Wild Swimming with Kate Bush, Clifton Hampden

We go when no-one’s there,

cycle down the back path

through the knee-high grasses,

dump the bike

behind a hawthorn brake,

strip and wade – murky muddy river bed,

shock of river cold, then in

and swim, vigorous at first half-

way to the bridge, then drift

and gaze. And we always wave up

at you, Kate Bush,

your house on the high bank

behind the church.

We always float in your whale songs,

snow songs, trees in the night,

your wild river, your free spirit,

your soul unquenchable.

We salute you in the moment,

in our ordinary, bright mornings,

and we’re always running

up the hill, swimming in the river

to you, Kate Bush.

By Robert Seatter

CLIFTON HAMPDEN

From walking to jogging, rowing to paddle boarding, the Thames is a place for physical activity and enjoyment. Here’s a wild swimming poem plus an unlikely encounter…

Clifton Hampden is set along a peaceful stretch of the River Thames and the Thames Path.

Clifton Lock - or Clifton Hampden Lock as it's also known - was first talked about way back in 1793, and discussions continued in 1811. But it wasn't until 1822 that this lock was constructed.

If you enjoyed this poem, take a look at the other Thames Path 30th Anniversary poems.