Adventures in and on the Water with Natasha Sones and Anu Aladin

Curious about urban swims and paddles? Come join authors Natasha Sones and Anu Aladin for an evening of real paddle and swim stories, connections, practical tips and ideas you can use locally or further away!

Swimming Wild in South East England - Natasha Sones

Outdoor swimming enthusiasts and wellness seekers alike are invited to dive into a new adventure with Swimming Wild in South East England, the new guide from outdoor adventurer and experienced wild swimmer Natasha Sones.

Packed with more than 100 hand-picked swim locations across London, the Home Counties and the Isle of Wight, this beautifully curated book is an essential companion for anyone looking to explore the region’s most refreshing and remarkable outdoor waters.

From unexpected urban escapes to tranquil countryside retreats, Swimming Wild in South East England showcases the incredible variety of swimming experiences available right on the doorstep of the capital.

Paddle London - Anu Aladin

The definitive guide to exploring the rivers, canals, parks and reservoirs of London under paddle power.
Paddling in London offers a paddle experience like no other, combining a connection to nature with the vibrant energy of the city's architecture, culture and art.
From short paddles to longer expeditions, this book includes excursions for all levels of ability. Responsible paddling is covered thoroughly, with a guide to safety equipment and how to use it properly, staying environmentally aware, and advice on licensing. Each route details the best places to stop, and the sites, landmarks and wildlife to look out for along the way.
With beautiful photography, and clear maps containing directions to paddle and launching points, this is the essential guide to making the very most of exploring London under paddle power.

About the Authors

Natasha Sones is a passionate year-round wild swimmer, outdoor adventurer and freelance travel writer with a deep love of all things water. She has taken part in numerous outdoor swimming events, including competing in the UK Cold Water Swimming Championships in January 2025. Natasha is also an accomplished paddleboarder, with highlights including a solo journey around the Helsinki archipelago in 2023, supported by the Adventure Queens Grant, and racing in the Alps in 2024. Closer to home, she volunteers with the Bluetits Chill Swimmers, an inclusive and free-to-join social swim community, and is an Ordnance Survey Champion.

Natasha holds a BA (Hons) in Creative Writing and has over 20 years’ experience as an editor, writer, journalist and blogger. She is also a qualified stand-up paddleboarding instructor.

Swimming Wild in South East England is her first book. Author website: www.natashasoneseditorial.com

Anu Aladin is the author of Paddle London and has a blog called My SUP Stories. Anu is passionate about showing how accessible paddling can be in London, often travelling by public transport with her inflatable board.

The event will start promptly at 7.00pm, please arrive 10 minutes early.

Ticket with both books: £38 (save £12!)

Ticket £8.00

Includes a complimentary glass of wine/soft drink on arrival.

Both Anu's and Natasha's books will be sold 20% off on the evening, but it is better value to buy them with the ticket in advance.

To keep up to date with events at Stanfords,

Author talks are held in our basement which is fully accessible via a nearby lift. Please ask a member of staff who will accompany you.

Please ensure we have an up-to-date contact email address or telephone number when booking your ticket so that we can contact you with any updates.