Here's 10 open water swimming events in the South East and South West of England between May and October 2023, suitable for beginners to advanced swimmers. Each event is accompanied by a brief description and a link to the event registration website where possible.
Swim Serpentine Date: September 23, 2023 Location: Hyde Park, London Description: Swim Serpentine offers a range of distances, from half a mile to a two-mile marathon swim, making it suitable for swimmers of all abilities. The event takes place in the stunning Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park, providing a memorable open water swimming experience. Website: swimserpentine.co.uk
Great North Swim Date: June 9-11, 2023 Location: Windermere, Lake District Description: The Great North Swim takes place in the beautiful surroundings of Windermere, England's largest lake. With various distances to choose from, including 250 meters, 1 mile, and 5 kilometers, this event caters to swimmers of all levels. Website: greatrun.org/great-swim/great-north-swim
Henley Swim Festival Date: July 8, 2023 Location: Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire Description: The Henley Swim Festival offers a fantastic opportunity to swim in the River Thames in the historic town of Henley-on-Thames. With distances ranging from 200 meters to 2.1 kilometers, participants can enjoy a scenic swim in this iconic stretch of water. Website: henleyswim.com/events/henley-swim-festival
Swoosh Swim Date: July 15, 2023 Location: River Dart, Totnes, Devon Description: The Swoosh Swim is a unique open water swimming event that takes you on a 6-kilometer downstream swim through the picturesque River Dart in Devon. The current provides a thrilling ride, making it a favorite among intermediate to advanced swimmers. Website: outdoorswimmingsociety.com/event/swoosh
Bournemouth Pier to Pier Swim Date: July 23, 2023 Location: Bournemouth, Dorset Description: The Bournemouth Pier to Pier Swim is a 1.4-mile sea swim along the stunning coastline of Bournemouth. It's a great event for beginners looking to challenge themselves in open water, with support from safety crews and lifeguards throughout the course. Website: swim-bournemouth.co.uk/pier-to-pier-swim
Dart 10k Date: September 2, 2023 Location: River Dart, Totnes, Devon Description: The Dart 10k is a long-distance swim in the fast-flowing River Dart. This challenging but rewarding event attracts experienced swimmers who are looking to test their endurance over a 10-kilometer course through the scenic Dartmoor National Park. Website: outdoorswimmingsociety.com/event/dart-10k
Big Cove Swim Date: August 26, 2023 Location: Weymouth, Dorset Description: The Big Cove Swim takes place in Weymouth Bay, providing swimmers with the opportunity to explore the stunning coastline of Dorset. With a choice of distances, including 1.2 miles and 2.4 miles, this event caters to swimmers of varying abilities. Website: justswim.events/event/big-cove-swim
Thames Marathon Date: August 13, 2023 Location: Henley-on-Thames to Marlow, Buckinghamshire Description: The Thames Marathon is a 14-kilometer open water swimming event that follows the course of the River Thames from Henley-on-Thames to Marlow. It's a challenging and scenic swim, attracting experienced open water swimmers. Website: henleyswim.com/events/thames-marathon
Ardingly Open Water Swim Date: June 24, 2023 Location: Ardingly Reservoir, West Sussex Description: The Ardingly Open Water Swim takes place in a beautiful reservoir nestled in the Sussex countryside. With options for a half-mile, 1 mile, and 2 miles, this event provides a friendly and welcoming environment for swimmers of all abilities. Website: activetrainingworld.co.uk/event/ardingly-open-water-swim
South West Swim Date: May 20, 2023 Location: Padstow, Cornwall Description: The South West Swim offers swimmers the chance to experience the stunning coastline of Padstow in Cornwall. With a choice of distances, including a family-friendly 1.5 kilometers, this event welcomes swimmers of all ages and abilities. Website: tempusleisure.org.uk/south-west-swim
Please note that event dates and details are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to visit the event websites for the most up-to-date information and registration. Enjoy your open water swimming adventures beyond Selsey if you dare!