Living and working in Sennen, Cornwall, I love the unique traditions that make Cornwall so special during the festive season. One of my absolute favorites is a Christmas Day swim - a lively, chilly, and completely exhilarating way to start the holidays.
It’s not just Sennen; across Cornwall, beaches come alive with brave souls (and a few wetsuit wearers like myself) taking to the icy waters in fancy dress, all in the name of fun, community, and often for charity.
From Christmas Day dips to Boxing Day swims and New Year’s Day plunges, these events are a celebration of Cornish spirit, bringing people together to embrace the cold and share unforgettable moments.
Here’s a roundup of some of the best festive swims happening across the county.
Christmas Day Swims: A Festive Tradition
Note: All events and times provided are subject to change—check locally before heading out!
1. Sennen Cove Christmas Day Dip (11 AM)
Christmas morning at Sennen beach is something truly special. By 10:30 AM, the beach is buzzing with swimmers of all ages—some wrapped in wetsuits and others braving the cold in costumes that range from Santa hats to reindeer antlers.
The sea may be icy, but there is a great sense of community. Even the dogs join in the fun, barking as their owners inexplicably run off into the sea! After the Christmas Day dip, you can warm up at the Old Success Inn or by gathering around a beach bonfire. It’s a perfect mix of tradition and fun, making Sennen Cove a must-visit for Christmas Day swimmers.
2. Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth (10 AM)
Start your Xmas morning early at Gyllyngvase Beach, where families, locals, and visitors come together for a festive dip. It’s a fantastic way to kick off the celebrations.
3. Crooklets Beach Boxing Day Dip, Bude (10 AM)
If you’re in North Cornwall, head to Crooklets Beach for a classic Xmas Day swim that attracts locals and visitors alike.
4. Cadgwith Cove (12 PM)
Perfect for those who prefer a later start, this Christmas Day swim is brimming with Cornish charm and community spirit.
5. Coverack Harbour (12:30 PM)
The festive atmosphere continues at Coverack, where swimmers often gather to support local causes with collection buckets for charity.
6. Trevaunance Cove, St Agnes (11 AM)
St Agnes knows how to put on a great community event, and its annual swim is no exception. Expect plenty of laughs and post-swim treats.
Boxing Day Swims in Cornwall
The day after Christmas is just as lively, with Boxing Day swims drawing large crowds to beaches across Cornwall. Whether it’s your first time or part of your yearly tradition, there’s something magical about these Boxing Day dips.
1. Perranporth Boxing Day Swim (10:45 AM)
This popular Boxing Day dip is known for its lively energy and big turnout. It’s a great way to shake off the Christmas indulgence and reconnect with nature.
2. Porthtowan Beach Fancy Dress Boxing Day Swim (11 AM)
A relaxed yet fun-filled event, Porthtowan’s swim often includes locals in quirky costumes, making it a must-see.
3. Poldhu Cove Festive Swim (11 AM)
Known for its family-friendly vibe, this swim often features swimmers in fancy dress optional costumes.
4. Charlestown Harbour Boxing Day Swim (11:30 AM)
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Charlestown’s historic harbor, this seasonal swim is a favorite for photographers and swimmers alike. There may be some rules to bear in mind; in previous years swimmers had to be over 11 years old and raise a minimum of £10 sponsorship and under 16s were required to be accompanied by a participating adult.
5. Porthminster Beach Boxing Day Dip, St Ives (12 PM)
This picturesque spot is perfect for families looking to join the fun. Hot soup is usually available for swimmers needing a quick warm-up. Set on one of the prettiest beaches in the South West, this is one of the big events that raises money for good causes, so organizers ask for a small donation to join in.
A New Year’s Day Swim: Start the Year with a Splash!
There’s no better way to welcome a new year than by plunging into the cold water of the South West coastline. These New Year’s Day traditional swims are perfect for setting an adventurous tone for the year ahead.
1. Newquay Harbour New Year Dip
Newquay’s annual New Year’s Day swim is a high-energy affair, with plenty of swimmers and spectators gathering on the beach to kick off the year in style.
