An open water swimmers reveal his personal experience of swimming his first Lock to Lock 10k
Swimming the Lock to Lock 10K was a true revelation for me. Not because of the distance, water temperature, or any physical challenges – my shoulders were strong, I had no injuries to worry about, and I had also done other 10K swims, many of them also in the Thames – I felt confident in my preparation. No, the real eye-opener was just how beautifully relaxed and friendly this event was.
Unlike other swimming events that can feel overcrowded and chaotic, Lock to Lock had an intimate, wild-swimming vibe that made it truly special. The organisers intentionally keep participant numbers low, and it makes all the difference. Instead of battling a mass of swimmers, I was able to soak in the atmosphere and really connect with the experience.
The river itself was stunning — a picturesque journey of twisting, turning, and meandering downstream. It felt like being part of nature, not just a competitor in a race. The feed stations at each lock (three in total) were perfectly spaced, offering just the right moments to pause and refuel. Each station included a short, gentle walk to the next river entry point, and these breaks turned into wonderful opportunities to chat with other swimmers.
One of the highlights for me was meeting a fellow swimmer who matched my pace. We struck up a conversation at one of the feed stations and ended up swimming the rest side by side. As we talked, I discovered that they had participated in many of the same events I had. Hearing them say, “This is the swim I’ve always been searching for…” was a moment that really stayed with me — it perfectly captured the magic of the event.
The event was no fuss and yet meticulously organised. The safety crews were excellent, and the marshals along the route were some of the friendliest I’ve ever encountered. But what truly took the experience to the next level was the incredible finish celebration at the tea tent. The ladies running the tent were amazing, offering up an array of home-baked cakes that were nothing short of spectacular. Honestly, I’ve never had cakes like that at any event. It was the perfect way to end the day, surrounded by smiling faces, delicious treats, and a sense of shared accomplishment.
In short, the Lock to Lock 10K is a masterclass in wild swimming. From the stunning route to the friendly community and the thoughtful organisation, it’s everything you could want from a swimming event.
We’ll absolutely be back this year — and I can’t wait to experience it all over again.
JD
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