Bournemouth Pier to Pier Swim

Late each summer, Bournemouth’s bay hosts the Pier to Pier Swim — a mass open-water challenge that sees swimmers strike out across the sea between the town’s two piers.

The swim

The course runs the stretch of Poole Bay between Boscombe Pier and Bournemouth Pier, a distance of well over a kilometre in open water. It’s safety-marshalled throughout and draws everyone from club swimmers to fundraisers taking on a personal challenge.

Watching and supporting

Spectating is free, with great views from both piers and the promenade in between. The event typically raises money for lifesaving and local good causes, giving the morning a real community feel.

Planning your visit

Swimmers register online in advance, so check entry details and the exact date before the day. The beaches either side of the route are perfect for settling in to cheer the swimmers home.

Dates & times

Sun 6 Sep 2026

Bournemouth Pier to Pier Swim good to know

What is the Pier to Pier Swim?

It's an annual open-water charity swim along Bournemouth's bay, with swimmers covering the roughly 1.4-kilometre stretch of sea between Boscombe Pier and Bournemouth Pier. It usually raises funds for lifesaving and local charities.

Can anyone take part in the Pier to Pier Swim?

The swim is open to confident open-water swimmers who register in advance, and it is safety-marshalled on the day. Spectators can watch for free from the two piers and the beach along the route.