While we don’t often encounter turquoise waters in the UK that often, there is a special place nestled in the Lake District that is, quite literally, a wild swimming oasis. The Wasdale Emerald Pool gets its name from the crystal clear waters, also dubbed as the ‘Wasdale Fairy Pools’ by some due to its otherworldly feel.
Wasdale Emerald Pool is located in the Lake District, just a three-hour drive from Manchester city centre and just over two hours for those in the north of Greater Manchester. While there is no white sand or palm trees, visitors can enjoy a tropical, mountainous location pretty much on their doorstep, whether it is just for a day trip or a longer adventure.
Everything you should know about Wasdale Emerald Pool
Surrounded by the tallest mountains in England, Wasdale Fairy Pools is tucked away by cliffs and waterfalls, making it the picture-perfect secluded oasis. The pool is reached by a 30-40 minute walk one way from the Village Green car park (CA20 1EX), offering a gentle incline and some uneven ground while walking.
What is more, there are more pools around – one medium-sized pool and a smaller one, with a cascade falling into it. They are located 200 meters from the main pool and are the first to appear on the trail, so just keep going. It is, truly, a real-life dream to witness!
The swimming experience at Wasdale Emerald Pool is idyllic, with straight access to the water and no rocks to climb over. The swim itself is as surreal as it sounds, comforted by the bright blue waters.
The best time to visit is, unsurprisingly in the summer when it’s sunny, however, do expect to encounter other adventurers along the way.
How to get to Wasdale Emerald Pool?
After parking at Village Green car park (CA20 1EX), the trail starts at the gravel road alongside Lingmell House B&B. Visitors will then pass England’s smallest parish church, St Olaf’s, where they can leave a donation to help with its restoration works. What is more, the signposts will only be marked as “The Path”, so don’t get too worried.
On the way to the pools, don’t miss the honesty fridge stacked with drinks in a shed: the drinks are between £1 and £2, and is something you won’t encounter often!
Hikers will then continue to climb up the rocky path until they reach a gate and later a narrow wooden bridge to cross a river. After walking straight for 350 meters, walkers can then choose to either follow the river to the right, or continue straight. Either way, you will find your own way to the Wasdale Emerald Pool.
Those who wish to complete the full 10.8km circular trail can find the full instructions on All Trails, as well as a more detailed map on how to get there. It is also possible to just go there and back.