Name: British Long Distance Week
Start: 2026-09-03T00:00:00.000Z
End: 2026-09-09T00:00:00.000Z
Location: Studland BH19, UK

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Push Your Limits, Conquer Open Water: British Long Distance Week 2026A full seven days of challenging, supportive, and unforgettable open-water swimming in the stunning coastal waters of Dorset.Are you a long-distance swimmer looking for your next big challenge? Do you dream of swimming the English Channel, or simply want to push yourself further than ever before?British Long Distance Week is more than just a swim camp—it’s a unique opportunity to dedicate a full week to your passion, surrounded by stunning scenery and a community of like-minded swimmers.From Thursday, 3 September to Wednesday,9 September 2026, we invite you to join us on the beautiful Dorset coast to achieve your personal best.This is your chance to log serious kilometers in a safe, fully supported environment.Seven Days of Swimming: A packed itinerary of morning and twilight swims designed to challenge and inspire you.Safety First: Every swim is fully lifeguarded by qualified beach lifeguards, giving you the peace of mind to focus on your stroke.Flexible Challenges: Whether your goal is the full 33.3km Channel distance or to simply complete 1km per swim, we provide the perfect setting for you to set and achieve your personal targets.Nourish Your Body: Stay fuelled and ready for your next swim with high-protein lunches served daily at our event headquarters, Sandyholme House. An on-water feed/water station will be available for every swim to keep you hydrated and energized.Prepare for a week of adventure with a mix of iconic swimming locations:Studland Bay &amp; Poole Harbour: Our primary base for regular 1.5km loops.Swanage Bay: Experience the unique challenge of a different bay.Invite-Only Bay-to-Bay Swim: Test your endurance with an exclusive Studland to Swanage (6km) swim, based on swimming ability.Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door: A truly unforgettable 3.5km swim through one of the UK’s most famous coastal landscapes.British Long Distance Week isn't just about the swimming; it's about the camaraderie and the sense of accomplishment.Celebratory Awards Luncheon: On Friday, we’ll cap off an incredible week with a special awards ceremony. You'll be recognized for your achievements with a full distance certificate, and awards for most improved swimmer, biggest distance, and the coveted swimmer's swimmer.Accommodation: Limited spaces are available at Sandyholme House, Beach Road, Studland. This includes a prepared daily breakfast of cereals, granolas, yogurt, and fruit to get you ready for the day's first swim.Spaces are limited. Don't miss this unique opportunity to push your boundaries in a safe, supportive, and stunning environment.Example itinerary (this will very likely change due to weather)Day 1Morning swim1000-12001.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Twilight swim1730 - 19301.5km loop Poole Harbour (1 mile drive/ bus)Day 2Morning swim0930-11301.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Twilight swim1730 - 19301.5km loop Swanage Bay (3 mile drive/ bus)Day 3Morning swim0930-11301.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Twilight swim1630 - 1930Studland to Swanage 6km swim invite only (walk/ bus)Day 4Morning swim0930 -11301.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Twilight swim1730 - 19301.5km Old Harry Loop (3 mile drive/ bus)Day 5Morning swim0930 -11301.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Twilight swim1730 - 19301.5km Goathorn Loop (1 mile drive/ bus)Day 6Morning swim0930 -11301.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Twilight swim1630 - 19303.5km Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door (40 minute drive)Day 7Morning swim0900 -11001.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Champions luncheon1200- 1400Celebratory lunch and awards

Studland BH19, UK

British Long Distance Week

The Wild Swimming Co. Ltd

We'll keep a central record of your daily distances

Swim recording

High protein lunches

Lifeguards

Feed station

Breakfast

If you choose to eat, lunch will be additional

Celebratory luncheon

Transport

Accommodation

Dorm space at HQ (Sandyholme house)

4 Bed bedroom at HQ (Sandyholme House)

Incredible swimming holidays and events at iconic locations around the UK.

​

Fabulous food, wonderful wines and accommodation come as standard alongside inclusive, breath taking swims and kind humans on our holidays.

 

Our unique holidays focus on bringing new people to the best secret and most iconic swim spots from Cornwall, Devon & Dorset to North Wales and the Lake District, in exclusive, simple yet stunning accommodation with every detail taken care of.

