Neon Party Swim
- Sep 26, 2026
- Last edition date
- Distances from 500m to 3km
At a glance
- Last edition date
- September 26, 2026
- Distances
- 500 m · 1.5 km · 3 km
- Where
- Lake · Dock 9, Manchester, North West, United Kingdom
- Registration
- uswimopenwater.com
About the race
In 1745, Bonnie Prince Charlie's army marched through Salford, and today the waters of Dock 9 witness a new form of endurance at the Neon Party Swim. The route at Salford Quays follows the Manchester Ship Canal, an engineering marvel from 1894 that brought the sea 35 miles inland. Swimmers navigate under the striking Millennium Bridge and past the asymmetrical curves of MediaCityUK, with views of the industrial heritage and the Imperial War Museum North.
This is a participation-based event, where time pressure is replaced by a glow-in-the-dark atmosphere. Each swimmer receives a glow stick, transforming the water into a moving ribbon of light under the night sky. The 500 m and 1.5 km distances are held in the controlled, sheltered waters of Dock 9, making it a safe and unique experience in the heart of Manchester.
Sources: Salford · Salford Quays lift bridge · Media City Footbridge
Course
Controlled, sheltered water in Dock 9.
Controlled, sheltered water in Dock 9.
Awards
Note that 'Neon Swim' is a 'participation' event with a big emphasis on fun and non-competitiveness so there will be no trophies awarded or times provided.
How to get there
Parking: Quayside next to the venue. £1 per hour.
Neon Party Swim
Frequently asked questions
- When was the last edition of Neon Party Swim?
- The last edition of Neon Party Swim took place on September 26, 2026.
- What distances does Neon Party Swim offer?
- Neon Party Swim offers 500 m, 1.5 km, and 3 km.
- Where does Neon Party Swim take place?
- Neon Party Swim is a lake swim. Location: Dock 9, Manchester, North West, United Kingdom.
- How do I register for Neon Party Swim?
- The reference page for registering for Neon Party Swim is https://www.uswimopenwater.com/neon-swim.
Where to stay
Salford Quays offers a range of modern options, primarily high-rise serviced apartments and boutique hotels located directly on the waterfront, providing easy walking access to the dockside. For a different pace, the nearby Manchester city centre features everything from budget-friendly chains to historic converted warehouse hotels. Expect to pay between £90 and £180 per night for a standard double room, depending on proximity to the MediaCityUK hub.
Things to do nearby
A weekend at the Quays is anchored by the cultural offerings of The Lowry and the poignant history of the Imperial War Museum North. Visitors can explore the area via the water on a guided river cruise or hire a kayak to see the industrial architecture from a different perspective. If you prefer to stay on land, the footpaths along the Manchester Ship Canal offer excellent walking routes that lead directly into the heart of Manchester’s historic Northern Quarter, known for its independent food and coffee scene.
Swimmers
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