Get involved Our events Great North Swim The UK’s biggest open water swimming event 12-14 June 2026 | Lake Windermere, Lake District £30 charity entry fee - £200 minimum fundraising target Book a place Link opens in new window A 1‑mile swim for everyone The Great North Swim is the world’s largest outdoor swimming event, welcoming thousands of swimmers each year to the stunning waters of Lake Windermere. Leeds Hospitals Charity places are available for the 1‑mile swim, taking place across Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Whether you’re new to open water swimming or looking for your next challenge, this iconic event is a fantastic way to support patients, families and NHS staff across Leeds Teaching Hospitals. Book a place Link opens in new window Select your preferred day The 1‑mile distance is the most popular swim at the Great North Swim and is suitable for confident swimmers of all abilities. Full safety support, briefing and water safety teams will be in place throughout the event. You can select your preferred swim day: Friday, Saturday or Sunday when booking, subject to availability. Book a place Link opens in new window By purchasing a charity place in the Great North Swim, you agree to pay a £30 charity registration fee and pledge to raise at least £200 sponsorship for Leeds Hospitals Charity.Alternatively, if you already have a place in the Great North Swim, you can still fundraise for us, simply by choosing to raise as much as you can in support of Leeds Hospitals Charity. Book a place Link opens in new window Frequently Asked Questions How will my fundraising be used? By taking part in this event, your fundraising for Leeds Hospitals Charity can fund the things that make a real difference to patients and their families, and help to enhance the care the NHS already provides. This includes life-saving equipment, treatments and research into rare diseases, and helps to bring hope, happiness and home comforts to every bedside. Your participation helps our hospital teams to be their very best for your loved ones, when they need it most. Can you support them today? Read More: See the amazing difference your donations and gifts in Wills make here Which distance can I swim for charity? Leeds Hospitals Charity places are available for the 1‑mile swim only. However, if you would like to enter a different distance and still raise funds, get in touch. Can I choose my swim day? Yes. Participants can choose to swim on Friday, Saturday or Sunday, subject to availability. Do I need open water swimming experience? Not necessarily, but you should be a confident swimmer. Full safety cover and event support will be provided on the day. What will happen on the day? For all runner and spectator information on the day, including race office location, baggage store, travel and road closure information and more, please visit the Great North Swim website If you have any further questions, please email [email protected]or call 0113 539 7020. Book a place Link opens in new window Donate Today Donate today and together we can make a real difference for patients, families and staff. Find out more Booking for this event has now closed. Manage Cookie Preferences