7 - 9 November 2025

"A retreat in the lakes, led by local guides."

Join us at Almond Lodge on Helvellyn, where rustic decor meets timeless valley views. Relax by the log fire and take a dip in the plunge pools. Meals and table wine are included, so you can enjoy the stunning Lakes in all their wintery glory.

Meet Your Swim Guides:

Mel
Mel is TWSCo's full-time swim guide. A qualified Beach Lifeguard, Open Water Swim Coach, and holder of the National Water Safety Management Programme, Mel is also working towards her Diploma in Cold Water Therapy. A nutritionist, personal trainer, and Swim School owner, Mel loves all things swimming and wellbeing.

• Favourite swim: Bossiney Cove, Cornwall
• Favourite retreat: Spring in Cornwall
• Favourite cake: Lemon Drizzle

Rich
Rich is a Beach Lifeguard, Open Water Lifeguard, and Open Water Swim Coach. He has completed the National Water Safety Management Programme and is a National Trainer Assessor for The Royal Lifesaving Society. Rich also serves as an RNLI lifeboat crew member and the operations manager of Land & Wave, a busy outdoor centre in Dorset.

• Favourite swim: Any of Snowdonia's waterfalls
• Favourite retreat: The North Wales Swim Retreat
• Favourite cake: Carrot Cake

Ali
Ali is a Beach Lifeguard, Open Water Lifeguard, and Open Water Swim Coach. A seasoned favourite with TWSCo, she has a wealth of mountain experience and a special love for the Lake District!

• Favourite swim: Jumping off the jetty into Derwent Water
• Favourite retreat: The Lake District Swim Retreat
• Favourite cake: Millionaire's Shortbread

 1:00 PM – Meet at our first swim location

Our adventure begins at a beautiful lake nestled in the lee of Helvellyn, England’s favourite mountain. This stunning spot sets the scene for your guided swim and swim clinic. Whether you’re looking to improve your stroke or try a new one, our qualified and experienced swim coaches will guide you through the process in this picturesque setting.

Be sure to bring your hot drinks flasks, fully charged, to enjoy alongside homemade cake after your swim. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind and socialise before heading to the accommodation for room assignments.

Evening: Dinner & Talk

After a refreshing swim, we'll gather for a delicious dinner with table wine. Relax and enjoy the evening before settling in for our famous 'Tame the Tides' talk in the lounge. This engaging session will inspire and inform, offering insights into the challenges and joys of wild swimming.

 Early Morning: Sunrise Dip

For the early birds, get ready to be wowed by a stunning sunrise dip in one of the Lake District's beautiful spots. Enjoy the refreshing water as the sun rises, followed by warm croissants to fuel your morning.

Breakfast & Waterfall Adventure

After the swim, indulge in a hearty, healthy breakfast before heading out for a drive to one of the Lake District’s most spectacular waterfalls. Don’t forget your camera—this location is bound to be an Instagram-worthy shot!

Afternoon: Optional Hike & Sunset Swim

For those looking for a bit of adventure, join us for an optional afternoon hike around Helvellyn. Explore the breathtaking views of the Lake District. Later, cap off your day with a sunset dip in the famous clear waters of one of the Lake District’s iconic lakes.

 Final Day:

Breakfast & Ullswater Swim

Start your day with pancakes for breakfast, then take a short drive to Ullswater, an incredible lake nestled at the foot of Helvellyn. For those up for a challenge, a point-to-point swim will be available, offering an exhilarating way to experience this stunning location.

Homemade Lemon Drizzle Cake

After the swim, enjoy a well-earned treat of homemade lemon drizzle cake—the perfect way to end your few days in the mountains.

Carriages at 1:00 PM

By 1:00 PM, we’ll bid farewell to the Lake District as you head home, refreshed and inspired from an unforgettable retreat.