Just thought I’d put a few handy links for some of the swim options that are open at the moment - as of June 2.

Please note - the info is updated daily, so do check the links for the most accurate info.

**Safety** is paramount, so make sure you know the route to the spot, have the right kit (wetsuit/tow float, etc), make sure you are aware of the latest rules (read on the websites), and it’s also a good idea to check the conditions (water temp, wind, etc). And do ask other Windrushers (pref coaches) in case you are not sure or have any questions. So you are well-prepared.

Finally, join the Windrush Swim WhatsApp group for info, questions, tips, swimming buddies, and to hear about open water courses (highly recommended if you are new to open water swimming).

This is not an exhaustive list - just a few (and happy for people to add more places, or update any of the info below). All of these places follow strict social distancing measures, so do read the rules and stick to them so we can all keep enjoying our open water swims!! :) 

CHIPSTEAD (KENT)

You need to buy membership (£25), and then book slots (£6/slot). They have slots Thurs evening, Sat & Sun am and pm. They release the schedule every Sunday. It’s a 1:45h cycle from south London to Sevenoaks. It’s nice, the water isn’t as clear as Divers Cove but it’s a bigger lake and there is a bit more space on the grass. http://www.triswim.org.uk/triswimopenwater/

MERCHANT TAYLOR (MIDDLESEX)

They have slots on weekday evenings and Sat & Sun slots, 7am, last slot 10-11am (approx £6/slot). It’s NW London, about 2h cycle from S London. https://booking.activetrainingworld.co.uk/events/2020/06/01/atwopen...

THE DOCKS (EXCEL, EAST LONDON)

It’s right next to the Excel Centre. You need to be a member of NOWCA, sign up for a year (approx £12?), and then book your swim slots on the Actio App. Slots every day, and the schedule is released every Sunday - PS - they sell out fast! It’s a nice place to swim, can be a teeny bit choppy, also very sunny (brig tinted goggles if possible). Be careful with your sighting! Also, you have to change on the grass (ie, middle of London - so bring a suitably big towel or robe. There are usually a bunch of friendly Windrushers here, so shout if you plan to go, and we can do a distanced wave :) 

HERON LAKE (HEATHROW)

It’s near Heathrow, has slots on Mon evening, Wed evening, Sat am & Sun am (weekends: 6:30-9:10am). Booking via Actio App (“Swim Heron”). Minimum 2h cycle from South London.

DIVERS COVE (SURREY)

It’s in Godstone, Surrey. Takes about 2h to cycle there from S London. They have slots weekday evenings, and weekend am and pm. Buy membership (£25), then book swim slots (£5/swim). Very strict distancing, no hanging about. Slots are actually 45min. Stunning lake, clear blue water, looks tropical! Again, slots book up super fast! https://www.diverscove.co.uk/open-water-swimming

Other options include:

SHEPPERTON (SW LONDON) - near Heathrow. Book via: https://www.sheppertonopenwaterswim.co.uk

DOCKLANDS (E LONDON) - In Canary Wharf, open Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm. Book via: https://www.dswc.org/adult-activities/open-water-swimming/

HAYSDEN LAKE (KENT) - Fri evening, Sat & Sun. Book via: http://www.triswim.org.uk/triswimopenwater/

Plus - there are rumours that other places may open up soon too! 

Happy swimming! 

xx Hillary