 

✔ STA Open Water Swim Coaches

✔ Iconic Locations

✔ Lifeguard Led

Push Your Limits, Conquer Open Water: British Long Distance Week 2026A full seven days of challenging, supportive, and unforgettable open-water swimming in the stunning coastal waters of Dorset.Are you a long-distance swimmer looking for your next big challenge? Do you dream of swimming the English Channel, or simply want to push yourself further than ever before?British Long Distance Week is more than just a swim camp—it’s a unique opportunity to dedicate a full week to your passion, surrounded by stunning scenery and a community of like-minded swimmers.From Thursday, 3 September to Wednesday,9 September 2026, we invite you to join us on the beautiful Dorset coast to achieve your personal best.This is your chance to log serious kilometers in a safe, fully supported environment.<ul>
<li>Seven Days of Swimming: A packed itinerary of morning and twilight swims designed to challenge and inspire you.</li>
<li>Safety First: Every swim is fully lifeguarded by qualified beach lifeguards, giving you the peace of mind to focus on your stroke.</li>
<li>Flexible Challenges: Whether your goal is the full 33.3km Channel distance or to simply complete 1km per swim, we provide the perfect setting for you to set and achieve your personal targets.</li>
<li>Nourish Your Body: Stay fuelled and ready for your next swim with high-protein lunches served daily at our event headquarters, Sandyholme House. An on-water feed/water station will be available for every swim to keep you hydrated and energized.</li>
</ul>Prepare for a week of adventure with a mix of iconic swimming locations:<ul>
<li>Studland Bay &amp; Poole Harbour: Our primary base for regular 1.5km loops.</li>
<li>Swanage Bay: Experience the unique challenge of a different bay.</li>
<li>Invite-Only Bay-to-Bay Swim: Test your endurance with an exclusive Studland to Swanage (6km) swim, based on swimming ability.</li>
<li>Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door: A truly unforgettable 3.5km swim through one of the UK’s most famous coastal landscapes.</li>
</ul>British Long Distance Week isn't just about the swimming; it's about the camaraderie and the sense of accomplishment.<ul>
<li>Celebratory Awards Luncheon: On Friday, we’ll cap off an incredible week with a special awards ceremony. You'll be recognized for your achievements with a full distance certificate, and awards for most improved swimmer, biggest distance, and the coveted swimmer's swimmer.</li>
<li>Accommodation: Limited spaces are available at Sandyholme House, Beach Road, Studland. This includes a prepared daily breakfast of cereals, granolas, yogurt, and fruit to get you ready for the day's first swim.</li>
</ul>Spaces are limited. Don't miss this unique opportunity to push your boundaries in a safe, supportive, and stunning environment.Example itinerary (this will very likely change due to weather)Day 1Morning swim1000-12001.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Twilight swim1730 - 19301.5km loop Poole Harbour (1 mile drive/ bus)Day 2Morning swim0930-11301.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Twilight swim1730 - 19301.5km loop Swanage Bay (3 mile drive/ bus)Day 3Morning swim0930-11301.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Twilight swim1630 - 1930Studland to Swanage 6km swim invite only (walk/ bus)Day 4Morning swim0930 -11301.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Twilight swim1730 - 19301.5km Old Harry Loop (3 mile drive/ bus)Day 5Morning swim0930 -11301.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Twilight swim1730 - 19301.5km Goathorn Loop (1 mile drive/ bus)Day 6Morning swim0930 -11301.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Twilight swim1630 - 19303.5km Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door (40 minute drive)Day 7Morning swim0900 -11001.5km loop Studland Bay (Walk)Champions luncheon1200- 1400Celebratory lunch and awards

About this trip

It was a great experience with friends and the organisation was excellent. Thank you so much for the opportunity and the marshalls were all so supportive. Hope to be back next year. 

The Old Harry Swim Challenge 2025

We had an amazing tour of the rocks,  despite the weather not allowing us to do the full exploration, we were still able to get out and onto the rocks. Our swim guide was very knowledgeable and the whole team welcomed us on arrival. The rib ride out and back was great fun. 

Very well organised event, felt safe from start to finish. Very well done to all as this was their first Harry’s Rocks swim challenge. 

A fantastic swim from studland to old harry and back! A lovely friendly vibe.

A well earned 5 stars from me! Thank You !!



Great venue and goal. Must admit that I struggled on the day and maybe was a bit under the weather beforehand. I've done plenty of other swims like this and enjoyed them. Was slightly hypothermic at the end but was looked after well at the end by the first aider. The event was very well run and organised. 

