When is the Windermere Epic Lakes Swim?
The Windermere Epic Lakes Swim takes place on Sunday 15 September 2019 at the following times:
- 8.00am – 5km
- 11.30am – 1 Mile
- 1.30pm – 500m
The starting point is at YMCA Lakeside, which is only a short distance from our Aphrodite’s Spa Hotel in Windermere. Entry cost is £20, £25 or £32 depending on which swim you wish to take part in. Closing date for entry is midday on Friday 13th September, or when all spaces available have been taken.
About Windermere Epic Lakes Swim
The Epic Lakes Swim in Windermere has become a popular date on the wild swimming calendar. It’s also not one for the faint-hearted, especially the 5km swim.
Due to the nature of the event, swimsuits are highly recommended given the unpredictable conditions of the outdoors. It is possible to swim without one for the mile or 5km distances, however, you need to be a proven “skin-swimmer” having taken part in a similar race in the past.
If you do decide to swim without a wetsuit, health and safety dictates you will need a tow float instead. Plus you must advise the organisers upon your application.
Further information is available on the official Epic Events website, including links to entry forms and more details on the course.
Open Water Swimming in the Lake District
There are also other open water swimming events in the Lake District, mainly in Coniston, Ullswater and Derwent Water. Although Lake Windermere is certainly one of the most popular. So even if you’re not taking part, you can book a package break in the Lake District and show your support.
Alternatively, if you wish to practice or get training for next year, ensure you do so safely and within the regulations of Cumbria’s National Park. After all, apart from diving into the water, you have to be mindful of how busy the Lakes can be. What with the local boating routes, kayaks and canoes, not to mention other swimmers.
As to where you can go swimming the Lake District, reservoirs and private lakes are off-limits, but generally speaking anywhere is possible. Despite being busy, Lake Windermere is certainly one of the best places for open water swimming. If, however, you’re thinking of challenging yourself and trying those lesser-known regions, it can be a good idea to take a map with you.
Even the most experienced open water swimmers need to know their limits. So if you’re ever in any doubt, make sure you take someone with you. Whether that’s a fellow swimmer, someone to share your spa suite or hiring a personal trainer to keep you fit.
Package Break in the Lake District
Book a package break in the Lake District at one of our Windermere spa hotels. We have a wide range of spa suites with hot tubs available. All of which come with access to the indoor pool, where you can practice your swimming without having to step a foot out of the hotel.