Name: The South Coast Swim
Start: 2026-09-19T00:00:00.000Z
End: 2026-09-19T00:00:00.000Z
Location: Bournemouth, UK

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The South Coast Swim is coming to Bournemouth and it promises to be a big day out on the South coast.250m Swim - Suitable for those aged 8 +1/2 mile swim 1 Mile swim2 Mile swim 5km Swim10km Swim - By invitation

Bournemouth, UK

The South Coast Swim

The Wild Swimming Co. Ltd

Swim cap

Chip timing

Finisher's tee

We believe in qualified surf lifeguards, not hobbyists on kayaks

Lifeguards

Medic cover

Athlete village

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

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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

This is a great event for a first open water challenge. Cut off : 30 minutes Day: Saturday 19 September 2026 Time: 14:00

250m Swim

Another great introduction to Open Water Swimming, suitable for those with good experience in the pool, or good experience in Open Water. Cut off : 50 Minutes Day:  Saturday 19 September 2026  Time: 13:00

1/2 Mile swim

All abilities welcome, a great challenge for swimmers. Cut off : 1 Hour &amp; 30 minutes Day: Saturday 19 September 2026  Time: 12:30

1 Mile swim

Ideal for established Open Water Swimmers looking to clock up some miles.Cut off : 2 Hours &amp; 15 minutes Day: Saturday 19 September 2026  Time: 12:00

2 Mile swim

5kmSuitable for experienced swimmers, who regularly swim for distance in Open Water. Cut off : 2 Hours &amp; 30 minutes Day: Saturday 19 September 2026  Time: 12:30

5km Swim

This official Olympic distance event is open to experienced Open Water Swimmers, feed station included. Book now, we'll be in touch to capture your open water swimming experience. Cut off : 4 hours &amp; 30 minutes Day: Saturday  19 September 2026  Time: 12:00

10km Swim

The South Coast Swim is coming to Bournemouth and it promises to be a big day out on the South coast. 250m Swim - Suitable for those aged 8 + 1/2 mile swim  1 Mile swim 2 Mile swim 5km Swim 10km Swim - By invitation

About this trip

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! 

The Summer in Dorset Retreat

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 ☺️.

The Lake District Retreat

What a wonderful 3 days we had in the Lakes with the Wild Swimming Co. The location, the dips and swims. Loved every second of this adventure. As always, Mel & Rich were the consummate professionals, always making us feel safe. They had clearly done some proper rekkies as the location of each dip was perfect. Mel kept us well fed with delicious food too - always a brucie bonus. The sleeping arrangements weren’t ideal. Expected a dorm for me and my two pals with an en-suite but it was actually an extended dorm with two rooms and no door between which made it a bit tricky with our neighbours who were anxious about us getting up for the sunrise dip and disturbing them. No dividing door also made it hard to block out the snoring and I took to the sofa in the games room for both nights and had a lovely sleep! 😂 It was the first time the company had used this accommodation and I’m not sure it met all the criteria they were expecting either. The dining room was great with lots of room for a big table for the whole group to sit around, which was lovely. Only 1 comfy chair in the sitting room - everyone sitting on school benches or hard chairs. But, as we sat around the fire outside in the evening, this was easily compensated. Drying wet towels after a day of frolicking in the water was a bit of a bind as nothing really dried in the drying room downstairs and radiator space at a premium in the dorms. As it was only for 2 nights though, this wasn’t a big deal. The group of people on the trip were fantastic. Just a brilliant bunch of women who made being with strangers so easy. Just felt like we were all meant to be there together. I loved all of the dips and swims, but hands down, the most fun was the leaping and diving off the jetty on the last morning. Genuine joy captured. Thank you Mel & Rich for the most amazing 3 days. So glad I’ve booked my next trip with you already! 

This was a great trip for wild swimmers of all ages and stages. Well organised by experienced guides, with lots to do but also easy to opt in and out. Basic accommodation in a Youth Hostel in a beautiful location. All food provided. A highlight was a waterfall dip after a short hike in the sunshine. 

The Snowdon Retreat

Wonderful trip. Mel, Rich and the team were outstanding, both with the organisation of the swims and looking after us at the accommodation. Good food (and cakes), excellent company. Already thinking about what to book for next year!

