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sport · Sunday 2 August 2026 · 10:00am 
Summer Open Water Swimming Series
At Various waterways · Kildare, Co. Kildare
At Various waterways · Kildare, Co. Kildare
Open water swimming in Kildare has grown steadily over recent years, and the Summer Open Water Swimming Series run by local water sports clubs is one of the markers of that growth. Taking place on 2 August 2026 at various waterways across the county, this is an organised event for experienced swimmers who want to trade the pool for moving or still fresh water, with safety cover, marshalling, and other swimmers around them. Entry is a small fee covering the costs of running a safe event, making it accessible for anyone already confident in open water conditions.
Events in this series rotate between Kildare’s waterways - the River Liffey, the River Barrow, and stretches of the Grand Canal have all been used as venues for organised swims in the county. Distances typically suit capable open water swimmers rather than beginners, with courses running from around 750m up to 2km depending on the location and the day.
Expect a safety briefing before you enter the water - this is standard for any well-run open water event and covers hazards specific to the venue. Bright-coloured swim hats are usually required for visibility, and a tow float is strongly recommended. Water temperatures in Kildare’s rivers and canals run cool even in August, generally between 14°C and 18°C, so a wetsuit is sensible for anyone who feels the cold. Bring warm, dry layers to change into straight after - cooling down quickly once you’re out of the water is a real risk even on a sunny day.
As this is a multi-venue series, specific location details for each date are typically confirmed closer to the event. Check with the organising clubs or their social media pages in the week before to confirm the exact meeting point and any last-minute changes.
Naas is the county town of Kildare and sits roughly 30km south-west of Dublin city centre. By car, it is a straightforward drive on the N7/M7; from Dublin, allow 30 to 40 minutes outside rush hour. Direct bus services run from Dublin city centre to Naas on routes operated by Bus Eireann and Go-Ahead Ireland, with journey times of around 45 minutes to an hour. For venues along the Grand Canal corridor, some locations are accessible by train via the Newbridge or Sallins and Naas stops on the Dublin - Kildare commuter line. Parking at river and canal venues is generally informal; roadside or field parking near the access point, arriving early for a weekend morning event is wise.
Naas is a decent-sized town with good cafes and restaurants if you want to refuel properly after a cold-water swim. The surrounding countryside is flat, open Kildare land - well-suited to a short cycle or walk once you’ve dried off. There is more to see in Naas and across Co. Kildare.
Heading to Various waterways in Kildare? Kildare has plenty more to see. Read the Kildare area guide, find what else is on, and explore the towns and villages nearby.