World Bog Snorkelling Championships 2026

The World Bog Snorkelling Championships take place every August in Llanwrtyd Wells, the smallest town in Britain, in mid Wales. Competitors swim two lengths of a 60-yard trench cut through a peat bog wearing snorkels and flippers — and conventional swimming strokes are banned. You have to propel yourself through the freezing, opaque, peaty water using flipper power alone. The event started in 1985 on a bet in a pub and has grown into an internationally recognised competition, attracting entrants from around the world. Fancy dress is encouraged but not required. The water temperature is roughly 8°C. Visibility is zero — the peat-stained water is completely opaque. The spectators line the banks of the trench and the atmosphere is wonderful. Llanwrtyd Wells hosts a series of eccentric events throughout the year — the Man vs Horse Marathon, the Real Ale Wobble (a mountain bike event with beer stops), and the World Alternative Games. The bog snorkelling is the most famous and draws the biggest crowds. Entry is around £15 and you need to register in advance. Bring a towel and a complete change of clothes.