The Great North Swim is back on 10-12 June 2022 for another mighty open water swimming adventure. It's the UK's biggest open water swimming event, and although biased(!), we think it's the best. Here's why.
First-timers & all-timeRs
There's something for everyone, for all ages and all abilities, whether you're a seasoned swimmer or a complete beginner. Every year we ask swimmers on the start line if it's their first open water swim and hands rocket into the air from all angles.
But not all those taking part are newbies to the open water, some very impressive swimming exploits will be on show across the weekend, from the Swim250 up to the marathon 10k distance. There are even some swimmers who will be paddling their way through their 14th Great North Swim this year!
A supportive (and safe) swim
So many swimmers choose the Great North Swim as their first event, and so many previous Great North Swimmers return, because we're a supportive and safe swim. Our fantastic team of staff, crew and volunteers will be on hand to give last minute advice and reassurance, wave you off into the water, and applaud you over the finish line.
Over 35 kayakers will support your every stroke on the water, keeping you safe, giving encouragement (and giving you something to hold onto while you adjust your goggles!). And lifeguards, medics and many more crew will be there to support you on your day.
Swimmer only area
Following the success of last year's swimmers only area, the area by the waterfront will once again be reserved for swimmers only. It gives swimmers the time and space to enjoy their start in the company of those taking on the challenge with them, and is complete with space to change, a bag drop, water refill points and of course toilets.
All swimmers will receive a pre-swim safety briefing, the chance to acclimatise in the water and ask any questions to our experienced swim team.
Spectating in style
For the friends and family accompanying swimmers, there will be lots to see and do. The popular event village is the ideal base, complete with a big screen to watch the action, exhibitor stands, pop-up food stalls, music, and a bar!
Brockhole also has a great range of fun outdoor activities to keep supporters busy, including Krazy Kats (7 years +), Archery (7 years +),a giant playground and a Woodland Faerie Trail. Just make sure you catch some of the swimming action on the big screen, and try to be there for the congratulatory hug when your swimmer(s) reappear to show their snazzy finisher t-shirt & medal.
Eat, drink, swim repeat!
Brockhole has a great selection of food on offer, including the main sit down café in the Brockhole House (with ice cream!), a fantastic BBQ at the Garden Shed, a vintage fish and chip van, the Yardies Jamaican street food, Super8 Pizza, and Earthword Kitchen (vegan)!
A beer tent in the main spectator area will be serving a selection of local Lakes beers and celebratory prosecco – the perfect place to keep supporters fuelled and for post swim celebrations.
And saving the best for last… expect stunning swimming! We'll be diving into nature together at Brockhole on Windermere, a truly stunning setting in the Lake District National Park. There's still time to join us – to find out more or enter click here.