2. Readymoney Cove New Year's Day Swim, Fowey
For a more serene start to the year, Readymoney Cove beach offers a tranquil setting for a bracing year’s day dip.
3. Harlyn Bay New Year's Day Dip
Adventure-seekers will love the dramatic scenery at Harlyn Bay beach, where the New Year’s Day dip promises stunning views and a truly refreshing experience.
4. Gyllyngvase Beach New Year's Day Swim
If you missed the Christmas Day swim at this lovely beach, the New Year’s Day swim at Gyllyngvase beach is another fantastic opportunity to embrace cold water swimming with the local community.
Tips for First-Time Festive Swimmers
Participating in seasonal swims like Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year’s Day dips is an exhilarating way to celebrate the holidays. Whether you’re a dedicated wild swimming enthusiast or just curious about the thrill of winter swimming, these events are open to everyone. While the cold sea can feel challenging, a little preparation goes a long way to ensuring a fun and safe experience.
Here are some practical tips for festive swimmers of all ages to help you make the most of these unforgettable seasonal traditions.
Dress wisely: Whether you’re embracing the chill in a Santa hat or fancy dress, or opting for a wetsuit, make sure you’re comfortable.
Don’t linger: A quick dip is all you need to join in the fun—prolonged exposure to cold water can be dangerous.
Bring warm essentials: Pack plenty of dry clothes, a towel, and maybe even a thermos of hot soup to enjoy afterward.
Bring a buddy: Swimming with a friend or family member is strongly encouraged for safety and fun.
Support local causes: Many of these swims are about raising money for local charities, so keep an eye out for collections.
Tips For Families with Small Children
After the excitement of Father Christmas: For families with young children, these swims are a great way to add a fun outing to the day.
Wetsuits and layers: Keep little ones snug by dressing them in wetsuits or even jumpers. If they’re not ready to get fully wet, carrying them into the sea for just a quick splash works well.
Shallow dips: Don’t feel pressured to go far out; a few feet into the sea can still be exhilarating! Only let them stand if they’re comfortable, and always supervise closely.
Warm clothes and drinks: Have dry, snug clothes ready to change into immediately after the swim. A thermos of hot chocolate is also a good idea!
Top Tip: Check If the Swim is On!
Before you head to the beach for your festive swim, always double-check if the event is still scheduled. Weather conditions can sometimes cause last-minute cancellations to communal swims, so make sure to verify the time and location locally.
Local surf groups, beach cafes, or social media pages are usually the best sources for up-to-date info. The last thing you want is to arrive at the beach and find out the swim has been called off. Stay prepared and make sure you’re all set for your seasonal dip!
Fancy Dress: Notes
One of the most exciting parts of the festive swims is the chance to get creative with your outfit, whether you're participating in a fancy dress competition or just enjoying the communal swim.
Many people embrace the holiday spirit with fun and quirky fancy dress outfits, from Father Christmas suits to festive elves, reindeer, and everything in between. It's all about having fun and getting into the seasonal mood.
While fancy dress optional at many events, dressing up is always encouraged! It’s an opportunity to show your creativity and add to the festive cheer. Many people choose costumes that are both fun and practical – think of a fancy dress version of a wetsuit, or an outfit with added warmth like a Christmas jumper.
And don’t forget – in many cases, raising money for a good cause is part of the fun. Some events even have collection buckets for donations to local charities, so dressing up can make a positive impact beyond just the good times on the beach.
Why Take Part in Festive Swims?
Cornwall’s Christmas Day swims, Boxing Day dips, and New Year’s Day swims are more than just events—they’re a celebration of community, resilience, and joy. There’s something magical about standing on the beach, surrounded by laughter and shared determination, and plunging into the sea as part of a communal festive swim.
Whether you’re a regular participant or just curious about this unique tradition, I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a try. There’s no better way to experience Cornwall’s festive spirit—or to create unforgettable memories with family and friends. So, dig out your fancy dress, grab a towel, and come and join us!
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