After your thoroughly adventurous swim, head back down to Seathwaite Farm along Grains Ghyll completing a day out in the Lake District that you wont forget in a hurry. Scale Force: the Lake District's wild and mysterious gorge waterfall, Golitha Falls: ancient woods and hidden swimming spots, Sour Milk Ghyll and Easedale Tarn: 2 spectacular swimming spots in Grasmere, 14 Incredible Lake District Waterfalls: wild swimming and hidden gems, Skelwith Force: a great rainy day activity in the Lake District, Crinkle Crags & Bowfell: Two of Wainwright's favourites in one walk, Tarn Hows and Black Fell: an easy walk in the Lake District, Loughrigg Fell: the perfect walk from Ambleside, Lake District, The easiest route up England's highest mountain, Scafell Pike, Helm Crag - The perfect sunset walk in the Lake District, Warnscale Bothy: a Lake District hidden treasure, 14 incredible things to do in Coniston including secret spots, 16 amazing things to do in Grasmere including the best of its wild side, Stanley Ghyll Waterfall: one of the most atmospheric in the Lake District, The shortest route to Cathedral Cave - just a 15 minute walk, The Giggle Alley Japanese Garden: Eskdale's hidden autumn wonderland, Hodge Close Quarry: how to find the incredible hidden caverns, The quickest walk to Rydal Cave plus a hidden cave nearby, Stock Ghyll Force: Ambleside's beautiful ravine waterfall, Tongue Pot and the spectacular swimming holes beyond, The Buttermere Infinity Pool and the hidden swimming spots beyond, Ritson's Force: incredible electric blue waterholes in the Lake District, Buckstones Jump & the incredible swimming holes at Rydal Waterfalls, Whorneyside Force: Langdale's secret waterfall swimming spot, Thirlmere infinity pool: how to get there and beat the crowds, The Old Man of Coniston, one of the best walks in the Lake District, Everything you need to know to hike Catbells, Lake District, Seven Easy Walks in the Lake District, England, The best Lake District walks for stunning views, Best things to do in the Lake District, England, The Kindness of Strangers: 10 travel moments that restored my faith in humanity, What it's like to give it all up to travel in your 30's. Rydal Bower 14. If you feel the current is fine stay near the bank, as the water is usually slower moving. There are plenty are places at the water's rocky edge for sunbathing. You can reach the falls via several different tracks, most of which are very quick and easy. Its significantly colder than many of the other wild swimming spots around the Lakes and the plunge pool is small, so you cant really swim to warm up. That way in the unlikely event that there is a problem, people will know where to find you. Always take precautions like wearing a bright swimming cap, towing a bright buoy or float behind you and by swimming as a group where possible. Its a fabulous canyonesque waterfall that I never see anyone talk about which is pretty mind boggling. The closest parking is all paid parking, try and snag a spot beside the church which is cheaper than at Rydal Mount (but is right beside the entry gates). Our favourite views and photo spots in the Lake District, Explore the remote and rugged Lake District at the Langdale Pikes, Walk Scafell Pike via the Corridor Route for a top Lake District Hike, Find our favourite things to do in the Lake District, Conquer knife-edge ridges on the exhilarating walk up Blencathra, Our pick of the finest walks in the Lake District, Try these heart-pumping grade 1 Lake District scrambles, The best places to stay in the Lake District. Obviously both swimming and spending time in nature both have proven health benefits, and proponents of wild swimming say it has unique mental health benefits as well.No major research into the topic has been undertaken, but the British Medical Journal (opens in new tab) published a study in 2018 suggesting it may be effective for . The famous poet's favourite Lake District viewpoint is at this very lake, aptly named 'Wordsworth's Seat'. A great place for new swimmers is in Waterhead at Borrans Park. Adults and children alike will love it. Best for Waterfalls: Cascata Plera, Tolmezzo, Friuli-Venezia Giulia A waterfall drops into a true blue pool over the this funnel of rock. The tarn is a 5-minute walk from the car park. This is one waterfall where ideally you dont want to visit after too much rain though, as the spectacular electric blue water becomes a lot darker. The magical sound and sight of the water cascading down delights us all and it would be rude not to share with you some of the most stunning swims that have embraced the magnificence of a waterfall or two. Once youve soaked up the atmosphere, head back to the Langstrath Country Inn in Stonethwaite for a pint. A crucial question is always, what is the water temperature? Out of the 14 major lakes in the national park, only 3 of them do not allow swimming, but which are the best? Wood behind, beach alongside; its a great spot. With a campsite on its shores, this small lake is a perfect place to relax and enjoy a leisurely swim in the wild, while taking in the views all around. Although reaching the top of the falls is easy and on a well maintained track, getting to the base does involve a short scramble. The plunge pools and waterfalls make it perfect for adventurers and those keen on an alternative to lengthy sessions of front. 