Bog Snorkelling Championships

The Bog Snorkelling Championships in Wales is a quirky and fun event that attracts participants from all over the world. It is held annually in Llanwrtyd Wells, which is recognized as the smallest town in Britain. The festival involves competitors snorkeling two consecutive lengths of a water-filled trench cut through a peat bog, with the length of the trench being about 60 yards.

Participants are required to wear snorkels and flippers and complete the course without using conventional swimming strokes, relying solely on their flippers for propulsion. The challenge is not just about speed but also about handling the unique and murky environment of the bog water.

The event was first held in 1985 and has since become part of a larger summer festival in the town, including other unusual events like mountain bike bog snorkeling and the World Alternative Games. The Bog Snorkelling Championship has garnered attention for its eccentric nature, and it’s often highlighted for its humorous and festive atmosphere, promoting a fun community spirit and attracting spectators who enjoy the novelty and cheerfulness of the event.

How to enter the Bog Snorkelling Event?

Online entries close 7 days before the event, but you can enter the Bog Snorkelling Championships on the day. Entry fees 2024 are £20 for seniors (aged over 16) and £12 for juniors (aged 14 to 15).

How do I get the to Llanwrtyd Wells?

The nearest major international airports to Llanwrtyd Wells are Cardiff Airport (CWL) in Wales, and Birmingham Airport (BHX) in England. Depending on your point of origin, you might also consider flying into London (Heathrow Airport, LHR, is the largest).

Travel by Train to Llanwrtyd Wells

From Cardiff Airport take a train from Cardiff Central to Llanwrtyd Wells. This journey may include one or two changes, often at Swansea or Shrewsbury.

From Birmingham Airport you can catch a train directly from Birmingham International railway station, adjacent to the airport. You’ll likely need to change trains at Shrewsbury and then again at Llandovery or another station depending on the service. The journey by train can take a few hours.

If you land in London, take a train from London Paddington to Swansea or Cardiff, and then change for Llanwrtyd Wells.