River

The Ladder

Reviews

5.0

(8 reviews)

Another wonderful visit to Hartham Common! Thermometer is no longer attached ☹️ but we met some lovely folks also there to swim, two for their first swim and two visiting from London. Told them all about Wild!

Suffolk Ellen

3y ago

Loved it! Ladder very sturdy and easy to use, thermometer attached an added bonus! Lovely spot, just a little muddy on the bank after all the recent rain.

Birdie

4y ago

We parked on St Leonard's Road. We walked to the left of the church then through the public footpath gate to the left. Slightly downhill across the common to the left and past "the Beach" and over the bridge. (shallower water) Then left with water on our left and ahead then left again to the end of the walkway where we saw the ladder. Beautiful swim spot having changed at the bench and got in via the ladder (bring gloves if you want to remove nettles for the next person! There weren't many😁) We swam downstream and then back up beyond a few moored boats to the left of the ladder.

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About

The Ladder is in Hartham, Hertford. It is a popular swim spot and has access down to the river via a wooden ladder. There is a bench. The right hand side of the river is available for canal boat use so tow floats are encouraged so you are clearly visible however boats are infrequent. This is also a popular spot for kayaks and SUP users. People walk along the tow path and often say hello! Please be mindful there are houses close by so please keep noise levels to a minimum.

Location

Getting there

Parking on the road is available near Bengeo church, there is a walkway down to hartham.

Accessibility

To enter you need to climb a short wooden ladder in and out of the water.

What swimmers say

Facilities

Nearby parking

Activities

Paddling Picnic Swimming

Landscape

Sunrise Sunset Quiet location Easy to walk to

Water sports

SUP Boating

Help verify this spot

Plan your swim

Before you go

Check recent rainfall. Rivers rise fast after heavy rain.
Never swim in fast-flowing or flooded water
Test entry/exit before you commit. River banks can be undercut.
Cold water shock is real. Enter slowly and control your breathing.
Watch for submerged obstacles like branches, weirs, and rocks

Conditions change fast. Always check the latest data, read recent community reports, and swim within your ability.

Been here recently?

Share conditions, tips, or hazards to help other swimmers plan their visit to The Ladder.

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Frequently asked questions

Is this river safe for swimming?

Check the Conditions tab for current flow rate and recent rainfall. Rivers can become dangerous after heavy rain. Review community reports for hazards like weirs, strong currents, or access issues.

How cold is the water?

Check the Temperature tab for the current estimate and 7-day trend. River temperatures respond quickly to weather changes. In the UK, expect 5-10°C in winter and 15-20°C in summer at most locations.

What should I bring?

A tow float, shoes with grip for slippery banks, and warm layers for after. Water shoes protect against rocks and debris on the riverbed.