Do you provide transport?
No. But if you don’t have access to a car, I can collect up to 3 people from a point that is on the direct route between my home in south Northumberland, and the starting point of the swim hike or walk.
I will always provide a what3words code and google map pin for each location. I’ll also give you an idea of what the roads leading up to the meeting points are like – you’ll not need a 4×4. Some of the sea swim snippets are on bus routes, and there are local taxi firms that serve the Cheviots, North Pennines and surrounding areas. I’m more than happy to help you figure out public transport options if required.
Can I bring children?
Yes as long as they are aged 8 or over. They do still count as part of the maximum group size of 4 humans.
Can I bring a dog?
Yes, but only if they are well socialised with other dogs, children and adults, and kept on a lead of no more than 2m at all times. Dogs are not permitted on certain beaches during the summer, and we will sometimes be walking through farmland and access land. Please let me know in advance if you are bringing a dog, so that I can check for restrictions, and plan routes accordingly.
Can I make a booking just for me?
Absolutely! If you book a one-to-one swim hike the session will be yours and yours only. Small private group bookings – a maximum of 4 humans, will only ever be made up of people who are already known to each other, as friends or family. Some open booking dates are available – if you don’t mind possibly making new friends on the day, but these will always be described as such, if you’re worried about having to interact with strangers.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You must be able to swim at least one type of stroke, but you don’t need to be an especially strong swimmer. I am not a swimming coach, and these are not swim coaching sessions.
Is the water cold?
Yes! This is cold water swimming, in Northern England, so it’ll mostly feel cold, even on a hot day. Lakes can sometimes feel warmish by the shore, but that’s short-lived. I’m acclimatised to cold water, but if you aren’t we’ll be taking it VERY slowly, and I’ll be watching you like a hawk!
What do I need to bring?
Please see this page.
Do you provide accommodation?
No, but there is no shortage of accommodation in Northumberland and the North East. I can recommend a few places that I personally stayed in before moving to Northumberland, and others that I’ve come to know of since relocating here, and which are run by friends. I can also provide details of booking websites that have a north east focus.
I do now also offer residential retreats for women over at Pink Pagoda Retreats, if you would like to come stay stay with me.
Do you provide food and drink?
No, you will need to bring your own meals, snacks, hot and cold drinks.
Do you provide clothing and equipment?
No, please see this list for clothing and equipment that I recommend you bring.
Will you carry my belongings?
No. Please only bring what you can comfortably carry.
Will there be a toilet?!
At some sites, or at least close by, surprisingly yes! But at most, you will have to wild wee. I also carry a trowel in case you need to poop. You’ll be given plenty of privacy, but do bring tissues to wipe, and something to put your used tissues in to carry out afterwards. Doggy bags are ideal!