I can't praise the team enough for their positive attitude and problem solving skills, the food was excellent& as someone with an intolerance i cant thank then enough for their care of me. 
Swimming in the crystal clear waters in Snowdonia was fabulous the backdrop of the scenery made it an amazing experience, the team provided a safe environment with joy & fun. Thank you

What a fantastic few days spent with great people and excellent leaders.  Weather didn’t play ball but the leaders found alternative safe swims and hikes ensuring we all had a good time and were not disappointed.  Everything was done so professionally and at no time did I feel unsafe - I had complete trust in this team who are insanely qualified.  I will return. 

Fantastic weekend! The Wild Swimming team are so lovely and work really hard to keep everyone happy, safe, well fed and entertained. We enjoyed lovely weather and all the swimming spots were amazing in stunning scenery. Highly recommend! 

I had the best time thankyou so much Mel ,Rich and the team,you all worked so hard to make sure everyone had the best time ,food as always mel was lovely, Rich I always learn so much from your talks.hope to see you all again soon.

Absolutely amazing time, I cannot recommend enough! If you are unsure about booking, you definitely should. I was quite apprehensive about going at first but was looked after so well by Rich, Mel, Becky, Donald, Dave and Hector; it was nice switching off my brain and being looked after from beginning to end, the only thing I had to consider was what swimming costume to wear! The food was fantastic and the swims absolutely breath-taking; felt safe throughout and if I was unsure about anything I could speak to any of the staff about any queries. Met so many wonderful people and thoroughly enjoyed myself. I enjoyed it so much that as soon as I was home I've booked my next one already.  

A great weekend - the swims were well organised & meant we could push ourselves if we wanted to or take a leisurely pace if we preferred. Sunrise and sunset dips were amazing. Mel, Rich and the team were fantastic. The walk with Dorset mythology wasn’t quite as described but it was fun and nice to stretch our legs. Overall a lovely opportunity to spend a few days with like-minded people plus we’ve come home with a group of local wild swimmers to meet up with again. 

The Adventure Swimmer Retreat

My weekend retreat was a great holiday full of fun and and adventure.  I felt very well.looked after, with great food, super itinerary of different swimming and dipping opportunities and challenges. Great information and guidance on swimming safety, open water swimming conditions and a great talk on tides and sea conditions. Absolutely the best staff and lifeguards continually looking after our safety. I really appreciate the hardwork and commitment of Richard, Mel, Becky and other lifeguards making my weekend so wonderful. Your support has increased my confidence and love of open water swimming. Pauline jones

We had a wonderful swim retreat weekend in beautiful Dorset celebrating Fiona’s 60th birthday. The swims were the absolute highlight made possible by thoughtful planning, amazing local knowledge and the safety protocols in place. Thank you to the amazing team who looked after us so well, Rich, Mel, Becky, Elle and Hector. Sandyholme House was a great location, the catering absolutely hit the spot especially the post swim cakes. You were all so hospitable and nothing was too much trouble. Thank you for a memorable weekend. 

Thanks so much to Rich, Mel, Elle & Hector for a truly memorable weekend. I loved every minute. The swims were epic and the team do everything they can to make sure that everyone (whatever their swim level) has a wonderful experience. The team are so friendly and patient- answering all our questions to alleviate any worries and thinking of all the details to ensure a smooth experience. The food was great- particularly the handmade pizzas, their knowledge and experience was 5 star. I’d highly recommend their retreats to anyone who enjoys swimming and beautiful natural environments. It was a perfect way to forget the daily demands of a busy life.

Really enjoyed this retreat, great swims and dips, good food (lots of lovely post-swim cake!), knowledgeable and friendly instructors and staff. Also a lovely partner the world which I hadn't previously visited. Would definitely recommend it!

What a great few days! The Wild Swim Co were wonderful hosts, who loved sharing their favourite swim spots with us. They are passionate about what they do and their enthusiasm was so appreciated. 
The house was perfect for the trip and we had an enormous bedroom with very comfy twin beds. 
The food was excellent, such as the homemade pizzas, granola, pancakes, millionaire shortbread. The evening talk on tides was really helpful. The beach sauna was bliss! The other swimmers were a lovely crowd from all over the UK. The whole team were so kind and helpful. We left tired and happy from our lovely dips and swims, from sunrise to sunset.  
Thank you Rich, Mel and the team! 

The South Coast Swim

The South Coast Swim

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