Summer Races 2026

Open Water Swimming Races Return to Tooting Bec Lido This Summer

If you're a swimmer in London looking for something beyond the pool lane, this summer's SESC Race Series at Tooting Bec Lido is exactly what you've been waiting for. Whether you're involved in London masters swimming or searching for outdoor swimming races London swimmers genuinely enjoy, this series offers a unique summer challenge.

Across June and July, SESC is hosting three open water races at one of the UK's largest and most iconic freshwater lidos:

• Half Mile Race — a test of pace and endurance

• One Mile Race — for swimmers ready to go further

• Quarter Mile Race — ideal for first-time open water racers

Registrations are now open. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot early.

Race at One of London's Most Iconic Outdoor Pools

Tooting Bec Lido is one of the best open water swimming venues in the city. At 91 metres long and unheated, it offers a genuine outdoor swimming experience — something no indoor pool can replicate.

Racing here feels different. The open air, the summer evening light, the energy of race day — it all adds up to a swim you'll remember.

For swimmers interested in masters swimming London events, the Summer Race Series provides an opportunity to experience competitive outdoor swimming in a welcoming environment.

Three Races, Every Level Welcome

Whether you're stepping up to your first open water race or looking to push your personal limits, there's a distance for you.

Half Mile — The middle-ground race. Demanding enough to be a real challenge, short enough to be accessible. Perfect for swimmers who've done some open water swimming and want to test their pace.

One Mile — The endurance event of the series. A full mile in an unheated outdoor pool takes focus, fitness, and a love of open water. If you're ready to push yourself, this is the one.

Quarter Mile — A great starting point for swimmers new to open water racing. Short, fast, and a brilliant way to experience the atmosphere without overcommitting on distance.

If you've ever searched for adult swimming competitions near me or wondered how to enter swimming competitions in London, these races are a great place to start.

More Than Just a Race

The SESC Summer Race Series isn't just about times and finish lines. It's about community — swimmers coming together at one of London's most loved lidos to do something memorable.

Whether you're racing to win, racing to finish, or just racing to say you did it, the atmosphere on the day makes every stroke worth it.

As one of the growing swimming clubs in london, SESC aims to make outdoor racing accessible, welcoming, and enjoyable for swimmers of all abilities. It's no surprise that many participants consider these events among the best open water swimming races London has to offer.

How to Enter

Races take place every year in June and July at Tooting Bec Lido, London.

Please note that the pool is unheated, and wetsuits are permitted.

Register online to secure your place in one or all of the races.