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Rockpooling

When the tide is out, our unspoiled natural coastline presents perfect rockpooling fun you can enjoy as part of your day at Fort Victoria Country Park. 

To see the current tide times, follow this link to the Tide Times website. 

Where to find the rock pools 

Foreshore at fort victoria

Head west along our shore, that is standing in front of the fort looking out to sea.. go left, keep going along the shore and when the tide is out you will see the rock pools. 

What You need

dipping nets

A bucket, a dipping net and some patience!. 
If you have not arrived prepared then dont worry, everything you need can be purchased from the Museum Gift shop

How to Rockpool

rockpools

Fill your bucket with some sea water and put some sea weed in it if you can, do this away from the rockpool you plan to investigate. Approach the rock pool quietly as the inhabitants will be easily startled. Sit and watch and try dipping your net to catch any inhabitants, gently place anything you find in your bucket for closer observation. Try and keep the bucket shaded as you dont want the water getting warm, always return your catch back to the rock pool as soon as possible. 

Shore Crabs

shore crab

Your likely to find Green shore crabs hiding amongst the seaweed in the Rockpools. 

Anemone

sea anemone

The anenome will appear as a dark red jelly blob if out of water or if below water it will have its tentacles unfolded, ready to sting any passing prey like shrimp and small fish.

Blennies

blennie fish

You may find these small fish, hiding on the bottom of the rock pool or in the seaweed.

©2025 Fort Victoria Museum ltd

This website is maintained  by Fort Victoria Museum Ltd  to promote Fort Victoria Country park and the privately run attractions.

Fort Victoria Country park is owned by the Isle of Wight council, any material matters relating to the park please direct those to IOW Council 

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