If you look one way this might not look like an appealing swim spot
Location
On the south side of Winchester near M3 junction 11. Take the footpath on the east side of the River and walk south. This swim spot is immediately by the M3 bridge which goes over the River Itchen.
But if you look the other way its a “top spot”
Grid Ref
SU478/265
Features
Easy access as there is a gap in the railings and a ramp into the water.
Good viewing of trucks on the motorway.
Excellent adjacent towel drying rack.
The “local youths” walk along the girders under the M3 bridge and drop into the river from there (I’m was too scared to try that and don’t recommend it!)
When the M3 was built over the river a drying rack for towels was added…..
Hazards
Reasonably fast flowing so if you are not a strong swimming stick to the shallows or sides of the river.
Date of Last Swim
June 2021
River Itchen (near Compton, Winchester)
Some of the Swim the Door gang, plus Ursula, having a motivational team-talk (not!)
Location
On the same footpath as the spot above. You can walk from Winchester or from Compton or even Twyford.
Grid Ref
SU477/265
Features
What more do I need to say. It has a water chute…………
The Swim the Door gang trying to go down the chute in a line….
Selfie heaven- being washed down with the current with Jono, Emily, Sandra, Zoe in the line
More selfie- heaven. Now even Mark is in the photo at the back (and I’m nearly drowned trying to tread water and do a selfie…
Hazards
Based on the fact that this sign suggests these steps are for dogs I suggest you watch out for a pack of swimming animals..
“STEPS FOR DOG ACCESS ONLY” Probably the weirdest sign in the (river swimming) world.
