Josh Waite
As an Open Water Swim Coach and Mountain Leader from Cumbria, I’m passionate about exploring the natural world and using it as a medium to extend the boundaries of my physical and mental abilities. Whether I’m navigating the open water or leading a group through mountain terrain, I’m committed to safety, environmental stewardship and fostering a sense of adventure and connection with nature.
Current Outdoor Sessions
Available for groups of up to six people.
Introduction to Open Water Swimming
This 60 minute session at a lakeside will include how to put on a wetsuit, acclimatise to cold water and equip you with some top tips to increase your confidence and capability in open water swimming. Please note: Participants must be able to swim 100 metres and Children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
£40 per person
Night Swims
Imaging swimming in a lake at night, lit by moonlight and it’s reflection off the water whilst basking under the stars above, as they twinkle like diamonds. This truly magical experience could be yours! Treat yourself to this peaceful and serene moment, feeling completely at one with nature – safely accompanied by a cold water swimming specialist and lighting equipment provided.
£40 per person
Open Water Swim Coaching
A 60 minute coached session in the lake, aimed at all abilities, from those just starting out to those looking to perfect their freestyle stroke.
£40 per person
Cold Water Dips
A 2 to 4 hour session, depending on walking pace, attendees must be able to walk a mile comfortably. This session involves a walk to some of The Lakes most remarkable locations for a cold water dip and to on-board breath-taking views.
£60 per person
Swim Adventure
A 2-4 hour session, to discover The Lake from the water and experience a unique perspective of its beauty, island hopping or shore line hugging this wild swimming adventure is set to set your soul on fire.
£60 per person
Guided Fell Walks
This 4-6 hour experience invites you to ascend some of the most extraordinary fells the Lake District has to offer, allowing you to soak up views so stunning, they’re sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart.
£40 per person
Introduction to Map Skills
A 4 hour outdoor workshop to enable you to learn how to understand and read maps. This workshop allows you to develop skills that will help you throughout life – whether at home, on holiday or on days out.
£40 per person
Guided Night Walks
Enjoy the Hidden Charms of the Lake District under the dazzling night sky. An invitation to join me as the sun sets for this 2 – 4 hour experience to embark on a journey through stunning landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, this unique experience promises to be a night to remember.
£40 per person
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More about Josh
My interests in The Lakes began as a child in the 90s, walking the Lakeland fells and I enjoyed all the pastimes The Lakes had to offer, from ghyll scrambling and fell running to canoeing. My journey with open water swimming began in 2008, learning to swim for a pool-based triathlon then, at aged 27, venturing deeper, into the world of open water triathlons. I’ve been swimming weekly (as a minimum) between April and October ever since and for the past 12 years introducing others to open water swimming. I’ve also swam the length of the largest lakes in the Lake District. More recently I’ve been competing in Aquabike events (which involves a lake swim then road cycling). I represented Great Britain in the World Championships in 2023 at Pontevedra and have qualified to compete in this year’s World Championship in Malaga.
These experiences have taught me the importance of preparation, adaptability, focus and teamwork. I’m driven to sharing these lessons with others, to support them to gain environmental enrichment through discovering the transformative power of outdoor exploration in The Lakes for themselves. It’s fair to say the Lake District has my heart and that my true passion lies in exploring its great outdoors through walking and swimming. I find nothing more rewarding than leading others into truly breath-taking and unforgettable experiences and I am excited to share these with you.
Josh