Outdoor swimming is an activity that takes place in a natural environment and as such we will find ourselves at the mercy of the weather gods, be them fair or foul. We use the term 'adverse weather' to describe unfavourable conditions so this can include situations of extreme heat and drought as well as wet and wild weather.

 

When taking part in outdoor swimming participants should be prepared to deal with prevailing weather conditions and be aware that these conditions might involve a degree of short-lived discomfort. Whatever weather conditions we are faced with these are always outside of our control, and we will make the right decision for the safety of our participants and their instructor.

 

Weather conditions can change rapidly in the Lake District and other upland areas. It is not unusual to encounter rain, drizzle, or wind and events will usually go ahead in such conditions unless we feel this might compromise our safety. We will always act in the best interests to ensure everyone has a safe and happy time.

 

Please take a moment to read our policy on adverse weather that applies to all our guided swim events and holidays. 

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Defining adverse weather

Types of extreme, adverse, and inclement weather conditions include but are not limited to:

- heavy rain


- high wind


- lightning storms

- high temperatures


- drought


- snow


- ice


- fog

 

1. Our events take place 'in the wild' meaning there are usually no toilets, changing facilities, shelter, or places to store our kit whilst we are in the water unless expressly advised. You should bear this in mind when packing for the event and bring a suitable bag to keep your kit dry and contained.

2. Swims will usually go ahead in wet or windy conditions, unless deemed to be dangerous. An example would be high gusting winds that would make walking difficult or bring a severe wind chill, or torrential rain.

3. We define adverse or dangerous wind conditions by a number of factors such as the time of year, the time of day, wind speed and direction, wind gusting speed, the location of the event, the size and ability of the group.​

4. Wild swimming can also be affected by hot weather and in cases of extreme heat participants will be advised about the suitability of wearing a wetsuit.

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Changes to the advertised schedule

1. Sometimes it may be necessary to move a swim event to a different location or shorten the event if forecast weather conditions may pose a challenge to the originally advertised activity or event.

2. If we have to make changes to the event due to adverse weather these will be communicated by email, text, and/or phone call. It is a condition of booking that you provide a mobile telephone number so we can contact you.

3. Any changes to the scheduled event made within 24hrs of the start time, these changes will be made by email accompanied by a courtesy text message, and followed up by a phone call if we do not hear back from you.

4. Sometimes it may be necessary to move a swim event to a different location or shorten the event if forecast weather conditions may pose a challenge to the originally advertised activity or event.

5. Changes or cancellations are at our discretion and the client will be informed as soon as the decision has been made. There is no monetary compensation due to schedule changes as these are circumstances outside of our control. 

6. Refunds are not offered if the location/activity has to be changed due to adverse weather as this is a circumstance out of our control.

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Cancellation or postponement

1. In the case of cancellation this means that the event has been cancelled and no alternative date is available. 

2. In the case of postponement this means that the event has been rescheduled to a new date.

3. If the event is cancelled or postponed due to adverse weather we are happy to transfer your booking to a new event within a 12 month period, or offer a 50% refund.

4. If an event goes ahead but you choose not to attend due to the forecast, you will not be entitled to a transfer, refund, or credit note.

5. We will not be held responsible for any losses (accommodation, travel costs, food etc) that may occur due to changes in the schedule or cancellation of the event. For this reason we recommend you check that your holiday insurances covers activities, or take out a separate cancellation and curtailment insurance policy.

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Participant responsibilities​

1. It is the participant's responsibility to make their way to and from the event.

2. We take no responsibility for your journey and arrangements prior to and after the event, but we are happy to give advice on directions and nearby accommodation.

3. Participants will be given a packing list in good time for their booking, however they are reminded of the need check the forecast and pack accordingly. A packing list is provided in advance of your chosen event and you are advised to bring the items suggested regardless of the forecast when you set out from home.

4. As part of our client aftercare and for your general comfort, we recommended that participants bring a full spare change of clothing and footwear for their journey home. This is especially recommended in the case of wet and windy conditions, to prevent the risk of afterdrop or hypothermia.