‘Wordsworth’s Daffodils’ Guided Wild Swim in Ullswater

This swimming tour takes you through the scenic setting that inspired William Wordsworth's famous poem, offering a unique and invigorating way to connect with the beautiful environment of Ullswater. Starting in Glenridding, the swim takes you across the lake to Glencoyne Bay, where the poet found inspiration. Along the way, you'll enjoy the challenge of open-water swimming with the added bonus of stopping for a warming drink and incredible views.

Key Details

Duration: 3½ hours
Swimming Ability: Must be able to swim 3km
Location: Ullswater, Lake District
Group Size: Flexible depending on availability

What to Expect

The tour begins from Glenridding, where you'll set off towards Silver Point on the eastern shore of Ullswater. As you swim, the crisp water and magnificent views around you will immerse you in the same landscape that inspired Wordsworth's poem. After crossing the lake to Glencoyne Bay, you’ll pause for a rest and a hot drink while taking in the sweeping view of the lake.

From there, the return swim will take you down the western side of the lake back to Glenridding. The adventure offers an opportunity to swim in open water, enjoy the amazing natural surroundings, and experience the beauty of Ullswater from a new perspective.

Location

Ullswater is one of the most scenic lakes in the Lake District, nestled between towering fells and surrounded by lush woodland. The area is known for its calm waters and dramatic views, with Glenridding serving as the perfect starting point for your adventure.

Glencoyne Bay, where Wordsworth was inspired, adds an extra layer of historical significance to the location.

Prerequisites

Participants must be capable swimmers, as this tour involves swimming a distance of 3km across open water. It's essential that you are comfortable in chilly water and prepared for the varying conditions of Ullswater during the cooler months.

Why Choose Us

The Lake District’s only swimming holiday operator offers a fully coached experience with a qualified coach, ensuring that all swims are safe, supported, and tailored to your ability. The company adheres to strict environmental guidelines and is fully risk-assessed, making it a trusted choice for a memorable swimming experience.

Neil, the experienced coach behind this adventure, brings over 30 years of coaching expertise in various sports, including triathlon. After relocating to the Lake District, Neil’s passion for open-water swimming grew, and his extensive experience in coaching triathlon has helped many athletes reach their full potential. With a background that includes tutoring over 500 triathletes and a dedication to fostering a safe and inclusive environment, Neil’s approach is all about making swimming enjoyable and accessible for everyone.

Fully coached open-water swimming experience

Hot drink stop at Glencoyne Bay

All safety equipment and risk assessments

Qualified and experienced coach

Scenic views of Ullswater and its surroundings

Personal swimming gear (e.g. wetsuits, goggles)

Transport to and from the location

Refreshments beyond the hot drink stop

The swim lasts for approximately 3½ hours.

This includes the swim across Ullswater, the stop at Glencoyne Bay for a hot drink, and the return swim to Glenridding.

Yes, participants must be able to swim 3km in open water. The swim involves crossing Ullswater, which can be challenging due to colder temperatures and varying conditions.

If you are not sure about your swimming ability, we recommend practising open-water swims before joining.

You will need to bring your own swimming gear, including a wetsuit, swimming costume, goggles, and swim hat.

We advise wearing a wetsuit for comfort and warmth, as the lake can be quite chilly, especially during colder months.

The tour will proceed unless weather conditions become unsafe. In the event of poor weather or unsafe conditions, the session may be rescheduled or cancelled, and you will be informed ahead of time.

Your safety is the priority, and the swim will only go ahead if it’s safe to do so.

The swim is led by a qualified coach, and you will swim in a group with others. The coach will provide guidance, monitor everyone’s progress, and ensure safety.

If you have specific needs, let the coach know beforehand, and they will do their best to accommodate you.

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.