Christmas traditions in the East of England. Christmas swims in Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and Hertfordshire.
We all have them. Christmas traditions are what make the festive season fun. Whether it’s baking, playing board games with the family or new pyjamas on Christmas eve, traditions create lasting memories.
If you’re feeling brave this year, why not join in one of East Anglia’s biggest Christmas traditions; a fresh dip in the north sea. Wrap up warm and join the hundreds of participants on the beach, before shedding the layers and plunging into the icy water. Do it for fun or raise money for charity, either way it’s a Christmas experience you’ll never forget!
Find a Christmas or New Year swim near you:
Felixstowe, 25 December, 10am
Where: Felixstowe Sea Front (opposite Mannings Amusements), Sea Road, Felixstowe, IP11 2DN
Now in its 17th year, the event raises money for St Elizabeth Hospice. Over 500 take part. Take a dash into the sea as the crowds cheer you on! Sign up here.
Hunstanton, 25 December, 10.30am
Where: Hunstanton Central Promenade, PE36 5BD
Held on the main beach for over 50 years, hundreds join in the swim and spectate from the shores. For a registration form, visit Hunstanton Round Table Christmas Day Swim. Present the registration form at the Oasis Leisure Centre at 10.30am on Christmas Day. Sign up.
Lowestoft, 25 December, 10am
Where: meeting point at the Lord Kitchener’s Garden in a marquee, on the Green Space
Brave the North Sea on Christmas Day and help raise money for multiple local charities. On the day registration will open from 9am in the marquee with the swim starting at 10am sharp. Register here.
Southwold, 25 December, 10.30am
Where: the beach below Gun Hill, Southwold
The Christmas Day swim at Southwold returns for its 10th year. Money raised will support Brain Tumour Research, Southwold RNLI and Suffolk Accident Rescue Service (SARS). You must register for the swim. Sign up here.
Southend RNLI, 1 January, arrive 10.45am, dip at 11am
Where: Jubilee Beach, Marine Parade, Southend on Sea, Essex
In aid of RNLI, pop on your wetsuit or swimwear if you’re feeling brave and jump into the sea. Entry in advance is £5. Find out more.
Polar Bear Plunge, 1 January
Where: At Home
Unfortunately, this year’s event can’t go ahead at the pool, but you can still take part at home with an ice bucket challenge. Share your brave efforts on social media. Donation entry is £5. Find out more here.
Cromer, 26 December, 11am – CANCELLED FOR 2021
Where: The Promenade, Cromer, Norfolk, NR27 9HW
Organised by the North Norfolk Beach Runners, be brave and take the leap into the sea. This year’s event raises money for MIND (Norwich and Central Norfolk). Participants are asked to pay as much as possible for entry.
Mersea Island, 26 December, 11.30am – CANCELLED FOR 2021
Where: Monkey Beach, by the houseboats
Either join in or watch from the beach as swimmers take a dip into the sea to raise money for RNIL. There’s hot soup for the dippers! Entrants can be sponsored or donate a minimum of £5 to enter. Registration at 10.45am. www.westmersealifeboat.org/category/events/
