Blue Pool Nature Reserve
Discover the magical Blue Pool, a natural wonder with color-shifting waters, set amidst serene woodlands and thrilling adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant water colors
Blue Pool Nature Reserve
Best Time
Vibrant water colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the magical Blue Pool, a natural wonder with color-shifting waters, set amidst serene woodlands and thrilling adventures.
"A wholesome, family day making memories! What a perfect way to spend an afternoon. 
☀️ Best for Sunny Days
Visit when it's sunny to see the pool's stunning color changes!
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond Main Paths
Don't miss the extensive woodland trails for a longer, wilder experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Blue Pool Itself
Main viewpoint
Witness the mesmerizing, mineral-rich waters that shift from turquoise to deep blue. A truly unique natural wonder.
UK's Longest Rope Bridge
Suspended high in the trees
Experience breathtaking views from the 50-meter-long rope bridge, a thrilling adventure for all ages.
Fairy and Gnome Trail
Woodland paths
A whimsical walk perfect for families, sparking imagination with hidden fairies and gnomes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Colors
Walk Length & Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Best for Sunny Days
Visit when it's sunny to see the pool's stunning color changes!
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond Main Paths
Don't miss the extensive woodland trails for a longer, wilder experience.
🧺 Picnic Spots Galore
Plenty of benches available for a lovely picnic amidst nature.
🐶 Dogs Welcome (On Lead)
Well-behaved dogs on leads can join the adventure.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Best for Sunny Days
Visit when it's sunny to see the pool's stunning color changes!
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond Main Paths
Don't miss the extensive woodland trails for a longer, wilder experience.
🧺 Picnic Spots Galore
Plenty of benches available for a lovely picnic amidst nature.
🐶 Dogs Welcome (On Lead)
Well-behaved dogs on leads can join the adventure.
🚗 Watch for Potholes
Be cautious of potholes on the road leading to the reserve.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Blue Pool Nature Reserve for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the mesmerizing colors of the pool and the peaceful woodland walks. Families highlight the engaging fairy trail and the thrilling rope bridge as major attractions. While some find the admission price a bit high for the shorter walks, most agree it's a well-maintained and beautiful spot for a day out.
"We recently visited Blue Pool and overall, it was a lovely outing. The walk itself is beautiful, with picturesque views and peaceful surroundings that make for a very pleasant stroll. The tea rooms have been done very well — clean, charming, and a great spot to relax. There are also plenty of places to sit and enjoy a picnic, which is a real plus.
The site is suitable for all ages, and children in particular will love the various opportunities to explore along the way. There are some great facts dotted around the route, adding a little educational fun to the adventure. That said, the full walk can be completed quite quickly — around 10 minutes on the short route or about 30 minutes if you take the long path — which felt a little underwhelming as adults. Naturally, if you're with children, the walk becomes more engaging and takes longer as they stop to explore and play.
While we understand that the site is somewhat limited due to its geography, we did feel that the admission price was a little steep given the relatively short walking time. Still, it's a very well-kept facility and a genuinely beautiful spot to visit.
In summary: a lovely, family-friendly place with stunning views and well-maintained paths, ideal for a light stroll or a picnic. Just be aware that it’s a shorter walk than you might expect, especially if visiting without children."
S31BY
"A great afternoon at The Blue Pool. Stunning landscape, beautiful pool, peaceful woodlands with masses of heather to wander through en route to the viewpoint via steps, but if you can't manage those, (I didn't try any more!) there is a circular accessible easy walk that does not detract from the wildness and scenery of the forest. I saw a deer just meandering above us through the bracken - magic - and a little herd over the fence near the car park. Would recommend the Blue Pool for all ages."
Maggie Walker
"A lovely and tranquil place for a walk around, with gorgeous views amongst nature. The best time to visit is in a bright sunny day to get all the best colours of the water and foliage. There are dragonflies a plenty and the peacock wandering around majestically.
The price is a little steep but still not too bad, the pathways could be signposted a little better or with a recommendation for how you can make a route of all the pathways in one go.
Dogs are welcome if kept on leads and you can get food and drink in the Tea Room.
Be careful on the road in the way out, there’s quite a few potholes!"
Jamie Higgs-Dey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Blue Pool Nature Reserve is located in Wareham, Dorset. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. For those without a car, local bus services might be an option, but checking schedules in advance is recommended.
There is a circular accessible easy walk available, ensuring that visitors with mobility challenges can still enjoy the scenery.
The Blue Pool Nature Reserve mentioned in some content is in Dorset, UK, not Killarney, Ireland. If you're in Killarney, Ireland, the 'Blue Pool Woodland Nature Trail' is a separate location within Killarney National Park.
While driving is the most convenient, checking local bus routes to Wareham and then potentially a taxi or a longer walk might be feasible.
