Embrace one of Gloucestershire's bravest Christmas traditions at the Christmas Day Swim in Cheltenham

Swap your Christmas jumper for a cossie and take the plunge at Cheltenham Lido's annual Christmas Day swim.

By Chloe Gorman  |  Published
Cheltenham Lido Christmas Day swim
Brave the cold and take a dip this Christmas Day at Cheltenham Lido. Image © Heather Gunn Photography

Take part in one of Gloucestershire's most bracing Christmas traditions, with the annual Christmas Day Swim at Cheltenham Lido.

Brave locals are invited to get their cossie on for a fun, festive dip before their Christmas dinner — but be warned, the water will be cold! 

When is the Christmas Day Swim at Cheltenham Lido?

This year's Christmas Day Swim is on Thursday 25 December 2025, with gates opening at 10.45am.

Participants can jump in from 11am and swim one or two widths, giving them plenty of time to work up an appetite for their turkey with all the trimmings before the site closes at 12pm. 

How cold is the water at the Christmas Day Swim?

The pool temperature is expected to be between four and seven degrees, but don't let that put you off, as the opportunity only comes around once a year and makes for an unforgettable Christmas Day activity!

How much does the Christmas Day Swim at Cheltenham Lido cost?

Entry is £5 per person. 

Who can take part in the Christmas Day Swim at Cheltenham Lido?

Swimmers must be aged 16 or above, but people of all ages are welcome to spectate.

Event

Christmas Day Swim at Cheltenham Lido

Dates

Thursday 25 December 2025

Times

Gates open at 10.45am

Admission

£5 per person

Telephone

01242 524430

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