Clevedon Marine Lake, a tidal pool nestled on the shores of the Bristol Channel in Somerset, England, has earned international acclaim, being recognized as one of the world’s premier natural swimming destinations. This accolade comes from a comprehensive study conducted by travel insurance company AllClear, which analyzed online search trends and reviews to identify the most sought-after natural swimming pools globally. The surge in popularity of these natural havens is evident, with online searches for “natural swimming pools” increasing by a remarkable 83% in the past year. AllClear’s definition encompasses both naturally formed pools, sculpted by volcanic activity, tidal forces, or erosion, as well as man-made pools that mimic natural water bodies, utilizing untreated fresh or saltwater. Clevedon Marine Lake’s inclusion in this prestigious list underscores its unique appeal and the growing appreciation for natural swimming experiences.
The history of Clevedon Marine Lake is as rich as the waters that fill it. Originally envisioned by Councillor Frederick Robert Nutting in the late 1920s, the lake was conceived as a valuable community asset. Upon its grand opening in 1929, the tidal pool boasted a timber clubhouse, changing rooms, diving boards, and a collection of bathing huts, deckchairs, and even a bandstand. It quickly became a beloved tourist attraction, drawing visitors from near and far. However, the lake’s popularity waned in the 1970s, leading to a period of neglect. Fortunately, a significant £1 million renovation project breathed new life into this historic landmark, restoring it to its former glory and solidifying its status as the world’s largest seawater infinity pool.
Today, Clevedon Marine Lake spans an impressive area equivalent to two football pitches, providing ample space for swimmers, paddleboarders, and kayakers to enjoy its refreshing waters. Remarkably, access to this expansive aquatic playground is entirely free, thanks to the dedication of a team of volunteers who maintain and oversee its operation. While the lake is generally open year-round, it does undergo periodic closures for maintenance and specific events. Online reviews reflect the high regard in which visitors hold Clevedon Marine Lake, with many praising its unique charm and the invigorating experience of swimming in the Bristol Channel. One reviewer described the experience as “super,” highlighting the unexpected opportunity to swim in the sea so far up the channel, while acknowledging the bracing 13°C water temperature. Another reviewer simply declared it “an amazing place to spend the day,” wholeheartedly recommending it to others.
Clevedon Marine Lake’s recognition as a top global swimming destination is further amplified by the inclusion of another UK gem on the list: Bude Sea Pool in Cornwall. This underscores the UK’s growing prominence in the realm of natural swimming experiences and the appeal of these unique coastal havens. Interestingly, other lidos across the UK are drawing comparisons to exotic international destinations, further demonstrating the allure of open-water swimming. Shoalstone Seawater Pool in Brixham, for instance, has been likened to Sydney’s iconic Bondi Icebergs, highlighting the global appeal of these natural and man-made swimming spots.
The list of the world’s best natural swimming pools compiled by AllClear features a diverse range of locations, from the volcanic landscapes of El Hierro in Spain’s Canary Islands to the rugged coastlines of Madeira, Portugal. Charco Azul, a natural pool formed by volcanic rock on El Hierro, offers a dramatic setting for a refreshing dip. The Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools in Madeira, carved out of volcanic rock by the relentless Atlantic waves, provide another breathtaking backdrop for a swim. Lanzarote’s Los Charcones Natural Pools, a series of interconnected lagoons, offer a more secluded and tranquil experience.
Beyond Europe, the list includes iconic destinations like the Bondi Icebergs Pool in Sydney, Australia, a saltwater pool perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, and Las Salinas de Agaete in Gran Canaria, Spain, a series of natural saltwater pools formed by volcanic rock. Further afield, Bronte Baths in Sydney, the Vico Baths in Dublin, Ireland, Kitsilano Pool in Vancouver, Canada, and the Doca Do Cavacas Natural Pools in Madeira, complete this impressive roster of global swimming destinations. The inclusion of Mereweather Ocean Bath, a historic saltwater pool in Australia, reinforces the global appeal of these unique aquatic environments. The recognition of these diverse locations underscores the growing appreciation for natural swimming experiences and the desire to connect with nature in its purest form.
