Spectators Guide

Spectators are very welcome to support swimmers along the course. Below is a guide to some of the best points to see swimmers.

Spectators, family and friends are able to come to the start and see swimmers off, the car park is a National Trust site and cars should not be left for the day.

Swimmers and paddlers will be briefed and then set off by lake shore. Spectators please take a look at the swimmers route to decide which is your best journey. Swimmers are asked to hug the west side of the lake, but as you will see the road network does favour the east.

Don’t forget to take your binoculars!

East A590

Beech Hill Hotel and Spa Beech Hill Hotel is open for teas and coffees and has a great viewing area over looking the lake.

Beech Hill Car park is approximately 3 miles into the swim. A car park towers over the lake which provides a peep at the swimmers below.

Storrs Hall, Temple of heroes. LA23 3LG. This is a private hotel but you can access the National Trust temple via a woodland footpath from the bottom car park.

Ferry Nab. Here you could get the 490 meter chain ferry across to the feed station Windermere Ferry  Harrowslack feed station is a short walk on a good footpath which takes you via the Claife Viewing station

Windermere Jetty Museum A super friendly café which gives you clear views across the lake. Immerse yourself in an exciting programme of arts exhibitions, family-friendly activities, creative workshops, talks and events, and venture out on the lake in one of our beautifully restored heritage boats.

Continue round to towards Ambleside A591 and take the Borrans Rd, followed by the A593 and finally the B2586 to Brathay Hall.

West

Following the start of the swim you can take the A592 towards Newby Bridge crossing the River Leven by the Swan Hotel. Follow the road to Lakeside and Graythwaite, the road does swing away from the lake. Head towards Near / Far sawrey, making your way towards Harrowslack National Trust car park. Parking can be very busy here, narrow roads with limited turning spaces.

Alternatively you can catch the car ferry from Ferry Nab, Bowness on Windermere over to Ferry House, Far Sawery. Travel either by foot, bike or car.

The feed station and compulsory stop is on the shore.

Claife Viewing station A viewing platform where you can admire panoramic views of Windermere through coloured panels glass.

Wray Castle National Trust property with café and parking.