Cross Lake Swim and Afternoon Tea experience

A fun new wild swimming experience where we swim across the lake to the award-winning Bassenthwaite Lake Station for afternoon tea.

Bassenthwaite Lake is one of the quietest lakes to swim in thanks to its restriction on motorised boats. Bar the occassional fisherman, these peaceful waters are undisturbed. The lake is overlooked by the looming bulk of Skiddaw, an impressive sight from land and even more so from the middle of the water. You'll feel small in the best possible way when you're bobbing across the centre of Bassenthwaite, relaxed and drinking in the surrounding landscape.

This unique swim experience takes us on a pleasant lakeside stroll and then a relaxed swim across the lake. A dry bag tow float or ruck raft is required for the swim to transport your clothes and shoes, and can be hired. At the end of the swim we take a short walk to the unique Bassenthwaite Lake Station Cafe - an old converted steam train that sits on the site of the former train station. Surrounded by woodland, and with original interiors, this is a really special place to eat and their food is is award-winning too! 

Need to know

• Not suitable for beginner wild swimmers - you need recent prior experience of swimming at least 1km in open water and proof of your experience will be required.
• This swim goes across open water therefore swimmers will be out of their depth and away from the shore.
• A to B swim - we start and finish in different places.
• 1200m swim distance - relaxed sociable pace. This is not a race or a training exercise. 
• All strokes welcome but with emphasis on breaststroke swimming.
• Wetsuit and non-wetsuit swimmers welcome. Evidence of recent non-wetsuit swims will be required. 
• Dry bag tow float or ruck raft required - hire available
• Small friendly group - no more than 6 swimmers.
• Safety cover on lake crossing.
• Short flat walk (25 min, 1 mile)
• Not dog friendly.
• Afternoon tea ticket included.