15 mins. The Half-Day Package can be made a completely bespoke and private experience for an additional cost. However, the infinity pool is the lowest pool, if you venture a little higher up the cliff side then youll find a series of other swimming holes. 7 Avoid areas of blue-green algae, wading in muddy areas or swimming with an open cut. This Summer, we swam outdoors more than we've ever done before, and it just got better, and better! We couldnt believe it either, and yet even when we visited and the waterfall was in shadow, the water was still undeniably turquoise and absolutely exquisite. You can also swim in the deep pools beneath Dalegarth Bridge on the way up to the parking area some jump from the bridge, and there are rope swings too. Beckenham Place Park Swimming Lake, London, England. The book takes you on magical journeys through Britain's most popular walking and swimming region, combining classic Lakes fell walking with adventurous swimming, collating the very best swims and hikes in Lakeland. Heres everything you need to know about visiting Scale Force. Its truly wild. With a shimmering chute falling 20m into a deep plunge pool, its hidden in a mossy and verdant tropical-looking ravine reached by crossing several wooden bridges and some final scrambling along a slightly tricky path. Grasmere is situated in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Also, dont try and do too much too soon. There are several small footholds, but even then, I had to take my boots off to feel comfortable going up. Although no one waterfall is huge, each is utterly spectacular. You wouldnt want to do this after heavy rainfall (or during rain). There is a very short (one minute or so) descent to the bridge, but theres a bit of loose soil and one eroded patch of track here, so just watch your step. Lather up with sunscreen and throw on your bathing suit, because there's a world of fun awaiting you. It's also one of the smallest lakes in the National Park, and is popular because of its Wordsworth connections. About a 30-40 minute walk from Sonethwaite, in the shadow of Scafell Pike, is one of the most amazing wild swim spots that the Lake District has to offer. Rydal Water is next to the road and is not as remote as some of the other wild swimming spots in the Lake District. Best for a chilly mountain dip. Although lakes and rivers can look calm and beautiful on the surface there can be underlying dangers. This delightful village lies in the heart of Exmoor's moorland and provides a wonderful place to swim. All the details on the walk, as well as another waterfall nearby (not on this list) are in this guide. These are ideal places for enjoying a peaceful wild swim. Discover a whispering waterfall, beyond an ancient stone bridge, tumbling amongst ferny rocks. Ritson's Force is one of those magical places that makes you instantly grateful to be alive! The woodland is also a great place to try and spot red squirrels, although we sadly didnt get lucky! St Patricks boatyard rents kayaks and canoes, so you can take to the water for your own mini-adventure. Best wild swimming in the Lake District for wading amongst high, picturesque views. Pass through it and youll see some steps down to a wooden bridge just ahead of you. Beautifully placed between Buttermere and Loweswater, Crummock Water is one of the lovely wild outdoor swimming spots. Buckstones Jum 3 Stunning Waterfalls To Swim In 12. Swimming from the boats is allowed, providing you can pull yourself back in! The views are gorgeous, not just of the lake itself, but also the surrounding fells. Save 13% from RPP Save 13%. 3-5 business days . Companies like Head for the Hills also do beginners and advanced courses in open water swimming. You will still have to be aware of smaller craft like canoes and sailing boats, but your overall experience may be improved. Thank you for subscribing! The waterfall can be accessed via an easy walking trail, or you can make a circuit, which has a small amount of climbing and some muddy patches. If you are an experienced swimmer then sink in and enjoy the resounding vista of the lake and its surroundings. Booking your trip via the links on this page (or on our book page) will earn us a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Its an easy track that is flat for the majority of the way. In the early morning, as the mist slowly drifts from the lake, Blea Tarn is lavished with a cache of serenity. Some car parks may charge and always check the specific lake before you swim. Due to the depth of the lake it may be colder than others on our list so make sure that you wild swim in the correct gear. Walk length: 100m