Inside The Yorkshire Dippers Community

Who Are The Yorkshire Dippers?

When I think back, it’s hard to remember exactly when I first became aware of The Yorkshire Dippers. But suddenly they were there, regularly popping up on my feed with that unmistakable, fierce enjoyment of open water swimming.

The group began in late 2023 when Vic, Leia and Emily met at Pool Bridge Farm. Bonding over their shared love of cold water, they started something that shows no signs of slowing down.

As they like to say, they are very Google-able. They have a website, Instagram and Facebook, and you can also join their WhatsApp community.

Since those early days in 2023, the group has grown steadily. And don’t let the name fool you. While rooted in Yorkshire, their regular dips now span various locations across the country, and swimmers from all over happily call themselves Yorkshire Dippers.

And it isn’t just about swimming. There’s a book club, fundraising, and plenty of general merriment woven in too.

What Actually Happens at a Meet Up?

Their main base is Pool Bridge Farm in York. But when I’ve met up with them, it’s usually been while they’re out exploring.

I’ve dipped with them at Aira Force by Ullswater, where we found a small cove for a chilly soak before heading down to Glenridding. I’ve joined them twice at Devil’s Bridge in Kirkby Lonsdale. And most recently, I experienced Cauldron Falls with them.

On their website they clearly publish where and when they are meeting. Most swims are free, unless they involve a third party where costs need to be covered. The booking system is simple but clever. You submit your details, including emergency contact information, and receive a reminder email ahead of the swim.

It’s organised, without feeling overdone.

One thing that really stands out is their approach to safety. Vic (used to be), Emily and Leia are teachers by profession, and that sense of awareness and responsibility naturally carries through. At Cauldron Falls, they had already done a safety recce and made sure everyone understood the conditions before entering the water.

In February, they’re dipping every single day to fundraise for Mind and to invest back into the community, including putting Emily through a water safety course. It’s thoughtful. It’s proactive. And it shows that while the group is built around joy and connection, they take responsibility seriously.

Let’s be honest. When people gather in water, things carry risk. Even with self awareness and group oversight, someone would be accountable (in the eyes of the law) if something went wrong. So investing in safety training makes complete sense. It’s not overkill. It’s care.

What About The Newbies?

You’re desperate to try open water swimming, but no one will come with you. So what do you do?

Joining a group like The Yorkshire Dippers is an excellent place to start.

They’re welcoming. They share advice. They keep a quiet eye on you. They’ll let you know when it might be time to get out, and they’ll happily talk kit if you’re unsure what works.

Trying something new is uncomfortable. I completely understand that. Think about how it feels when you first step into cold water. Your body resists. You question your life choices. And then, if you stay present, something shifts. Calm settles in. You realise you can do this.

Joining a group is similar. The nerves are real. But the payoff is connection.

The culture within The Yorkshire Dippers is simple. Zero pressure. Do what you can do. Listening to your body is encouraged. Sharing is welcomed. Boundaries are respected.

And there is almost always a massive grin at the end of it.

Embracing the unknown of joining a swim group takes the same small amount of bravery it takes to step into cold water. The Yorkshire Dippers are just one of many communities across the country, but they are a good example of how it can be done well.

Use that same courage you draw on at the water’s edge. Step forward. Join in.

You might just find your people.