Really enjoyed the Old Harry rocks swim, great atmosphere, beautiful location. Only complaint was that the swim was 4km and not the 5km advertised. Other people measured the 4km as well so it wasn’t my watch being wrong. I would prefer that we were told from the start . Also the swim was quite a way off off the rocks. So not really quite what we expected. Otherwise the organisation was good .

Fantastic event, run by a friendly and enthusiastic team, on shore and on the water. Felt well looked after safety-wise, and received a warm welcome at the finish. Great shuttle system from the finish for the 2.5km event, and a lovely drink and cake back on the beach. I was a last minute sign up, but would love to return to do the full 5km next year! Thanks everyone!

Brilliant! Well organised and really friendly!! Had a fab time swimming the 5km!! 

Such a great event. Well organised and such a lovely, positive atmosphere. So pleased I did it.

Absolute fantastic event. Super low key, friendly, well organised, upbeat staff and great vibes. I felt looked after all the way through the race - and the best bit? The amazing welcome I got from the guy on the boat who was operating the lift. Thank you so much for a great day out. Will be back next year 

Excellent hosts. Excellent time. Brilliant spot. Very helpful.

Lunar Eclipse, Tree Bathing, Fire & | Dorset

Hey Claire,

Thank you so much for your feedback, we had such a lovely time with you and our guests. 

Our Sandyholme retreats are our best value trips, that's reflected in the basic but comfortable accommodation. 

We offer lots of trips, both in Dorset and in other iconic locations. Where options include sole occupancy, superior rooms. 

We definitely recommended choosing a sole occupancy room if you aren't keen to share 😊

We offered a bread roll with breakfast on one morning, but we also offered home made granola, fruit and yogurt at the same time. In future we'll be sure to make that more obvious. 

Really hoping to see you again, we definitely recommending our Lake District (4 start hotel) or Deluxe Dorset trips going forward ❤️

An incredible experience shared with likeminded people, I'm so glad I joined this trip. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and swam further than I ever have. I felt supported and encouraged to do all the swims but also could choose to not join in. The sunrise swim was so special. I felt very looked after at all times and completely safe as the leaders are incredibly knowledgeable and skilled at what they do. 
My only negatives would be that the accommodation was fairly basic (would've preferred not to share) and the food could do with improvement (more healthy choices are breakfast, bit less white bread!) but overall I'd highly recommend. Very worthwhile and would 100% do it again.

The Summer in Dorset Retreat

I had a lovely weekend with a great bunch of people. The swimming was not big distances, but it was good fun. Attention to safety was excellent too. I saw some beautiful places and have some happy memories.

I have never done a trip like this before so a bit apprehensive but from the moment I booked it the communication from the team was amazing. We had a pre trip call, a WhatsApp group was set up and the information given was brilliant. 
The weekend itself was epic, the right balance of swims, walks, chill time and top food…. Especially the cake! 
Thank you to Mel, Rich and Team was the best weekend! I can’t wait for my next TWC adventure! 

This is my second retreat and I will definitely be doing a third. I cannot recommend Rich and Mel highly enough - and their knowledge of the local area in choosing the most beautiful places to swim. I have physical challenges which mean I sometimes need to adapt what I do - but Rich and Mel approach this in a positive and sensitive way - and I have to say the lovely groups of people that I have had the pleasure of meeting have also been hugely supportive. I have travelled alone both times - and meeting friends was absolutely not a problem! Don’t hesitate - just book it! 

Another fabulous break with The Wild Swimming Co !  This is the second time I have been on the Dorset summer retreat and again thoroughly enjoyed the location, the swimming,  and the company.  Mel and Rich are great hosts, encouraging swim coaches and outdoor enthusiasts.  I always feel safe and able to swim at my speed no matter what others are doing.  Old Harry never disappoints !

Had the most amazing time. I did this solo, everyone was friendly and kind. Food was amazing, the days were jam packed with things to do and no pressure there if you didn't want to. Have rebooked for another already 

Was a really fun trip and met so many nice people! Rich, Mel, Emma, Frith and Becky were so helpful as I was a beginner swimmer but put me at ease straight away and helped me in the water. Highly recommend 

This was my third time coming on the trip and once again it did not disappoint! All of the staff were brilliant, supportive and caring. The activities were fantastic, cakes fabulous and the food was great. The accommodation was comfortable. It was great to meet the other swimmers and share experiences with them, in an environment where I felt empowered and supported to have a go. Thanks again! 

