10 open water swimming events in the South East and South West of England this summer!

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.

1. 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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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!