This summer, the wild waters of Norfolk will play host to an extraordinary challenge as award-winning actor and WWF Ambassador Miranda Richardson teams up with fellow actor Maggie Service for a bold open-water adventure — and it’s all in the name of nature and wellbeing.

A Wild Mission with a Purpose

On Saturday 9th August, Miranda and Maggie will take on a 3.5km tidal wild swim from Blakeney Harbour along the River Glaven to Pinchen’s Creek — an estuarine stretch in the heart of one of the UK’s most ecologically rich landscapes. Their mission? To raise £100,000 for WWF, supporting crucial work to protect and restore coastal and freshwater ecosystems.

The duo’s “Wild Swim Mission” is part of WWF’s ongoing campaign to reconnect people with nature, especially through its initiative, A Prescription for Nature, which encourages daily contact with the outdoors to improve physical and mental wellbeing.

Inspired by Nature — and Attenborough

The swim coincides with the release of Sir David Attenborough’s latest film Ocean, which showcases the awe-inspiring beauty and urgent fragility of our marine environments. This cinematic call to action resonated with Miranda and Maggie, both long-time advocates for environmental causes.

“I wanted to take on this swim with my willing chum Maggie as a challenge for both mind and body. But it’s also about raising awareness of the beauty and fragility of our natural habitats… an extraordinary habitat that shows just how connected everything is.” — Miranda Richardson

Why Norfolk?

Norfolk is a cornerstone of WWF’s Wholescape Programme, which recognises the interconnectedness of land, sea, and freshwater ecosystems. At Blakeney Point, where saltmarsh meets sea, WWF supports nature-based solutions to combat climate change, reduce flooding, and protect biodiversity. Miranda and Maggie’s swim shines a spotlight on this critical work.

A Cold-Water Challenge

Though neither is a professional swimmer, Miranda and Maggie have taken to rigorous training in London’s wild swim spots like The Serpentine, Brockwell Lido, and the West Reservoir in Stoke Newington. Donning cold-water kit from Finisterre, they’re preparing for the physical and mental demands of open-water swimming.

“Outdoor swimming is a tonic for the body and the soul… I’m nervous but so excited to take part in this challenge to raise awareness of the importance of protecting and restoring UK nature, coastlines, and waterways.” — Maggie Service

Join the Swim – and the Cause

Their swim is also the unofficial launch of WWF’s national Swim Challenge, which invites the public to take on a 5, 10, or 20km swim throughout August. All participants receive a WWF swim badge and are encouraged to raise £150 to support WWF’s environmental efforts.

To support Miranda & Maggie’s fundraising mission and help them reach their target, visit: www.justgiving.com/campaign/wwf-wild-swim

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