One popular place to visit during your stay in one of our holiday cottages in Swaledale is the swing bridge over the River Swale—a charming and historic crossing that’s steeped in local heritage. Whether you’re exploring the nearby footpaths, enjoying a dog-friendly walk, or just looking for a peaceful place to paddle, the swing bridge is well worth adding to your Swaledale adventure.
This narrow footbridge has been a key crossing point for locals for generations. Originally, it was mainly built to allow school children living on Harkerside to cross the river safely on their way to school in Reeth. The original swing bridge served the community well until it was destroyed in a severe flood in 2000. The current bridge, an exact replica of the original, was rebuilt in 2002 and continues to offer a charming crossing -providing walkers with a stunning view of the River Swale below.
The bridge still plays a role in daily rural life—local farmers regularly use it to move sheep between fields on either side of the river so the animals can graze different pastures. If you’re lucky, you might catch this in action—it’s quite the sight to see a flock of sheep trotting across the narrow footbridge. A proper Dales moment!
Also, fun fact – did you know it’s the fastest flowing river in England? After heavy rain it really lives up to its title, but on a sunny day, particularly by the Swing Bridge you’ll find peaceful pools and gentle sections.
There are some fantastic walking routes that include the swing bridge, and it’s probably the most popular way to access the much-loved Grinton Loop. This circular route—around three miles—starts from Reeth and takes you over the swing bridge, meeting up with a section for the Swale Trail, and into the pretty village of Grinton. Along the way, you’ll pass St Andrew’s Church, known as the Cathedral of the Dales—a beautiful and historic spot worth a pause. Before heading back into Reeth, you might also want to stop at The Bridge Inn in Grinton, a perfect place for a refreshing drink or a bite to eat, especially if you’re walking with a dog or have the kids in tow.
If you fancy something a bit more adventurous, turn right at the swing bridge which also connects to the Swale Trail – a scenic, largely traffic-free path suitable for both walkers and cyclists. From here, you can head up towards Harkerside, where a network of footpaths and old gamekeeper tracks offer a different perspective of the dale, with wide open views and a real sense of Swaledale’s wild beauty.
For a shorter and more playful walk—ideal for families—you can head towards the stepping stones at Healaugh, then loop back along the riverside path to Reeth. This route is full of variety and interest for children, with plenty of opportunities to paddle, explore, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Click here to read more about walking routes in Swaledale
Dog-Friendly Swimming and Paddling near Reeth
Underneath and around the Swing Bridge is a popular spot for wild swimming—both for humans and dogs! The clear, cool waters of the River Swale make for a refreshing dip on warmer days, with shallow edges perfect for paddling and deeper pools for a proper splash. Pups love to zoom through the water and roll around on the grassy banks.
Top tip: bring a floating toy with you. Sticks are surprisingly scarce beside this section of the river, and your dog will likely appreciate something fun to chase and retrieve.
The grassy banks near the water’s edge make it easy to sit, picnic, or simply relax while the kids (or dogs!) play. And if you’re an early riser, it’s a lovely spot for a peaceful morning dip before the day gets busy.
Just remember, the water levels can rise quickly after heavy rain, so always use your judgment and stay safe. On calm, sunny days though, it’s hard to beat for a refreshing and memorable part of your Swaledale stay.
Dog-Friendly with a Bit of Caution
The area surrounding the swing bridge is mostly fenced, making it a safe place to let your dog off the lead for a run and splash. That said, the neighbouring fields sometimes have livestock, so if your dog has a habit of leaping fences, best to pop them back on the lead until you’re safely away from livestock.
If you haven’t booked your stay yet, click here to explore our dog-friendly cottages in Swaledale
The area around the swing bridge isn’t just popular with walkers and dogs—it’s also a great place for spotting local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled as you wander along the riverbank and you might catch sight of a dipper bobbing on the rocks or diving under the water in search of insects. Grey wagtails are also regular visitors, easily recognised by their cheerful yellow bellies and flicking tails. If you’re really lucky (luckier than us!), you might even spot an otter—they’re shy, but the clean, fast-flowing waters of the Swale provide a perfect habitat for them. Early mornings and quiet evenings are the best times to spot some of these more elusive creatures, so it’s worth bringing your binoculars if you’re a nature enthusiast. And of course, don’t forget to look up—buzzards and kestrels often soar overhead, keeping an eye on the landscape below.
Whether you’re here to roam the hills, soak up the local history, or simply unwind in the great outdoors, the swing bridge is a spot you won’t want to miss. It captures everything that makes Swaledale so special—tranquil, scenic, and full of character.
So, grab your walking boots and pack a flask for a riverside cuppa—because your next little adventure might just begin at the swing bridge.
Fancy exploring the swing bridge and its scenic surroundings for yourself? Many of our dog-friendly holiday cottages in Swaledale are just a short walk away. Whether you’re looking for riverside rambles, peaceful paddles, or cosy evenings by the fire after a long walk, we’ve got the perfect base for your stay.
Click here to browse our cottages in and near Reeth and Grinton and start planning your Swaledale getaway today.
