Poldhu Beach was filled with hundreds of people on Boxing Day as swimmers of all ages took part in the annual Poldhu Boxing Day Dip, a much-loved tradition that once again drew a strong turnout.
Organised by Ross and Natalie Hocking of Poldhu Beach Café, the festive swim saw participants – many dressed in festive outfits – plunge into Cornwall's cold waters before celebrating on the beach with friends and family.
Katarina and Shane enjoy the festive tradition (Image: Katarina Kluciarova Compton)
The event, which takes place every year, typically attracts hundreds of swimmers and has become a highlight of the festive calendar for many locals and visitors alike.
Despite the “very chilly” conditions, spirits were high as the community came together for the popular event.
Jill and family brave the cold sea (Image: Jill Hallsworth)
This year’s dip raised £335.13 for The Grand Appeal, the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity, with all proceeds donated in memory of Ezrah Pollard. Ezrah was born on March 7, 2022, became unwell with Group Strep B and passed away on March 25 of the same year.
Getting warm (Image: Gemma Prickett)
Following the swim, swimmers were rewarded with free mulled wine or hot apple juice – provided they had a “wet head” – while the café remained open from 10am to 3pm, serving hot drinks, mulled wine, and a limited food menu.
Jill and family brave the cold sea (Image: Jill Hallsworth)
Hundreds of brave participants entered the water on Boxing Day (Image: Kirsty Adams)
Poldhu Beach Café shared their thanks in a Facebook post. A spokesperson said: “Thank you so much to everyone for your support and generosity. It means so much.
“It was a VERY chilly one this year! Well done to all those who were brave enough to take a dip!”
More pictures of the Poldhu Boxing Day Swim, 2025 can be found at the top of this page.
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