OUR OPEN WATER SWIMMING EVENTS

Henley Classic 2016 | Open Water Swimming
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30th June 2024

2.1km

Henley Mile | Open Water Swimming
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13th/14th July 2024

Various Distances 200m – UNLTD

Club to Pub | Open Water Swimming
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27th July 2024

1.5km

Thames Marathon | Open Water Swimming
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11th August 2024

5.5km / 9km / 13km

WELCOME TO HENLEY SWIM

Henley Swim brings people together to swim unique, challenging and unforgettable open water swimming events. We make the entire process as easy and enjoyable as possible, so that all you have to worry about is making memories that will stay with you forever.

We cater for the needs of all types of swimmers, from those entering their first open water swimming event, to experienced swimmers, racers and enthusiasts.

Register for an event to find out for yourself why people return year after year, and why we have won the Racecheck Top Rated Swim Award for 6 years running.

TESTIMONIALS

The most professional organisation pre, during and post event. Thanks for the comprehensive briefing documents and for the great atmosphere. Your staff, volunteers and kayak safety crew are all amazing and very encouraging throughout the day. I highly recommend the Henley Swim events and particularly the Thames Marathon. Hope to see you next year for the 20th anniversary events!

Douglas M, Thames Marathon 2023

I’ve known about this event for a while now as a former rower who used to live in Henley. I’d highly recommend it to any swimmers thinking of doing it. The course is an absolute beauty and it was definitely worth the early start! Very professionally run, ticked all the boxes for me.

Jack T, Selkie Henley Classic 2023

Brilliant again apart from the rain. But hey that didn’t dampen spirits – you are going to get wet anyway! Lovely volunteers from the car parking to the registration and boat safety crew. The river taxi was great too. Great atmosphere and a fun finish. Don’t change a thing!

Andy N, Club to Pub 2023

The Thames Half Marathon was the longest swim I have ever done. I have done many events and I can honestly say this is the safest I have ever felt in or on the river Thames! Even though the river is still open to boat traffic, it was superb. Every time I looked up a marshal boat was in sight, or I was passing one. The atmosphere was great, and the snack stops at the locks were a highlight. Highly recommend it!

Felicity H, Thames Half Marathon 2023

This was my first swim event. I had the best time. The camping village was such fun and meant we were ready to swim in the morning. The swim itself was well marshalled. All the staff were friendly and helpful. The location was so pretty. The festival was chilled and friendly. A perfect weekend with lots to do and see!

Fiona M, Outdoor Swimmer Henley Swim Festival 2023

ABOUT US

Open water swimming events have been held on the Thames since the 1890s, but this more recent reincarnation began in 2004 when two ex-rowers decided it would be fun, and a little bit naughty, to swim the regatta course at first light. The first year it was just Tom Kean, Jeremy Laming and a supporting kayaker. Word spread among their friends, and each year a few more pulled themselves out of bed early on the Sunday morning before Henley Regatta to join the swim.

By 2008 there was so much interest that the 2.1km upstream swim at dawn became official, and nearly 100 swimmers joined in what has now become the Henley Classic.

As open water swimming has grown in popularity, so has the interest in swimming in Henley. While the Henley Classic has maintained its early morning charm and excitement, Henley Swim now organise three further open water swimming events in the summer months, including a long-distance endurance swim from Henley to Marlow, a festival of events for all the family, and an evening swim that ends at the pub.

Every year the events attract both new swimmers and people returning again and again, from all over the world. We welcome you all and thank you for playing your part in building the strong and supportive Henley Swim community that exists today.

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