Open Water Swimming

IMPORTANT: As the water temperature is currently below 14°C, tow floats are compulsory for all swimmers.

Please note: Time slots are for entry purposes only. If you book an earlier slot, you are welcome to stay in the water for the full session until close. Please ensure you arrive at the right session and before the cut-off time.

Swim Times:

April 2026

1. Thursday Evening: 17:00-19:45

1. Sunday Morning: 09:30-11:45

May-September 2026

1. Tuesday & Thursday Evening: 17:00-TBC

1. Sunday Morning: 09:30-12:00

Open Water Swimming - Dock 8

All session information can be found here: OWS Session Information - Salford Watersports Centre

Pre-Requisites

Swimming ability: You must be able to swim 300m of any stroke unaided. You don't need perfect technique, we run a relaxed swim, but you must be a confident swimmer due to the depth and temperature of the water.

Minimum age: 12 - 12-16 year-olds must swim with a competent adult (1 adult per 2 children, in close proximity). An exception applies if you can provide a signed letter from a swimming coach confirming the child is suitable for open water training (e.g. squad ability), in which case the child may swim without a supervising adult in the water, but an adult must remain on-site. This must be agreed in advance.

Booking Info

If you are booking for multiple people, you will need their email address to invite them to fill in their details after booking. Please ensure everyone in your group is aware of the session information. All participants must sign the disclaimer and complete the question pack each time they book.

What to Bring

1. Swim hat: brightly coloured (no black or dark hats)

1. Goggles, nose clip, ear plugs if needed

1. Towel and bag for wet kit

1. Shoes for walking to and from the centre; wet socks/boots are recommended to protect your feet on the slipway and pontoons

Wetsuit Hire & Tow Floats

Swim wetsuit hire is subject to availability (limited stock) at £10 on-site if available (card payment). If swim wetsuits are unavailable, neoprene watersports wetsuits can be hired for £4. Tow floats are currently compulsory as the water temperature is below 14°C and are available to buy on-site. They will become optional once the temperature rises above 14°C (typically late spring/early summer).

Safety & Rules

Please familiarise yourself with our safety and swim rules before attending: Open Water Swimming Safety - Salford Watersports Centre

Cancellations & Reschedules

Strictly 72 hours' notice required. You must request a cancellation via Eola and email the centre at watersportscentre@scll.co.uk. No refunds will be given within 72 hours of the session.