In pictures: Hundreds of people across Cork brave the elements for Christmas Day dips 

Hundreds gathered across beaches and piers in Cork across the festive season to brave the annual tradition of a Christmas Day swim.

Speaking to The Echo at Harbour View Beach, friends Matt Ahern and Fionn Twomey from Bandon, who take part in the event every year, said this year was particularly cold.

“We do this every year as a family,” said Mr Ahern.

“The water temperature was actually okay, but coming out of it this year was very cold — there was a wind chill there"

“I had a cappuccino afterwards and that warmed me up a bit. I’m looking forward to my dinner of course, but there’s a Rory McIlroy 2025 review on Sky Sports that I’d like to watch as well.”

Mr Twomey said: “We do this swim every year — I know it’s cliche but there really is no place like home.

“I’m a seasoned swimmer but it was very cold today — the run in was a bit far — but it was lovely.

“I had a hot whiskey with cloves after and it hit the spot.

“I’m looking forward to my turkey dinner now and a sleep.”

Meanwhile, Ciara Gannon from Belgooly, who took part in the event for the first time this year at the Dock Beach in Kinsale, said she looks forward to enlisting her sister in the tradition in 2026.

“The swim was refreshing but extremely cold — I got a major shock when I went under,” said Ms Gannon.

“This was my first year taking part but I’d like to do it every year — I always wanted to do it, so I said this year was the year. I’m going to make my sister come with me next year — she promised she would.

“I’m very cold now, so I can’t wait for a nice hot shower.”