An Open Water Swimmer’s Paradise

Beside the Loch offers safe access to the loch, a secret beach, and insider knowledge of local waterfalls and trails. Whether you're a seasoned open-water swimmer or a beginner keen to dip your toes, it's an unforgettable experience for all.

About Nick

Nick’s passion for swimming began in his youth, later evolving into a love for open water after moving to Brighton in 2013. He became a committee member at Brighton Swimming Club, one of the UK’s oldest, and embraced year-round sea swimming, discovering the mental and physical benefits of cold-water immersion.

Nick served on the RNLI Brighton lifeboat crew for four years before relocating to the Scottish Highlands to help run Beside the Loch with Esther. Now based near Glencoe, he coaches pool and open-water sessions for Nevis Triathlon Club and events across Lochaber.

How Nick Can Help

  • Introduction to Open Water Swimming
    Build confidence, improve safety awareness, and enjoy the unique open-water experience.

  • Swim Improvement Sessions
    Refine technique, optimise your kit, set goals, and create personalised training plans.

  • Bespoke Open Water Swim Holidays
    Tailored itineraries featuring lochs, rivers, waterfalls, and coastal swims.

  • Organised Guided Tours
    Half or full-day swimming adventures in stunning natural locations.

As an STA Level 2 Open Water Swim Coach, Nick is fully insured, ensuring safety, professionalism, and compliance with industry standards.

Experience

  • 10+ years of year-round open water swimming

  • STA Level 2 Open Water Swim Coach (qualified & insured)

  • Swim coach for Nevis Triathlon Club

Events & Races:

  • Brighton Triathlon (Olympic distance)

  • Henley Swim Marathon (13km)

  • Breca Gower SwimRun (20km Sprint)

  • Brighton Swimming Club sea races

  • Masters competitor for Brighton Swimming Club

Wild Swimming Adventure Day Itineraries

Explore our bespoke Wild Swimming Adventure Days, showcasing the stunning beauty of Lochaber. Each itinerary is fully customisable for an unforgettable experience.

Half-Day Adventure: Wild Loch & Waterfall Swim

Duration: 3-4 hours

  • Welcome & Safety Briefing (15-20 mins)
    Meet at Loch Leven or Loch Linnhe to discuss the plan, safety, and gear check.

  • Loch Swim (45-60 mins)
    Guided swim in a peaceful loch with technique tips and stunning mountain views.

  • Break & Refreshments (20-30 mins)
    Enjoy a hot drink and snack on the lochside.

  • Waterfall Swim at Inchree Falls (45 mins)
    Short hike to the falls, then a refreshing plunge pool swim.

  • Wrap-Up & Departure (15 mins)
    Reflect on the day with tips for future swims.

Full-Day Adventure: Ultimate Highland Swim Experience

Duration: 6-7 hours

  • Morning Loch Swim – Loch Shiel (1.5-2 hrs)
    Start with a peaceful swim in Loch Shiel, surrounded by majestic peaks and lush greenery.

  • Break & Snack Stop (30 mins)
    Enjoy light refreshments while taking in the views.

  • Waterfall Swim – Steall Falls (2 hrs)
    Hike to Glen Nevis' dramatic Steall Falls, then swim in the natural pools below.

  • Lunch Break (45 mins)
    Picnic at a scenic spot, with dietary preferences catered for.

  • Afternoon Coastal Swim – Loch Linnhe (1.5 hrs)
    Explore sheltered bays with a chance to spot seals or otters.

  • Wrap-Up & Farewell (30 mins)
    Reflect on the day, share highlights, and receive tips for future swims.

Full-Day Adventure: Waterfalls & Loch Swim Extravaganza

Duration: 6-7 hours

  • Morning Meet-Up & Falls of Falloch Swim (1.5 hrs)
    Begin the day with a refreshing swim at the picturesque Falls of Falloch near Crianlarich.

  • Scenic Drive to Inchree Falls with Refreshments (1 hr)
    Enjoy light snacks and drinks during the journey.

  • Midday Swim – Inchree Falls (1.5 hrs)
    A short woodland trail leads to these beautiful cascading waterfalls near Onich.

  • Lunch Stop (45 mins)
    Picnic at a scenic spot near Inchree Falls.

  • Afternoon Swim – Chia-aig Falls (1.5 hrs)
    Explore the dramatic Chia-aig Falls, famously featured in the film Rob Roy.

  • Evening Swim – Loch Arkaig (30 mins)
    End the day with a peaceful swim in the remote, serene waters of Loch Arkaig.

  • Wrap-Up & Departure (30 mins)
    Reflect on the adventure, share feedback, and plan future swims.