Here’s everything you need to know about our October swimming schedule at Dock 8 Salford Watersports Centre.

The water is around 16°C so no need for tow floats yet but we will keep checking and updating you weekly via social media. Sessions are generally quieter now that triathlon season has passed. It’s one of the best times of year to keep swimming, whether you’re training, learning, or just enjoying the water.

Evening Swims

Thursday general swims, 16:00 to 19:00 – £6

Evening swims continue throughout October, though finish times are slightly earlier due to the loss of light. We’ll review this weekly and may need to shorten further as the evenings draw in.


Sunday Mornings

09:30 – 11:45 General Swim – £6

Sunday swims carry on throughout the year – even as evenings finish up, Sundays remain a permanent fixture. Later in October we transition into our popular Cold Water Swim Sundays, running right through winter.

Sunday Coaching Schedule:

  • 09:15 – 09:45 – 1-2-1 Coaching (£30, bring a friend free)
  • 09:45 – 10:30 – Speciality Workshop (£12)
  • 10:45 – 11:30 – Intro to Open Water (£25, wetsuit hire included)
  • 11:30 – 11:45 – 1-2-1 Coaching (£30, bring a friend free)

Speciality Workshops this month:

  • Sunday 14th – Breaststroke to Front Crawl
  • Sunday 21st – Front Crawl Technique

Looking Ahead – Autumn & Winter

  • Evening sessions finish in October.
  • Our annual Halloween Night Swim takes place on Thursday 30th October, with water temperatures usually around 13°C – a highlight of the year!
  • From November, we officially move into our Cold Water Swim Sundays, running all through the winter.

Benefits of Open Water Swimming in October

As the air turns crisp and the water cools, October presents a unique opportunity for open water swimmers to reap both physical and mental benefits. While it may seem daunting to take the plunge during the autumn months, the rewards are well worth it.


Why Swim with SWC?

We aim to make open water swimming as welcoming as possible. Whether you’re building confidence, training for an event, or just enjoying being outdoors, you’ll find a supportive environment at the Quays.

Plus:

  • Changing rooms with showers
  • Free parking

Booking information

- All bookings must be made online
- Time slots are for entry purposes only, you’re welcome to stay in until the end of the session
- Minimum ability: able to swim 300m unaided
- Minimum age: 12 years (12–16s must swim with a competent adult unless signed off by a coach)
- Bright swim hats required (no black/dark)
- Wetsuit hire: £10 if available, or neoprene watersports wetsuits for £4
- Tow floats become compulsory at 14°C (usually October)

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