The Across Mersey Swim is an annual open-water charity event that sees hundreds of participants swim across the River Mersey between Liverpool and Birkenhead. First organised historically in 1863, the modern revival of the swim is managed by Tri4Life and Liverpool Heartbeat, focusing heavily on community spirit, teamwork, and raising money for worthy causes.
The Route: Swimmers launch from Cockle Inlet near Liverpool Marina and cross the shipping lanes to finish at Monks Ferry slipway in Birkenhead.
Safety First: The event is meticulously timed with the turning tide to help swimmers navigate strong estuary currents. Participants swim in organised safety “pods” equipped with matching caps and tow floats, fully supported by rescue boats and kayaks.
How to Join: This is a strictly managed event with no on-the-day registrations. To ensure safety, all prospective swimmers must complete a prerequisite open-water qualifying swim approved by an official Mersey Swim coach.
Lots more videos are available on YouTube but here are a few from members of The Friends of New Brighton Lake.