Dock2Dock 2027: Your Guide to a Swim Weekend in London’s Royal Docks

Few swims let you race through the heart of a capital city, but Dock2Dock does exactly that. Held in the Royal Docks in east London, it’s one of the UK’s best-known open water swimming events, bringing together first-timers and seasoned distance swimmers on the same stretch of water.

Whether you’re taking part, supporting a swimmer or just coming along for the atmosphere, here’s how to plan your weekend.

What is Dock2Dock?

Dock2Dock takes place in London Royal Docks, with the London skyline as a backdrop. The event caters for swimmers of all abilities, with distances ranging from a shorter swim, ideal for your first open water event, to a long-distance challenge for experienced swimmers.

Date: Saturday, 28 August 2027

Location: London Royal Docks, Western Gateway, London E16 1FA

Where to Stay

Staying nearby means no early-morning rush across London on race day, and somewhere close by to rest afterwards. The area around London Royal Docks and ExCeL London has a good choice of hotels, many within walking distance of the start.

Dock2Dock has partnered with Book It Please as the Official Accommodation Partner, so you can search hotels by distance from the dock and book at preferred rates. Here are some of the closest hotels to the venue: 

Fox Connaught London ExCeL Hotel

A characterful red-brick building right by the water, with a bar and restaurant downstairs for a post-swim meal.

Travelodge London ExCeL Hotel

A straightforward, good-value base for swimmers who just need a comfortable bed and an easy walk to the start, with breakfast available.

Moxy London ExCeL

A relaxed, modern hotel with a bar, café and restaurant, and a pet-friendly policy if you’re bringing your dog along to cheer you on.

Holiday Inn Express London – ExCeL by IHG

A reliable choice with breakfast included on many rates, ideal for fuelling up before the swim.

Find your stay.

What’s On in London That Weekend

Once you’re out of the water, there’s plenty to celebrate with.

Harry Styles at Wembley Stadium

Harry Styles plays Wembley Stadium on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 August 2027. Make it a weekend to remember with a swim and a stadium show.

Book tickets on Friday 27 August or Saturday 28 August.

West End Shows

Head into the West End for a show. Highlights that weekend include:

• MAMMA MIA! for a feel-good singalong
• Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hit musical
• Les Misérables, the West End classic
• SIX, the pop concert-style musical about Henry VIII’s wives
• The Play That Goes Wrong, for a night of laughs
• Matilda The Musical, ideal if the family’s come to support

Explore all shows.

And once the stay is sorted, Book It Please also has theatre tickets, concerts, live sporting events and attractions bookable in the same place, so you can plan the whole weekend around Dock2Dock.