Sacred Swimming Retreat

Join Reverend Emma Duff, Suzanna Cruickshank, Lol Wood and Becca Gilbert in a 2 day sacred swimming retreat.

This contemplative retreat invites participants into an embodied exploration of water, prayer, and presence within the landscapes surrounding Rydal Hall. Through shared worship, guided reflection, open-water swimming, and time in nature, we will deepen our connection to body, soul, and the sacred rhythms of creation.
The retreat unfolds gently over three days, beginning with an evening welcome and Night Prayer. Saturday centres on guided swims in local lakes, accompanied by reflective responses and time for rest and integration. Sunday offers space for self-guided practices such as land art, labyrinth walking, and reflective prayer, concluding with shared worship.
This retreat is for those drawn to contemplative and nature-based spirituality. Open-water swimming experience is required, with an emphasis on attentiveness, presence and reverence.

Required capability
To attend this retreat you should be able to:
– Tread water for 5 minutes
– Swim unaided (any stroke) for 50m
– Swim out of your depth in a calm and controlled manner
– Remove your clothes, put on your swimwear, remove your swimwear and put your clothes back on without any assistance.
– Walk for 3-5k at a relaxed pace whilst carrying a rucksack containing your swim equipment, warm clothes and food and drink.
– Walk on uneven but not steep or exposed ground.

What to bring
– Swimwear, including a neon hat or neon tow-float to ensure you are visible.
– Clothes for all conditions including hot weather and rain, including warm clothes for after swimming and waterproofs.
– Shoes or boots suitable for uneven but not steep or exposed ground.
– A rucksack big enough for your swimwear, warm clothes and food and drink.