Guided ‘Swimming Bears Picnic’ in the Lake District

Immerse yourself in the refreshing waters of the Lake District with a guided swim followed by a relaxed picnic on the shore. This session offers a mix of swimming and unwinding in a beautiful lakeside setting, with plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings and share a meal with your group. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a social swim, this experience combines both.

Key Details

Duration: 3 hours (18:00–21:00)
Swimming Ability: Must be able to swim 1km
Group Type: Private couples or groups

What to Expect

Slip into the clear waters and enjoy a swim at your own pace, whether that’s a steady workout or a gentle float. A qualified coach will be on hand to guide the session, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and supported in the open water. The lake’s calm setting makes it an ideal spot to soak in the natural surroundings while enjoying the freedom of swimming outdoors.

After the swim, dry off and settle into a relaxed picnic on the shore. A selection of locally sourced treats will be provided, giving you a chance to refuel and enjoy good food in great company. The lakeside location offers plenty of space to spread out and unwind, with time to chat, take in the view, and capture a few photos to remember the experience.

Location

Set in the heart of the Lake District, this swim takes place in one of the region’s most inviting lakes, surrounded by rolling hills and scenic landscapes.

The exact location will be shared upon booking, with easy access to parking and facilities nearby. The area is well known for its peaceful waters and makes an ideal setting for open water swimming.

Prerequisites

Participants must be confident swimming at least 1km in open water. A basic level of fitness is required to take part, and it is recommended to bring your own wetsuit if you prefer additional warmth.

This session is suitable for those comfortable in outdoor conditions, with a safety briefing provided before entering the water.

Why Choose Us

As the only swimming holiday operator in the Lake District offering fully coached activities, every session is run by a qualified and experienced coach. Safety and environmental responsibility are at the heart of each swim, with all activities fully risk assessed, insured, and aligned with the Lake District National Park’s environmental guidelines.

Neil brings over 30 years of coaching experience, having worked across multiple sports and trained athletes from club level to European championship success. His passion for open water swimming and commitment to coaching is evident in every session, ensuring a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all. With a strong background in safeguarding and mentoring, Neil ensures that each experience is not just enjoyable but also conducted to the highest standards.

Guided open water swim with a qualified coach

Safety briefing and support throughout the session

Picnic with locally sourced food

Scenic lakeside location in the Lake District

Time to relax and enjoy the surroundings

Photos of your experience

Transport to and from the location

Wetsuit and swimming equipment (bring your own if needed)

Personal travel insurance

Additional food or drinks beyond the provided picnic

Yes, you must be confident swimming at least 1km in open water. This session is designed for those who are comfortable in natural swimming environments, as the lake does not have lane markers or poolside edges to hold onto.

If you are unsure about your ability, consider taking an introductory open water swimming session first.

The picnic includes a selection of locally sourced foods, such as locally crafted pies, salads, cumberland sausage rolls and locally brewed beers or Prosecco if preferred.

Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request. If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance so we can accommodate your needs.

Wetsuits are not mandatory but are recommended for added warmth, especially in cooler months. If you are accustomed to swimming without one, you are welcome to do so, provided you feel comfortable in the water temperature.

Please bring your own wetsuit if you prefer to wear one, or we can hire you one.

The water temperature varies depending on the time of year. In summer, it typically ranges between 14–20°C, while in spring and autumn, it can be cooler.

If you are new to open water swimming or sensitive to cold temperatures, a wetsuit and neoprene accessories such as gloves and booties may help you stay comfortable.

We closely monitor weather conditions leading up to the session. If conditions are deemed unsafe due to strong winds, thunderstorms, or other extreme weather, we will reschedule your booking or offer a refund.

Light rain will not affect the session, and swimming in the rain can be an enjoyable experience.

Non-swimming guests are welcome to join the picnic portion of the session but will need to make their own way to the location.

There will be no lifeguard or support for non-swimmers in the water, so only those participating in the swim will receive safety guidance.

Neil is a seasoned coach with over 30 years of experience across various sports. Originally living and working in London, Neil made a life-changing decision to relocate to the tranquil beauty of the Lake District in 2001. Amidst the pressures of a demanding career in the police force, Neil discovered solace swimming in the therapeutic waters of the lakes, finding respite in the stunning surroundings of the Lake District. It was during his immersive forays into open water swimming that Neil crossed paths with Graeme Sutton, the founder of Swim on the Wild Side. Their shared love for open water swimming sparked a friendship, leading to numerous swims together in Derwent Water, including the cherished tradition of Boxing Day and New Year's Day dips. Neil's coaching journey in triathlon has been extensive, starting from club coaching to mentoring athletes individually and in groups. His dedication to the sport has not only inspired countless individuals but has also seen him train athletes to the elite level, with one achieving European championship glory. He has shared this knowledge to other by tutoring over 500 triathlon coached with British Triathlon. His commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive sporting environment led him to a pivotal role as a director for Triathlon England, overseeing safeguarding and welfare initiatives. Fuelled by a mutual passion for open water swimming and coaching, Neil and Graeme frequently joined forces to deliver coaching sessions at clubs and introduce newcomers to the joys of open water swimming. When Graeme decided to pass on the baton of Swim on the Wild Side, Neil seamlessly stepped into the role, carrying forward the legacy of sharing this extraordinary pastime and picturesque region with others. Join us in experiencing the wonders of swimming in chlorine free water with the breathtaking backdrop of the Lake District. When swimming with Swim on the Wild Side, you get expert coaching from a coach with over 30 years experience, coaching complete beginners to National and European champions. You get the reassurance of a fully equipped and trained safety kayaker to provide you with the confidence that you are in safe hands. We pride ourselves on doing things the right way and putting your safety and enjoyment first.