Ever wondered what it’s like to brave an open-water swim with a flock of friendly strangers? I found out when I met up with the Bluetits Chill Swimmers at Windermere Jetty Museum.
What3Words: ///snaps.curiosity.tins
If you’re not familiar, the Bluetits Chill Swimmers are a worldwide community with ‘flocks’ dotted across the globe. A movement that brings together like-minded dippers and swimmers for fun, friendship, and the freedom of the open water. You can find your local group via the Bluetits website, though for me, “local” was over an hour drive away. Cumbria currently has just one flock, and they meet regularly on the shores of Windermere. On Saturday mornings at 10am, they gather at the Windermere Jetty Museum.
Parking at Windermere Jetty Museum
The Jetty Museum is easy to reach by public transport. There’s a bus stop right outside, with Stagecoach 508 and 555 routes serving the area.
If you’re travelling by car, here’s what I know about parking -
- Car park is spacious and well laid out
- Charges apply 7 days a week, including Bank Holidays
- Pay at the machine or via the RingGo app
The standard car park charges are:
- Up to 2 hours – £5
- Up to 4 hours – £7
- Full day – £12
However, the car park is managed by Lakeland Arts, and if you’re a regular swimmer, their membership might be worth a look. For £45 a year, you get four hours’ free parking year-round at the Jetty Museum, which pays off quickly if you dip there often. One Bluetit told me that previously, a £5 ticket could be partially refunded at the café, though this varies by season.
Peak Summer Car Parking: July – September have set charges regardless. You can check exactly what dates these apply here on the Lakeland Art Website.
What’s the Swimming Like at Windermere Jetty Museum?
Now to the good stuff.
The Windermere Jetty Museum is a brilliant place to swim. Tucked just to the right of the museum building is a shingle beach with easy access to the water. A few picnic benches sit nearby, some cleverly shaded under upturned wooden rowing boats, making it feel equal parts wild swim haven and waterside café chic.
The proximity to the car park, café, and museum (and by default, lovely loos) is a huge bonus. If you’re after a swim spot that doesn’t feel like an expedition, this ticks all the boxes. There’s even time to pop into the museum itself, which opens at 10 am. A bit of cold water, followed by some maritime heritage? Go on then.
Post-Swim Facilities at Windermere Jetty Museum
Afterwards, I sat outside the café (under cover) with a hot drink, overlooking the water. That familiar post-swim buzz kicked in: skin tingling, mind softening, and everything just felt… quieter. No emails. No stress. Just the lake, the breeze, the friendly hum of Bluetit chatter mixed in with the gentle pitter-patter of the rain on the water, and the comforting return to warmth.
I could see exactly why the Bluetits come here every week.
Water Quality at Windermere Jetty Museum
Windermere’s water quality has made headlines, and local campaigners continue to raise awareness around sewage discharges. But when I visited, the water was beautifully clear, and it had that ‘just right’ amount of chill, which gave me a really enjoyable swim out to the buoys and back.
Some of the Bluetits said that in warmer weather, they’ll swim right out to the nearest island. Something to add to my swim bucket list…
Community Vibes
Whether you swim with a group like the Bluetits or come with your own crew, the atmosphere here is warm and welcoming. I was instantly made to feel part of the flock, and if you’re nervous about turning up solo, let this be your nudge to go anyway.
You’ll find smiles and laughter, and in my case, a beautiful and friendly Labrador called Thor!
If you're looking for a swim spot that balances comfort with character, Windermere Jetty Museum is a real gem. Easy access, stunning views, café nearby, and a ready-made community if you want it.
Oh, and it’s the perfect place to show off your Changing Tube.
Check out our other Windermere location review here: Borrans Park.
