We’re running Secret Swims this year — carefully planned swim events taking place across London and Kent, all accessible by public transport, so there’s no need to worry about driving or parking. You simply sign up to a date that suits you, and the full location details will be shared closer to the time. To protect both the experience and the environments we use, we ask that no information is shared publicly until after the event has taken place. Each swim will be held in a different type of water — from artificial or sheltered lakes to open water and tidal environments — with safety provision scaled appropriately to match the venue and conditions.

 

All swims are clearly coded by ability level to ensure you can book confidently and understand the physical and environmental demands before committing.

 

Bobbing – Entry LevelGentle, easy swims in artificial or sheltered water with no flow or tidal influence. Distances are under 500 metres (approximately one lap of Beckenham Lake). Suitable for newer open water swimmers or those wanting a relaxed, social experience.

 

Gliding – Intermediate LevelSwimmers must be confident over 1km continuous distance. May include slow flow or gentle tidal movement in open water lakes, sheltered coastal areas, or beach swims. Participants should be comfortable managing mild environmental variables and swimming in open settings.

 

Surging – Advanced LevelFor confident swimmers capable of 1km+ distances (often 1.5–2km depending on venue). May involve flow, tidal influence, or dynamic open water conditions, including exposed coastal swims. Participants must be self-aware, capable in moving water, and comfortable swimming with appropriate safety cover in place.These are not just swims — they are curated water experiences, delivered with the right safety cover, in the right place, at the right time.