- The lido recommended to swim in between the months of May and September
A British tidal pool that is free to visit has been compared to swimming in Australia for its crystal clear waters.
Shoalstone Seawater Pool, ideal for swimmers between May and September each year, is in quaint Brixham, Devon.
While Devon may not quite rival Sydney for its glorious sunshine – taking a dip in the lido is not that much different to enjoying the water down under, according to The Lido Guide.
The publication said: ‘Any swimmer who has spent any time at all looking at swimming-related social media feeds will be familiar with the Bondi Icebergs sea pool, even if they have never set foot in Australia’.
A British tidal pool that is free to visit has been compared to swimming in Australia for its crystal clear waters
‘On the dullest of days this pool glows like something almost other-worldly […] and if you have ever seen a picture of [Bondi icebergs} it will leap readily to mind.’
Dating all the way back to 1896, the pool is 53 metres long and has been used since the Victorian era, with the designated swimming area built into surrounding rocks.
While no entry fee is required its owners do ask for a voluntary donation of £3.50 per swim or £8 per family to help cover the running costs of the site.
Along with changing cubicles, there is also and on-site restaurant overlooking the pool from above.
The restaurant, which serves locally-caught fish, has a variety of dishes on offer including seafood linguine, fish and chips and prawn curry.
Although the pool is open all year round, bathers are advised not to swim in the winter months due to the tidal pool’s proximity to the nearby Atlantic waves.
The pool is lifeguarded from May to September and the water tanks are given regular cleaning – allaying any health and safety concerns you may have in the height of summer.
Regular events include swimming lessons, dog swims, the chance to take dip at twilight – and even partake in yoga and tai chi.
Currently, the pool is campaigning to raise £500,000 so that a large crack in the pool wall can be fixed.
A general view of the coastal rocks in Brixham, Devon, near Shoalstone Pool
Its website states: ‘A crack is widening in the decking by the sea wall because the northwest corner of the pool is being pulled away towards the sea.
‘Every tide takes more of the 1920s concrete foundation away. All our annual patching and repair work can no longer keep the waves back.’
Giving their feedback on the site, tourists have been highly complimentary of the tidal pool, leaving glowing reviews of their experiences at the venue.
One user wrote: ‘Possibly one of the most beautiful places to visit’
A second added: ‘The best sea bathing pool I’ve used.’
Another said: ‘Love this place, its Torbay’s most hidden gem.’