Dock2Dock takes place in London’s Royal Docks, a sheltered stretch of open water right in the heart of the city. Unlike sea swims or exposed lakes, the docks tend to offer calmer, flatter conditions, which makes a big difference if you’re still building confidence outdoors. You’re swimming in an urban environment, with cranes, skyline views & planes from London City Airport overhead – it feels unique, energising & very different to most open water events.

The 1.5k attracts a wide mix of swimmers. Some are stepping out of the pool for the first time, some are rebuilding fitness after time away from swimming, & others are using it as a low-pressure way to get back into events. The atmosphere is supportive rather than intense, with strong safety cover & plenty of friendly faces around you in the water.

What to expect on race day

The course is made up of clearly marked loops with large buoys, making it easy to follow. Navigation is simple, which helps take the edge off nerves if this is your first time swimming without lane ropes or a black line.

There’s a choice of mass or rolling start. If you’re feeling nervous, the rolling start gives you more space & a calmer entry into the water. You’ll never be far from safety kayaks or paddleboards, & there’s a strong sense that the event is designed to help swimmers have a positive experience rather than feel rushed or overwhelmed.

How to train for the Dock2Dock 1.5k

You don’t need to swim huge distances each week to prepare well for 1.5k. Consistency & confidence matter far more than chasing mileage.

For most swimmers, 2–3 swims per week is ideal. Across the week, try to include a mix of:

- Technique-focused swims, where you slow things down & pay attention to body position, balance & breathing.

- Steady continuous swims, building comfort swimming for 15–25 minutes without stopping.

- Shorter faster efforts, to help you feel confident changing pace & raising your heart rate slightly.

If you’re returning after a break, give yourself time to rebuild gradually. Fitness often comes back quicker than confidence, & that’s completely normal. The goal is to arrive on race day feeling calm & capable, not exhausted.

Every few weeks, reduce your overall volume for a lighter week. These easier weeks are when your body adapts & your swimming starts to feel smoother.

Getting comfortable in open water

Even though Dock2Dock is relatively sheltered, it’s still open water. There are no walls to rest on, no lane ropes, & visibility can change.

If you can, get into open water a few times before race day. Practise lifting your eyes briefly to sight, then dropping your head back down without disrupting your rhythm. Focus on keeping your breathing relaxed & regular, even if the water feels unfamiliar at first.

If open water access is limited, you can still prepare well in the pool by swimming longer continuous efforts & practising calm breathing patterns.

Why technique matters

Good technique can completely change how the 1.5k feels. Staying long, balanced & relaxed in the water will save energy & make the swim feel far more enjoyable.

Focus on keeping your head low, body aligned & hips near the surface. Breathe often rather than holding your breath, & let your kick support your balance rather than drive you forward.

Small improvements here often matter more than swimming harder, especially in open water.

Fuel & hydration

You won’t need to fuel during a 1.5k swim, but arriving well-fuelled helps you feel steady & confident.

The night before, eat a normal carb-based meal you’re used to. On race morning, have a light breakfast a couple of hours before your start – porridge, toast or a banana all work well.

Sip water or an electrolyte drink in the hours leading up to your swim, but avoid trying anything new.

Kit tips

Wetsuits are optional, but most adults & many first-timers like the extra warmth & buoyancy they provide. Whatever you choose, make sure you’ve tried it in training so nothing feels unfamiliar on race day.

Choose goggles you trust. Clear lenses work well in dull conditions, mirrored lenses are helpful if it’s bright. Anti-fog them before you start.

Bring warm layers for after your swim. Even shorter swims can leave you feeling chilly once you stop moving.

Rest & taper‍

In the final 5–7 days before the race, reduce your swim volume by around half. Keep a couple of short, relaxed swims to stay loose, but avoid any last-minute “tests”.

Extra rest now will help you feel fresher & more confident on the day.

Race day tips

Arrive early so you’re not rushed. Give yourself time to check in, get changed & settle your nerves.

If you like more space, start towards the edge or back of the field. Settle into a steady pace rather than sprinting early, sight every few strokes & focus on relaxed breathing.

If nerves spike mid-swim, slow your breathing, lengthen your movements & remind yourself that you’re safe & supported. You can always slow down or pause briefly – it will pass.

After the swim

Once you finish, get into dry clothes quickly & refuel with a carb-based snack. Take a moment to enjoy what you’ve just done – your Dock2Dock 1.5k is in the bag.

For many swimmers, this distance opens the door to longer swims in the future, whether that’s the Dock2Dock 3k, a summer lake swim, or simply feeling more confident outdoors.

Ready to train?

If Dock2Dock 1.5k is your goal, Catch can support you with a fully personalised training plan that adapts to your schedule, experience & confidence level, paired with a tailored video technique course to help you arrive on race day feeling calm, prepared & excited.