Make a splash! Local places for a New Year dip
We may be landlocked in Notts & Derbyshire, but that doesn’t mean we can’t start the year with a wild swim. Check out these top spots for a new year’s day dip near you.
Matlock Lido, New Bath Spa Hotel
Now this one is a total treat – and there’s no need to wetsuit-up for this wild swim. Fed by a natural geo-thermal spring, mineral-rich water spills into the shallow end of this historic pool at a constant 19.8c. It’s a continuous flow so it holds a decent temperature throughout the pool but when air temperatures plummet, it can chill down to 15c. Bracing but bearable, with non-chlorinated water, this wild swim is a gentle start to the year. Open between 10am and 4pm for New Year’s Day swims, Costs £10pp.
Colwick Lake, Nottingham
New to open water swimming? This place is a great spot to start. WholeHealth runs safe, supported and inclusive open water swim sessions at the City Council-owned Colwick Lake. Plus, there are three Nordic-style woodfired saunas to warm up in afterwards. The New Year’s Day Dip sounds a lot of fun, but it’s worth contacting the Whole Health Team first. The New Year’s Day dip dives in at 11am. If it’s a new hobby you’re resolving to take on this year, annual membership costs a bargain £40, otherwise it’s £10 a session.
Hathersage Swimming Pool, Hathersage
No need to brave chilly waters for this one. In the shadow of the Peak District hills, this lovely, heated lido is a gorgeous spot to swim. It’s open for New Year’s Day dips between 10am and 3pm. Tickets cost £10 and it’s definitely one you’ll need to pre-book. All proceeds go to charity.
Spring Lakes, Long Eaton
There are still plenty of tickets left for Spring Lakes’ super-fun New Year’s Day dip in the clear, spring-fed lake. With bookable sessions every half hour between 9am and 12pm, this place is perfect for wild swim beginners, regulars and everyone in between. Tickets cost £15pp and include porridge and a freshly baked pastry in the Waters Edge Café afterwards to warm you up. All swimmers must wear a brightly coloured swim hat and a tow buoy (both available when you book). Wetsuits are also available to hire.