What could be better than getting some great exercise, meeting wonderful people and having a fun day out – all for charity. For anyone who loves swimming, there are many events held each year in the UK, in stunning surroundings that also make a wonderful day out for all the family. So from one end of the country to the other, here are a few to choose from this summer!
Bournemouth Pier to Pier Swim
On the south coast, this event will take place on the 13th July. Hundreds of swimmers will participate and there will also be all the attractions of a seaside resort available. From Bournemouth Pier the swimmers will continue along 1.4 miles of coastline to Boscombe Pier. The entrance fee is £10 if a place is reserved early or £20 on the day and the sponsorship money will go towards improving surgical techniques for children born with heart defects, helping to save thousands of young lives each year. Wetsuits are advisable, but if it is a warm day, be sure to also wear your best swimsuit as it will be well attended.
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Great London Swim
Open water swimming has become very popular and the Great London Swim starts at the Royal Albert Dock and is over a distance of one mile and will be held on the 30th August. It is possible to participate in aid of any charity such as Macmillan or Cancer Research, however Greenhouse is a local one which does an enormous amount to help London’s many disadvantaged communities, working together with schools to encourage youngsters to become achievers in life rather than losers. Because of the location of this swim, it is possible for friends and family to cheer swimmers on from both sides of the banks of the River Thames. A super day out for all.
Great Scottish Swim
Now to the very north of the UK – the stunning Loch Lomond in Scotland’s Trossachs National Park. This event will be held on the 23rd August and the swimming events are over three distances of 1/2 mile, 1 mile and 2 miles, so there is something suitable for all abilities. Swimmers set out 300 at a time every half an hour, so the sheer numbers speak for the popularity of this swim and while wetsuits are essential, it is definitely worth investing in some stylish swimwear. If possible stay for the weekend, as Glasgow city centre is just 40 minutes away and well worth a visit. Choose whichever charity is preferred from Charity Choice; all the ones selected will receive 100 percent of their donations and all money raised will go to worthy causes.
As with all charity swims, approach friends, work colleagues and family for sponsorship as the more money raised, the more successful each event will be, ensuring that charity swimming events will continue for a long time to come.
Are you completing any swims for charity this year? Tell us below!
