Record number of visitors at Abbey Meadow pool 2024 season
Published on Wednesday 6 November 2024
In a bid to capture a final bit of that sunshine feeling, with the leaves falling and the nights closing in, Vale of White Horse District Council and its leisure provider, Better, are celebrating the successful summer season at Abbey Meadow pool and splash pad.
The outdoor pool welcomed almost 15,000 visitors this season, a significant rise from previous years (up 122 per cent compared to 2023) and a testament to the pool’s growing popularity.
The season extended from 25 May to 8 September 2024, with the splash pad opening on 25 May and the pool opening on 20 July. The surge in visitors was not only due to the great weather – but also thanks to the introduction of a wide range of new activities that catered to all ages and interests.
The site’s kiosk, which opened in May to coincide with the opening of the splash pad, provided a popular range of refreshments to visitors.
Some of the standout offerings included early morning swims, which gave visitors the chance to enjoy peaceful laps in the pool before the day’s hustle and bustle.
One visitor shared how: “I love my outdoor Abbey Pool swim. I attend every morning at 7.30 am before I start my day. It is peaceful, calm, fresh, lovely trees, birds singing. It is so good for my wellbeing. I love swimming alongside the river. The staff are friendly, and the other swimmers.”
Better, who run the pool on behalf of the Council, launched swimming lessons, diving classes, and aqua aerobics sessions, all of which attracted participants of various ages and skill levels – with many sessions fully booked early in the season.
Other exciting highlights included Meet the Mermaid-day, where children were enchanted by live mermaid performances; and fun for all the family at a half-term Hawaii Party with pool inflatables, exciting games, face painting, and even a crazy shirt contest, the event transformed the pool into a tropical oasis.
The debut of the ‘End of Season Dog Swim’ was a roaring success. This sold-out event allowed dogs to take a splash in the pool, accompanied by their delighted owners. The pampered pooches were serves with dog-friendly treats like puppachinos and dog ice cream – which were a big hit with the four-legged guests. Due to its overwhelming success, the Dog Swim is sure to become a regular feature in future seasons.
Cllr Sue Caul, Vale of White Horse District Council Cabinet Member for Leisure Facilities, said: “With winter almost upon us, what better way to warm us up with happy memories of a wonderful season at Abbey Meadow outdoor pool! Abbey Meadow pool provides so much enjoyment for our community. Combined with the splash pad and the kiosk, we’re proud that we can provide local residents with such a fantastic way to spend their summer holidays. There were so many fantastic activities and events on offer this year. Huge thanks are due to everyone involved in delivering this wonderful facility. The end of season Doggy Swim was a resounding success and I look forward to it returning next year!”
Kevin Williams, Better Partnership Manager – South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse, added: “As we reflect on this fantastic season, we are filled with gratitude for the unwavering support from our local community. The events, activities, and overall success of the pool this summer are a direct result of this incredible partnership between Abbey Meadows and the people we serve. With the feedback gathered thanks to the Friends of Abbey Meadows Outdoor Pool, and the enthusiasm for new and exciting activities, we are already looking forward to building on this year’s achievements. We can’t wait to welcome even more visitors and offer an even richer experience next summer!”
Find out more on the Better website and follow the new Abbey Meadow Pool Facebook page.
