What is the best time to book for this session?

The session takes place at sunrise, which means booking early in the season (spring or summer) is ideal to ensure you can experience the calm waters and birdlife at this special time of day. Spaces are limited to just 8 people per session, so early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.

What should I bring with me?

You’ll need to bring your own swim gear, including a wetsuit, swim cap, and goggles. While wetsuits are recommended for comfort and warmth in open water, the decision to wear one is up to you. You can hire a wetsuit.We also suggest bringing a towel, warm clothes for after the swim, and any personal items you might need (e.g., sunscreen).

How fit do I need to be to participate?

Participants should be able to swim 1km comfortably in open water. The session involves swimming in the lake, so you should be confident and relaxed in natural, potentially cooler waters. If you’re unsure of your ability, please reach out before booking to ensure this is the right activity for you.

What happens if the weather is bad?

We closely monitor the weather conditions and safety is our top priority. If the weather is unsuitable for swimming (such as high winds, heavy rain, or extreme temperatures), the session will be rescheduled or cancelled. You will be offered an alternative date or a refund if the session cannot be rescheduled.

Is there a minimum age for this activity?

This swim is suitable for those aged 12 and over. Participants should be comfortable swimming in open water and able to cover a distance of 1km.

How many people are in each group?

There are only 8 spaces available per session, which ensures a personalised and safe experience. Smaller group sizes allow for more attention from the coach and a quieter, more intimate setting with fewer distractions from other swimmers.

‘The Dawn Chorus’ – Early Morning Wild Swims in the Lakes

By Neil

‘The Dawn Chorus’ – Early Morning Wild Swims in the Lakes, photo 3

‘The Dawn Chorus’ – Early Morning Wild Swims in the Lakes, photo 4

£ 75

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‘The Dawn Chorus’ – Early Morning Wild Swims in the Lakes, location map

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Activity Highlights:

Start your day like never before with an early morning swim in the peaceful waters of Derwentwater. This unique session gives you the chance to experience the Lake District at its quietest, as the sun rises over the landscape and nature begins to stir. With a small group and a qualified coach, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable swim, surrounded by birdsong and the beauty of the lakeside.

Key Details

Duration: 3 hours
Swimming Ability: Must be able to swim 1km
Group Size: 6 people
Location: Derwentwater, Lake District

What to Expect

Waking up early for this special swim offers the chance to experience the Lake District in a way few ever will. As you glide through the peaceful waters of Derwentwater, you'll be surrounded by nature's early morning symphony. The calls of skylarks, swallows, and the sound of waterfowl will create a unique soundtrack, while the calls of lambs and other wildlife can be heard from the shores. The stillness of the water lets you fully appreciate this moment as the sun begins to rise and lights up the surrounding landscape.

The swim is as much about soaking in the environment as it is about the swimming. As the sun breaks over the eastern skyline, you will witness the beauty of the water, with rays highlighting the plants and marine life beneath the surface. After completing your swim, a welcoming hot drink and breakfast will be waiting for you to enjoy, adding to the charm of this early morning adventure.

Location

Derwentwater is situated in the heart of the Lake District, surrounded by mountains and offering a tranquil setting. The location provides a perfect backdrop for this peaceful swim, with clear waters and a chance to see a variety of birds and wildlife in the area, including herons, dippers, and kingfishers.

Prerequisites

This swim is designed for those who are comfortable swimming at least 1km.

A good level of swimming fitness is necessary to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, as the swim takes place in open water, away from the safety of swimming pools.

Why Choose Us

This provider is the only one in the Lake District offering fully coached swimming activities with a qualified and experienced coach. With over 30 years of experience in various sports, the coach is committed to ensuring that every activity is safe, fun, and rewarding. All swims are risk-assessed, insured, and adhere to the strict environmental guidelines set by the Lake District National Park, following their 'Ditch the Hitchers' campaign to preserve the beauty of the area.

The coach, Neil, brings a wealth of experience, having mentored athletes at the highest levels of triathlon and coached over 500 individuals with British Triathlon. His passion for open water swimming and dedication to fostering a safe, inclusive environment is evident in every session he runs. This level of expertise, combined with the stunning location and small group sizes, makes these sessions a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy the Lake District from the water.

Protecting The Playground

We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.

Book With Confidence

All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.