Swim England
Swimathon 2026 – 40 Years of Challenge & Community
27 January 2026 Swim England NewsFor four decades, Swimathon has brought people together in pools across the UK — raising over £55 million for charity and helping thousands of people discover confidence, community and joy in swimming.
Whether you swim 500m or 5k, alone or with a team, in a pool or through MySwimathon, every length makes a difference.
From 20 to 22 March 2026, hundreds of pools across the UK will host the challenge.
Sign up as an individual, or form a team, and take on a distance that suits you. By taking part you’ll raise vital funds for the world’s largest charitable funder of cancer research, Cancer Research UK, and the UK’s leading end of life charity, Marie Curie, as well as Swimathon Foundation.
Join the UK’s biggest pool challenge and be part of a national movement of community, resilience and positive change.
- What is Swimathon?
Swimathon is the UK’s biggest pool-based swimming challenge. It encourages people of all ages and abilities to set a personal goal, take on a distance and support charity. It is not a race — it’s about personal achievement and enjoying swimming.
- When is Swimathon 2026?
The main Swimathon weekend takes place from 20–22 March 2026. If you prefer flexibility, you can take part in MySwimathon anytime between 1–31 March.
- Who can take part?
Anyone who can swim a length can take part. Swimathon welcomes beginners, experienced swimmers, families, clubs, workplaces, schools and community groups.
- Do I need to be fast or competitive?
No. Swimathon is not a race. You can swim at your own pace, take breaks and complete your challenge in a way that works for you.
- What distances can I choose?
500m, 1.5k, 2.5k, 5k or the Triple 5k challenge. Team options (2–5 swimmers) are also available for 1.5k, 2.5k and 5k distances.
- What if there’s no Swimathon event near me?
You can still take part using MySwimathon.
- How do I sign up?
Visit swimathon.org, choose your preferred challenge, select a venue or MySwimathon and complete the registration process.
- What should I bring on the day?
Swim kit, goggles, a towel, a drink and your registration confirmation. Your pool will provide any recording sheets you need.