Winter Wild Swim Programme

Keen to keep wild swimming going through the colder months? This four-month programme is designed for swimmers who want to move from autumn dips into a confident winter routine, all the way to the Winter Solstice in mid-December.

Starting at the Autumn Equinox in late September, the journey includes monthly swims in five different locations across the North Wales/Shropshire area. Each session focuses on a different winter wild swimming theme, with guidance on how to acclimatise to cold water, what to wear, how to warm up afterwards, and how to find suitable swim spots and trusted swim buddies. Hattie, an experienced swim coach, will also support you with technique, breathwork, and safe risk assessment for winter swimming.

Between swims, support continues as the group builds a welcoming community of like-minded swimmers. You’ll also receive mini-challenges along the way so you can track your progress throughout the programme.

We aim to meet at 10am at each swim location for a briefing and swim, followed by refreshments and a debrief. If you’d like, you may also stay on for lunch together afterwards. Exact swim spots and timings will be confirmed closer to the dates, depending on weather and water conditions.

Ideally, you’ll attend all five sessions. The full programme costs £300 per person and includes refreshments, plus a sauna and festive feast at The Forge on the final date. If you can’t join every session, you’re still welcome to take part for £65 per swim. For the best acclimatisation during the colder months, at least three consecutive swims are recommended unless you already swim regularly in cold water.

FAQs

• Can beginners join? Yes. The programme is open to all abilities, and complete beginners will receive tips on how to prepare before the first swim. You can stay in the water for as long or as little as feels right for you.
• Can I wear a wetsuit? Absolutely. Swim in whatever feels most comfortable, with the option to gradually build towards swimming without a wetsuit if you wish.
• What equipment do I need? Suitable footwear is recommended, as entry and exit points can be slippery. Neoprene gloves may also help if you have poor circulation. Some spare kit will be available to borrow.
• Will refreshments be provided? Yes, warm drinks and cake will be available after every swim.
• Can you cater for vegans and vegetarians? Yes, if you let the team know in advance, treats will be arranged for everyone.
• Can I join if I miss some dates? Yes, you can still become part of the winter wild swim community, and alternative swim times may be arranged where possible.
• Can I come with a friend or partner? Yes, the programme is open to all genders and friends are very welcome.
• Are children or dogs allowed? No, this programme is for over 18s only, and dogs should stay at home.

The sessions are led by Harriet “Hattie” Ballantyne, an experienced open water swimming coach, alongside Sheena Corry, owner of The Forge and a passionate year-round swimmer with strong local knowledge of the best hidden swim spots.

Your swim instructor - Hattie

Harriet’s background includes open water swimming, off-road running, hiking, and nutrition. With a long history of competition across multiple sports and several solo endurance efforts, she brings deep practical experience to her coaching.

She has ten years of triathlon experience, mainly in sprint and Olympic distances, as well as running events and CrossFit competitions that include swim elements. Harriet works closely with beginner to intermediate swimmers in outdoor settings, often getting into the water alongside her clients to create a supportive and relatable coaching experience.

She is especially experienced in helping first-time open water swimmers build confidence over time, and has also developed her cold water swimming knowledge over several years. Harriet has led wild swim retreats in the Snowdonia region and holds Level 2 Open Water Swimming Coach, Level 4 Nutrition Coach, and Mountain Leader in Training qualifications.

2022 Winter Wild Swim Programme Alumni

“It was everything I wanted it to be. The weekly tips and advice were very welcoming, and the locations were amazing. I came away from each session feeling relaxed and content, and I slept so well on the nights of our swims. I was a complete beginner and not very confident in the water, but by the end of the fourth session that had changed massively.”