Book with Confidence
Our flexible booking conditions include a 14-day refund guarantee and free trip changes.
Terms and Conditions apply.
TRIP OVERVIEW
Trip Dates
19 Jul - 21 Jul |
Available
|
22 Jul - 24 Jul |
Available
|
17 Aug - 19 Aug |
Available
|
20 Aug - 22 Aug |
Available
|
14 Sep - 16 Sep |
Available
|
Join the mailing list to be informed when trips go live
Tour Highlights
Experience an unforgettable swimming holiday among the rolling green fells of the Lake District
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, as well as enjoy some 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. The Buttermere Valley is dep and mobile signals limited at best so this holiday is for those who wish to unplug, swim, read, relax and talk to each other. The trip explores the beautiful surroundings of the Lake District so swimmers should also be comfortable walking at variable gradients for at least 45 minutes whilst carrying your own kit to reach remote swimming spots.
Swimmers should also have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average swim distance of 1½ km prior to the start of the trip. The average daily swim distance is around 3½ km (split over a minimum of two swims).
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 in the Western Lakes of the Lake District
- Two nights' accommodation at Buttermere Court Hotel, between Crummock Water and Buttermere
- Two breakfasts, two lunches and one dinner at the Buttermere Court Hotel
- Swim guides and full safety escort on every swim
What's not included?
- Dinner on Day 2
- Travel to and from the start of the tour
- Wetsuit hire
Related Trips
Daily Itineraries
Please note that the below daily itineraries are an example of the swims that may take place during the course of your trip, however, actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and conditions. Your SwimTrek guides 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
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

Mid-swim shot of SwimTrekkers in action
-
As a wild water 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. I would definitely consider booking another SwimTrek break.
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 -
Just what I expected! Very personal, l regard Liam Walsh as an old friend now, he has guided me on numerous trips, a lovely guy!
Roger, 2021 -
Excellent trip, can't wait to SwimTrek again. Thank you.
Andrew, 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 -
The Western Lakes trip has been my first experience of SwimTrek and I've had a absolutely fantastic time. Heidi and all the safety crew were so friendly & knowledgeable, I really felt I was it great hands.
Beth, 2021 -
Excellent couple of days at Buttermere in July, Swimtrek team on the ball as always.
Roger, 2021 -
If you enjoy swimming, this is an excellent way to experience safe, guided open water swimming with like minded people. Fantastic fun!
Yvonne H. UK -
Amazing weekend in the lakes! Loved it!
Paulius S. UK -
I want to go on SwimTrek holidays again and again. I wouldn't describe myself as a natural water baby, but I now count open fresh water swimming as one of my top hobbies. Can't recommend Lithuania and/or the Lake District trips more highly!
Victoria W. UK -
A beautiful, intrepid, swimming adventure.
Alison R. UK
Book with Confidence
Our flexible booking conditions include a 14-day refund guarantee and free trip changes.
Terms and Conditions apply.