each way (via the quickest route)Difficulty: Easy. This lake is better suited to more experienced or confident wild swimmers due to the steep drop offs near the edge of the lake but that shouldnt stop it being a lake to aim for. This is a lake and a wild swim that will take your breath away with the pure scale and beauty of your surroundings. There is a little dam at the outflow of Blea Water . It takes just a few minutes, but would be slippery after rain, so it does require care. The fact there was no one else here at all during our visit in the August school holidays still has me perplexed! Cross Dalegarth Bridge (deep pool below) and find the car park on the left after 200m. 5 If you plan on swimming across deep water then do not go on your own, its safer and more fun with others. The lakes which do not have power boats or ferries include; Wastwater, Crummock Water, Buttermere and Rydal Water. Although the track is generally in good condition, small parts of it can be boggy year round. Swim upstream first because you dont want to leave the more tiring work till the end. A wide, picturesque valley wedged between the high mountains; its remoteness adds to its rugged allure. One of which is yet another dramatic Lake District infinity pool. It wasnt horrendous on our visit, but it was more extensive than the first part of the circuit and had the potential to be pretty nasty in wetter times. Wild Swimming The Lake District, Cumbria is one of the best places in the world for wild swimming. River Barle, Simonsbath, Somerset, England. It's significantly colder than many of the other wild swimming spots around the Lakes and the plunge pool is small, so you can't really swim to warm up. Great for jumps and snorkelling. ( in my opinion). The water is cold and fresh and there's even places where it's deep enough to jump in, sit in a natural . If you told me I was in the Lake District, Id be gobsmacked. For more information about swimming responsibly in the Lake District, catch up on the rules at the Outdoor Swimming Society. You can then rock hop or walk through the water to the base of the falls. Prefer an infinity pool perched on top of a huge cliffside waterfall? Park in the village of Stonethwaite and walk along the river for 45 minutes past the Langstrath Country Inn. This helps towards the costs of running our website. After crossing the bridge the track continues along a bracken lined path and youll arrive at a gate 150m later. Home > Places > Wild Swim > Waterfall or Gorge. The water during the summer months is usually warmer than you would expect. The waterfall cascades over the cliff side with gorgeous views out to the surrounding fells. Although were sharing a few of the Lakes most famous falls, this list is biased towards our passion when it comes to waterfalls, and thats those you can swim under. There's a 7-day free trial too, so you can access all of Great Britain anytime, anywhere. The car park has toilets which come with a 50p fee. Access into the water is easiest on the southeast side of the tarn. Keep climbing on the upward path (dont bear R along the wall path) and you reach the lake after 300m more. Wastwater is the deepest lake in the Lake District. Take a walk, or a run then launch yourself into this large beautiful lake. However, travel down the road to Triglav National Park 's Lake Bohinj and discover wilder scenery for free. After buying a one way ticket to Istanbul we spent a year making our way through Asia before arriving in Australia, where we have been living ever since. As previously mentioned, wetsuits, bright swimming caps and tow floats can be very important. Walk length: 2.6 miles (4.3km) returnDifficulty: Easy. Walk length: 1.4 miles (2.2km) return Difficulty: Easy. Firstly, always check the weather forecast. You can reach Whorneyside Force via a strenuous circuit hike taking in the fabulous Crinkle Crags, or using a direct route, which is a pretty easy walk. From rivers to lakes, quarries to natural dubs and pots - you'll never be far away from a sumptuous, soul-reviving freshwater wonderland in which to wallow. The deepest of the lakes at over 250 feet deep, Wastwater also stretches for 3 miles in length and around mile wide with the Screes also making up one part of the shoreline. Also, be aware of other users. You can find out more details in our Ritsons Force guide. After a while, the bite of the initial cold dissipates and all that remains is themagic of wild swimming in the Lake District on such a beautiful morning. When the sun is shining there is no better place on earth to be. Stanley Ghyll Waterfall is one of the most atmospheric in the Lake District. This takes around 15 mins. Explore the latest books: Wild Swimming Walks Lake Disitrict or Wild Guide Lakes and Dales. Normally we would pick out just one waterfall from the track, but honestly thats a very tough job when you see the sensational spots on offer here. Located in the peaceful western side of The Lake District, Cumbria, the Stanley Ghyll Force waterfall