Masters Championship

British Masters Championships 2026

📅 23 October 2026

📍 Ponds Forge International Sports Centre

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Event Details

🏊

Course

Short Course (25m)

📅

Date

23 October 2026

Venue Guide

Ponds Forge International Sports Centre

Ponds Forge International Sports Centre

📍 Sheffield, England

Ponds Forge International Sports Centre is one of the UK's premier swimming venues and regularly hosts major Masters competitions including national championships.

The venue features a 50m competition pool, warm-up facilities and spectator seating.

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🏊 Pool Details

Ponds Forge International Sports Centre is one of the UK's leading competition venues and regularly hosts national and international swimming events. The main competition pool is a 50-metre, 10-lane pool with electronic timing and spectator seating, alongside a dedicated warm-up pool used during major championships.

Water temperature is typically maintained around 27–28°C, providing ideal racing conditions. The venue offers excellent sightlines, spacious marshalling areas and modern changing facilities, making it a popular choice for Masters competitions.

🏟 Facilities

50m, 10-lane competition pool
Dedicated warm-up / swim-down pool
Electronic timing and scoreboard
Large spectator seating area
Café serving hot meals, snacks and drinks
Accessible changing rooms and lockers
On-site toilets and showers
Lift access throughout the venue
Free Wi-Fi in public areas (subject to availability)
Swim shop available during many major events

💪 OXOLT Athlete Notes

Arrive at least 90 minutes before your first race.
Warm-up lanes become busy before morning sessions.
Bring poolside footwear—the floor can be slippery.
The café can get busy during lunch, so consider bringing your own race-day nutrition.

Where To Stay

OXOLT recommended accommodation close to the venue.

Premier Inn Sheffield City Centre

Budget

📍 Approx. 10 minute walk

A practical option for Masters swimmers. Close enough to walk to the venue, reducing stress on race mornings. Reliable breakfast options and flexible booking make it suitable for competition weekends.


Where To Eat

OXOLT recommendations to help you fuel, recover and enjoy your championship weekend.

The Old Queen's Head

Dinner
💪 OXOLT Performance Notes

A traditional option close to the venue for groups after racing.