
Fairy Dell Paddling Pool
A free, shallow paddling pool in Skegness, perfect for young children to splash and play in a safe, fun environment.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for little ones

Fairy Dell Paddling Pool
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for little ones

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, shallow paddling pool in Skegness, perfect for young children to splash and play in a safe, fun environment.
"A fabulous facility for kiddies and totally free, highly recommended."

Free Family Fun! :money_with_wings:
This paddling pool is completely free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly day out for kids.
Arrive Early for Spots :timer_clock:
It gets busy quickly on sunny days. Aim to arrive early to snag a good spot for your family.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Paddling Pool
Sunken area near the boating lake
A shallow, free paddling pool perfect for young children to splash and play in the sunshine.

Shaded Seating
Around the perimeter
Benches are available, often sheltered by rocks, offering a comfortable spot to watch the fun.

Proximity to Attractions
Near boating lake and promenade
Conveniently located near other family-friendly activities and an ice cream van.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Family Fun! :money_with_wings:
This paddling pool is completely free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly day out for kids.
Arrive Early for Spots :timer_clock:
It gets busy quickly on sunny days. Aim to arrive early to snag a good spot for your family.
Pack for Sun & Splash :sun_with_face:
Don't forget swimwear, towels, sun cream, and hats. Water shoes are a good idea.
Snacks & Drinks Recommended :apple:
While an ice cream van is nearby, bringing your own snacks and drinks is a good idea.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Family Fun! :money_with_wings:
This paddling pool is completely free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly day out for kids.
Arrive Early for Spots :timer_clock:
It gets busy quickly on sunny days. Aim to arrive early to snag a good spot for your family.
Pack for Sun & Splash :sun_with_face:
Don't forget swimwear, towels, sun cream, and hats. Water shoes are a good idea.
Snacks & Drinks Recommended :apple:
While an ice cream van is nearby, bringing your own snacks and drinks is a good idea.
Clean & Safe Water :droplet:
Reviews mention the water is clean and the pool is safe for children, with active repairs noted.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Fairy Dell Paddling Pool as a fantastic, free family-friendly spot in Skegness. Its clean, shallow waters and convenient location near other attractions make it a hit, though it can get very busy during peak times. Some mention it's showing its age, but the joy it brings to children remains its strongest asset.
"Used this place for years and never lets us down is showing its age a bit but still water is clean and is safe for children can see active repairs have been done our last visit it started to rain but the kids we’re having that much fun they still didn’t want to leave beautiful location for a free trip out in Skegness"
Steven Matts
"We visited with our 6 year old grandaughter on Wednesday on a day trip from Leicester, the area and pools were really clean and kids were having a fantastic time, my granddaughter was having so much fun after a couple of hours we tried to entice her out with a trip for fish and chips only for her to say " Grandad can go and bring some here". A fabulous facility for kiddies and totally free, highly recommended."
Kevin Edmondston
"Finally seen the "Fairy Dell Paddling Pool". It's always been hidden with lots of overgrown trees around it..."
LJ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fairy Dell Paddling Pool is located behind the boating lake, near the main central car park in Skegness. It's often described as being tucked away.
Many visitors find it easily accessible on foot from the promenade.Yes, there is a main central car park nearby, which is convenient for accessing the paddling pool.
Absolutely! The paddling pool is situated near the promenade, making it a pleasant walk from the main tourist areas.
While the area around the pool has benches, it's in a sunken area. Access might be a bit tricky with pushchairs, but many families manage.
Look for the boating lake; the paddling pool is located behind it. Asking locals or checking a map app on your phone should also help guide you.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The best part? Fairy Dell Paddling Pool is completely free to enter and use! It's a fantastic option for a budget-friendly family day out.
As an outdoor public facility, there are no set opening hours. It's generally accessible during daylight hours when the weather is suitable for paddling.
No booking is required. Fairy Dell is a public amenity, so you can just turn up and enjoy the fun, especially on a sunny day.
The paddling pool is typically operational during the warmer months, usually from late spring through to early autumn, when the weather permits.
There are no official age restrictions, but it's primarily designed for young children and toddlers due to its shallow depth.
🎫 🛟 Onsite Experience
Facilities are basic, focusing on the paddling experience. There are benches around the perimeter for seating, and an ice cream van is often nearby.
Changing facilities are not typically available.Reviews generally indicate that the water is clean and well-maintained. Active repairs have been noted, suggesting ongoing efforts to keep it in good condition.
Yes, it's considered safe for children due to its shallow depth. Parents often mention their children having a fantastic time without worry.
Typically, dogs are not allowed in paddling pool areas to maintain hygiene and safety for children. It's best to leave pets at home.
It's a cheerful and lively spot, especially on sunny days, with children laughing and playing. It's often described as a 'sun trap' and a magical place.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture candid shots of children splashing and enjoying the water. The unique sunken design and surrounding rocks offer interesting backdrops.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light, avoiding harsh midday sun. However, the pool is most vibrant when filled with happy children.
The 'rock' shelters around the pool and the general playful atmosphere are great subjects. Look for reflections in the water for creative shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted in public parks and recreational areas to ensure safety and privacy. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A waterproof phone or camera is ideal for capturing water play. A wide-angle lens can help capture the whole scene, while a zoom is good for candid shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
To make the most of it, arrive early, especially during school holidays, to secure a good spot. Pack all the essentials: swimwear, towels, sun cream, hats, and water shoes for comfort. Bringing snacks and drinks is also a good idea. The proximity to the boating lake and promenade means you can easily extend your day with other nearby activities.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a packed lunch and enjoy the simple pleasure of playing in the water. The nearby central car park offers convenient parking, and the pool's location means you can easily explore other free attractions in Skegness, such as the beach or parks, without significant expense.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Hidden Gem for Families
The pool itself is shallow, ensuring peace of mind for parents supervising toddlers and younger kids. The surrounding area features benches, often nestled behind rock features, providing a comfortable vantage point for guardians. While it's a free facility, reviews highlight that the water is kept clean and that active repairs are undertaken, showing a commitment to maintaining the amenity. It's a place that has been cherished for years, with some visitors recalling bringing their own children and even grandchildren to enjoy its waters.
Its location is also a significant plus. Being close to the boating lake and the main promenade means visitors can easily combine a visit to Fairy Dell with other Skegness attractions, such as grabbing an ice cream from a nearby van or enjoying a stroll along the seafront. This makes it an ideal stop for a day trip or a longer holiday, offering a refreshing break from the beach or other activities.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Packing the right essentials will significantly enhance your experience. Don't forget swimwear, towels, and plenty of sun protection like hats and high-SPF sunscreen, as it's often described as a 'sun trap'. Water shoes can be beneficial for little ones navigating the pool floor. Bringing your own snacks and drinks is also a wise move, as while an ice cream van is usually present, having your own provisions ensures you're covered.
Consider the time of day for photography. While the pool is most lively when filled with children, softer light in the early morning or late afternoon can be ideal for capturing memorable photos. Remember that facilities are basic, so focus on the simple joy of the experience and the happy memories you'll create.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit