About
Burgh Island provides the stunning backdrop for this unique and exhilarating race, returning for 2026. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a total novice, this event is all inclusive with a range of race categories on offer. With a BBQ and fantastic race day atmosphere, this is not something you want to miss!1 Mile, Youth Race, Nippers Race, and 3 more
Where and when
LocationBurgh Island, Bigbury-on-Sea, Kingsbridge TQ7 4BG, UKStart times1 Mile: 4:00 PMYouth Race: 2:30 PMNippers Race: 2:30 PMCharity 1 Mile Swim: 4:00 PMCharity 2 Mile Swim: 4:00 PM2 Mile: 4:00 PMEvent summary
Here are the distances available for The Burgh Island Race 20261-4 / 6
Route information
Set against the breathtaking and iconic backdrop of Burgh Island, South Devon, come and take part in a fantastic sea swim, back and bigger than ever in 2026.All races start from the slipway on the island, you can swim across, or paddle/kayak across, and find registration outside the pub to the right. Most people get the Sea Tractor to the Island, please be aware this can get busy and might be queues - you need to be on the Island on time.
The Nippers and Youth race is from the slipway, towards the Murrays and back in a triangle.
The Racing Swimmers will be setting off first, everyone will wade into the water, and set off as a mass start one the whistle goes.
All swims will be fully life guarded by qualified staff.
What's included
- Race Hat
- Trinket for all swimmers (we are deciding what this should be for 2026 - last year was mugs)
- Race Timing
- Prizes for 1st, 2nd, 3rd for Adult Race, Nippers and Youth
- Race photos and videos
- Optional event hoodie and shirt, medal and merch
How to get there
Burgh Island, Bigbury-on-Sea, Kingsbridge TQ7 4BG, UKGet full directionsGetting to the IslandYou must find your way to the start of the race on the island.
You can swim, get the tractor or paddle/kayak!
Be aware there can be a queue for the tractor.
Event day logistics
Reg Opens: 12.30pmYouth Race: 2.30pm
Nippers Race: 2.30pm
**Charity 1 Mile Swim:**4pm
Charity 2 Mile Swim: 4pm
1 Mile: 4pm
2 Mile: 4pm
Course Sweep: 6pm 9(ish)
Sundown: 9.30pm
Age Requirements
- Nippers Race: Ages 8-12 on race day
- Youth Race: Ages 13-15 on race day
- 1 mile: All swimmers must be 16 or older on the day, with under 18's being accompanied by an adult
- 2 mile: All swimmers 18 or older
All swimmers will need to attend registration in front of the Pilchard Pub from 11.30am. Here you will collect your hat, chip timer and merchandise if purchased.