plummets 60 feet into a secluded gorge. It may be small, but Rydal Water is still an amazing place to venture for a wild swim. At 61m deep it is the deepest tarn in the Lakes and is as deep as most of our larger lakes; all this in a tarn barely 400m across. The Julian Alps offer top-class swimming, including the lovely (but costly) Lake Bled lido. As the biggest and most famous lake in the National Park and in England, it could not be left out. As well, Lubny is a major producer of meat and milk products, furniture and bread.Over 40 types of ice cream are made in the milk factor, and the Lubny bread is known across Ukraine. Being smaller in size and relatively shallow, on a lovely summers day the temperature of the water will be perfect. The fell above is a lovely little-visited peak and very easy to reach, with views down over Coniston. Alternatively, the Wasdale Head pub is just 5 kilometres away. Theres a little rock wedged between the cliffs at the top of the falls, which gives it a dramatic and wild feel. In general, the pools are deep and good for swimming in the wild while you enjoy the water flowing down from above. It couldnt be more different from the dark and mysterious vibes at Scale Force. The atmosphere is other worldly. Cross the bridge and head through the gate, and then right. Kail pot and Pillar pot are 25 minutes from the car park; Tongue Pot is 20 minutes further. There is information on currents, tides and excess water due to heavy rainfall and these are always things to check before you start to swim in the wild. Swimmers transferring invasive, non-native weeds to some of the Lake Districts most pristine lakes is becoming a problem. From here you retrace your steps for 1.4 miles (2.2km) along the flat path to the car park. However, you dont have to be a fan of wild swimming to enjoy a visit. Its an old reservoir on the route up Holme Fell, used for the mines below. Wild Swimming Walks Lake District: 28 Lake, River & Waterfall Days Out 216. by Pete Kelly. Wild swims don't come with swankier views than this. You can access your free e-book by clicking on this link. At Westwater, you can park right where you swim. This isnt too bad, but after you finish the rock hopping you begin the bog traverse. The best places to go wild swimming near waterfalls in the UK, from rivers in Cornwall to pools in National Parks in Yorkshire, the Lake District and Scotland This is not the only infinity pool in the Lake District, but it is one of the most beautiful. How Many Lake District Lakes and Mountains. Packed full of activities, destinations and free things to do outside, the new GetOutside app makes it easy to organise an outdoor activity or a day out that your family will love. Accessing the pool is easy as you can just walk straight in, but just watch for slippery stones underfoot. Tongue Pot - Image: Daniel Start//WildSwimming.com, The legendary Tongue Pot forms a long emerald pool beneath a roaring waterfall in a cleft of the mountain stream, just beneath a mountain packhorse bridge. At its deepest point the lakebed is over 250 feet below the surface whilst Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain, towers above Wastwater at over 3,200 feet high. There may be a walk involved in getting there, but the enjoyment afterwards will more than make up for it. Park at the bottom of Hardknott Pass near Brotherinkeld Farm then walk up the Eskdale Valley. The stone steps are uneven, but they only last for 250m. For longer swims in summer or any swims in winter wear a wetsuit and make sure you have warm clothes to change back into when you are finished. Set up camp here for an afternoon and spend your time cooling off in the falls, jumping in from their swing rope or taking a walk along the valley. It plunges into a sheer ravine and the force of the water and dramatic scenery make for a mesmerising scene. If the conditions are good on the first leg of the circuit, then to complete it, you need to take the path on the other side of the wooden bridge and begin heading along the the narrow stony track. Even walking during a hot dry summer, it was boggy and it would be much worse in wetter times. If you look ahead youll see two wooden bridges: one close to the lake and one off to the left. Park at the car park nearest to the cattle grid (marked CG on an OS Map), Galleny Force - Image: Daniel Start//WildSwimming.com. You can consider this article a work in progress as we have plenty more waterfall adventures planned! Overlooking Lake Ullswater, Aira Force waterfall is one of the most widely known of the waterfalls in the Lake District. Available from local outdoors retailers, bookshops and our online OS shop. Near the foot of the valley, the Esk River has cut canyons and pools in the rock creating three great pots to wild swim. If you're looking for the best paddling and wild swimming Peak District locations, then grab your swimmers and a towel, and read on. Youll reach it after a couple of hundred metres. From the SE corner of Hodge Close quarry (itself an amazing place), a path leads up through woods to old mine ruins 300m. I say brave because the water is ice cold even in summer. Lower down from Buckstones Jum, you will find an amazing swim location with a majestic waterfall. Park by the side of the road at Wastwater. There are plenty of hand and footholds to get down the steep dirt track, as well as tree roots for stability. Surrounded by hilly woodlands crisscrossed with jogging tracks, Rydal Water is the perfect place to get active in nature. Theres nothing like staring up at a waterfall from inside the crystal clear water, and if thats your thing too, then youll find the best swimming spots in England in this post. All rights reserved, Best spots for an invigorating wild swim in the Lake District, favourite things to do in the Lake District, Great things to do in the Yorkshire Dales. 28 magical walks through some of Wales' most popular mountain, lowland and coastal areas.Classic walks that link multiple swim stops. Hi! Youll descend 350m of boggy grassland, albeit with wonderful views to soften the blow! From waterfall splash pads to stunning blue holes, these swimming spots will make your summer memorable. Situated only a stones throw from the picturesque town of Keswick, biggest and most famous lake in the National Park. Should I swim with someone?Ideally yes where possible. Read Next The Gordale Scale Walk, Yorkshire Dales. All the details are in our Stock Ghyll Force guide. This is Lake District swimming at its best, demanding swimmers put in the effort to get to the water before delivering superb views and a chance to feel the searing high of slipping into the. Leaving Wales off our guide to wild swimming locations in the UK was never an option. The brave can descend down to the pool for a dip in the cool waters. But, the natural and tranquil setting is full of the typically beautiful Lake District scenes. What are the most spectacular lakes to wild swim in? Thanks for your support! The whole family can enjoy a picnic, swimming and laughter, all in this magical spot. Grasmere. With a shimmering chute falling 20m into a deep plunge pool, it's hidden in a mossy and verdant tropical-looking ravine reached by crossing several wooden bridges and some final scrambling along a slightly tricky path. With the largest waterfall in the Lake District, Scale Force, on one side, Rannerdale on the other and also the starting point for the River Cocker. In our opinion, this is one of the Lake District's better waterfalls (although not as good as High Force in the Durham. Wild Swimming Walks Lake District; Wild Swimming Walks Lake District - 28 lake, river and waterfall days out. Surrounded by some of the most breath-taking walks and nature trails, the view from the water is just as good, if not better. What a beautiful walk in the Langdale valley, whatever the weather the views are breathtaking. In this video I find the most beautiful wild swimming spot, visit 2 waterfalls, summit 5 mountains and find the most stunning wild camp location. Walk length: 2.1 miles (3.5km) returnDifficulty: Moderate. Its nice enough, but its not a patch on what lies beyond. The pot is a 45-minute stroll up the valley from the village of Stonethwaite, which also provides one of the best views in the area without any climbing. Walk length: Five minutes each wayDifficulty: Easy. Several little beaches are sprinkled around the shore where you can launch for a long swim, lay in the shallows or just soak up the views from the bank. But dont let that put you off. Read Next Great things to do in the Yorkshire Dales. However, reaching the most spectacular part of the falls, the upper falls, does require a scramble - which is probably why even in the busy summer holidays we got the entire thing to ourselves. However, going further does require care. Given that its located in Ambleside, Stock Ghyll Force is one of the better known waterfalls in the Lake District. We opted for sunset, which was a captivating time to be up there. It really is stunning and well worth doing if you have the right conditions. Given this is a pool on top of a huge waterfall, you need to be very careful about when you visit, please read all the details, including the safety warning in this guide. This should take around 20 mins. I say brave because the water is ice cold even in summer. By mikeedeedee. From great lakes like Windermere, through to small hidden gems such as Tongue Pot, there is a swim out there to suit you all. After a few minutes youll pass through a kissing gate, which is signposted for Scale Force. Its not run by the National Trust, so members wont park free here. After making your way up to Scafell Pike via the corridor route, return via Esk Hause and make a small detour to Sprinkling Tarn. 3 Do not swim in rivers with strong currents, there is a risk of being swept downstream. Sign up to our mailing list to get our free mini guide! Its deep enough to dive in from the old dam wall, and small enough that it warms up nicely in the