EVENT OVERVIEW

As the second longest lake in the Lake District, at 7 miles long Ullswater is often deemed the most beautiful.  The ribbon lake nestles within the foothills of the Helvellyn and High Street ranges, leading to chillier temperatures and bumpier waters as the wind channels down the valley.  

With this in mind, Ullswater can be considered one of the toughest Lake District swims, with stunning views along the entire length of the course.

THE EVENT

The swim of 7 miles begin at the southern end of the lake at Glenridding pier and concludes close to the source of the River Eamont and Lakeland boat hire, in Pooley Bridge.

You will need to make your own arrangements for picking up vehicles left at the start of the swim in Glenridding.

Swimmers must have a Kayaker for support on the water, you can supply your own or the BLDSA can find one for you, please select the kayak supplied option.

If you are providing your own support please take a look at Boat Crews requirements on the BLDSA website.

Advice to Kayakers download

Water Temperatures:  Ullswater is a considered one of the chillier swims usually sitting below 15˚c.

Presentation: After the swim, join us in celebrating with a small friendly presentation. Certificates will be awarded to all swimmers completing the event.

Swim Secretary: Michelle Hardy

email: ullswaterswim@bldsa.org.uk

ENTRY CATEGORIES

The price for BLDSA members is veterans/seniors £80 and juniors £20 – Non member price is veterans/seniors £130 and juniors £30.

Only BLDSA members wearing traditional swimwear will be included in the grandprix.

Juniors MUST have a Parent or Guardian present AT ALL TIMES during the events.

REGISTRATION

Both swimmer and kayaker report to the Swim Secretary upon arrival at Glenridding Steamer Car Park from 7.45am 

BRIEFING

Please Note, attendance to the briefing is mandatory for both the swimmer and kayaker – failure to attend this will void your entry.

1st Wave, slower swimmers @ 8.00am
2nd Wave @ 9.00am

START

1st Wave @ 8.30am
2nd Wave @ 9.30am

(Note that times may be subject to change)

FINISH Pooley Bridge near the boat hire

ACCOMODATION

There is a wide variety of accommodation to choose from should you wish to stay in this stunning location, from campsites to welcoming B&B’s.  A simple google search will pull up a number of options.

Kayak Support

Swimmers must have a kayak escorting them for this event, the kayaker should be experienced in rough waters and head wind conditions. Please ensure you have read the kayer information provided on our web page.

Registration

PLEASE TAKE NOTE ON-LINE ENTRIES ONLY

Entries Open 1st November 2026

Entries Closed