How do you feel about swimming in the dark? For me, it’s been a journey of mixed emotions: ranging from thrilling to downright unnerving. I’ve tried it a few times now, and each experience has taught me something new about myself, the importance of preparation, and the magic of embracing the unknown.
First Attempt: Crummock Water
My first foray into night swimming was at Crummock Water on a chilly November evening. After navigating the hair-raising Newlands Pass in fading light (a feat stressful enough in broad daylight), I arrived to meet my group. Lights were fitted to tow floats and head torches, and our guide stressed the importance of having a fixed light on the shore as a marker. It’s essential for orienting back to your camp in the dark.
The swim itself, however, was a tough one for me. The pitch-black night, combined with the disorienting glare of a fellow swimmer’s head torch, left me feeling claustrophobic. I struggled with the sensation of not knowing where I was heading. That little red light onshore felt like a mirage I couldn’t reach. I gave in to my discomfort and made my way back. It was a stressful experience but also an eye-opener about how vital the right precautions are for swimming at night.
Second Try: Sale Water Park
Not one to let fear win, I gave night swimming another go, this time at Sale Water Park in Manchester. The conditions were far more forgiving, with a full moon lighting up the water and the soft glow of the nearby M60 adding to the ambience. The buoys were lit, and safety kayaks were on hand.
This time, the disorientation was much less intense, though still present. After one lap of the course, a niggling cough nudged me to head back to shore. While I didn’t push my limits, I felt progress. Comfort zones, after all, aren’t smashed in one go. They’re chipped away bit by bit.
Third Time’s the Charm: Rydal Water
My most recent attempt at night swimming, with Swim the Lakes, turned out to be the most magical yet. Meeting at Pelter Bridge Car Park (///relegate.bath.bronzer), I joined a group led by Pete Kelly, the event organiser. Each swimmer was given a numbered red light for safety, and we set off on a 25-minute walk to the edge of Rydal Water, where a crackling fire pit awaited us. Already, the atmosphere was something special.
This time, I opted for a wetsuit. The swim required competency in open water and the ability to swim a mile, and while I’m no distance swimmer, I knew the wetsuit would help me manage the cold. Before entering the water, we were treated to spooky stories which were seasonally appropriate as Halloween approached. Tales of murdered poachers and ghostly maidens added a touch of thrill to the evening.
The Swim: A Spooky Adventure
Swimming around Rydal’s islands, the faint glow of passing car headlights on the A591 illuminated the trees in eerie flashes. My imagination ran wild. Part of me hoped to glimpse a spectre among the shadows (just for a moment, of course). Midway through the swim, we paused in a shallow area to share our own ghost stories. I recounted the time I got into my car, prepared to set off, looked into my rear-view mirror and something, which I can only relate to a dementor from Harry Potter, came rushing towards me. I actually yelped and recoiled, proof that my mind can sometimes outpace reality! And no, I hadn’t watched Harry Potter recently. I’m more of a Lord of the Rings fan myself.
Despite the chill creeping in, I felt surprisingly at ease. The absence of head torches eliminated the blinding glare I’d struggled with before, and the firelight on shore provided a comforting marker. The support of the group and the careful planning by Pete and his team made all the difference. By the end, I was thrilled to realise I’d swum further than I had in a long time, without a trace of irrational fear.
Post-Swim Bliss: S’mores and Stories
Back on shore, my trusty Changing Tube allowed me to get into warm clothes quickly, while the fire pit provided a welcome source of heat. Pete introduced me to the culinary masterpiece known as s’mores, crisped marshmallows sandwiched between two chocolate hobnobs and paired them with hot chocolate. The group gathered around, sharing ghost stories and laughs. It was the perfect end to a magical evening.
Reflections and Advice
This experience reminded me how rewarding it can be to step outside your comfort zone. If you’re nervous about night swimming but want to try, I highly recommend joining a group like Swim the Lakes. Their expert guidance, safety protocols, and welcoming vibe make it accessible for all.
And if you’re not quite ready for distance swimming, consider joining a smaller-scale night swim with groups like Suzanna Swims. Comfort zones aren’t conquered overnight, but each little push helps you grow.
Swimming in the dark is an adventure like no other: equal parts thrilling and humbling. Whether it’s the calm of floating under the moonlight or the camaraderie of sharing s’mores by the fire, these experiences remind us to embrace the unknown and find beauty in the darkness.
