Splish, Splash at Manuka Pool…Summer fun in the heart of Canberra
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As the summer heats up and we head into the school holidays, it can be hard to find outdoor activities to keep the kids entertained and safe in the heat.
The historic Manuka Pool has a family oriented feel and offers two hectares of space including a huge grassy expanse, picnic tables and large trees offering masses of shade.
Only open over the summer months, Manuka Pool is a great day out with hours of summer fun for children (and adults) of all ages.
Opened in 1931 and originally known as ‘The Swimming Pool”, it was built to offer Canberran’s somewhere to swim other than the Molongolo, Cotter and Murrumbidgee Rivers.
The art deco design of the main buildings offers a classic look into Canberra’s architectural history but modern additions over the years have seen it become the perfect place for families to escape the heat.
One of the highlights for young families is a shaded toddler’s pool complete with fountain. It’s an ideal option for the little ones who like the water but may not yet be old enough for the bigger pools and want Mum and Dad to stay close.
With a maximum depth no deeper than an average adult’s knee at 0.5m, it’s perfect for Mum (or Dad) and bub to sit together and enjoy the water – and splashing – in a fully shaded environment.
For the (slightly) older kids, there’s the “SS Red Duck”, a pirate ship playground offering hours of distraction and fun in the shade. When it get’s too hot, there’s ice creams galore at TAV’s café which opened in 2012 and sits out in the main grassed area for easy access.
Then there’s the original 30m pool which sits in the middle of the grounds surrounded by the classic art deco buildings. It’s the perfect spot for a morning swim if swimming laps is your style or for the older kids and teenagers who just need more space for their fun.
Lifeguards patrol both the 30m pool and the toddler’s pool so you know your kids are in safe hands should they get into any trouble in the water.
On weekdays, Manuka Pool is filled with mother’s groups, young families and those who just need some time off. It teems with life and vibrancy with the sound of kid’s laughter and squeals as they splash around in the various pools.
With so much grassed area, it’s nice to find some space to yourselves to set up your gear and enjoy the summer heat. Make sure you bring a picnic rug to sit on (or extra towels) if you’re not into grass and bugs all over you.
The Essentials
What: Manuka Pool
When: Open over summer from 25 October 2014 to 22 March 2015
Where: New South Wales Crescent, Manuka
How much: Casual Visits: Adult $5.50/ Concession $4.50/ Family $20.00
Web: www.manukapool.com.au
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