Participants
What is the minimum age?
Participants must be at least 18 years old to take part in the Cold Water Dip. Under 18s are more than welcome to come with an adult to spectate.
Are there any health restrictions?
If you have an underlying health condition related to your heart, lungs (including asthma), or which might be impacted by exposure to cold water, or if you are pregnant, you must seek medical advice from your GP before registering.
Can I sign up on the day?
You won't be able to register for this event on the day. Spaces are limited for this challenge so we advise you sign up early to secure your spot. Online registrations will close on 4 February.
Can I take part in a wheelchair?
Please get in touch with us on events@stpetershospice.org if you have any accessibility questions and we'll be happy to help.
I can no longer take part, can someone else dip in my place?
No sorry, your registrations are non-refundable and non-transferable so you can’t give your place away to anyone else. Please do let us know if you can no longer come.
Timings
What date is the Cold Water Dip being held?
The event takes place on Sunday 8 February.
What time does the Cold Water Dip begin?
You'll have chosen a wave upon sign up so we ask you to arrive at The Wave at least 45 minutes before your swim so you have plenty of time to sign in.
Our morning sessions will run from 11 am to midday and our evening sessions from 5-6 pm. Please do feel free to arrive early to watch other dippers and soak up the atmosphere and entertainment.
Please note it is a 15 minute walk from the car park to the lake clubhouse so please factor this into your timings for the day.
How long can I stay in the water?
This is a short dip challenge, not a perseverance challenge. A few minutes will be enough for most of us! It is recommended that you are not in the water for longer than 10 minutes, and the lifeguards will advise you if they feel you have been in the water for too long. The length of time may change and will be confirmed on the day.
Volunteering
Getting in the water is not for me but can I help in any other way?
Yes! You can help by volunteering on the day to help us make sure the day goes smoothly. If you would like to volunteer at the event, please do get in touch and email fundraisingvolunteer@stpetershospice.org
Event Information
Where is the Cold Water Dip taking place?
The Wave, Washingpool Farm Main Road, Easter Compton, Almondsbury, BS35 5RE. Check out their website to see more about the venue.
There is a 15 minute walk from the car park to The Clubhouse. Please remember to arrive at least 60 minutes before your dip and make sure you have signed your waiver online before arriving to site.
There are a very limited number of parking spaces at the Clubhouse for blue badge holders.
Is there anywhere I can leave my personal belongings?
Yes, you can pop your things in the free lockers, which fit most belongings, think of them as your personal treasure chest for the day!
Is there anywhere on site to buy food and drink?
Your entry fee includes a hot drinks voucher to use either before or after your dip! There's also a great cafe and bar on site where you can purchase snacks, meals and even a well earned beer (after your dip of course!)
Why not check out their menu!
Can my friends and family come along to watch?
Absolutely! Friends and family are more than welcome to come along and cheer you on, to give you that extra boost to get in the water. There is a large spectator area where they can wait and hold your towel and a cafe where they can grab a drink and some food. There's also a great playground for kids!
What should I wear?
You can get in in just your swimmers if you're feeling brave but are welcome to wear a wetsuit if you prefer. There will be some wetsuits available to borrow on the day if you change your mind!
What should I bring?
Please bring a towel and warm, dry clothes to change into after the dip, and all of your courage! You'll also get a free hot drink from the cafe to help you warm up afterwards.
Is cold water swimming good for you?
Cold water swimming can have several potential health benefits for your body and mind. It's been known to help enhance immune systems and improve circulation, as well as releasing endorphins which are a natural mood booster and help alleviate stress. Plus the feeling of achievement will feel amazing!
Cold water swimming isn't suitable for everyone though, so it is essential to speak with a healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions or sensitivities.
Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately no dogs or other pets are allowed at The Wave, with the exception of Service or Assistance dogs.
Any other questions about The Wave?
Check out their FAQ page.
Fundraising
Is there a minimum amount you need to raise?
Your entry fee covers the basics of putting on the event. This means your donations, fundraising and sponsorship on top of your entry are really important and will help to support our patients and make a difference for families across the local community. We'd love if you could aim to raise £125 by taking part!
What does my entry fee get spent on?
Your entry fee helps us cover the cost of putting on the event including the hot tubs, hot drinks and general event costs so that all donations and sponsorship money raised can go to helping patients and their loved ones when they need it most.
How can I get the money I’ve raised to you?
There are lots of ways that you can get your wonderful sponsorship money into us. If you've fundraised through an online giving page like JustGiving then it will come to us automatically without you having to do anything at all! You can also pay it straight to us through our website and let us know that it's your sponsorship money, or you can also send us a cheque to the Long Ashton office or to the Hospice in Brentry.
How do I set up a JustGiving page?
JustGiving pages are a great and easy way to spread the message about what you're doing and why you’re doing it! You can make your page here, and then post your page on your Facebook, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, email signature and anywhere else you fancy to spread the word. You can also set up a team on JustGiving.