Swimming for the Visually Impaired

Open water swimming sessions for visually impaired swimmers start tomorrow (July 23) at Sea Lanes in Brighton.

The weekly sessions at the UK’s first national open water swimming centre will run every Wednesday (11am to midday) until August 27.

The initiative follows a successful pilot session run earlier this year by researchers at the University of Brighton, led by PhD student Sadie Rockliffe, to improve inclusive access to natural water spaces for people with visual impairments.

The research explores how people with visual impairments experience blue spaces through touch, sound, rhythm, and movement, rather than sight alone - highlighting how natural environments are often designed with sightedness as default, and seeking to reimagine these spaces as inclusive, community-centred places for all. 

“I’m absolutely thrilled to see these dedicated sessions coming to life at Sea Lanes,” said Sadie.

“The pilot swim showed just how powerful and positive these experiences can be when access and inclusion are genuinely prioritised.

“It’s not just about swimming – it’s about creating a welcoming, supportive space for people to connect with the water.”

Sea Lanes will be closed to the public during the sessions to create a calm, supportive environment that’s tailored to the needs of swimmers with sight loss.

For more information, booking, or queries, contact Sea Lanes Brighton on 01273 044163 or email Lizzie Meadows at elizabeth.meadows@southdownsleisure.co.uk