Watch the Peter Pan Cup

Whilst you're relaxing at home on Christmas Day, wondering whether to get out of bed, down in Hyde Park the members of the Serpentine Swimming Club are preparing for a different sort of treat. Every year since 1864 they have come together for a 100 yard Christmas day swim now known as the 'Peter Pan Cup', in reference to Peter Pan creator JM Barrie, who was a patron of the race.


The race is only open to members, on a handicap system, as it is thought that for anyone who has not spent the time getting used to swimming in waters usually around 4 degrees centigrade the shock could prove fatal. Unfortunately, this means your author will not be allowed to take part, which really should be considered a blessing.

The race takes place at 9am. For more information, see http://www.serpentineswimmingclub.com/christmas_day_race.htm

_{^Picture © ran hou used with permission^}

Swim in the Serpentine

An area of the Serpentine, in Hyde Park, was opened to swimmers in 1930, although people have been swimming in the Serpentine for much longer and the Serpentine Swimming Club was founded in 1864. The creation of a purpose built lido area was overseen by the MP George Lansbury, hence it is often referred to as Lansbury's Lido.


Whilst the Swimming Club pride themselves on swimming in ice cold waters all year, and have famously been undertaking the Peter Pan Cup swim at 9am every year on Christmas Day for more than 100 years, the Lido is only open in the summer months and boasts a sunbathing area, a children's playground and changing rooms. With autumn fast approaching now is the time to take advantage.

Whilst information is limited, ***swimming costs £4 for adults and £1 for children and families of 2 adults and up to 4 kids can swim for £9- thanks mandm in comments*** and the lido is open usual daytime hours from roughly 10am to 5pm. Visit the website at http://www.serpentinelido.com/

_{Picture from Geograph courtesy of Shaun Ferguson under Creative Commons}