If you’re not sure what the buzz is about, if you’re a beginner wondering why on earth people do it, or if you’ve already tried it but are curious to find out more about the effects of cold water immersion on the body, this is the best place you can start.

This session is led by experienced swim coaches and passionate cold water swimmers who believe that the most enjoyment and the most benefit from getting into cold water come from practising it safely, with respect and understanding.

The introduction begins at 9am with a sit-down talk in a warm room, covering the potential mental and physical benefits, the physiology, how where and when to swim, and what kit you really need.

Everyone will then get changed for a supervised dip in the pool, so bring your swim gear (wetsuit if you want it- it’s your choice), towel and warm layers to change into. The coaches will be on hand to encourage and advise you if you need, will remain on poolside until you are safely out and changed, and will happily chat about your experience and how it made you feel. Most people end up in the café for a warm drink and a chat.

Please note: there is no obligation to get in if you decide you don’t feel like it, and no pressure to stay in longer than you want. You can also dip without knowing how to swim; swim ability is not a barrier to getting the benefits of cold water immersion.

By purchasing a ticket for this event, you are confirming that you are physically fit and healthy enough to take part in cold water swimming.

Please be aware of the health notes before booking.

You will be required to tick a box at checkout which confirms that you have read and understood the health notes and have referred to a health professional before your visit if you have any medical concerns.

Book a half-hour session in one of our beautiful Finnish-style wooden saunas. All sessions are timed and should be pre-booked.

Please wear appropriate swimwear in the sauna and bring an extra towel to sit on. Practice good hygiene: shower and then dry off before entering the sauna.

The saunas are a short walk across the lawn from the pool, where an outdoor shower will also be found. You can leave shoes and a towel in the sauna lobby.

You may come and go in and out of the sauna as you please during your timed session, within safety guidelines. 15 minutes is the longest we recommend you stay inside. Relax between sessions in the open air, or under the shower. Two sauna sessions may be booked consecutively so long as time guidelines continue to be followed.

Sauna and swim bundle special offer! You can combine your sauna with a swim ticket for maximum enjoyment of the whole facility. This gives you the opportunity to dip in the pool between saunas. Please note your dip should be no longer than 2–3 mins between sauna visits. To practise contrast therapy, you should be aiming for the beneficial effects of temperature changes on your body without significantly dropping or raising your core temperature.

If you’ve had a longer swim before your sauna session begins, please warm up gradually using warm layers and a hot drink in one of our warm spaces, before entering the sauna. Never use a sauna to warm up if you are very cold.

Please be aware of the health notes and the risks of cold water immersion and sauna before booking.

You will be required to tick a box at checkout which confirms that you have read and understood the health notes and have referred to a health professional before your visit if you have any medical concerns.

Adult-only swim session between 9am and 12noon; you may swim at any time.

Lanes will be available to suit your own speed and style. Dippers and length swimmers will all be accommodated.

The water temperature can’t be guaranteed but will be displayed at reception and on poolside. Speak to our staff if you are at all unsure about the temperature or your ability on the day.

Changing rooms are available and there are lockers for your valuables.

Swimwear, rash vests and leggings and wetsuits are all allowed. Swim caps are recommended for warmth. Swim gloves and boots are recommended in chillier water, even if you prefer no wetsuit. If a woolly hat is your style, go for it!

The café will be open 9am–12.30pm to warm up with hot drinks and delicious treats.

Please note online booking will only allow you to purchase one ticket per session for yourself. This is to ensure that every swimmer is known to us and has agreed with the health notes. If you wish to book a friend or a group, call us or visit us in person. The Lido office is open every Saturday and Sunday 8.30am–1.00pm.

Special offer! You can combine your swim with a sauna for a reduced price. Put both swim and sauna in your basket and the reduction will be made automatically at checkout.

Please be aware of the health notes and the risks of cold water immersion before booking.

You will be required to tick a box at checkout which confirms that you have read and understood the health notes and have referred to a health professional before your visit if you have any medical concerns.