Residents of South London are set to take a bracing plunge into winter waters later this month for a worthy cause. Tooting Bec Lido will host its annual 'Icebreaker' charity event on Saturday, January 31, inviting swimmers of all abilities to brave the chilly temperatures and raise funds for the homelessness charity, Crisis.
A Chilly Challenge for a Warm Cause
The event is designed to be inclusive, actively encouraging 'first-time dippers' to participate alongside experienced cold water enthusiasts. It aims to combine a personal challenge with community spirit and charitable giving. Organisers have structured the day around three main activities to cater to different confidence and skill levels in the cold water.
Proceedings will begin with an essential breathwork and safety session, ensuring all participants are prepared for the conditions. For those new to the experience, the simple 'icy dip' allows people to enter the pool at their own pace, perhaps attempting a few 30-metre lengths. More competitive swimmers can test their mettle in a 4 x 30m team relay race. The event will conclude with a more light-hearted swim featuring inflatables.
Event Details and Nearby Alternative
After emerging from the water, participants can look forward to warming up with hot drinks, and prizes will be awarded to winners. Ticket prices are set at £15 for a solo swimmer, while a team of four can enter the relay for £60. All proceeds support Crisis in their work tackling homelessness.
For those seeking another frosty fundraising opportunity, a similar event called 'FreezeFest' will be held a week earlier at the nearby Brockwell Lido on Saturday, January 24. That event will feature individual races over 50m, 100m, and 200m distances, plus a 200m four-person relay. A key attraction for participants there will be the chance to warm up afterwards in poolside hot tubs and a sauna. Tickets for Brockwell's event cost £12.
Both events highlight the growing popularity of cold water swimming in the capital and its potential as a powerful vehicle for community fundraising. Those interested in taking part in the Tooting Bec Lido Icebreaker can find more information and book tickets through the lido's official website.