Yes, there is parking available at the Blue Pool Nature Reserve, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can be a bit steep for the duration of the main walk, but the cost covers access to the beautiful grounds, trails, and facilities. It's recommended to check their official website for the most current pricing.
The Blue Pool Nature Reserve is typically open daily, especially during the summer months. It's always best to verify the exact opening and closing times on their official website before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance can sometimes save time, especially during peak seasons. Check the Blue Pool's official website for any booking recommendations.
Information on discounts for seniors, students, or group bookings is usually available on the official website. It's worth checking for any special offers.
Reviews suggest the price can feel a bit high for the shorter walks, but many find the beauty of the reserve, the extensive trails, and family-friendly activities make it a worthwhile experience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the stunning Blue Pool, walk extensive woodland trails, cross the UK's longest rope bridge, enjoy the fairy and gnome trail, and relax in the tea rooms. There's also a children's playground.
Absolutely! Families love the fairy and gnome trail, the playground, and the exciting rope bridge. The natural beauty also provides a wonderful environment for children to explore.
The Blue Pool is a natural swimming hole, but it's primarily for viewing the unique colors. Swimming is generally not permitted to preserve the delicate ecosystem and water clarity.
Visitors have spotted deer, dragonflies, and peacocks wandering the grounds. The heathland and woodland habitats support a variety of local wildlife.
The main short route takes about 10 minutes, while the longer path can take around 30 minutes. However, with children or exploring the extensive woodland trails, you can easily spend several hours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a charming tea room on-site that offers refreshments, cakes, and light meals. It's a great spot to relax after exploring.
Definitely! The reserve has numerous benches and designated areas perfect for enjoying a picnic amidst the beautiful surroundings.
While specific menus can change, tea rooms often offer a selection of cakes and light bites. It's advisable to inquire directly about vegetarian or vegan options if you have specific dietary needs.
Yes, some visitors have mentioned that doggy ice cream is available, making it a treat for your canine companions too!
Expect typical tea room fare like cakes, scones, sandwiches, and hot/cold drinks. The cakes are noted as looking incredible!
📸 📸 Photography
The main viewpoint of the Blue Pool itself is stunning, especially on a sunny day. The rope bridge offers dramatic perspectives, and the woodland trails provide beautiful natural backdrops.
Absolutely! The unique color of the pool, the lush greenery, the towering trees, and the impressive rope bridge make it a very photogenic location.
A bright, sunny day is ideal for capturing the vibrant blues and greens of the pool. Early morning or late afternoon light can also create beautiful, soft lighting in the woodlands.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's essential to check the reserve's specific rules regarding drone operation to ensure compliance and respect for other visitors and wildlife.
Capturing the contrast of the water color against the surrounding foliage, the scale of the rope bridge, and the whimsical elements of the fairy trail are all great photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Don't miss the UK's longest rope bridge for a dose of excitement and incredible views. The natural beauty of the pool and the surrounding woodlands also offers a wonderful opportunity for children to connect with nature. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as there are many lovely spots for a picnic.
couples seeking romance
Consider a leisurely stroll followed by a relaxing break at the tea rooms, or find a secluded spot for a romantic picnic. The natural beauty and the sense of discovery make it an ideal location for creating special memories together.
Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Explore the extensive network of trails to discover hidden nooks and crannies, and capture the interplay of light and shadow through the trees. The impressive rope bridge also provides a dramatic element for landscape and adventure photography. Visiting on a sunny day is highly recommended for the most vibrant shots.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Blue Pool's Color
This natural phenomenon is best appreciated on a bright, sunny day when the light truly accentuates the pool's changing colors. Visitors often describe the sight as magical and unlike anything they've seen before. While swimming is not permitted to protect this delicate environment, the viewing platforms offer spectacular vantage points.
For photographers and nature lovers, capturing the essence of the Blue Pool requires patience and an appreciation for natural light. The ever-changing colors mean that no two visits will offer the exact same visual experience, making it a consistently captivating destination.
Adventures for All Ages: Trails and Thrills
+1For those seeking a bit more adventure, the UK's longest rope bridge offers an exhilarating experience. Suspended high among the trees, it provides stunning panoramic views over the pool and the surrounding woodland. This feature is a major draw for families and thrill-seekers alike.
While the core walking routes are relatively short, the reserve encourages longer explorations through its extensive network of paths. This allows families to tailor their visit, spending more time on the interactive trails or venturing deeper into the peaceful woodlands.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Amenities
For those who prefer to dine al fresco, there are plenty of picnic benches scattered throughout the reserve, making it an ideal location for a family picnic. Dogs are also welcome, provided they are kept on a lead, adding to the inclusive nature of the reserve.
When planning your journey, be aware that the road leading to the reserve may have some potholes, so drive with caution. Overall, the reserve is well-maintained, offering a clean and welcoming environment for a memorable day out.
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