sunshine. All Rights Reserved. Here we reveal some of our favourites. Best wild swimming in the Lake District for serene early morning laps in calm waters. Dont be fooled by these initial excellent trail conditions, it deteriorates quickly! Well and truly bitten by the bug. Located off Ullswater, this deep water underneath an intimidating cliff can be enjoyed by jumpers and wild swimmers alike. Daniel Start On the water May 31, 2016 10 mins. Expect the water to be cold and go in bit by bit if youre not used to cold water swimming. Rydal Grot is a magical little spot and one of the easiest to get to on this list. Look at the websites for the Lake District and for Cumbria, for any information and guidelines before you set out. Buckstones Jump is an idyllic spot for wild swimming in the Lake District and is a very well-known local spot. There are always rocks to use as stepping stones and on our visit all but one was tiny and not really worth mentioning - however I know we were walking during an unusually dry spell. There are two separate pools, one higher than the other. Whether you're more a Wordsworth type or a wild swimming enthusiast, there is no better place to visit than the Lake District. The Lake District is quite simply one of the most magical places in the world for wild swimming. Having said that, we didnt have any boot sucking moments, it was more wet than actually muddy for the most part. Black Moss Pot, Stonethwaite. This is crucial for your own safety. This is Waterfall Woods in the Brecon Beacons, a place where you'll find some of the most striking and awe-inspiring waterfall plunge pools. The only hard decision you will have to make, is which one to visit first! Following the Langstrath Valley in the Borrowdale area of the Lake District, Langstrath Beck curves through steep woodlands and grassy fields before forming a small dramatic gorge pool cut into a rock ledge. Be aware that boats do use the lake as well so always swim with care. The lovely thing about this part of the walk is you are now following the shore of Crummock Water. Hypothermia from wild swimming is known and should be protected against. 1. An eerie mist lingers over the lake, revealing the mountain scene reflected on the perfectly still water in an intermittent rhythm. All around you are rocks and cliffs that form the walls of the Pot. The temperature may be cold, especially so in deeper areas. Take our map with you on your discovery of the amazing wild swimming in the Lake District. Like Buttermere, it is relatively small in comparison to other lakes, but well worth a visit if you fancy taking a dip. Youll be walking on a flat gravel path, past farmland, but with wonderful views out to the fells. But we do it. Black Moss Pot 16. Park at the White Moss Cas Park on the A591, then walk for 20 minutes anti-clockwise around the lake. Where can I swim for free in the lake district?Any of the main lakes, tarns etc are all free to swim in. It makes for incredibly easy and safe access into the water, just right for young kids. The waterfall has a series of drops, each with its own unique beauty. Walk length: 2 miles (3.2km) returnDifficulty: Moderate. This will help to maintain the pristine conditions of the English Lakes. If youre planning a trip to the Lake District, here are more of our guides to help you get the best out of this stunning part of England. Please remember to take all rubbish with you and keep these places wild and pristine - as with anywhere in the outdoors. Read Next The absolute best way up Scafell Pike. In terms of majesty it has to be one of the most incredible waterfalls in England. Looking up at the falls and the surrounding mossy cliff walls was just mesmerising. The weather in the Lake District can change very quickly and it is always beneficial to be aware of any upcoming storms or fluctuations. That makes it an ideal spot to head to if youre in the Lakes on a wet day, but still want to get outside. A stunning waterfall flows down into a long pool making it an idyllic place to spend your time. Spend your summer spent swimming in mountain waterfalls, exploring lost ruins and caverns, and camping in ancient forests. There is no shortage of choice when looking at swimming spots in the wild in the Lake District. After 200m youll come to a fork, and the easiest route at this point is to bear right. The Eskdale Valley is known for its pools and waterfalls and Tongue Pot is possibly the best of them all. There are no facilities at Blea Tarn, so pack your own picnic and thermos of coffee. The best place for river scrambling and an aquatic mini adventure. Don't forget your towel! Rydal Water is a serene and peaceful place for open water swimming in the Lake District. Unbelievably, despite it being located in Wasdale Head (the start of the trail to Scafell Pike and one of the busiest places in the Lake District) it hides in plain sight and remains something of an unknown. Alternatively, climb down the large rocks to the bottom of the pool for a lazy relaxing soak.