A natural swimming spot with a back to basics feel and a beach-like vibe can be found in Essex
Woodup Pool in Tollesbury(Image: Geograph)
A tried and true favourite among families is time spent outside or in a body of water. As summer season edges closer and the sun makes more frequent appearances, it is almost time to dig out the bucket and spades and head for some water fun.
Woodup Pool in Tollesbury hosts a pool, a picnic area, and sand to make for a beach-like atmosphere. The most unique feature for families is its back to basics feel with no chlorine.
Woodup Pool, also known as Woodrolfe Pool, is a very basic salt water bathing pool that even has its own little beach at one end for sand castles. There is also a grassed area with picnic tables and two BBQs.
The pool, easily accessible next to Woodrolfe Park flats and Woodrolfe Creek, is filled entirely by the tide and controlled by a sluice gate. It is flushed out and replenished every 10 days or so.
It was opened in 1907 by Lady de Crespigny. In 1925 the pool was bought by Tollesbury Parish Council for £250.
Swimmers can explore the expanse of water, overlooked by tilting masts and peeling hulls of ships. Opening between May and September, the pool is free to visit and an ideal destination for family outings in the sun.
A portable toilet is provided between June and September. Public toilets are also available at Woodrolfe Green Car Park but there is no lifeguard, so weaker swimmers must be supervised.
