Great North Swim 2026 - The Lily Foundation
The Lily Foundation logo featuring a butterfly, hearts and an 'x' for a kiss

Fighting mito,
finding hope.

Four Lily Fundraisers, laughing, covered in mud at a Tough Mudder event Four Lily Fundraisers, laughing, covered in mud at a Tough Mudder event

Great North Swim 2026

A man wearing a white cap swimming front crawl in open water

Swimming

Location: Lake District

Start date: 12 Jun 2026

End date: 14 Jun 2026

The Coventry Building Society Great North Swim on Windermere in the Lake District is an open water event with something for everyone, whatever your age, experience or ability.

Whether you’re a seasoned open water swimmer or dipping your toe in for the first time, you can choose a challenge that suits you. Distances range from Swim 250 and Half Mile through to 1 Mile, 2 Miles, 5K and 10K, or you can take on the unique SwimRun. Join thousands of like-minded swimmers and set yourself an unforgettable open water challenge in one of the UK’s most iconic outdoor locations.

Whether this is your first open water swim or your biggest endurance test yet, you’ll be fully supported every stroke of the way. Expect a safe, well-organised course, a vibrant festival atmosphere, breathtaking views across Lake Windermere and a powerful shared sense of achievement as you cross the finish line.

By taking on the Great North Swim for The Lily Foundation, you’ll be doing something extraordinary, helping to fund vital research and support families affected by mitochondrial disease.

A big thank you for your support

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Top tips for fundraising

Lady in a Lily Tshirt kissing her London Marathon medal

Whatever you’re doing to raise funds for The Lily Foundation and help fight mitochondrial disease, our top tips will help you smash your target.

Remember – the more you spread the word, the more people will find out about what you’re doing; the more they find out about your challenge, the more likely they are to sponsor you, and the more likely you are to smash your target!

Read our top tips