Coastwatch open registration for Polar Plunge in Irvine

Registration is now open for the 2026 Polar Plunge in Irvine <i>(Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)</i>
Registration is now open for the 2026 Polar Plunge in Irvine (Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

THE people of North Ayrshire are being invited to kickstart the new year by getting "freezin' for a reason".

It comes as Coastwatch opens up registration for the 2026 Polar Plunge in Irvine, taking place at 12pm on January 1.

The voluntary coastal monitoring and safety organisation is asking participants to get the year started by braving the icy waters at the town's beach.

All those joining the plunge are encouraged to raise money for a good cause of their choice.

Registration is now open for the event, which is in its eighth year, via the Coastwatch Irvine website or Eventbrite.

Entry for this year's Polar Plunge is priced at £6 for those aged 16 and over, and £2.50 for ages 12-15.

Interested community groups and charities can also email polarplunge@coastwatchscotland.com to receive an exclusive discount.

Those who do sign up are asked to arrive between 10.30-11.35am to check in as the event is expected to be extremely busy.

The front car park will be closed to traffic and participants are asked gather here until the plunge takes place.

Afterwards, complimentary soup will be provided on a first come, first served basis.

A spokesperson added: "It’s all about having fun, supporting local causes, and joining others as you get freezin’ for a reason to welcome in the new year."

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos