Open Water Swims Found
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Open Water Swimming is going nuts! The Find a Race database contains ten times as many Open Water Swimming events for 2026 - 2027 than it did just two years ago!
So whether you’re new to the sport and looking to try outdoor swimming at a local lake or an experienced open water swimmer looking for a challenging long distance sea swim, check out our comprehensive 2026 - 2027 open water swimming event list below: you’ll find a race that’s perfect for YOU!
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Open Water Swimming Events 2026 - 2027
Hever Castle Swim Series
Edenbridge, KentSwim Long - Eton Dorney
Windsor, BerkshireDawlish Swim
Dawlish Warren, Dawlish, Devon, EX7 0NFMumbles - Multi Sport Festival
Knabb Rock, MumblesHever Castle Swim Series
Edenbridge, KentCowman Triathlon
Olney, BuckinghamshireOpen water swimming FAQs
What is classed as open water swimming?
What is classed as open water swimming?
Open water swimming means swimming outdoors in water - like a lake, river or the sea - rather than in a swimming pool. You might also hear it called outdoor swimming or wild swimming, although organised open water events are slightly different from just going for a wild swim. An event has a set course and organised safety cover, as well as a defined start and finish.
How much does an open water swim event cost to enter?
How much does an open water swim event cost to enter?
Entry prices vary according to the distance and the type of event you choose. Current shorter events include BOX END in Bedford at £15 to £28, with several distances from 750m to 5k. The Wimbleball Lake Swim is currently priced from £26.50 to £58.30. Longer or more complex swims can cost more, especially when additional event logistics are included.
How do I train for a one-mile open water swim?
How do I train for a one-mile open water swim?
Training for a one-mile open water swim usually involves building enough pool endurance to swim continuously, and then getting some experience outdoors before the event. Great Swim recommends being able to swim 400m before beginning its one-mile plan, which then builds over 12 weeks with three swim sessions a week. Pool training will help boost your fitness, but practising in open water gives you a chance to get used to sighting and swimming without walls or lane ropes.
How difficult is open water swimming?
How difficult is open water swimming?
Open water swimming can definitely feel harder than swimming in a pool at first, even if you already consider yourself a strong swimmer. There’s no wall to stop at, and you have to navigate rather than follow a line on the bottom. The feel of the water can also change a lot from one swim to the next. Swim England recommends getting some open water experience before entering a race, rather than making race day your first outdoor swim.
How long does it take to swim one mile in open water?
How long does it take to swim one mile in open water?
The Great North Swim currently gives 40 minutes as its average completion time for a one-mile swim. However, it often isn’t helpful to compare yourself to others, especially when you’re first starting out. Individual completion times can vary significantly. Unlike swimming lengths in a pool, you’ll also have to navigate the course, so your pool mile time won’t necessarily translate directly.