Winter Swims

Poster for winter swimming event at Droitwich Lido with snowflake designs.

Cold Water Swimming

Cold water swimming has some incredible benefits to your physical & mental health. A part from the obvious increased cardiovascular fitness & muscle strength, one of the benefits to these swims is amazing skin… We know, how does swimming help your skin? Salt water is full with magnesium, calcium and potassium which is all great for the skin. The water is also a mild antiseptic and may encourage damaged skin to heal.

By regularly cold water swimming, you can increase your tolerance to stress. The cold water creates a stress reaction in the body, which by regularly doing, can increase your tolerance to all types of stress. Other benefits include a self-esteem boost & post swim high!

We require you to read our Winter Swimming Entrance Policy & will ask all swimmers to sign a disclaimer on arrival of the pool stating they understand the entrance policies & the dangers/risks that may incur.

The pool is not heated. Please be aware the water temperature will be cold.

*Please Note: No children under the age of 16 will be permitted into winter swims.

Dates Available:

  • Wednesdays 9:00am & 10:00am

  • Fridays 7:30am & 8:30am

  • Saturdays at 8am & 9am

  • Sundays at 8am & 9am

Please book on our online booking system, click the link below. You will be able to book up to 8 days in advance.

Entrance Policy

  • We advise before swimming if you have any medical issues or concerns to speak to your GP.

  • If you’re not feeling 100%, please don’t come to the pool. We are doing everything we can to avoid spread of germs & it is not safe to cold water swim when ill.

  • A cap will really help to keep you warm, however we would also recommend wearing a wetsuits if you have one. Warm clothing for after is a must to allow your body to return to its original temperature.

  • Tell a lifeguard if this is your first time swimming in open winter water. Please don’t stay in there for too long, we would recommend you start with a short swim session & build up from there.

  • The temperature of the water can be a shock to the body, please slowly lower yourself into the pool to allow your body to acclimatise

  • Breathing when in cold water can be more difficult. Even our regular early morning lido users will feel the difference. So take a few moments to get your breath back, exhale and then push off from the side.

  • If you see anyone you’re worried about, please tell the lifeguards, whether the person is in the water or out.

  • We are there to help if you feel cold, unwell or dizzy at any time, tell us! There is no shame in letting a lifeguard or other club member know you might need help.

  • As soon as you exit the pool, we recommend wrapping a towel around yourself & getting dressed as soon as possible. Wear sandals or stand on a mat while you get changed to avoid direct floor contact.

  • Getting yourself a hot drink is the best way to warm yourself up. Little Al’s Kitchen at Droitwich Lido will be open for hot drinks/food.

  • Make sure you’ve warmed up before driving or riding a bike home. We want to make sure you are safe before heading home. Our staff & the café staff will be available if you require any assistance.