The UK is home to many beautiful tidal pools, but often these are man-made concrete structures, built in the intertidal zone that fill up as the tide rises. For those tidal pools that are naturally formed, there is another, more mystical name: mermaid pools.
But remember, you need to be aware of the tides. Avoid being cut off at all costs, so be sure to time your visits carefully. The best time to swim in a tidal pool or mermaid pool is during low tide on a calm, sunny day. Make sure all the edges are revealed, and avoid visiting during high swells or in winter when the conditions are more unpredictable.
What is a mermaid pool?
A mermaid pool is a natural sea pool or inland pool, formed naturally and often in secluded locations. Often nestled among sea cliffs and rocks, mermaid pools are popular wild swimming locations, thanks to their particularly clear, turquoise waters.
The best mermaid pools in the UK
Burgh Island, South Devon
Burgh Island Hotel’s natural, tidal seawater lagoon is nestled into the cliffs of the South Devon island. Although the mermaid pool here is naturally formed, it was secured by a sluice gate in World War II. Its surrounding rocks make for a private, peaceful swim. Plus, if you don’t fancy braving the waters, there’s a rowing boat nearby to explore the lagoon. If you're a water lover, Burgh Island is a great place to visit – not least because it has one of the best dramatic island causeways, as it's cut off by the tides twice a day.
We named Burgh Island as one of the best UK hidden islands for a quick getaway.
- Murky, maligned – and a Mecca for surfers in the know: The UK river that's home to a world-famous phenomenon that delivers powerful, 2-metre-high waves
- Beat stress, boost your immune system and gain confidence: How to start cold-water swimming (and feel the benefits)
Whipsiderry Mermaid Pools, Cornwall
If you’ve been to Newquay in summer, you’ll know how difficult it can be to find a quiet spot. Just tucked out of sight is Whipsiderry Mermaid Pools, the perfect hidden gem for a peaceful dip on a sunny evening. Just along from popular Porth Beach is Whipsiderry Beach, a quieter, more sheltered place to spend time and explore rock pools and caves. Walk down to the beach and follow the cliffs to the west, and at the end of the cove you’ll find an archway leading to the pools.
Westward Ho!, North Devon
The tidal rock pool by the South West Coast Path is just south of the main Westward Ho! beach, located in the shore platform, the flat area found at the base of the sea cliffs formed by erosion. It backs onto a sandstone reef, and is often used for rockpooling at low tide. Don’t get it confused with the nearby Westward Ho! sea pool, however, as this is a Victorian tidal pool. The natural tidal mermaid pools are found just slightly further west.
Kynance Cove, Cornwall
The scenic cove on Cornwall's Lizard Peninsula is famed for its turquoise waters, and nowhere is this clearer than in the mermaid pools of Kynance Cove. Hidden beneath the iconic cliffs of Kynance Cove, you’ll find this beautiful natural wonder. Plus, it’s deep enough to jump in from the rocky edges.
St Ives, Cornwall
The small, sheltered pools in St Ives are away from the hordes of holidaymakers, and can be found below the Coastwatch tower on The Island, between Porthmeor and Porthgwidden beaches. There are steps down from the South West Coast Path, and you’ll find a few rock pools for a quick salty dip.
Trevellas Cove, Cornwall
Hidden under the cliffs at Trevellas Cove in St Agnes is a crystal-clear tidal pool that can be found below the headline on the cove’s northern side. While there was once a stepped route down here, rockfall has since made this dangerous. Access is now only possible by swimming around from the beach at Trevellas Porth at mid tide or walking along the rocks to the base of the cliff at low tide (and this still may require some swimming). Essentially, this mermaid pool is reserved strong swimmers.
Mermaid’s Pool, Peak District
This inland Peak District pool is slightly different to the other mermaid pools listed here, as it is entirely landlocked. Confusingly, however, the Kinder Scout pool is believed to be salty, connected somehow to the Atlantic Ocean. It is renowned for its mythology, as a resident mermaid is said to live beneath its surface. You are said to be able to see her if you look into the water at sunrise on Easter Sunday.
