The Isle of Mull Swimming Pool sits in Craignure. It opened in 2008 after nearly thirty years of local fundraising and campaigning. For decades, residents of Mull and Iona had no public swimming facility. The nearest options required travel to the mainland. A campaign to build a pool began in the early 1980s. Volunteers led the effort, organising events, applying for grants, and building island-wide support. A partnership eventually realised the project. It included Argyll and Bute Council, SportScotland, Argyll and the Islands Enterprise, and the adjacent Isle of Mull Hotel. Crerar & Partners designed the building, and TSL Contractors constructed it. The building includes sustainable features like a green roof and solar panels. Since opening, the pool has served both residents and visitors. It offers year-round access to swimming and wellness facilities in a scenic coastal setting.
Main Pool
The main swimming pool measures seventeen metres in length. Its design takes advantage of natural light and views over Craignure Bay. Floor-to-ceiling windows run along one side of the building. Swimmers can look out across the water while using the pool. The pool serves general leisure, hotel guests, and local swim school lessons. During lesson times, staff keep at least one lane open for hotel residents. The water is heated and maintained at a consistent temperature. The pool is open year-round. It suits 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. Staff use it for early swimming education and family visits. It provides a safe and manageable space for children to enjoy the water. Local families and visitors both enjoy the splash pool. It sits 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 form part of the thermal experience for guests and visitors. The sauna is constructed from natural wood and provides a dry heat environment. The steam room offers a humid atmosphere for relaxation and respiratory comfort. Both are available to non-residents and hotel guests. Access operates through scheduled time slots. The thermal suite complements the swimming experience and provides additional options for rest and recovery.
Outdoor Hot Tub
An outdoor hot tub overlooks the surrounding coastline. It is available in one-hour time slots for up to six guests. The hot tub is sheltered and heated, making it suitable for year-round use. It sits outside the main pool building but remains part of the overall wellness offering. Views from the hot tub include the bay and surrounding hills. The experience is designed to be both relaxing and scenic.
Hydro Foot Spa
A hydro foot spa sits 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. Guests use the foot spa for relaxation and circulation support. It is a popular addition to the sauna and steam room experience.
Experience Shower
The facility also includes an experience shower with cold water. Guests use this shower as part of the thermal cycle. It allows them to cool down between sessions in the sauna, steam room, or hot tub. The contrast between hot and cold supports circulation and provides a refreshing break between treatments.
Gym
For those interested in fitness, the pool complex includes a small gym. It contains cardio and strength training equipment. The gym sits within the same building and is available to hotel guests and non-residents. It includes machines for running, cycling, and resistance training. The gym is suitable for maintaining fitness during a holiday or short stay. It is compact but functional, and provides an alternative to outdoor activity in poor weather.
Driftwood Spa
Beauty treatments are available through the Driftwood Spa. It operates within the hotel and is accessible to pool users. The spa offers massages, facials, body wraps, and other therapies. It uses Hebridean seaweed-based products. Qualified therapists deliver treatments by appointment. The spa complements the wellness facilities and provides 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. Appointments can be booked in advance. The nail salon offers manicures, pedicures, and other treatments. The tanning room provides a controlled environment for skin bronzing. These services sit within the same complex and operate in conjunction with the hotel.
Community Use
Local schools use the pool for swimming instruction. It also supports community activities like aqua aerobics and parent-and-child sessions. The facility hosts seasonal events and promotions to maintain engagement and encourage repeat visits. For visitors, the pool offers a clean and professionally managed environment. It complements the natural attractions of Mull. Whether staying at the Isle of Mull Hotel or elsewhere, the pool provides a reliable option for indoor leisure.
Access and Availability
The hotel and the public share access to the pool. Scheduled hours ensure availability for both groups. Visitors should check opening times in advance, especially during peak periods or hotel events. The facility operates year-round and supports tourism. This is particularly valuable during the off-season when outdoor activities may be limited. The pool contributes to the island’s infrastructure and supports public health. It offers a space for rehabilitation, low-impact exercise, and social interaction. Its presence also enhances Mull’s appeal as a destination. It adds value to accommodation offerings and supports the local economy.
Serving Mull Since 2008
The Isle of Mull Swimming Pool is a modern, well-maintained facility. It reflects the local community’s commitment and the value of long-term collaboration. It offers a range of services in a scenic and accessible location. This makes 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.
