April in the outdoor swimming community

Reviving a tidal pool on Scotland’s rugged shoreline and the joys of volunteering for Mental Health Swims – news from the outdoor swimming community this April

Reviving Cellardyke Tidal Pool: A Community Mission

Perched on Fife’s stunning coastline, Cellardyke Tidal Pool is a cherished part of local history. Built in the 1930s, it provided a safe, accessible spot for generations to swim and enjoy the sea. Known locally as “The Bathie” or “The Cardinal Steps Bathing Pool,” it’s been a place for families to cool off, hone their swimming skills, and soak in the beauty of Scotland’s rugged shoreline.

Years of coastal erosion have taken their toll, leaving the pool in urgent need of repair. Now, a dedicated group of locals has formed a not-for-profit initiative to restore the pool and make it safe and accessible for all. Their vision includes repairing the walls, improving access, and creating a sustainable plan for future maintenance.

More than just nostalgia, the project aims to promote outdoor swimming’s physical and mental health benefits while fostering community spirit. Once restored, the pool will serve as a hub for events, education, and connection, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.

Read the full blog on the NOWCA Wild app and find out how you can help: nowcawild.co.uk

“The ocean washes over us, it puts our humanity into perspective and allows us to focus on our breath. Being fully immersed in a big body of water allows us to heal. We have a sense of community because of this shared space”

One of the best things I have ever done is volunteer with Mental Health Swims. I started a couple years ago, and I’ve met the most amazing people on this journey. I’ve been privileged to work with a patient living with motor neurone disease – a surfer – a wheelchair user. We managed to arrange a beach wheelchair and took him to ‘ride’ a few waves on multiple occasions before he passed. Seeing the smile on his face when waves hit him, surfing a wave again…priceless!

I’ve learned so much during this process, with hosting I’ve realised how important human connection is for people across the board, from all walks of life – including for myself. We have a wide spectrum of people join us and together we find solace in the water and a sense of community that binds us and gets us through the tough times. We are lucky to have amazing ocean access at Kings Beach and can claim to be the first MHS South African chapter! If you ever in the area, please join us for a dip!

Marguerite, @mhs_kingsbeach