The Loony Dook is a funny Edinburgh tradition held on New Years’ Day. The word ‘loony’ is self-explanatory and ‘dook’ is a Scottish word meaning dip or bathe.
To take part, you have to dive into the freezing waters of the Firth of Forth at South Queensferry in fancy dress. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the official South Queensferry event has been cancelled for the past three years and won’t be going ahead in 2023 BUT there are many ‘unofficial’ dooks you can take part in throughout the city. A popular choice is Portobello – not far from our Waterloo Place Hotel - at 1pm on New Year’s Day. Just turn up and dook!
But on New Year's Eve - or Hogmanay as the Scots call it - Edinburgh is famous for its fabulous street party and fireworks. Find out more and purchase tickets here.
Dundee has their own take on the Loony Dook, simply called The New Year’s Day Dook. Taking place at Broughty Ferry Harbour, which is a short distance away from Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa, on New Year’s Day at 12pm, the event is organised and costs £15 for adults (16 and over) and £10 for children (aged 10 – 16).
The Dundee version is thought to have passed down from the fisher folk of Broughty Ferry who would bath in the waters of the Tay every morning since around 1891. The 1st of January was always special as the community would come to celebrate together.
Dookers in Dundee raise sponsorship money for charities by taking part and you can join in here
And if you're looking to celebrate in style in Dundee, look no further than our Bubbles, Bells and Breakfast offer where you can enjoy a chic 2-night stay for 2 with exclusive access to our New Year’s Eve Bash in City Quay Hotel and Spa. Book here
Another popular Scottish New Year (or Hogmanay) tradition is first footing. First footing sees the first person to pass your threshold after the bells to bring good luck. The visitor must bring gifts to the house they first foot. In Glasgow, this is still recognised so why not stay at our City of Glasgow Hotel for Hogmanay for one of the city's many celebrations and first foot a friend after the bells.
The ever-popular Hogmanay party at Merchant Square returns for 2023 with live performances from the French Fling Showgirls, Scott & The Fox and The Riffreshers. Find out more here.
Although Bath doesn’t have any crazy traditions, it is a great place to ring in the bells. Bath is a special place for any big event but spending New Year’s Day exploring the stunning architecture and traditional heritage is a great way to start 2023.
This festive season, the city hosts Bath on Ice for the 10th year. Glowing in atmospheric lights, this incredible ice-rink it's the perfect place to chase away any cobwebs and begin 2023 fresh. With wintery music, a cosy bar, and seasonal drinks, you'll be transported to a a dreamy winter wonderland! For more information click here.
Choose to stay at our City of Bath hotel and ring in the bells in style.
The UK’s capital is packed with New Year’s events but one of the best is the annual New Year’s Day Parade. The event returns to the heart of Westminster on 1 January at 12pm, since pre-2020 and will see thousands of performers from around the world, including dancers, marching bands and acrobats, parade through the centre of the capital during this huge confetti-filled event.
Now in its 37th year, LNYDP fills this historic route with colour and community. With classic cars, stunt riders and giant inflatables, it gives New York’s famous Macy’s Thanksgiving parade a run for its money. Find out more and buy tickets here. Luckily, any of our hotels in London will be close enough to the action.