Dusk Dippers

Fancy a relaxed Thursday evening? Join us for an informal catch-up and a refreshing dip at the pond! It's a lovely way to unwind, connect and enjoy the outdoors.

We'll meet by the water to head in together, then, if you have time, stay for a chat afterwards. Feel free to bring a warm drink and some extra layers so you stay cosy and comfortable once we're out.

Please do read the information below - this is what we are asking you to acknowledge and agree to when booking.

Flow at Frensham – Safety Statement
At Flow at Frensham, safety, care, and personal responsibility sit at the heart of everything we do. Outdoor swimming and cold water immersion can offer powerful benefits for mental and physical wellbeing, but they also require awareness, preparation, and respect for the water and for individual limits.
All Flow at Frensham sessions are gently led and supported by experienced hosts from the original Frensham Mental Health Swims, who are trained in safely guiding people into cold water. We offer clear guidance on entry, duration, pacing, and aftercare, and we foster a culture of listening to your body and making informed, self-led choices.
Participation in all activities is optional. There is no pressure to enter the water, to stay in longer than feels right, or to take part in meditation or creative practices. We encourage mindful entry into the water and checking in with yourself and others throughout.While Flow at Frensham holds public liability insurance, all participants attend and enter the water at their own risk. By joining us, you acknowledge that outdoor swimming carries inherent risks and that you are responsible for your own health and wellbeing.
Our role is to guide, support, and hold a safe, non-judgemental space — not to push limits or promote endurance. Safety is collective, compassionate, and rooted in care.

If You Feel Unsure or Overwhelmed
•    You can step away at any time
•    You can ask a host for help

General Safety Guidance (All Dips)
•    Eat and drink before coming if you can
•    Bring warm clothes and something warm to drink
•    Take time to pause before entering the water
•    Enter slowly if you choose to enter
•    Your breathing may feel fast at first — this is normal
•    Focus on slow breathing out
•    You can leave the water at any point
•    Leaving early is encouraged if your body asks for it
•    After the dip, dry off and get warm straight away
•    Stay with the group until you feel steady and warm
A host will always be nearby if you need support.

Accessible Guidance – Warmer Water Dips (Above 8°C)
Warmer water can still feel cold. Your body may react strongly at first.
You might notice:
•    Cold sensations
•    Changes in breathing
•    Strong physical awareness
What helps:
•    Moving slowly
•    Breathing gently
•    Paying attention to how your body feels
You do not need to stay in the water for any set amount of time. Leave the water when your body starts to feel uncomfortable or distracted.

Accessible Guidance – Colder Water & Ice Dips (Below 8°C)
Cold and ice dips are optional. You are not expected to take part.
These dips can feel intense and are always led and supported by experienced hosts.
You might notice:
•    Very strong cold sensations
•    Increased alertness
•    A strong urge to get warm
Important reminders:
•    You can stay at the water’s edge
•    You can enter only a little
•    You can leave immediately if needed
•    Face immersion is not required
Aftercare is very important:
•    Dry off straight away
•    Put on warm layers and cuddle a hot water bottle if you have one
•    Move gently
•    Drink something warm
•    Stay with others until you feel fully warm and don't get straight into a hot shower or bath - wait a while until your body is warmed up

Flow at Frensham – Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience with cold water swimming? No. We welcome complete beginners and experienced swimmers alike. You are encouraged to go at your own pace.

Do I have to get in the water? While our community is built on being in and around the water, we understand that some of our dippers may not yet feel ready or able to enter the water each and every dip. Entering the water is always optional. You are welcome to come for connection, nature, and community only.

How long do we stay in the water? That depends entirely on the individual and water temperature. Short immersions are encouraged, especially for beginners. There are no rules about how long to stay in the water. There is no comparison with others.
Your body may feel different:
•  on different days
•  in different weather
•  depending on sleep, stress, or health
Listening to your body is the most important part of dipping.

Will someone support me if it’s my first time? Yes. Our hosts are experienced and will offer guidance and reassurance before, during, and after your dip.

Is this group for men and women? Yes. Flow at Frensham is open to people of all genders and identities.

What should I bring? Swimwear, warm layers, a towel or robe, something warm to drink, and footwear suitable for outdoor terrain.

Is it safe in winter or icy conditions? Cold and ice swims require extra care and preparation. These sessions are carefully supported and are never compulsory. Please see the Accessible Guidance above.

Do I need to book or sign a waiver? You need to book through this page and answer any waivers/questions requested when booking.