Dive into an unforgettable night swimming experience at the iconic Dock 9, located within MediaCityUK. The Neon Party Swim invites swimmers of all ages and abilities aged seven and above to take part in this thrilling aquatic adventure under the stars. Registration opens from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM for all participants. Swimmers will have a choice between two distances: a shorter, more accessible 500-meter lap starting at 9:00 PM or the challenging yet rewarding 1.5-kilometer course that takes swimmers around Dock 9 three times, beginning promptly at 8:45 PM. The event concludes by 10:15 PM with a cut-off time for all participants. The venue's vibrant atmosphere and iconic setting make this swim an Instagram-worthy moment. Swimmers will be provided with glowsticks to light up the dark waters, ensuring visibility for both swimmers and safety teams. This is not just any swim; it’s a celebration of camaraderie and fun in the water, where speed isn't the focus but enjoyment is paramount. Young participants aged 7-15 are welcome, as long as they demonstrate competence in open-water swimming. The event organizers offer wetsuit hire for those who need them at an additional cost (£10 with a £20 cash deposit), and pre-bookings can be made by emailing [email protected]. Facilities include a changing tent, bag storage area, and nearby public restrooms. Parking is available right next to the venue at Quayside, with charges of just £1 per hour. For those concerned about last-minute changes or cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances, XCover insurance is an option for purchase during registration, providing peace of mind should plans change unexpectedly. Join us as we illuminate Dock 9 with a splash of neon colors and celebrate the joy of swimming in the night.
Races Offered
Adult - 1.5km*
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
1.5K
terrain
Type —
Water sports
timer
75 days remaining
sell
£35.00
Adult - 500m*
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Adult - 500m*
terrain
Type —
Water sports
timer
75 days remaining
sell
£25.00
Age 15 and Under - 1.5km*
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
1.5K
terrain
Type —
Water sports
timer
75 days remaining
sell
£15.00
Age 15 and Under - 500m*
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Age 15 and Under - 500m*
terrain
Type —
Water sports
timer
75 days remaining
sell
£10.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Manchester.
thermostatTemperature
11.1° / 18.0°
wb_sunnyFeels like
8.9° / 16.2°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
7h 18m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
4.6 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
12.5 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (3.5)
humidity_mid
Humidity
81.0%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:43
nightlight
Sunset
19:23
About Manchester
Learn more about the host city, Manchester.
Manchester is a vibrant, post-industrial gem at the heart of North West England. The city that used to be nicknamed 'Cottonopolis' has hung up its clogs and, thanks to successive regeneration projects, is now a major centre for culture and commerce; seen by many as the capital of the north of England, and sometimes regarded as England's second city.
