Quick Summary
A record‑breaking swimmer circumnavigated Iceland’s coastline, covering roughly 1,000 miles in open water. Over a period of 116 days, the athlete endured the harsh, cold conditions of some of the world’s most inhospitable seas, completing the remarkable extraordinary oceanic trek.
About This Program ✦
West Iceland, Kingdom of the Bull is a television programme presented as a single episode. The show focuses on an extraordinary aquatic feat, following a swimmer who has set a new record. Its format centres on documenting this remarkable undertaking rather than featuring fictional characters or scripted drama. The core of the episode tracks the swimmer’s circumnavigation of Iceland’s coastline. Over a period of 116 days, the athlete covers roughly 1,000 miles, tackling the island’s rugged maritime perimeter. The narrative follows each leg of the journey, highlighting the sheer length of the swim and the endurance required to keep moving day after day. Throughout the series, the swimmer’s progress is measured by the cumulative distance of a thousand miles, a milestone that underscores the scale of the challenge. The 116‑day timeframe illustrates how the endeavour stretches beyond a typical athletic event, demanding sustained effort and careful pacing. Viewers see how the swimmer manages the long stretches of open water, maintaining momentum across the extensive route. All of this unfolds in some of the planet’s most inhospitable waters. The cold, unpredictable seas surrounding Iceland provide a harsh backdrop, testing the swimmer’s resilience at every turn. The episode captures the stark conditions, showing how the athlete confronts the relentless environment while pursuing the record‑breaking swim.
The Great Icelandic Swim with Ross Edgley broadcasts on Channel 4 +1 at 8:30pm, Saturday, 7 February 2026. (Subtitles)




