There are many swimming events being held in the UK throughout 2014 and they are becoming more and more popular, not just with participants and Triathletes who are looking for extra training, but also spectators. They are held all over the country and here are a several that will be taking place over the next few months.

Open Water Swimming with Human Race

This is one of the largest events; held from spring through to autumn at various different locations and is particularly good as there is something suitable for swimmers of all abilities. It is important to stress the necessity of wearing the right type of swimwear as you will need to be comfortable and will of course wish to look stylish while taking part; look for some of the great fabrics that are suitable for prolonged periods in salt water. Distances range from 750m up to 10km and in total there are six events held each year, all at wonderful locations, such as Hampton Court, Windsor and Poole in Dorset.

The Hampton Court event entails a 2.25 mile or 3,650m swim downstream, starting at Hampton Court Bridge and ending at Kingston Bridge; it will be held on the 20th July. If you enjoy open water swimming, regardless of whether you are a novice or experienced, this event is a must and is extremely popular with both participants and spectators.

The Windsor swim is held on 1st June and comprises of three events covering a distance of 750m, 1,500m and 3kms, so something for everyone. The historic location is stunning, with Windsor Castle as a backdrop.

The Marlow swim is held on the 24th August over the same distances as in Windsor and again in the River Thames. The start is where the comedian and X-Factor judge, David Walliams was filmed during his epic swim for charity.

The Poole event is held on the 27th September and again over the same distances, but in the sea. The start is at the Sandbanks, considered to be the fourth most expensive place to live in the world and follows the coast from the peninsular and back.

Great London Swim

Staying in the London area, due to its easy accessibility, the Great London Swim will be held on the 30th August, starting from the Docklands Sailing & Watersports Centre in Millwall Dock. There is a choice of two distances, either one mile or a half mile and although swimmers of all abilities are welcome, wetsuits are required. The setting is the impressive Canary Wharf and there will be thousands of swimmers participating, so a great day out for all the family. This year, for the first time, a ‘Family Wave’ will be held for swimmers from 12 years of age over a half mile course, giving youngsters a chance to participate also.

Windermere One Way Swim

The Lake District must have a mention, as the stunning location for this swimming event is second to none. In its second year, it will be held on the 7th September and the start is the incredibly beautiful, sheltered Fell Foot Park, which is located at the southern end of Lake Windemere. It is an early start – 08:00am – and the mammoth 10.5 mile swim finishes at Low Wray which is at the northern tip of the lake. Due to the distance involved, as a safety factor, each swimmer must be accompanied by a support vessel, either a boat or a kayak. Wetsuits are advisable, but not obligatory, however be sure to wear the right type of swimwear and above all else – have fun.