Guided swimming tours in the Lake District offer a chance to explore some of the most scenic open water locations while feeling safe and supported. Each tour is carefully planned to match your swimming ability, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. With fully risk-assessed and insured swims, you can focus on making the most of your time in the water.
Each tour is built around your preferences, whether you want a leisurely swim in calm waters or a more challenging route across a larger lake. The aim is to provide a welcoming and safe environment for all swimmers, with an experienced coach on hand to offer advice and stroke assessments if required. The focus is on making sure everyone feels comfortable and confident in the water, no matter their ability.
A typical tour includes an introductory swim on the first evening to assess ability and help settle into the surroundings. Over the following days, guided swims take place in some of the most iconic lakes, such as Wastwater, Bassenthwaite, and Ullswater. Breaks are planned between swims, allowing time to relax and enjoy the local scenery. Meals and accommodation are arranged to suit your needs, ensuring a stress-free experience. Whether you're looking for a solo adventure or a group swim with friends, each tour is designed to be memorable and rewarding.
Swims take place in various locations across the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its glacial lakes and dramatic landscapes. Derwentwater, Wastwater, Coniston, and Ullswater are among the lakes often included in the tours, each offering a different experience.
The region provides a mix of sheltered bays and open stretches, allowing for both relaxed and more adventurous swims. Accommodation and dining options are selected based on your preferences, with choices ranging from cosy campsites to high-end hotels.
Participants should have a basic level of swimming ability and be comfortable in open water. While all swims are adapted to suit different levels, some experience in outdoor swimming is beneficial.
A willingness to swim in varying conditions, including cooler water temperatures, is also recommended. Wetsuits are optional but can be worn for comfort, and guidance on equipment is available if needed.
As the only fully coached swimming holiday operator in the Lake District, this team offers a unique blend of expertise and personal experience. Every swim is carefully planned, risk assessed, and insured, ensuring a safe and enjoyable time in the water. Following environmental guidelines set by the Lake District National Park, the tours also promote responsible swimming through initiatives such as the 'Ditch the Hitchers' campaign.
Neil, the lead coach, has over 30 years of experience in sports coaching, including mentoring triathletes to championship level. His passion for open water swimming developed after moving to the Lake District, where he found a connection to the lakes through both personal and professional experiences. Having run a triathlon coaching company and worked alongside Swim on the Wild Side’s founder, he continues to bring expert coaching and local knowledge to every swim. Whether you're looking to improve your technique or simply enjoy the beauty of the lakes, these guided tours offer a welcoming and tailored approach to open water swimming.
Neil was great…guided us clearly and encouraged us before, during and after. We felt safe and confident due to his presence and had a really enjoyable time. We were a bit nervous at first but are so glad that we did it. What a fantastic experience.
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Swim on the Wild Side, a partner of adventuro.
Cumbria, United Kingdom
From £945
Rydal, Ambleside, Lake District, Cumbria
From £65
