TRIP OVERVIEW
Trip Dates
09 Aug - 11 Aug |
Available
|
12 Aug - 14 Aug |
Available
|
09 Sep - 11 Sep |
Available
|
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Tour Highlights
Experience an unforgettable swimming holiday among the rolling green fells of the Lake District
Experience the fells in full bloom as the bluebells brighten up the rolling fells of Rannerdale (May trips only)
Stay close to stunning Crummock Water and Buttermere and discover the area's lesser-known waters
Reap the benefits of fully escorted outdoor swims with expert guides and share adventures with like-minded swimmers
Dine at the stunning Buttermere Court Hotel and take iconic hikes in the Lake Poets' footsteps
The Western Lakes and fells are undoubtedly some of the most striking in the UK’s famous Lake District. A world away from the bustle of the northern and southern Lakes, this area offers you the chance to truly relax and take some time out – disconnect from your busy everyday and reconnect with nature as you leap into our selected array of fantastic swimming opportunities. With the tranquillity of such remote locations, combined with decent daily swim distances, this trip is a fantastic Short Escape in one of the UK's most picturesque regions.
Who is this trip for?
This trip offers the classic SwimTrek lake crossings and is perfect for those looking for an adventure in a less visited part of the UK, whether you are new to open water swimming or an accomplished swimmer already.
The trip explores the stunning surroundings of the Lake District as well, which means swimmers should be comfortable walking at different gradients for at least 45 minutes to reach our swimming spots.
If you want to experience something extra special, why not join one of our trips in May to see the seasonal emergence of bluebells? While we cannot guarantee they will be out, they are reliable - we have a pretty good idea when they’ll show up as they have brightened the rolling countryside of Rannerdale for years!
Swimmers should have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average swim distance and average daily swim distance (over the course of two swims) prior to the start of the trip.
The average swim distance is around 1½km. The average daily swim distance is around 3½km.
We have given this trip a ‘Leisurely’ grading designed for people who want to swim at a more relaxed pace and enjoy the scenery.
What's included?
- Fully guided swimming holiday (swimmers only)
- Professional swim guides and full safety escort on all swims (swimmers only)
- All breakfasts
- All lunches (swimmers only)
- Full ABTOT Financial Protection
- Two nights' accommodation at Buttermere Court Hotel, between Crummock Water and Buttermere
- Dinner on first night
What's not included?
- Travel to and from the start of the trip
- Evening meals
- Drinks and additional activities
- Wetsuit hire
Sample Trip Itinerary
Please note that the below daily itineraries are an example of the swims that may take place during your trip, however, actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions. Your SwimTrek guides and local boat pilots will determine the most suitable swim locations each day and will communicate the plan with all guests as soon as possible.
Trip Schedule
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Map
Location Summary
Trip Grading
Trip Information
Getting There
Accommodation
Travel Advice
Related Trips
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Great couple of days thanks to a fun group, great guides and beautiful lakes!
Rob G, Netherlands - 2023 -
This was easily one of the most fun, confidence-boosting and empowering things I’ve done. I had to stop on every swim just to look around and take in the mountains, the lake, the fact that I was tiny and swimming amongst it all, and it was a delight even in the pouring rain. I’d never have experienced these amazing swims without the guides and support crew, so a huge thank you and I am already excited to book my next swim trek holiday. Thank you!!
Harriet W, UK - 2023 -
A magical introduction into swimming in a crystal clear mill pond of sweet lake district water, with a remarkable group of people and exceptional professional knowledgeable team full of life's joy, leading us.
Hazel T, UK - 2023 -
As a wild swimmer who hadn't previously swum more than 1km, this trip challenged me. With the wonderful support of the leaders though I enjoyed the hiking and the swimming, finishing with a 2.5km swim, which was wonderful.
Georgie O, UK - 2022 -
I didn’t think Swimtrek could get any better …it just did, Buttermere trip exceeded all my expectation, I’ll be back
Brian McC, UK - 2022 -
A beautiful location with a perfect mix of swimming and hiking. The hotel was lovely and the Staff were amazing. Our guides were knowledgeable and fun. Everyone was able to swim to their own ability and the views were stunning. I will definitely book again.
Tina L, UK - 2022 -
Great swimming, outstanding guide and crew, good food whilst staying in a friendly, comfortable hotel.
David, 2021 -
I have absolutely loved the experience. This was my first trip and cannot believe how well organised it has been. I also loved that our guide Heidi gave us lots of options for the swims depending on how we felt.
Louis, 2021 -
Excellent couple of days at Buttermere in July, Swimtrek team on the ball as always.
Roger, 2021

The lesser-swum lakes

Stopping to take in that view!

Swim gear ready and packed

Stunning Cumbrian scenery

Headed to our next swim spot

Sun lakeside spots

Swimmer heads along the shoreline
SwimTrekkers strike a pose at the peak

How much do you love the Lake District?
Getting ready for another swim
Headed out into fresh water among the fells

SwimTrek guides pre-swim planning

SwimTrekkers in the fells

Pre-swim preparations

View of the Western Lakes

Swimmers head out into the morning waters

The English Lake District

SwimTrekkers stop for a pre-swim pose

Moody shoreline shot in the Lake District

Swimmers with backdrop of green fells

SwimTrekkers prepare for another swim!

The group and their swim-hound prepare to head out
Picking out the perfect swim route
The pre-swim dressup
Swimmers head out under gathering clouds
The Lake District in all her glory
Sunfall through the trees and over the lake
SwimTrekkers talk swim plans

Buttermere from the shore
SwimTrekkers take a break
Buttermere looking beautiful and moody
Lake District swim spots from above
Lake District crags and peaks
SwimTrek guides in the Lake District
A quiet moment at the lakeside
Peaceful moment before pushing out onto the lake
Sally on the hilltops
A distant view of SwimTrekkers

Setting off with canoe support

Swimmers setting off

An afternoon walk through the beautiful countryside

The lovely Lakes District

At the end of another great swim!

Hikers head out over the lakes
