Historic Art Deco swimming pool which people say is the ‘best hidden treasure in the city’
THE UK isn’t short of amazing swimming pools, with some dating back to the Victorian era.
But one in the city centre of London remains relatively unknown – despite a multi-million campaign to reopen it.
Marshall Street Baths is built on the grounds of one of London’s oldest bathhouses in 1852.
Also previously called Westminster Public Baths, it was rebuilt to what it looks like now back in 1931.
Even used as a training ground during World War II, it fell into disrepair over the years.
It was forced to close in 1997, before reopening as Nuffield Health leisure centre in 2010 after a £25million refit.
Now run by Everyone Active, it is also home to a gym, sauna and steam room.
The Grade II listed building has many of its original features still, including the marble floors, green Swedish marble walls and vaulted ceilings.
Swimmers have raved about the pool, with one calling it a “hidden treasure in the city”.
Another said: “It’s absolutely beautiful. So iconic.”
A third even claimed: “Best pool in London!”
Tickets to the pool range from £5.20 to £9.35, for a single session, otherwise you can buy monthly memberships.
It isn’t the only beautiful swimming pool in the UK.
Mounts Baths in Northampton were dubbed “world class” by the BBC.
Originally built in 1936, the Art Deco pool is on the site of the town’s old prison.
In Manchester, there is Victoria Baths, dating back to 1906, although only opens a few times a year.
And there is a Virgin Active gym which has a beautiful swimming pool built into a former church.
Here’s a Grecian style pool in the UK as well.