The Lake District Retreat | 6th - 8th November 2026

1pm: Meet at our first location.

Your adventure begins beneath the majestic slopes of Helvellyn, England’s favourite mountain. We’ll kick things off with a guided dip in a breathtaking lake, followed by an optional swim clinic led by our expert coaches—perfect for building confidence or refining your stroke in a truly spectacular setting.

After your swim, warm up with homemade cake and a flask of something hot—the perfect post-dip reward. There’s plenty of time to relax and connect with your fellow swimmers before we head to Almond Lodge to settle into your rooms.

Evening: Gather in the cosy dining room for a hearty homemade dinner with table wine, followed by our much-loved ‘Tame the Tides’ talk in the lounge. Led by Royal Lifesaving Society trainer Rich, this informal and inspiring session will help you feel more confident navigating the ever-changing wild waters.

Early Morning Sunrise Dip - For the early risers, we begin the day with a magical sunrise swim at one of the Lake District’s most serene spots. Feel the stillness of the morning, the steam rising off the water, and the golden glow of dawn—all before your first croissant.

Breakfast & Waterfall Adventure - Back at the lodge, refuel with a wholesome breakfast before we set off on a short drive to one of the region’s most spectacular waterfalls. It’s a sight to behold—cameras at the ready! We’ll take time to explore, soak in the scenery, and maybe even dip a toe (or more) in if conditions allow.

Afternoon: Optional Hike & Sunset Swim - In the afternoon, opt in for a scenic hike around Helvellyn, where every turn reveals another breathtaking view. We’ll wind down the day with a sunset dip in crystal-clear waters—an unforgettable moment to reflect, reconnect, and revel in the beauty of wild swimming in the Lakes.

Morning: Breakfast & Ullswater Swim- Ease into your final day with a stack of homemade pancakes, then head out for a short drive to the breathtaking shores of Ullswater—a glacial lake tucked beneath the peaks of Helvellyn. For those feeling adventurous, join a point-to-point guided swim and take in the majesty of this iconic location from the water.

A Sweet Send-Off - Back on dry land, we’ll gather one last time to share our signature lemon drizzle cake—because no Wild Swimming Co. retreat is complete without cake!

Farewell: 1:00 PM - With hearts full and bodies refreshed, we’ll say our goodbyes at 1:00 PM, taking home unforgettable memories, new friendships, and the spirit of the Lakes.

Share a cosy dorm room with 3 or 4 like-minded wild swimmers—ideal for solo adventurers or friends happy to bunk together.

We’ll introduce you to your fellow dorm-mates in a WhatsApp group ahead of the retreat, so you can say hello and arrive already feeling part of the crew. It’s a relaxed, social way to enjoy the retreat and make lasting connections, with everything you need for a fun and memorable few days in the Lakes.

Share a spacious and sociable room for up to four, with a double bed and bunk—ideal for friends or swim buddies looking to retreat together.

It’s the perfect setup for those who can comfortably swim 200m and want to experience the Lakes in good company. Planning to come as a group? Get in touch—we’re happy to chat about group discounts for larger bookings.