The 10K Great North Swim is a tough endurance challenge for swimmers aged 18 and over, covering 10,000m—equivalent to 400 lengths of a standard 25m pool. Entrants must be able to swim the full 10K unaided within 4 hours. The average completion time is around 2 to 3 hours. Full support is provided with lifeguards, kayakers, and safety boats throughout the swim, ensuring safety in the stunning Lake Windermere. This race is designed for experienced swimmers seeking to take on a serious open water endurance challenge.
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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Not for the faint-hearted however this swimrun has it all. Swims of up to 2km, pristine trails, uninhabited islands, 10 islands, potential for seals to cheer you on, some of the best view points on Scilly. There really is nothing else like this event!
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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 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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