Brave the icy waters of the Serpentine in London’s most whimsical and bone-chilling Christmas tradition.
Forget tinsel and turkey—if you’re in London on Christmas morning, there’s one tradition that combines festive cheer with frosty endurance: the Peter Pan Cup, a daring swim in the Serpentine Lake, Hyde Park. Hosted by the Serpentine Swimming Club since 1864, this annual race is a celebration of cold-water bravery, camaraderie, and perhaps just a touch of madness.
Named after J.M. Barrie’s beloved Peter Pan, this unique event is not for the faint-hearted—or the uninitiated. Only seasoned club members are allowed to participate, but spectators can join in the fun from the (mercifully dry) sidelines.
A Brief History of the Peter Pan Cup
The Serpentine Swimming Club has been a fixture in Hyde Park since Victorian times, with its members gathering year-round to take the plunge, no matter the weather. The Christmas Day race became an annual tradition in 1864, but the event was renamed the Peter Pan Cup in 1904 when J.M. Barrie, author of Peter Pan, gifted the trophy to the club.
The connection to Peter Pan feels fitting—after all, it takes a childlike sense of adventure to dive into the icy waters of the Serpentine on a winter’s morning.
Why Visit London for the Peter Pan Cup?
Hyde Park is always a magical place during the festive season, with Winter Wonderland adding sparkle to the scene. The Peter Pan Cup adds an extra layer of quirkiness to Christmas morning, showcasing London’s sense of humour and tradition. Watching swimmers defy the cold is an oddly heartwarming experience, and it’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a brisk walk and soak in the city’s holiday atmosphere.
When to Go: Christmas Morning
The race takes place promptly at 9 am on December 25th. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the banks of the Serpentine.
Where to Stay
1. The Ritz London
Treat yourself to a luxurious Christmas stay at this iconic hotel, just a short stroll from Hyde Park. Perfect for a festive escape with added glamour.
2. A Cosy Boutique Hotel in Kensington
Stay at a smaller hotel nearby for a more intimate experience, with easy access to both Hyde Park and London’s festive attractions.
What to Do
1. Watch the Race
Cheer on the swimmers as they brave the icy waters. The race covers a 100-yard course, but the challenge is more about enduring the cold than the distance.
2. Stroll Through Hyde Park
After the race, take a leisurely walk through Hyde Park. The frosty air, bare trees, and sparkling water make for a picturesque Christmas morning.
3. Visit Winter Wonderland
If you’re in the mood for some post-race merriment, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland offers rides, market stalls, and festive treats.
4. Toast the Swimmers at a Local Pub
Warm up with a mulled wine or a festive pint at a nearby pub. It’s the perfect way to honour the bravery (or folly) of the competitors.
What to Eat
1. A Festive Breakfast Nearby
Stop at a café near Hyde Park for a hearty Christmas breakfast. Many spots serve pastries, coffee, and seasonal treats perfect for warming up after the race.
2. A Traditional Christmas Dinner
Reserve a spot at a nearby restaurant for a full-on Christmas feast, complete with roast turkey, stuffing, and Christmas pudding.
Fun Facts About the Peter Pan Cup
- Strictly Members Only: The icy swim is only open to Serpentine Swimming Club members, many of whom train year-round in all weather conditions.
- No Wet Suits Allowed: Swimmers face the Serpentine’s chilly waters armed with little more than swimsuits and determination.
- J.M. Barrie’s Legacy: The author of Peter Pan donated the original trophy, adding a whimsical touch to an already eccentric event.
- Colder Than It Looks: The water temperature is often just a few degrees above freezing—making this a true test of endurance and courage.
Survival Tips for Time Travellers
- Bundle Up: Christmas morning in London is cold, so dress in layers, bring a scarf, and wear comfortable boots for walking through Hyde Park.
- Arrive Early: The race is popular, and the best viewing spots along the Serpentine fill up quickly.
- Bring a Thermos: A warm drink in hand makes watching the frosty festivities much more enjoyable.
- Admire from Afar: Unless you’re a seasoned member of the Serpentine Swimming Club, leave the icy plunge to the experts.
Why This Tradition Matters
The Peter Pan Cup is a charming blend of Victorian tradition, festive spirit, and British eccentricity. It’s a reminder that Christmas is about more than just gifts and feasting—it’s also about community, courage, and a sense of adventure. For Londoners and visitors alike, it’s a quirky and heartening way to start Christmas Day.
Want to Know More?
Further Reading:
- The Swimming Statues of Hyde Park by Philip Davenport
- A Victorian Christmas: Traditions That Endure by Ben Johnson
- Peter Pan: The Story of J.M. Barrie’s Boy Who Wouldn’t Grow Up by Lisa Chaney
Online Resources:
- Serpentine Swimming Club: www.serpentineswimmingclub.com
- Hyde Park Events: www.royalparks.org.uk
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Christmas morning in London, the Peter Pan Cup is a must-see event. It’s a festive tradition that captures the city’s spirit of resilience, whimsy, and togetherness—all in one frosty plunge.
Pack your woollies and your admiration for the swimmers. London—and the Peter Pan Cup—await!
