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Congleton's Paddling Pool

Paddling Pool

A much-loved family attraction that has been making summer memories since the 1930s!

Home Council Services Paddling Pool

The Congleton Paddling Pool is a free outdoor facility run by Congleton Town Council. Designed especially for children aged 11 and under, it provides a safe and shallow environment for paddling and play. The pool is open seasonally from late May to the end of August and remains one of Congleton’s most popular summertime spots.

Season Dates & Opening Times

Open: May – August 2026

Sessions:

  • Morning: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
  • Afternoon: 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Closed Mondays & Tuesdays during term time

Open every day during school holidays

Free entry — no booking required (first-come, first-served)

The pool operates on a two-session system to help manage numbers and allow for cleaning between sessions. Capacity is limited to 140 people per session for everyone’s safety and comfort. Please remember this number includes all people inside the facility, not just children in the water. The paddling pool is designed for young children to play, so we kindly ask adults to keep group sizes sensible — for example, bringing a large group of adults for one child can mean other families miss out on the chance to enjoy the pool.

Who Can Use the Pool

  • Children aged 11 and under only
  • All children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Babies and toddlers should wear swim nappies
  • The pool is for paddling and splashing only — no swimming or diving

Accessibility & Facilities

We want everyone to enjoy their visit. The pool includes:

  • Wheelchair ramp access
  • Accessible toilet with baby-changing facilities
  • Shaded seating areas
  • Picnic space — you’re welcome to bring your own food
    • Please note: no glass bottles, glassware, or china item

The pool operates during the summer season, typically from the final bank holiday in May until the last weekend before school resumes each September. Session times are 10 am–1 pm (except Wednesday mornings) and 2 pm–5 pm. At the end of each session, all visitors will be required to leave the premises to allow for cleaning and maintenance.

Please note the paddling pool is designed for young children to play, so we kindly ask adults to keep group sizes sensible — for example, bringing a large group of adults for one child can mean other families miss out on the chance to enjoy the pool.

The pool will be closed every Wednesday from 10 am-1 pm for a Ruby’s SEND (Special Educational Needs & Disabilities) session. To attend these sessions, users must register with Ruby’s and book spaces in advance. No access will be granted without prior booking. Contact Ruby’s: 01260 277666 or info@rubysfund.co.uk. The pool will re-open for general admission from 2 pm-5 pm.

No advance booking is required. Entry is now based solely on arrival and availability. The previous booking system has been discontinued.

The pool operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a maximum capacity of 140 people. Once this limit is reached, a queue will form in a designated waiting area until space becomes available. No queueing between 1 pm & 2 pm whilst the pool is closed for maintenance.

 

The paddling pool is designed for children aged 11 and under. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Babies and children should wear suitable swimming nappies when using the paddling pool.

Yes, on entry to the facility, there is a gradual ramp for wheelchair access. The pool also features a ramp for easy access.

Every Wednesday from 10 am-1 pm, Ruby’s will be running a SEND (Special Educational Needs & Disabilities) session. To attend these sessions, users must register with Ruby’s and book spaces in advance. No access will be granted without prior booking. Contact Ruby’s: 01260 277666 or info@rubysfund.co.uk

Yes, there is one communal toilet with a baby change unit.

Visitors are advised to park in Town Centre car parks. Daneside Theatre car park is private and unauthorised parking may result in a £100 fine. Town Centre car parks are conveniently located within a short walk from the pool. Click here for map of car-parks in the Town

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food. Please use the litter bins provided and ensure the area remains tidy. Glass bottles, glassware or china must not be brought into the enclosure.

  • A paddling pool attendant will be on duty at all times.
  • To prevent accidents, please refrain from running in the pool area as the surroundings may be slippery.
  • The pool is designated as a barefoot area. Skateboards, roller skates, bicycles, or any similar equipment are not permitted.
  • This is a shallow water paddling pool intended for splashing and play, not for swimming or diving.
  • No ball games.
  • No dogs.
  • No, alcohol, smoking, or vaping.

Disclaimer

Congleton Town Council is not liable for any accidents, injuries, or personal loss that may occur at the paddling pool. Visitors use the facility at their own risk. Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising their children at all times. Anyone not following the rules will be asked to leave.