New Years Day Swim '27

Dive into 2027 with an exhilarating plunge at Salford Quays, where tradition meets thrill. Celebrate the New Year's Day Swim, now in its 16th year, as you join fellow brave souls for a refreshing dip that promises to kickstart your year.
The event takes place on Dock 9 of MediaCityUK, framed against the iconic backdrop of the Lowry Theatre. The atmosphere is electric with an enthusiastic crowd eager to embrace the chill and camaraderie of this unique celebration. Swimmers will be treated to stunning views while enjoying a splash in waters expected to hover around a brisk 6°C.
Participants can choose between two options:
- A towfloat-compulsory course for confident swimmers covering 250 meters, where safety is paramount.
- An open dipping area near the swim entry point for those who want to experience the cold without committing to a set distance. Towfloats are still highly recommended here.
Registration opens at 9:45 AM and runs until 10:45 AM, with swimmers divided into three waves based on their surnames, starting from 11:00 AM onwards in 15-minute intervals for smooth entry into the water. Swimmers attending as a group can coordinate their swim times directly at registration without prior notice.
Facilities include changing tents and showers right by the venue, along with covered areas to store personal belongings during your stay. Event organizers provide bespoke caps for the first 200 entrants, followed by Polar caps thereafter. Wetsuits are available on-site for a one-time fee of £10 plus a deposit of £20 (cash only), and no pre-booking is necessary.
Warm up with complimentary hot drinks and cakes provided immediately after your swim to help you shake off the chill. The event also hosts a best-dressed hat competition, encouraging participants to get creative and showcase their most outrageous headgear.
Safety remains paramount: juniors aged 7 to 15 must have an adult (aged 16 or older) in the water with them at all times, and towfloats are compulsory for this age group.
Additionally, swimmers can contribute to a food drive supporting the Salford Foodbank by bringing canned goods such as beans, chicken, fish, meat products like SPAM and ham, vegetables, fruit, cooking oils, crackers, dried herbs and spices, granola bars, instant mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
Parking is conveniently located next to the venue at Quayside. For those seeking insurance coverage against unforeseen circumstances that might prevent them from attending, XCover offers a refund option upon purchase.
Join us for an unforgettable start to 2027 and create memories of joy and courage in Salford's icy waters.