THE SIDESHORE SESSIONS
Local Stories. Big Adventures. Life by the Water.
The Sideshore Sessions are a series of community talks & workshops taking place across the winter that bring together inspiring local people, adventurers and coastal experts to share their stories, experiences and knowledge of life in, on and around the water.
From extraordinary open-water swimming challenges and personal adventures to understanding our local coastline and staying safe in the sea, each session will offer something slightly different but equally inspiring!
Hosted at Sideshore in a relaxed, welcoming setting, the sessions are designed to inspire curiosity, encourage conversation, share valuable knowledge and strengthen the connections between our community and the incredible coastal environment on our doorstep.
At the heart of the programme is a simple idea: some of the most inspiring stories and knowledgeable people are already part of our local community.
The Sideshore Sessions will give those people a platform to share their experiences, while creating opportunities for others to learn, be inspired and connect.
*Please note that ticket sales from this event will go to the guest speakers chosen charity.
Session Dates and Details:
Venue: Sideshore Community Hub
Start Time: 6:30pm
Session 1: Friday 20th November – 40 Kilometres, One Incredible Journey – An Open Water Adventure for Level Water
Guest Speakers: Clare Elliott and Joanna Dale, local sea swimmers
Two familiar faces from the Sideshore community share the remarkable story of their 40km open-water swimming challenge from Lyme Regis to Sideshore, Exmouth, raising funds for the charity Level Water. From the initial idea and months of preparation to the physical and mental challenges of taking on such an ambitious swim, this session will explore what it takes to turn an extraordinary idea into reality. An inspiring evening about friendship, determination, community support and the power of swimming to make a difference.
Chosen Charity: Level Water
Session 2: Friday 4th December – Respect The Water – An Evening with the RNLI
Guest Speaker: Jake Butt , RNLI Lifeguard Co-ordinator
An informative and engaging session exploring how we can all enjoy our coastline more safely. Drawing on real experiences and professional knowledge, our guest speaker will share essential water safety advice, explain some of the risks associated with our local marine environment and offer practical guidance that could help save a life.
From understanding changing sea conditions to knowing what to do when things go wrong, this session is relevant to swimmers, paddleboarders, water users and anyone who enjoys spending time by the coast.
Chosen Charity: The RNLI
Session 3: Friday 22nd January – The Adventure Mindset – An evening with Isaac Kenyon
Guest Speaker: Isaac Kenyon, Resilience keynote speaker and Eco-Adventurer
Isaac Kenyon | Resilience Keynote Speaker & Eco-Adventurer
What inspires someone to seek adventure, push their boundaries and take on extraordinary challenges?
Local adventurer Isaac Kenyon joins us for an evening exploring the experiences, challenges and personal motivations behind his adventures. Through stories of determination, resilience and discovery, this session will explore what adventure can teach us about ourselves, our wellbeing and the world around us. An opportunity to be inspired, think differently and perhaps begin planning an adventure of your own.
Chosen Charity: The Marine Conservation Society
Session 4: Friday 5th February – Know Your Coast – Understanding Exmouth’s Tides, Winds and Waters
Guest speakers: Keith Hoppins, Safety Officer Exmouth Surf Life Saving Club
Ever wondered why the sea behaves differently from one day to the next?
This practical and fascinating session will explore the unique coastal conditions around Exmouth, helping people better understand the influence of tides, wind, currents and weather on our local waters. Keith will share his knowledge of the coastline, offering useful insights for swimmers, paddleboarders, watersports enthusiasts and anyone who spends time at the beach. The evening will also introduce the important role of Exmouth Surf Life Saving Club, its history and the opportunities it offers within our community.
Chosen Charity: Exmouth Beach Rescue
Session 5: Friday 19th March – The Cold Water Connection – Understanding Cold-Water Swimming
Guest Speaker: Katie Phillips, Former GP and Sea Swim Devon Open Water Coach
As the seasons begin to change, our final session explores the growing interest in cold-water swimming and how to approach it safely and confidently. Katie from Sea Swim Devon will share her knowledge of cold-water immersion, including the body’s response to cold water, the importance of preparation, recognising personal limits and understanding the risks. The evening will also explore why so many people are drawn to the sea throughout the year, including the sense of community, connection with nature and wellbeing that swimming can offer. A welcoming session for anyone curious about cold-water swimming, whether they are experienced sea swimmers or simply considering their first dip.
Chosen Charity: The Sideshore Project
Five evenings. Five fascinating subjects. One coastal community.