20 minutes. There was plenty of parking in the lay-by.
“Slight climb down a ladder, but OK if you have good mobility. The walk is through fields with sheep so if you have a dog, please keep them on lead (like we did). We found a little spot where nobody else was, but we were there early, and people started to arrive by midday.
“It was a really hot day, but the water was still quite chilly. There are some lovely little waterfalls and the water is clean. There’s no shops nearby so make sure you take everything you need for the time you plan to spend there- drinks, food, suncream etc.”
Meanwhile, an impressed visitor said: “Three Shires Head feels like a hidden world, waterfalls, old packhorse bridges, and proper peace and quiet. It’s a stunning spot for a ramble, with views that make you stop in your tracks. A proper breath of fresh air.”
The closest postcode for Three Shires Head is SK11 0BQ, and there is free parking in the lay-by on the A54. The closest train station, Macclesfield Station, is 25 minutes away. However, you will need a car to drive from the station.
Wild swimming can be dangerous. Always be aware of the risks and follow safety recommendations.