New Year's Day Dip with the Calvert Trust

Local Cumbrians and visitor alike are being invited to take a dip for charity with the Lake District Calvert Trust’s third New Year’s Day Dip. Last year saw over 300 eager dippers take to the chilly waters – this year, the charity are hoping to welcome a whopping 500!

The Dip is taking place at Derwentwater at 11 am on 1 January 2025. Places are strictly limited to 500 and can be reserved in advance - click here.

“Our New Year’s Day Dip has become a firm fixture in the fundraising calendar and promises to, once again, be a great community event to start the year!” said Julia Metcalf, Fundraising Officer for the Lake District Calvert Trust.

“The fun will start at 11am and fancy dress is most definitely encouraged! Hot drinks and nibbles are courtesy of our charity partners, Booths Keswick while our Calvert catering staff will be laying their best warming soup. Donations most welcome – we do cash and contactless so no excuses!”

The New Year’s Day Dip is made possible each year thanks to the generosity of the Keswick Launch Company who allow the Lakeland Charity use of the shoreline. Lake District Calvert Trust instructors and staff will be on duty at Derwentwater to make sure that all ‘dippers’ are kept safe. Wetsuits are recommended and safety boats will also be on hand.

The New Year’s Day Dip is free to take part in but swimmers are encouraged to make a voluntary minimum donation of £5 to help ensure that children and adults with disabilities continue to benefit from the great outdoors thanks to the amazing work of the Lake District Calvert Trust. This year, limited edition Calvert-branded bobble hats are available to pre-order when booking your place and can be collected on the day – perfect for keeping at least one part of you warm during your dip!