By Stephen Gould of IISA
The International Ice Swimming Association Great Britain (IISA GB) is proud to announce that the 10th IISA GB Ice Swimming Championships will take place at the historic Stonehaven Open Air Swimming Pool on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th December 2025.
This landmark event will see 150 competitors from 15 countries take to the icy waters of Stonehaven’s iconic seawater pool to compete in 15 events, ranging from the 50 metre freestyle dash to the gruelling 1,000 metre (1K) freestyle – widely regarded as one of the toughest endurance challenges in cold-water sport.
With water temperatures expected between 2.0°C and 4.0°C, conditions will meet the official definition of ice swimming – any swim undertaken in water of 5.0°C or below. Ice swimming is an extreme test of physical endurance, mental strength, and cold adaptation – not for the unprepared or faint-hearted.
The event will feature competitors across all age groups, from the youngest at just 14 years old to the oldest at 70, reflecting the inclusive and diverse spirit of the sport. Notably, the championships will also include para ice swimmers, demonstrating that the ice swimming community embraces athletes of all abilities.
The vast majority of the British ice swimming team will be taking part, alongside a strong contingent of international swimmers.
What is ice swimming?
Ice swimming is defined by IISA as swimming in water of 5.0°C or lower, wearing only a standard swimming costume, one silicone cap, and goggles – no wetsuits or neoprene aids permitted. Distances typically range from 50 metres to 1,000 metres, and all events are strictly supervised by qualified medical and safety teams.
Millie Bell, IISA Member and competitor said: “Ice swimming pushes you to your limits – physically and mentally. The feeling when you complete a race in water below 5°C is indescribable. It’s as much about resilience as it is about competition.”
In the United Kingdom, it is estimated that more than 8 million people now take part in some form of regular cold-water or outdoor swimming – a number that has surged in recent years due to the mental health and wellbeing benefits associated with cold-water immersion.
Stonehaven Open Air Pool: a unique venue
Opened in 1934, Stonehaven Open Air Pool is the UK’s only Art Deco, Olympic-sized (50m) seawater pool. For the championships, it will be unheated – transforming itself into a near-Arctic arena for the weekend. Overlooking the North Sea, this stunning coastal venue has become a focal point for Scotland’s growing cold-water swimming community, offering a dramatic and inspiring backdrop for competitors and spectators alike.
Stephen Harris, chair of Friends of Stonehaven Open Air Pool said: “The Friends of Stonehaven Open Air Pool are absolutely delighted that IISA GB have chosen to hold their championships in our pool. It’s a fantastic opportunity to raise the profile of both the lido and the town. We hope local businesses seize the opportunity to welcome visitors, and that this event encourages many to return.”
SPECTATORS
Spectators are welcome throughout the weekend, with opportunities to meet athletes, learn about the sport, and experience the unique atmosphere of ice swimming up close.
Feature image Sian Clements in Molveno hosted the ice swimmers this January. Image courtesy of EMarketing.