If you're eager to try open water swimming but unsure where to begin, the Great North Swim250 is the perfect introduction. Designed for new or nervous swimmers, families, and children aged 8 and over, this event offers a chance to ease into open water swimming in a safe and supportive environment. It’s a great way to test the waters and experience the thrill of swimming outdoors!
The Arla Great North Swim returns from Friday, 13 June, to Sunday, 15 June 2025. With six open water swimming distances to choose from, there's an option for every age, ability, and experience level. Whether you're aiming to get fit, beat your personal best, enjoy the beauty of nature, or fundraise for charity, you'll be part of an unforgettable shared experience. Take the plunge in Windermere and join the UK’s largest open water swimming event.
This weekend-long celebration is more than just a swim—it's an open water adventure. Expect breathtaking scenery, delicious local food and drink, outdoor activities, culture, art, and history, all alongside thousands of fellow swimming enthusiasts. With plenty to engage both swimmers and spectators, it’s a festival of open water swimming you won’t want to miss!
Wetsuit Policy
At all Great Swim events, wetsuits are optional when the water temperature is 15°C or above. If you choose not to wear a wetsuit, you must use an approved high-visibility tow float. Wetsuit swimmers also have the option to use a tow float if they wish.
This policy applies only to swimmers aged 16 and over. Swimmers under 16 are required to wear a wetsuit for safety.
Water Safety
Participants can feel confident knowing they are in safe hands throughout their swim. A team of fully trained water safety kayakers, lifeguards, and support boats closely monitor swimmers along the course, ensuring help is always nearby.
If a swimmer finds themselves struggling or needing a break, they can simply lie on their back or tread water and raise a hand. A member of the safety team will promptly come over to check on them. With plenty of safety craft on the water, assistance will arrive as quickly as possible.
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The Dock2Dock swim offers a unique opportunity to experience open water swimming in the heart of London’s Royal Docks. With towering historical cranes lining the water and the iconic skyline of Canary Wharf and the O2 Arena in the background, this event combines the thrill of urban swimming with the challenge of long-distance racing.
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The 200m Henley Splash is an open water swim event suitable for participants aged 8 and above, taking place entirely within the event village at Temple Island Meadows during the Henley Swim Festival. This short-distance swim offers a family-friendly introduction to open water swimming in the River Thames.
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Dive into the heart of London's Hyde Park and experience the thrill of open-water swimming in the iconic Serpentine lake! Swim Serpentine offers a fantastic half-mile race on Saturday, September 20th. Imagine yourself gliding through the clear water, surrounded by the beautiful scenery, and feeling the exhilaration of the challenge
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