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Participant info
How much does it cost to enter the Swim Serpentine events?
Click here to see the entry fee for each event...
How can I enter?
Click here to be directed to the Swim Serpentine entry system...
Can my swimming club make a group entry?
No, we currently do not offer group entries into the event.
When will I know if I have secured a place?
You will receive an email confirming your place in the event when you completed the entry form. If you do not receive email confirmation of your place, please contact us...
What time does Swim Serpentine start?
A number of different start waves will set off at regular intervals during the day. The first wave starts at 08:15 and the final wave of the day starts at 16:25.
Can I choose my start wave?
Yes, you will be able to choose your start wave when you register.
How old do you need to be to take part?
Click here to see the age restrictions for the Swim Serpentine event distances...
What level of swimmer do I need to be to enter?
You must be able to comfortably swim your chosen distance in open water, or double that distance in a pool, non-stop.
Can I swim breaststroke?
Yes, breaststroke is allowed.
Is there a map of the course?
A map of the course is available on our website...
Can I wear a tri suit without having to use a tow-float as well?
You will be required to wear a tow-float if you wear a tri suit. It is the buoyancy from the neoprene in wetsuits that is important – a tri suit is just a long swimming costume...
Do I have to wear a wetsuit?
No, you do not have to wear a wetsuit, but if you do not wear a wetsuit you will be required to wear a tow-float.
Can I swim in fancy dress or a different costume?
Fancy dress is only allowed if it does not inhibit your swim stroke or the swimmers around you. Safety comes first and the water safety team's decision on whether a fancy dress or different costume is permitted will be final.
Can I listen to music on a personal audio player during the swim?
No, personal audio devices such as MP3 players are not permitted during the swim as our water safety team may need to communicate with you.
Is there a cut-off time to finish my swim?
We try to allow all swimmers to finish their swim where possible. However, our water safety team do have the authority to pull people out of the water if the swimmer appears to be struggling. The only strict cut-off time is at the end of the day, as we must finish the event by an agreed time.
Will I get an official finish time?
Yes, all swimmers get finish times, which are available on our results page after the event.
Does Swim Serpentine count towards the London Classics?
Yes! Any swimmers who complete the two-mile distance or the Super Six will be completing the Swim Serpentine element of the London Classics.
How do I get my London Classics medal?
If Swim Serpentine is your final qualifying event for the London Classics (after the TCS London Marathon and Ford RideLondon-Essex 100), visit the London Classics website to notify us in plenty of time before the event. We'll then send you a wristband so we know to award you the amazing London Classics medal in addition to your Swim Serpentine one!
Are there any prizes for the fastest swimmers?
The events are not races – the focus is on having fun! However, age group prizes are available for participants taking part in the final two-mile wave of the day (classed as the ‘fast wave’) and the half-mile event for youths – click here to find out more.
What happens if I am unable to take part?
Places in 2023 Swim Serpentine are not refundable, transferable or able to be deferred under any circumstances.
I need a hotel in London for Swim Serpentine – do you have any advice?
Check out the Visit London website for accommodation ideas to suit every budget...
I have moved – how do I let you know my change of address?
If you're entered into the event, you can update your details via your participant dashboard – the link to this is in your confirmation email.
Event Day
How do I know what to do on the day?
A few weeks before the event, we’ll email your Swim Day Guide to you. This will contain everything you need to know about this year’s Swim Serpentine event. You will also be sent a Swim Pack containing essential items for your swim, including a souvenir swim hat and timing chip.
What’s the best way to get to the Serpentine?
We recommend that you travel on the Tube. The closest Tube station to the event area is Lancaster Gate on the Central Line – alight here and the event area is only a 700m walk across Hyde Park. You can also alight at Marble Arch (Central Line), Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly Line) or Knightsbridge (Piccadilly Line), all of which are around 1K from the event area...
Are there any road closures for the event?
The only road that will be closed during the event is Serpentine Road, which is in Hyde Park and immediately adjacent to the Serpentine.
Is parking available on the day?
Triangle Car Park, adjacent to the Serpentine at the north end of Serpentine Bridge, will not be open during the event. Visit The Royal Parks website for more information on alternative parking options in Hyde Par. We recommend that swimmers avoid coming by car as parking spaces are limited.
How can I meet my family and friends after I have finished my swim?
After swimmers have exited the water and passed through the check-out area, they will need to retrieve their bag and change – then they will be able to meet up with family and friends. Most of the Swim Serpentine event site is open to all, so meeting up with loved ones afterwards should be simple.