Bath residents are being invited to start February with a bold and invigorating Cold Plunge at the Holburne Museum.
Taking place at sunrise on Sunday 1 February 2026, the event brings together cold-water immersion, breathwork and movement in the museum’s historic grounds. It forms part of the ReBalance Bath Festival of Wellbeing, which celebrates accessible, community-led approaches to health and wellbeing across the city.
The Cold Plunge is being delivered in partnership with IceBreakers, a Bath-based movement using cold water, nature and connection to support mental wellbeing. The event is open to adults aged 18 and over, with tickets priced at £10.
Breathwork before the plunge
The main public session runs from 8.15am to 9.30am. Participants will begin indoors with a guided breathwork and Qigong workshop led by Arron Collins Thomas in the Brownsword Picture Gallery.
After warming up mind and body, participants will then head outside to brave the ice baths, supported by experienced facilitators in a calm, supportive setting.
A separate sunrise Cold Plunge at 7.45am is reserved exclusively for men taking part in IceBreakers.
Pathways to Wellbeing
As a charity, the Holburne Museum also leads Pathways to Wellbeing, a nationally recognised programme using art, creativity and heritage to support people experiencing mental health challenges and social isolation.
Hosting a sunrise Cold Plunge reflects the museum’s wider commitment to opening its spaces in meaningful ways that promote connection, resilience and recovery.
IceBreakers was founded by men affected by poor mental health and loss, offering a stigma-free space where men can show up as they are. Its approach centres on cold water, community and nature, without pressure to talk unless participants choose to.
The Cold Plunge also reflects the ethos of the ReBalance Bath Festival of Wellbeing, which encourages people to try new practices during the winter months. The 2026 programme includes yoga in historic venues, mindful craft workshops, spa experiences and talks from leading wellbeing figures.
All participants will be asked to sign a waiver in advance of taking part. Tickets and further details are available via the Holburne Museum website.
