The Isle of Mull Swimming Pool is located in Craignure and was built in 2008 following nearly thirty years of local fundraising and campaigning. For decades, residents of Mull and Iona had no access to a public swimming facility, with the nearest options requiring travel to the mainland. The campaign to build a pool began in the early 1980s, led by volunteers who organised events, applied for grants, and built support across the island. The project was eventually realised through a partnership between Argyll and Bute Council, SportScotland, Argyll and the Islands Enterprise, and the adjacent Isle of Mull Hotel. The building was designed by Crerar & Partners and constructed by TSL Contractors. It includes sustainable features such as a green roof and solar panels. Since opening, the pool has served both residents and visitors, offering year-round access to swimming and wellness facilities in a scenic coastal setting.
Main Pool
The main swimming pool measures seventeen metres in length and is positioned to take advantage of natural light and views over Craignure Bay. Floor-to-ceiling windows run along one side of the building, allowing swimmers to look out across the water while using the pool. The pool is used for general leisure, hotel guests, and local swim school lessons. During lesson times, at least one lane remains open to hotel residents. The water is heated and maintained to a consistent temperature, and the pool is open year-round. It is suitable for casual swimming, fitness routines, and relaxation.
Children’s Splash Pool
A separate splash pool is available for children. This shallow pool is designed for younger swimmers and is used for early swimming education and family visits. It provides a safe and manageable space for children to enjoy the water, and is popular with both local families and visitors staying at the hotel or elsewhere on the island. The splash pool is located adjacent to the main pool and shares the same bright, open environment.
Thermal Suite
The wellness suite includes a Norwegian spruce sauna and a steam room. These facilities are part of the thermal experience offered to guests and visitors. The sauna is constructed from natural wood and provides a dry heat environment, while the steam room offers a humid atmosphere for relaxation and respiratory comfort. Both are available to non-residents and hotel guests, with access managed through scheduled time slots. The thermal suite is designed to complement the swimming experience and provide additional options for rest and recovery.
Outdoor Hot Tub
An outdoor hot tub is positioned to overlook the surrounding coastline and is available in one-hour time slots for up to six guests. The hot tub is sheltered and heated, making it suitable for use throughout the year. It is located outside the main pool building but remains part of the overall wellness offering. The views from the hot tub include the bay and surrounding hills, and the experience is designed to be both relaxing and scenic.
Hydro Foot Spa
A hydro foot spa is included in the thermal suite. This feature allows guests to soak and massage their feet using warm water and jets. It is positioned indoors and is available as part of the spa circuit. The foot spa is used for relaxation and circulation support, and is a popular addition to the sauna and steam room experience.
Experience Shower
The facility also includes an experience shower with cold water. This shower is used as part of the thermal cycle, allowing guests to cool down between sessions in the sauna, steam room, or hot tub. The contrast between hot and cold is intended to support circulation and provide a refreshing break between treatments.
Gym
For those interested in fitness, the pool complex includes a small gym with cardio and strength training equipment. The gym is located within the same building and is available to hotel guests and non-residents. It includes machines for running, cycling, and resistance training, and is suitable for maintaining fitness during a holiday or short stay. The gym is compact but functional, and provides an alternative to outdoor activity when weather conditions are poor.
Driftwood Spa
Beauty treatments are available through the Driftwood Spa, which operates within the hotel and is accessible to pool users. The spa offers massages, facials, body wraps, and other therapies using Hebridean seaweed-based products. Treatments are delivered by qualified therapists and are available by appointment. The spa is designed to complement the wellness facilities and provide a full range of relaxation and care options.
Tanning and Nail Services
A tanning room and nail salon are also part of the wellness offering. These services are available to both hotel guests and visitors, and appointments can be booked in advance. The nail salon offers manicures, pedicures, and other treatments, while the tanning room provides a controlled environment for skin bronzing. These services are located within the same complex and are operated in conjunction with the hotel.
Community Use
The pool is used by local schools for swimming instruction and supports various community activities including aqua aerobics and parent-and-child sessions. It also hosts seasonal events and promotions, helping to maintain engagement and encourage repeat visits. For visitors, the pool offers a clean and professionally managed environment that complements the natural attractions of Mull. Whether staying at the Isle of Mull Hotel or elsewhere on the island, the pool provides a reliable option for indoor leisure.
Access and Availability
Access to the pool is shared between the hotel and the public, with scheduled hours ensuring availability for both groups. Visitors are advised to check opening times in advance, particularly during peak periods or when hotel events are taking place. The facility operates year-round and plays a role in supporting tourism, especially during the off-season when outdoor activities may be limited. It contributes to the island’s infrastructure and supports public health by offering a space for rehabilitation, low-impact exercise, and social interaction. The presence of a public pool also enhances the appeal of Mull as a destination, adding value to accommodation offerings and supporting the local economy.
Serving Mull Since 2008
The Isle of Mull Swimming Pool is a modern, well-maintained facility that reflects the commitment of the local community and the value of long-term collaboration. It offers a range of services in a scenic and accessible location, making it a key amenity for visitors to Craignure and the wider island. Whether swimming, relaxing, or keeping fit, guests will find the pool a welcoming and practical addition to their stay.
Opening Times
November – February: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
March – May: 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM
June – October: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Please phone 01680 812032 before visiting to confirm current opening times.