Another fabulous break with this amazing company. The weather , admittedly, helped but they have a unique ability to make you feel your on holiday with a group of friends, the food is brilliantly done so you don’t feel you’re overeating but are constantly full (special mention for Mel’s cakes especially the Millionaires Shortbread - TO DIE FOR) and with non processed food! 
The swimming as ever was the highlight - always safe, lovely locations and measured for all. The other activities walks and talks were all interesting and no pressure to be ‘always present’ if you needed a bit of lone time. 

Just working out what I can do next year…..

Well what can I say. Once again a wonderful break. Fantastic team make everyone welcome and so well looked after.. Fabulous food as always.
A full itinerary of swimming and walks in stunning locations.
Lovely to meet new people and make friends.
Can't wait to join another retreat soon.xx


As on previous trips, the trip was not adequately described at the point of booking. Details emerged on the last week, and even on the day itself. Whilst the swim and RHb ride were good and it was lovely,  I felt that information regarding the hugely slippery beach walk out at OHR was not.  These trips seem to be geared at gung ho types with no real inclusivity for the less than super fit.   I did fall over , but luckily not hurt.   The guides were not really supportive, it seemed to be a keep up and shut up approach. 
I should have asked more questions before spending money.  The sauna experience was not given enough time on either swims and breakfast pastries were not good.  The support team was a man down and this contributed.    


Summer Solstice Swim | Old Harry, Powerboat & Sauna

This was an awesome experience! Thank you so much.
The whole morning from beginning to end was full of so many delights. 
Seeing the sunrise, being in the sea and watching and experiencing this beautiful scene was really wonderful.
And the 'main event' - swimming to Old Harry was the most amazing and exhilarating thing I've ever done. Mel looked after us so well and I felt safe and supported throughout. 
Exploring the stacks of Old Harry was such a treat as well.
And all topped off with the rib ride back to the beach!

Fantastic, well organised event.  
Stunning solstice sunrise- very lucky with the weather. Perfect setting for the sauna.  Thoroughly enjoyed the swim and exploration around Old Harry.  The rib ride back topped off a perfect morning. 

It was a brilliant experience and the guides made it very special with stories, facts and information.

The climb down is hard work and Frith and Don made sure we were safe at all times.

Thank you. 

PS - an amazing cake!!

Full Moon Dancing Ledge Dip

Despite the weather not being in our favour, Mel and Rich provided some great swimming experiences, where we were all supported to achieve our best and which felt very safe - and fun! Great organisation, lovely friendly people and support team - and lots of delicious cake! 

Castle to Castle Challenge | New Forest

Despite horrendous weather conditions, the organisers made it work so we could complete the challenge and be safe at the same time. They are passionate, committed and super supportive!

We had a great time , friendly and accommodating. Castile to castle swim challenge. Unfortunately weather conditions were not on our side. Mel and Rich did their best to give us 3 good swims .

Mel and Rich and all the life guard team were great  , I felt safe the whole time .  

Cake after each swim , group chat set up so we could all keep in touch .. 

Loved my weekend  away with the wild swim co.  Definitely will do another event with them . 

This was my first experience with the Wild Swimming Co, being a fairly novice wild swimmer. From the very first moment, everyone was so welcoming and it felt like one big family. Absolutely fantastic experience delivered with care and support from all staff. Would highly recommend to anyone who is apprehensive even if a solo traveller. Wonderful swims, wonderful people and will definitely be booking again! 

Jersey - The Wild Swimming Retreat

What a fabulous experience! I thoroughly enjoyed my first swim retreat which was well organised, had great accommodation and food,  and wonderful company. Swim locations were amazing. Thank you to all who made the retreat so memorable.

Richard and Mel do a wonderful job in looking after everyone who swims.   
Their safety and understanding of the areas they take guests to is excellent 
I particularly loved the Jersey retreat putting something back into the local community, so important as part of the trip. 
Thank you for some great fun


I always love my trips with you. I sign up for the swims and adventures, and come away with friends and memories. Thk you for all your hard work.  See you soon😜

Brilliant trip organised by the wild swimming company. Really good beaches and venues to swim in. Enjoyed all of it with a great bunch of people! 
Food delicious (particularly the cakes) and real effort to accommodate different dietary requests. 
Fabulous accommodation. Lounge area that isn’t the landing will be sorted for next time. Feel very lucky to have had the experience. 

