Hunstanton swimmers gearing up for their annual Christmas Day Dip

Over 150 swimmers are expected to brave the icy North Sea waters at this year's annual Hunstanton Christmas Swim near the central promenade.

The weather and tide look be relatively kind for the swimmers on Christmas Day this year in one of Norfolk’s biggest events over the festive season.

Anyone looking to take part can register at Alive Oasis in Hunstanton between 10am and 10.30am, with the swim taking place at 11am. Most participants take to the waters in fancy dress costumes, some outrageously bonkers, although that, of course, is optional. These will be judged before the swim. 

The event is organised by Hunstanton & District Round Table 615 and raises money for a number of local good causes. Sponsorship forms can be found on their Facebook page.

Whilst the Waterside will not be open, the Golden Lion Hotel will be open from 10am to 11.30am, the Sunset Lounge at the theatre from 11am to 1pm and the Marine bar from 11am until 2pm. A number of the catering booths on the promenade will also be serving various refreshments. Free soup will be available to all swimmers after their dip at the Marine Bar.

The first swim took place in the 1950’s and has become a popular pre Christmas lunch attraction for people who travel from far and wide to watch the spectacle. It is advised you get here early as several thousand people are expected to attend the event.

All images: Ian Burt