As so many of you have begun swimming now in May, I thought it might be nice to put together a list of 10 open water swimming events in England between May and October 2023. These events cater to beginners as well as advanced swimmers, but are only a fraction of what's available out there, so this is just something to get you started...
Great North Swim
Location: Lake Windermere, Cumbria
Date: June 9-11, 2023
Description: One of the biggest open water swimming events in the UK, offering various distances from 250 meters to 10 kilometers. It attracts swimmers of all abilities and provides a stunning backdrop of the Lake District.
Henley Swim Festival
Location: Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire
Date: July 8-9, 2023
Description: This event takes place in the River Thames and offers a range of distances, including a 200-meter splash for beginners and a 2.1-mile endurance challenge. The festival atmosphere adds to the excitement.
Swim Serpentine
Location: Hyde Park, London
Date: September 16-17, 2023
Description: Held in the iconic Serpentine Lake, this event offers various distances, including a half-mile swim for beginners and a two-mile swim for experienced swimmers. It's a great opportunity to swim in the heart of the city.
Great East Swim
Location: Alton Water, Suffolk
Date: June 24, 2023
Description: Set in a scenic reservoir, the Great East Swim offers a range of distances from 250 meters to 10 kilometers. With a calm and sheltered course, it's an excellent event for beginners and experienced swimmers alike.
Chillswim Coniston
Location: Coniston Water, Lake District
Date: September 2-3, 2023
Description: Known for its stunning setting, this event provides swimmers with a chance to swim in the third largest lake in England. Distances range from 500 meters to 5.25 miles, offering a challenge for all levels.
Swim Rutland
Location: Rutland Water, Rutland
Date: July 15-16, 2023
Description: Taking place in the largest reservoir in England, Swim Rutland offers a variety of distances, including a 500-meter swim for beginners and a 10-kilometer endurance swim for the more experienced.
Big Welsh Swim - also see our own SSBS listing for this event https://www.selseyseabathingsociety.com/events/ssbs-big-welsh-swim-tour
Location: Llyn Padarn, Snowdonia National Park, Wales
Date: August 26-27, 2023
Description: Although not in England, this event is highly recommended for its breathtaking setting. With distances ranging from 500 meters to 5 kilometers, it caters to swimmers of different abilities.
Great Scottish Swim
Location: Loch Lomond, Scotland
Date: August 19, 2023
Description: Another event outside England but worth mentioning for its stunning location. With various distances available, including a 250-meter option, swimmers can enjoy the beauty of Loch Lomond while challenging themselves.
Swim Oxford
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Date: May 20, 2023
Description: This event takes place in the Thames at the historic city of Oxford. It offers distances from 500 meters to 4.5 kilometers, making it suitable for swimmers of different levels. The cityscape adds to the charm.
Dart 10k
Location: River Dart, Devon
Date: September 9-10, 202
And don't forget this wonderful event in Cornwall too!