Here at St Peter's, we're big fans of cold water swimming with our annual Cold Water Dip one of our favourite events of the year! Find out...
We spoke with Abby Richardson, co-author of 'Do Blue: Water, waves and wellbeing' about the benefits of cold-water swimming:
"Cold water immersion isn't just about the water itself - it's about giving yourself permission to pause. Whether you're dipping in the sea, swimming in a lake or plunging in a pool, it can help us step away from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with ourselves, nature and each other.
"What I love most about cold water dipping is that it's accessible to so many different people. You don't need to be an athlete or a confident swimmer. For me, it's become a reset button. A chance to slow down, take a deep breath and return to the rest of my day feeling calmer, clearer and more resilient.
"We're only just beginning to understand the science behind why water makes us feel so good, but many of us instinctively know it already. Water has an extraordinary ability to bring people together, lift our mood and remind us to be present in the moment.”
"You don't need to swim miles or be a seasoned cold-water enthusiast to experience the benefits of blue health. Sometimes a few minutes in, on or even beside the water is enough to change the course of your day."
Abby at the St Peter's Cold Water Dip
Researchers use the term 'blue health' to describe the positive impact that water environments can have on our physical and mental wellbeing.
Studies suggest that spending time in, on or even near water can help reduce stress and improve mood.
Water naturally captures our attention in a gentle way - sometimes called 'soft fascination' - giving our busy minds a chance to rest and recharge.
Cold water immersion can trigger neurological changes and release hormones linked to alertness, mood and feelings of wellbeing.
Being in the water, moving our bodies and connecting with other people are all known wellbeing boosters - and cold-water dipping can combine all three.
Join us this winter at The Wave. It's more than just a chilly challenge: it's a community event for a good cause. You can dip solo or rally your bravest friends, family, and colleagues. Afterwards, defrost in the hot tubs and sip a free hot drink - you'll deserve it.
Take part in our Cold Water Dip here
If this has got you tempted to try cold water swimming we've listed some of the best places in Bristol, North Somerset and South Glos to swim outdoors throughout the year:
This former quarry has been a popular outdoor swimming spot in the heart of Henleaze for over 100 years.
You have to be a member to swim here, and their community membership is incredibly popular - you can join the waiting list through their website.
Find out more: henleazeswimmingclub.org
This salt-water lake has been open to the public since the 1920s on the seafront in Clevedon.
Free to use throughout the year it's a real community hub and many people swim here every day.
There are now a couple of saunas near to the lake to get cosy!
Find out more: clevedonmarinelake.org.uk
One of the venues where we've hosted our Cold Water Dip!
A community open air pool where swimming can be booked throughout the summer and open for cold water swims over the winter too.
They have a lovely café on site.
Find out more: www.portisheadopenairpool.org.uk
Our annual Cold Water Dip takes place every winter at a Bristol swimming spot and has a warm community vibe.
You can dip solo or gather your friends and family. It's suitable for first-time dippers and more experienced cold water swimmers.
Relax with hot tubs and hot chocolate after your swim!
Find out more: Cold Water Dip
Nestled in the middle of Clifton, not far from Whiteladies Road the Clifton Lido is a beautiful outdoor pool, with sauna, steam room and hot tub on site too.
Open throughout the year and heated to 21-24 degrees you can join their waiting list for membership or book to swim as a guest.
They have a delicious restaurant on site, and you can also book packages to include a swim and a meal.
Find out more: lidobristol.com
An in-land surfing lake in Easter Compton which also runs 'play in the bay' sessions for dippers among the waves.
You don't often get the opportunity to swim at The Wave but there are events including our Cold Water Dip where you get the chance to swim in the calm lake.
There's a lovely café here to warm up after a dip and watch the surfers.
Find out more: thewave.com
With crystal clear waters, naturally filtered by the limestone this open water swimming lake is near Wotton-under-Edge and offers sessions year-round for over 16s.
There are different swimming loops set out with a distance to suit everyone, you'll need to either wear a tow float or wetsuit at this spot.
A café sits alongside the lake and there's a sauna you can book to warm up in too.
Find out more: thelakeuk.com
This natural lake in Winterbourne is a beautiful spot for an outdoor swim and is open throughout the year.
With sessions for children and adults there's a swim to suit everyone, you'll need to wear a swimming cap and either a tow-float or wetsuit which can be hired on site.
There's a sauna on site and a café to warm up with a hot drink post dip.
Find out more: westcountrywaterpark.co.uk
Start slowly and let your body adapt to the temperature.
Focus on slow, steady breathing as you enter the water.
You don't need to stay in for long. Even a short dip can feel invigorating.
Warm up gradually afterwards with dry clothes, layers and a hot drink.
Always follow local safety advice and never enter water beyond your ability or confidence level.
If you’re visiting a wild swimming spot make sure to check the water quality if you can - Surfers Against Sewage is a great website where you can check if it's safe to dip.
If you'd like to try cold water swimming at an organised event, we host a Cold Water Dip every winter - it's a great event for both new and experienced cold water swimmers.
