Swimmers braved the freezing Forth for the time-honoured dookSwimmers braved the freezing Forth for the time-honoured dook
Swimmers braved the freezing Forth for the time-honoured dook

Edinburgh New Year: Hundreds brave freezing Forth for the Loony Dook 2024

Dookers bring in the new year with a splash!

Hardy swimmers saw in the new year with a splash by braving the waters of the Firth of Forth as part of the annual Loony Dook.

Hundreds gathered to take the plunge for the New Year’s Day tradition in South Queensferry, which sees dookers don fancy dress and parade down South Queensferry High Street before making their way to the shore.

The event was known locally, but in the 1990s it saw a swell in popularity after it was featured in the official Edinburgh Hogmanay programme of events.

It was then organised professionally from 2009 and a registration fee introduced of £20 two years later.

But this year with no professional organisation behind the event, locals have reclaimed the celebrations.

Swimmers gathered at the Boathouse Stair on the High Street from 2pm on New Year’s Day and made their way down to the shore before plunging into the freezing water. Many made their way back to a local pub to continue the festivities.

Cash raised will be donated to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and other local charities.

The event was known locally, but in the 1990s it saw a swell in popularity after it was featured in the official Edinburgh Hogmanay programme of events.

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