Great North SwimRun
Saturday 13 June 2026
Combining open-water swimming with trail running through the Lake District, the SwimRun is a challenge like no other. Whether you're tackling the SwimRun short, or SwimRun distance, you'll experience breath-taking scenery, a team atmosphere, and the satisfaction of pushing your limits in nature’s playground. Don’t miss your chance to take part in this unique multisport adventure.
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SwimRun Distances
Entry price per person (Final 2026 Price £90). Booking fee (£3.00 per entry) is applied at checkout. Payment plans available.
Entry price per person (Final Price £125). Booking fee (£3.00 per entry) is applied at checkout. Payment plans available.
About SwimRun
SwimRun rules are simple – you will need to complete your chosen distance through multiple swims and run stages, carrying everything you need from start to finish. This means, contrary to triathlon, you won’t be able to change clothing and will be wearing your trainers and wetsuit for both the land and water sections of the course!
Doing a SwimRun is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the great outdoors and experience a variety of terrain. Our SwimRun will guide you through the spectacular scenery of Windermere in the Lake District, each one more breathtaking than the last. See Frequently Asked Questions below, and read our SwimRun rules below for more information.
View SwimRun RulesTimetable Saturday 13 June
| Time | Wave 1 |
|---|---|
| 08:15 | Check-in opens at Brockhole |
| 08:45 | Ferry to wray castle boathouse |
| 09:00 | Wave 1 start |
| Time | Wave 2 |
|---|---|
| 08:45 | Check-in opens at Brockhole |
| 09:15 | Ferry to wray castle boathouse |
| 09:30 | Wave 2 start |
| Time | Wave 3 |
|---|---|
| 09:15 | Check-in opens at Brockhole |
| 09:45 | Ferry to wray castle boathouse |
| 10:00 | Wave 3 start |
| Time | |
|---|---|
| 07:30 | Check-in opens at Brockhole |
| 09:00 | SwimRun start |
Frequently asked questions
Are there specific SwimRun rules?
Wetsuits are compulsory. There are no transition areas to get changed in, what you wear must be suitable for both running and swimming. All rules are stated in the separate 'RULES' document. Anyone in breach of the rules will be disqualified.
Do I need to compete in a pair?
No, both distances are for individuals.
Do you have to carry all your equipment with you?
The ethos of SwimRun is everything you need you carry. Leaving anything behind or getting anything from external support is against the rules and will sadly lead to disqualification.
Are there water stations at various points during the race?
Yes, there are feed stations at various points on course. These can be seen on the course maps, and each station will have water, bars, bloks and energy gels.
What is the terrain like?
The terrain will be mixed and at times difficult. Please take care and look out for each other. You will be running on trails and paths that are shared with the general public. Please respect them and give way if required. Take particular care when on footpaths adjacent to roads and traffic, ensuring both competitors and the public do not need to step on the road. If you need to stop: stop.
How good at swimming/running do I need to be?
You must be able to swim a minimum of half a mile, unaided, in open water in a variety of conditions.
We recommend choosing your distance based on the following:
Short: you should be able to run a l0k.
SwimRun: you should be able to run a half marathon.
How are the events timed?
Your timing chip will attach to your ankle and the timing mats will be placed at the start and the end of the race.
What are the cut off times?
There is no cut off time for Short Distance. For Swimrun there is only one point where we will be enforcing a cut off on safety/medical grounds if necessary. This is at Brathay Hall. Anyone taking part who takes longer than 4 hours to reach Brathay Hall will only be allowed to continue if deemed fit enough to do so by the medics.
What kind of kit do I need?
See our 'Great SwimRun gear guide' for more information, but it is essentially up to you. A wetsuit is compulsory and of course you'll need trainers for running and swimming in, but after that you are welcome to bring what you need.
Do I really swim in my trainers and run in my wetsuit?
Yes, it's a unique experience but once you get going it feels entirely normal. Some choose to take their trainers and stash them in their wetsuit for the swim, but like many things, this is entirely your decision. We recommend trying different things in training to help you decide.
Do I need a specific type of wetsuit/ trainers?
There are various bits of SwimRun kit out there that you can buy, which are specifically designed for the demands of SwimRun. You can also choose to use equipment you already have and modify it if necessary. Many people use a standard 'shorty' wetsuit and trail shoes that drain well. Read our 'gear guide' online for more info.
Can spectators come and watch me race?
Spectators are welcome to view from anywhere on course. It is advisable they plan their route in advance to enable them to see you as much as possible.
Are there baggage and changing facilities?
There are baggage and changing facilities on site near the finish areas.
Is the route waymarked?
The route will have clear waymarkers for you to follow, however you will be supplied with a course mapand the onus is on you to navigate your way around. The essential equipment list includes a compass, and you will need to have basic competency in map reading.
Do I need any specialist training before competing?
No, none. We do advise that you have trained in your wetsuit and trainers, and you are sufficiently fit and healthy to take part come race day.
