On 1st January 2026 hundreds of brave souls gathered on the edge of Derwentwater in Keswick to take the plunge for our local charity, the Lake District Calvert Trust. The much-anticipated New Year’s Day Dip returned for it’s third year with a wonderful turnout of locals and visitors alike, all ready to kickstart the new year with a chilly challenge for a good cause.
In waves of 50 people at a time, dippers first plunged into the water at 11am blowing away the cobwebs in an exceptionally cold Derwentwater. The dry weather and calm conditions were perfect for celebrating a new year and raising money for a local charity at the same time. Supporters arrived in droves – dippers and spectators – some decked in festive fancy dress with others in only their swimwear!
Our dedicated instructors monitored swimmers from the water in safety boats and handed out hot drinks on shore to the intrepid dippers. The Rivers Trust also provided essential advice on biosecurity and how best to protect our sensitive water systems.
Combining community spirit and festive fun, we were delighted to welcome over 250 supporters on New Year’s Day, many of whom had joined the event in previous years. The generosity of participants and donors helped raise £2,020 in total. Attendees raved about the thrill of the challenge and the event was a roaring success overall.
Georgia Naylor, Calvert Lakes Fundraising Officer and Event Organiser said:
“We were delighted so many people braved the cold to come and start the new year with a super fun challenge and raise money for our amazing charity. The atmosphere on the lakeshore was fantastic as spectators cheered those bold enough to dip. Those who didn’t join us this year will have another chance next time!”
Sean Day, Lake District Calvert Trust Chief Executive Office said:
“This event wouldn’t have been possible without the enthusiasm and generosity of our local community.
We’d like to say a huge thank you to Carole Peet of Keswick Launch for letting us access the lakeshore, the Rivers Trust for their input and advice on carrying out our event responsibly, and Keswick Lions for their much-appreciated support on the day. Booths Keswick also generously supplied hot drinks and cakes which we are very grateful for.
Lastly, we want to thank all the volunteers, staff, donors and dippers who turned up on the first day of the new year to support our cause, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.”
Every penny raised will go towards enabling people with disabilities to access adventures at Calvert Lakes and Calvert Stables in the beautiful Lake District National Park.
Look out for the next New Year’s Day Dip on 1st January 2027!
For more information about the Lake District Calvert Trust or for ways to support us, visit www.calvertlakes.org.uk or contact the team on 017687 72250 or enquiries@calvertlakes.org.uk.
