Wild Waters – the wizardry of natural swimming pools

Natural swimming pools make an appearance in a number of gardens opening for the National Garden Scheme in 2026. These beautiful pools – designed for people and for wildlife – create a wonderful vibrancy in a garden. We caught up with Dr Smita Jobling to find out why she was so keen to have one in her garden in Nottingham.

The first thing that strikes you when you see photographs of the garden at Glebe Steading in Nottinghamshire is the beautiful, natural swimming pool. Garden owner Dr Smita Jobling told us more about the pool and the role it plays in the health of the garden and her family.

“I was brought up in the highlands in Kenya and always loved swimming outside, but did not really like the outdoor chlorinated pools in UK gardens,” she says.

“Twenty eight years ago we bought our home when it was just barns and farmyard with chicken sheds and concrete. We then proceeded to convert it to a home and garden for ourselves and our three children. The garden was initially landscaped simply to be used for the children, but I had plans for a summer house and pond in my head.

“One day saw an article in the Guardian about natural pools and l was completely enamoured. It looked so beautiful and natural, and you could swim in it. It was exactly what l wanted.

“I kept the article and as we came up to retirement l started researching how we could get one. I found Sarah Murch from Ellicar Gardens on Google and as she lives not far from us, went to see her and the garden and pool they have built.

“Her garden was stunning – very inspiring and Sarah was the perfect person to help us create what we wanted in the next phase of our life.

“It took about a year to get ourselves organised and to discuss the plans and how we wanted the space to work for us. But once we’d got going it took about six months from starting work to being able to swim in it.

“There had to be extensive landscaping as the site is on a slope and we had to bring in electrics and drainage and build the summer house. The planting of the garden area around the pool and patio and the addition of a pergola with a swing (all Indian homes have large outdoor swings) took time.

“It took two to three full growing seasons for the planting zones to establish and for the water to reach that beautifully clear, balanced state. By year three, it truly felt as though it had always belonged here.

“Plant choice is crucial. You need oxygenators, marginal plants like iris and reeds, and floating plants such as water lilies. The regeneration zone relies on species that absorb nutrients efficiently to keep algae under control. You can’t plant just anything; it’s a carefully balanced ecosystem.

“With the work complete it’s magical. Every time l look at it brings me joy. It’s always different- with the seasons the light and time of day. The reflections and shadows of the plants in and around it and all the wildlife it has brought into the garden is incredible.

“It’s transformed the way we spend our days, and it’s been the focus for many happy family events. My children bring their friends for birthday events. We now have five grandchildren who are growing up with this in their lives and I’m just so grateful.

“Being able to swim in it amongst the lilies and dragonflies and being immersed in this clear, cold, soft water is so therapeutic. On the downside it does needs maintenance. It’s not difficult, but it is seasonal and hands-on. We have to clean it regularly. Leaves must be skimmed in autumn, and plant zones thinned and filters serviced. You have to work with nature, not against it. Maintenance is probably more than you would need for a conventional pool and it’s much more ecologically sensitive, but it is worth it.

“It’s transformed how we live outdoors. Cold-water swimming improves circulation, mood, and resilience. The pool has also increased biodiversity dramatically – frogs, newts, pollinators, and birds are now regular visitors. It feels like the ecological heart of the garden.”

The garden description of Glebe Steading also mentions a small stream with a botanical medicinal border – we asked Smita what inspired the feature and what plants she chose for the border and why?

“It was inspired by traditional apothecary gardens – spaces where beauty and healing coexist. As a GP, I’ve always been interested in the connection between plants and medicine.

“Along the border, we’ve planted many different plants including Echinacea – for immune support; Lavender – calming and pollinator-friendly; Calendula – skin healing; Valerian – traditionally used for sleep; Mint and lemon balm – digestive and soothing.

“In addition, there is a ginkgo biloba tree, witch hazel, bee balm and inula magnificum. These are all found in medicinal gardens.

“I’ve just been to visit some Aryuvedic gardens in Kerala, India so am looking forward to seeing if l can add more plants to our collection.

“The sound of running water also adds a sensory dimension that enhances the feeling of wellbeing throughout the garden.”

Smita and her husband have been opening the garden for the National Garden Scheme since 2024 – but what inspired them to open?

“When l retired, opening for the National Garden Scheme in 2024 felt like a natural extension of the garden’s purpose – sharing it for charitable causes, particularly nursing and health charities. I’ve enjoyed visiting other open gardens too. Gardening has given us so much; it feels right to give something back.

“The best thing about opening are the conversations – hearing visitors’ stories and seeing people enjoying the space as they walk through. The worst is the pressure beforehand – you suddenly notice every weed and every imperfect edge! But I’m more chilled now and l think people appreciate it’s always a work in progress.”

As a GP we wanted to know what Smita’s view on the health and wellbeing benefits of being in a garden or gardening were.

“Gardens are preventative medicine. Time in green spaces reduces cortisol, lowers blood pressure, and improves mental clarity. Gardening provides gentle physical activity, exposure to beneficial microbes in soil, and a sense of purpose.

“Swimming safely in cold water has its own benefits.

“In an age of constant stimulation, a garden offers rhythm – seasons, growth, rest. It teaches patience and resilience. For many patients, gardening is as valuable as any prescription they could get for their wellbeing.”

SMITA’S TOP TIPS

For planning a natural swimming pool:

Visit established pools first. Understand that it’s a living system, not a sterile swimming pool. There are so many different ways to include them in your garden.

Budget properly and plan for space – the regeneration zone varies depending on what sort of pool you have. It will take time to establish and mature.

Glebe Steading, Gonalston, Nottingham, opens for the National Garden Scheme on 24 and 25 May and also By Arrangement visits from 2 January for groups of between 10 and 20. For more details CLICK HERE

This article first appeared in the 2026 Little Yellow Book of Gardens and Health – read it in full here

PHOTOS: Nicola Stocken

OTHER GARDENS WITH NATURAL POOLS

If you’re looking for more inspiring natural swimming pools why not visit one of the following gardens opening for the National Garden Scheme this year.

Carraway Barn, Dorset- opens By Arrangement – for details CLICK HERE
Cedar House, Bucks – opens By Arrangement – for details CLICK HERE
Glenholme Herbs, Dorset (pictured left) – 25 and 26 July – for details CLICK HERE
Highlands, East Sussex – 6 June – pre-booking essential – for details CLICK HERE
The Old Rectory, Oxon – May 31 – for details CLICK HERE
The Old Rectory, Litton Cheney, Dorset, 5 July and By Arrangement – for details CLICK HERE
The Old Rectory, Pulborough, 13 and 14 June – for details CLICK HERE
The Old Barn, Warks, 24 and 25 May part of Pebworth Gardens – for details CLICK HERE
Povey’s Cottage, Hampshire 6, 7 and 10 June – for details CLICK HERE
Redhill Lodge, Rutland 7 June, 13 Sept and By Arrangement – for details CLICK HERE
Manor Farm, Dorset 1 and 2 August – for details CLICK HERE
Meadow Farm, Pulborough 17 May and By Arrangement CLICK HERE
Model Farm, Somerset dates in April-October CLICK HERE
Rookwoods, Essex, opens By Arrangement – for details CLICK HERE