Hundreds Take the Plunge for Annual New Year’s Day Dip at Rutland Water

Hundreds Take the Plunge for Annual New Year’s Day Dip at Rutland Water

While most of the county was nursing a post-celebration lie-in, nearly 400 brave souls gathered at Whitwell Creek on New Year’s Day morning to kick off 2026 with a literal splash.

The annual New Year’s Day Dip saw a record turnout this year, despite the biting wind and a water temperature that hovered at a bone-chilling 5°C. Participants gathered on the shore shortly before 10:00 AM, shedding layers of warm winter gear to reveal an eclectic mix of swimming attire.

The crowd was a vibrant mix of serious open-water swimmers and festive thrill-seekers. While many opted for the sensible protection of neoprene wetsuits, dozens of others faced the elements in nothing more than standard bathing costumes or swimming trunks.

Fancy dress remains a staple of the event, with the shoreline decorated by a parade of superheroes, penguins, and even seasonal fruit. Among them was Nicole, who stood out in a bright red strawberry costume.

"It’s definitely a shock to the system," Nicole laughed, shivering slightly as she dried off. "But the energy here is incredible. Everyone is cheering each other on—it’s just a great atmosphere and the best way to wake up for the new year."

Organisers and safety marshals were on hand to monitor the swimmers as they waded into the creek. Due to the low temperatures, participants were advised to stay in for only short bursts to avoid the risks of cold-water shock.

Despite the initial gasps as the water hit chest height, the mood remained jubilant. After the dip, swimmers quickly scrambled for towels and headed toward the cafe for much-needed hot chocolates and bacon rolls.

The event has grown steadily in popularity over the years, becoming a Rutland tradition that balances physical grit with community spirit. For the 400 people who braved the creek today, 2026 has certainly started on a high if slightly frozen note.

The First Snow of 2026 Rutland

The First Snow of 2026 Rutland

A Toast to the Trees, The Stamford Wassail Returns for 2026

A Toast to the Trees, The Stamford Wassail Returns for 2026

If you find yourself in Stamford this Saturday, don’t be alarmed if you hear the rhythmic clanging of pots and pans echoing through the crisp winter air. It isn’t a kitchen mishap it’s the Stamford Wassail, a vibrant revival of an ancient English tradition designed to wake up the apple trees and ensure a bountiful harvest for the year ahead.

Taking place on Saturday, 3 January 2026, this community celebration merges folklore, creativity, and a bit of good-natured noise.

The Schedule: From Lanterns to Orchards

The festivities are split into three distinct parts, making it a perfect afternoon for families and folklore enthusiasts alike.

• 2:30 PM | Lantern Making Workshop: Kick things off at Christ Church on Green Lane. Hosted in partnership with Art Pop Up, this workshop allows participants to craft their own light for the evening procession.

  • Note: Booking via Eventbrite is required for the workshop.   (SOLD OUT)

• 4:00 PM | Lantern Procession: As the twilight deepens, the community will gather to carry their handmade lanterns in a glowing parade toward the orchard.

• 4:30 PM | The Wassail: The main event takes place at the Stamford Community Orchard (located at the bottom of Christ Church Close). This is where the "noise" begins!

What Exactly is a "Wassail"?

The word "Wassail" comes from the Anglo-Saxon phrase 'waes hael', meaning "be well." Historically, cider-producing communities would gather in orchards during the depths of winter to ward off bad spirits and "serenade" the trees.

During the Stamford event, you can expect:

• Singing to the Trees: Traditional folk songs to encourage the spirits of the orchard.

• The Incantation: A rhythmic "noise-making" session to ensure the trees are well-rested and ready for spring.

• Community Spirit: A gathering organised by the Stamford Community Orchard Group, Art Pop Up, and South Kesteven District Council.

Your Wassail Checklist

To participate fully in this "noisy old English custom," you’ll need to come prepared. The organizers suggest bringing:

Item	Purpose
Old Saucepan & Spoon	To create the necessary racket to "wake" the trees.
Whistles & Horns	The louder, the better!
Torches/Flashlights	To navigate the orchard as evening falls.
Warm Clothing	It’s January in Lincolnshire layer up!
Ribbons	To decorate your person or even the branches of the trees.

Event Details at a Glance

• Date: Saturday, 3 January 2026

• Time: 14:30 – 17:30

• Location: Stamford Community Orchard, PE9 1HS (Starting at Christ Church Close)

• Cost: Check Eventbrite for workshop booking; the Wassail itself is a community-led gathering.

Whether you're there for the history, the art, or simply the chance to bang a wooden spoon against a pot in public, the Stamford Wassail promises a magical, rowdy start to the New Year.

Local Photographer Jamie Hassall Brings the Art of the Image to Rutland

Local Photographer Jamie Hassall Brings the Art of the Image to Rutland

Normanton Church at Rutland Water. Prints available to purchase as gifts, 

wedding presents, Contact Jamie Hassall for prices.

Local Photographer Jamie Hassall Brings the Art of the Image to Rutland

For many, picking up a camera is about documenting a moment. But for local professional photographer Jamie Hassall, it’s about something much deeper. Quoting the legendary Ansel Adams, Jamie believes that "You don’t take a photograph, you make it."

It is this philosophy of intentionality and artistry that sits at the heart of Rutland Photography Workshops, Jamie’s local venture dedicated to helping aspiring photographers turn snapshots into wallworthy masterpieces.

With over 15 years of experience behind the lens, Jamie has transitioned from capturing the world’s beauty to teaching others how to see it. His passion for the craft is infectious, and he has built a reputation for a teaching style that balances technical precision with creative flair.

"I thoroughly enjoy passing on my passion, enthusiasm, and knowledge," Jamie says. "Whether someone has just unboxed their very first camera or they are a seasoned hobbyist looking to refine their eye, there is always something new to learn about the light and the land."

While Jamie is a fixture in the UK photography scene specialising in British wildlife and sweeping landscapes his workshops often take students far beyond the rolling hills of the East Midlands.

Rutland Photography Workshops offers a diverse range of experiences, including, Focusing on local wildlife and iconic British landscapes.

1-to-1 Tuition, Personalised sessions tailored to an individual's specific skill level and goals.

Bespoke trips to Finland and Iceland, designed for those dreaming of capturing the ethereal dance of the Aurora Borealis.

The beauty of Jamie’s approach is its inclusivity. You don't need a bag full of expensive gear to get started. The workshops are designed to accommodate all skill ranges, focusing on the fundamental principles of composition, lighting, and "making" the image.

For those looking to take their hobby to the next level, Jamie invites you to explore the current schedule and join a community of like-minded creatives.

"The goal is simple," Jamie explains. "I want people to walk away with a photo they are proud to hang on their wall."

Are you ready to stop taking photos and start making them? 

To view upcoming workshop dates or to book a private 1-to-1 session, visit Rutland Photography Workshops online. 

www.rutlandphotographyworkshops.co.uk/workshops

For specific queries, Jamie encourages locals to get in touch directly to discuss their photographic journey.

Contact: Jamie Hassall, Founder & Owner

Tel: 01572 770 304   Mob: 07793 132 789

RutlandPhotographyWorkshops@yahoo.com

Website: www.rutlandphotographyworkshops.co.uk

www.facebook.com/rutlandphotographyworkshops