A (very British) book about swim hiking is ‘Swimhiking in the Lake District and North East England’ by Peter Hayes, forgot to add it to the list. Roger Deakin explores the British Isles and the variety of swimming environments available to those of an inquisitive nature. It is a personal journey, where he reflects on the historical and modern perspective of swimming within these diverse climes. It is again possible to read Chapters within this book in isolation, indeed the photograph is of me reading an excerpt aloud to my group of swimmers after a Summer Expedition to The Trossachs. Reading “Waterlog” Summer 2020 Alexandra Heminsley’s part memoir, part swim guide is a beautiful, engaging, funny and serious swimming account. Leap is a book of two parts. In the first half Alexandra explores the fears and insecurities, comfort and strength that can be found in the water. The second half is a practical guide to beginners swimming with a helpful list of FAQs and a reading list of recommended events and books. This is an authentic personal life experience told in an unassuming and honest way that encourages everyone to simply ‘leap’ in. Tyneham is between East Lulworth and Corfe Castle. Closed on army firing days. From the car park follow footpath signs to the sea. 20 mins, 50.6170, -2.1844 Turn off the A171 at Cloughton and after 1½ miles turn right for the Hayburn Wyke Inn (YO13 0AU, 01723 870202). The beach path is just before car park on the right. 20 mins, 54.3589, -0.4454

Signed 1½ mile before Rhoshirwaun, on the Aberdaron road (B4413). Take the second right after 2½ miles, then first left (LL53 8LP). 3 mins, 52.8516, -4.7217 Wild Swimming Walks leads you on 28 adventures into the beautiful countryside of southern England. Discover swimming meadows along the Thames, secret coves of the Sussex seashore and hidden islands of the Essex coast. All the walking routes are accessible by train and each comes with ideas for places to visit andExcellent, an essential guide for anyone planning a dreamy summer of camping, picnics and swimming.” Park at Exceat, 2 miles E of Seaford (A259). Follow the valley down past the old river meanders. 30 mins, 50.7591, 0.1486 I wanted to share something with all those who have found this book. 2years ago i showed this book to my “chambre d’hote” hosts when exploring the ganges region rivers. It just so happened that they knew a local river expert/scientist from the “river conservation fund”. He asked to meet me as he was afraid that the book might fall into the wrong hands and explained the following: Artist and illustrator Lisa Congdon brings together her passion for images and swimming in this delightful book. Whimsical at times, very beautiful and often uplifting, it’s a homage to the joy of immersion in water and to the creative work it has inspired.

A well presented and informative read. From the author of “The Walker’s Guide to Outdoor Clues and Signs” this book is an essential piece of kit for the Open Water Swimmer. Tristan Gooley outlines his knowledge, observations and interpretations of water movement. He gives us direction and clues to develop the observational skills required to identify key signs in a variety of bodies of water. Examples from puddles, streams and lochs to rivers, estuaries and seas. He draws on historical navigational pioneers and his own observations and experiences merging these neatly into well structured and easy to read chapters, which can be read in isolation or enjoyed within the fullness of the book as a whole. Wim Hof shares both his life story and his knowledge / experiences with Cold Water Immersion. He introduces his three-pillar approach, where you can learn to harness the three key elements of Cold, Breathing and Mindset. A great read, regardless of whether or not you choose to follow his methods. He outlines, so many of the benefits which have been brought to us recently through the media. His personal achievements are phenomenal and he encourages each one of us to use his guide to improve our health and performance, although perhaps not go as far as emulating his daring feats! Another book about the social and cultural aspects of swimming, exploring our relationship with the water. Not one I’ve yet had chance to read but it could be worth a look. Swimming Studiesmiles west of Combe Martin (A399) turn right onto Barton Hill and park. Pass the Sandy Cove Hotel (EX34 9SR) on coast path and drop down after 500m. 15 mins, 51.2121, -4.0589 This section is a bit more subjective, as what works for one person might not work for another. In honesty, I’m not really one for spending hours on my technique: I prefer to just get in the water and go. However, these are a few titles I’ve come across and have been recommended by others. An account of the 1920s race between four Americans to be first woman to cross the English Channel. It focusses more on the battle between the women and the way the media portrayed the story than about the actual swimming, but it’s still a good read. Neutral Buoyancy: Adventures in a Liquid World Come and Join Us in the Water! All sessions will be held at Groyn 5, Joppa on Portobello Beach unless otherwise stated or by special request.