It was full of fun and adventure, Mel and Rich and cream looked after us on land and in the sea. 
They provided us with opportunities to challenges ourselves, to relax and enjoy the views, and to be in unique places that were different and with a variety of swimming experiences.  
The accommodation was great, and the food provided by them was incredible.  
The holiday was brilliant and I am so happy with the entire trip. 
And very grateful to them for there amazing research into the places and the incredible amount of non stop hard work that they put into the holiday. 
Many thanks 
Pauline jones 

Take me back! Words don’t convey the emotions from such a memorable weekend.  Arriving as strangers and within hours  laughing (and I mean proper belly, tears rolling laughter) and leaving as swim friends for life. Such affirmation of what life is all about. Thank you Rich and Mel (and the team) you two are simply awesome 🥰


A fabulous location. The people make these trips as much as the locations. Thank you to all the team for making this a fun, interesting, challenging and safe trip. Whether you like bobbing about and enjoying a chat, to stretching out for a fast swim and everything in between … there are always people to match just where you are at and the team support all of this. Great swims, chats, whole load of laughs and a genuinely affirming experience.  

I’ve been on three retreats now with Mel and Rich and have another one booked, which tells you all you need to know about how great they are!
The retreats are a fantastic way to experience some incredible swims with the reassurance of having people there to make sure everyone is safe (coupled with a great group of people and delicious cake!)
Would 100% recommend 😊

The Spring in Dorset Retreat

Yet another wonderful swim retreat with The Wild Swimming Co. Lovely sunny Studland, lovely people, lovely food! 
Extremely well organised. Many thanks again! 

I had an excellent time swimming, walking and eating cake. Mel, Rich, Frith and all the crew kept us safe on the water. The swims were excellent and I hope to be another retreat soon or attending a challenge swim! 

Rich and Mel made the whole experience of our Dorset retreat feel really safe, relaxed and magical. We were lucky to have some extraordinary sunrise and sunset swims and a brilliant challenging swim to Old Harry's Rock. Such a lovely atmosphere amongst everyone in the group. 
Thank you both for a very special 3 days. 

Such a well organised and welcoming trip. Mel and Rich are really welcoming . Lovely food and company. Came by myself and met some lovely people 

The Cornwall Retreat

I enjoyed the half-board nature of this retreat, with the option to enjoy and support local businesses. The team managed the safety and desires of a group of mixed abilities really well, especially with the changing conditions that the mixed weather brought.  Durdle Door was a real highlight! Thanks Mel and Rich. 

The Cold Water Retreat | Studland, Dorset

Had a lovely time and were very well looked after, in and out of the water. Would recommend to anyone! 

I had a glorious morning in Studland for the Winter Solstice with The Wild Swimming Co. Slightly late due to me missing the ferry, Mel stayed to make sure I could park ok. Then I was able to get straight in the sea and then warm up in the amazing sauna which is right on the beach. Mel and Rich were with us in the sea to make sure we were safe everytime. Even if they had just come out! After having a cold dip then a warm up for over an hour we got changed and were treated to hot coffee and amazing homemade cake. It was a wonderful experience despite the sun not really making an appearance. It’s a fab opportunity to meet like minded people or go with friends in a safe environment. I will definitely be doing it again and highly recommend The Wild Swimming Co. Thanks Mel and Rich xx

Winter Solstice Dip & Sauna | Studland, Dorset

Had a really great time.  Rich was a fantastic host.

A fabulous event - Rich was welcoming, the weather was calm, sunset was stunning, sea was bracing, sauna was fantastic - it couldn't have been better. 

A wet weekend in Wales, literally! Not my first retreat with the team, so I knew to expect a comfy bed, good food and fabulous support on a number of varied swims, undeterred by the weather.  Scrambling down to waterfalls and plunge pools and a choppy swim across the lake - well managed, with everyone able to meet their goals safely. After all the rain the hurly burly of the Watkins path falls was a little out of my comfort zone initially, but I don’t think I’ll forget the rush of swooshing from one pool to the eddy in the next in a hurry. Ha!
Mel and Rich always go out of their way to make sure everyone’s happy, and I’m not sure how they manage it, but it was somehow always dry when we’re getting changed!

The Snowdonia Retreat

A really memorable and special trip - thank you! 

I had a bloomin’ lovely time! This was my second retreat with TWSC and I loved it more than the first one. The accommodation was great, the setting was amazing, I loved the walk and the the swims were just incredible! I mustn’t forgot to mention the food….👌🏻.
Mel and Rich are great at what they do, but I don’t think they realise that! I’m hoping to do another one next year. Thanks TWSC ☺️.

British Long Distance Week

British Long Distance Week

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