As someone who lives and breathes outdoor sport, I’ve had my fair share of memorable events (Man vs Horse to name one!) but few are quite like the Bantham Swoosh. Organised by the incredible team at Level Water, this unique swim takes place in the stunning surroundings of the River Avon estuary in South Devon.
I’d heard the buzz about the Swoosh for a couple of years now. Friends and colleagues raved about the atmosphere, the scenery, the thrill of that final swoosh through the river mouth.
Plus, I’ll admit – the chance to visit this part of the UK, which I’d somehow never explored, was a massive draw. So when the opportunity came up to represent ZONE3 and take part in the swim, I packed my wetsuit and hit the road with a mixture of excitement and nerves.
Bantham Swoosh - A Tidal Journey
The Bantham Swoosh is a 6km point-to-point swim from Aveton Gifford to Bantham, but thanks to the tidal assistance – and the famous narrowing at the end which gives you that final push – it feels more like 4 to 5km.
That last stretch through the shallows of Bantham Beach is where the river accelerates, sweeping you along in what can only be described as nature’s own waterslide. It’s exhilarating, surreal, and something you truly have to experience to appreciate.
What really stood out was the vibe. Unlike competitive triathlons, where you’re constantly watching the clock and jostling for space, this was something else entirely.
The atmosphere was calm, welcoming, and full of smiling faces. There was a real sense of camaraderie – everyone was just there to enjoy the day, soak up the scenery, challenge themselves a little in the process and support Level Water, a charity giving access to swimming for children with disabilities.
Level Water did an outstanding job in organising the weekend. From clear signage and safety briefings to the cheerful volunteers on hand, everything was slick but chilled.
I’ll be honest – my training leading up to the event was… patchy at best. A few too many excuses, a couple of missed sessions, and a bit of last-minute cramming in open water. So when I stood at the start, I had that familiar flutter of nerves. But the beauty of this swim is there’s no pressure. You can take your time, float on your back for a moment, or stop to admire the scenery (which I did, frequently). It’s encouraged – not just accepted – and that made all the difference.
3 Real-World Tips for Long Distance Swimming
Now that I’ve got the salt out of my hair and the sand out of my kit bag, I wanted to pass on three things that helped me...practical tips for anyone thinking of doing a long-distance swim like the Bantham Swoosh:
Train in the Kit You’ll Race In
This sounds obvious, but it’s one of the easiest things to overlook. Your wetsuit, goggles, even your anti-chafe balm, make sure you’ve tested it all in real open water. I wore my trusted ZONE3 Aspire and knew how it felt, how it moved, and how to get it off quickly post-swim (vital when tea and cake await).Acclimatise to the Cold – Gradually
You can’t cheat your way through cool water. I made a point of dipping regularly in local lakes and the sea, even when it felt a bit grim. It made a huge difference on the day – not just physically, but mentally too. My body knew what to expect, and I could relax into the swim.Start Slow
This isn’t a sprint, it’s a journey. Go out easy, get a feel for the water and the flow, and don’t be afraid to stop and take in the views. I even had a chat mid-swim with a fellow participant. It reminded me that events like this are as much about the experience as the effort.
Swoosh Round Up
The Bantham Swoosh is more than just a swim, it’s a celebration of open water, friendly faces, and knowing you are helping a fantastic cause.
I’d recommend it to anyone, whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or triathlete or a weekend dipper looking for something unforgettable.
Huge thanks to Level Water for the smooth organisation, and to everyone who made the weekend so special.
The Kit I Wore For the Bantham Swoosh
Zone3 supporting Level Water
ZONE3 is immensely proud to support Level Water’s mission of creating inclusive swimming opportunities for children with disabilities across the UK. Through our partnership, ZONE3 helps fund one-to-one lessons and specialist coaching sessions that foster confidence, mobility, and strength for young people who lack access to mainstream swimming programmes.
By backing Level Waters swim events like the Bantham Swoosh and Boomerang, and encouraging our community to take part or fundraise, we play a role in making those opportunities a reality. In 2025 alone, participation in these swims helps fund dozens of lessons, changing lives and ensuring that more children can safely experience the joy of being in the water.
