While the UK might not be famous for its tidal pools, it does boast some stunning ones along its coastline - two of which are considered among the world's most beautiful. Ocean pools are an ideal choice for those keen to try wild swimming, offering all the perks of a coastal location without the concerns of being pulled out to sea or dealing with waves.
With this in mind, Conde Nast Traveller has unveiled the 14 most beautiful ocean pools globally, and two UK spots have made the cut. As expected, Australia dominated the list, with Bondi Beach's Bondi Icebergs Club clinching the top spot and six other beaches making an appearance.
The first British pool to feature was Cornwall's Bude Sea Pool, ranking sixth, closely followed by Kent's Walpole Bay Tidal Pool at number 13. Walpole Bay, located near Margate, is just a two-hour drive or train journey from London, making it an ideal day trip for city dwellers.
This man-made tidal pool, constructed in 1937, was one of two built simultaneously in Margate, with Walpole Bay's believed to be the largest in the UK. Since 2014, Walpole Bay tidal pool has been awarded a Grade-II listing, and a decade later, the nearby Margate Main Sands also received the same listing.
Visitors to Walpole Bay's mesmerising tidal pool have been singing its praises on Tripadvisor, with one enthusiast exclaiming: "Forget the Maldives with all that jetlag, sharks, overpriced drinks and ridiculously warm water. Head to Walpole Bay instead.".
