We are a can-do community group devoted to restoring the Cellardyke tidal pool.
This jewel of the Fife Coastal Path had sadly fallen into disrepair since its 1930s heyday. However, a diverse range of swimmers of all ages and backgrounds continues to swim here every day. Tourists are flocking to the East Neuk for alternative holidays from unsustainable air travel. Climate change means longer, hotter summers and milder winters. As a result, all-year-round swimming has never been more viable or popular. The first two phases of the renovation are now complete with the third phase being planned - an accessibility ramp.
A Brief History
In the early 1930s there was an idea to generate more tourism to the east of Cellardyke. Original plans to develop a golf course were scaled back but the boating pond and tidal bathing pool went ahead. The pool was built under the direction of Robert Terras (Junior) of East Wemyss with much volunteer local labour. The natural rock formation of skellies was adopted as the base for the outer sea wall and of the inner boating pond. The pool was formally opened on 17 June 1933 and was the focal point for many swimming galas, model boating competitions and the Sea Queen festival.
In 1934 the area in the centre of the pool was deepened to 8’ 4” (254cms) to a radius of 29’ (10m) and a high diving board and swim chute were added. On the shore, where the children’s play park is now sited, there were changing cabins, and an entry fee was paid to enter “the bathy”. Music, sweets, and ice creams were available to purchase, making this a favourite holiday attraction for both locals and visitors from the bigger cities.
In the 1960s, with the ease of cheaper foreign travel and indoor, heated swimming pools, the Cellardyke Tidal Pool fell into decline and remained that way until the global COVID pandemic brought about the idea of its regeneration, as both physical and mental well-being gained prominence in people’s consciousness.
In 2019 a group of local townsfolk formed the Cellardyke Tidal Pool Ltd so that they could act as a focal point for local stakeholders in their engagement with the pool’s owner, Fife Council, to regenerate this facility.
A committed band of locals has formed a not-for-profit initiative to widen the access to the Cellardyke Tidal Pool (known as “The Bathie” or “The Cardinal Steps Bathing Pool”) by making it safe and accessible.
We believe the life-skills intrinsic to sea swimming should be open to all.
Inspired by the success of our neighbouring sister pool, the West Braes Project in Pittenweem, our mission is to bring Cellardyke’s neglected and beloved beauty spot back to life, to attract a wider audience to our magnificent tidal pool and into our vibrant rural community. Join us!