Distances

Two tide-assisted Thames distances.

Choose the 10 km Thames Swim from Brentford or the 5 km Landmark Swim from Barnes. Both distances swim downstream and finish at Putney Embankment on Sunday 6 September 2026.

10 km Thames Swim

10 km

The headline Swim London distance: a tide-assisted journey from Brentford to Putney for experienced open-water swimmers who are confident completing the full distance.

Start: Brentford
Finish: Putney Embankment
Cut-off: 4-hour cut-off
Format: Tide-assisted

Experienced open-water swimmers
Tow float required
Wetsuits optional (subject to water temperatures exceeding 16°C, final guidance confirmed 2 weeks prior to race day)
Minimum age 18
Professional swim-safety team on the water

£150

Entry

Standard entry — includes finish area, medal and refreshments.

Enter Swim London

5 km Landmark Swim

5 km

A major London open-water challenge from Barnes to Putney. The tide assists swimmers downstream, making this the more accessible Swim London distance while still requiring proper preparation and open-water confidence.

Start: Barnes
Finish: Putney Embankment
Cut-off: 2-hour cut-off
Format: Tide-assisted

Capable open-water swimmers
Tow float required
Wetsuits optional (subject to water temperatures exceeding 16°C, final guidance confirmed 2 weeks prior to race day)
Minimum age 18
Professional swim-safety team on the water

£130

Entry

Standard entry — includes finish area, medal and refreshments.

Enter Swim London

Enter Swim London Read the safety approach

Swimmers escorted by safety kayaks beneath Hammersmith Bridge