The City Baths in Newcastle recently reopened after an £8 million renovation, becoming one of the few remaining Victorian Turkish Baths still open to the public in the UK. Originally built in 1929, the Grade-II listed attraction closed in 2013 but has now been restored to its former glory. The renovation included restoring the glass dome ceiling and adding new relaxation chambers, a spa, swimming pool, and gym. Visitors can enjoy a two-hour trip for just £21.50 and experience the calming and relaxing atmosphere of the spa and hammam.
Turkish Baths were once popular across the UK, with as many as 600 in operation over a century ago. These baths were not only for cleanliness but also believed to provide stress relief, improve circulation, and alleviate muscle aches. However, over the years, the majority of Turkish Baths were forced to close, leaving fewer than 10 Victorian Turkish Baths still standing. Edinburgh, Northampton, Harrogate, London, Glasgow, and a few other cities boast these historic attractions, each offering a unique and luxurious spa experience. Some closed baths, such as Carlisle Baths, Victoria Baths in Manchester, and Health Hydro in Swindon, are currently undergoing efforts for reopening.
Visitors to the City Baths in Newcastle have praised the renovated facility for its Victorian architecture and grandeur that rival more famous Turkish Baths in the UK. The spa and hammam provide a calm and relaxing atmosphere, allowing guests to soak up the history and elegance of the setting. In addition to the spa experience, guests can make use of the swimming pool and gym facilities, making it a well-rounded wellness destination. With the health benefits of spa visits including pain and stress relief, improved blood circulation, and potentially lower heart disease risk, a trip to the City Baths can offer both relaxation and therapeutic advantages.
In addition to the City Baths in Newcastle, there are other notable Turkish Baths still operational in various cities across the UK, with each offering a unique experience rooted in Victorian-era grandeur. From Edinburgh’s Portobello Swim Centre to Northampton’s Mounts Baths to Harrogate’s extensive Victorian Turkish Bath, visitors have several options to choose from. With the possible expansion of spa experiences, such as the upcoming Therme attraction in Manchester, there may be more opportunities for people to enjoy the benefits of these historic and culturally significant wellness destinations in the future. Whether seeking stress relief, improved circulation, or simply a relaxing spa getaway, Victorian Turkish Baths offer a unique and memorable experience for visitors.
