Kent Street Baths – Birmingham 1851 and 1930
New Baths Birmingham above. The Gala Hall. Courtesy of Birmingham Central Libraries – Patrick Baird 1994
The original Kent Street Baths – foundation stone laid 1849 Courtesy of Birmingham Central Libraries – Patrick Baird 1994
The new baths occupied the site of the former and first public baths. The foundation stone was laid originally on 29th October 1849 and opened on 12th May 1851. Documents and gold coins were found […]
Sister site Woodcock Street Baths across the city, home to Television Galas
…under the stone and these were reburied upon building the new baths. The original baths were well patronised during it’s 79 years right up to its demolition in 1930.
Kent Street Baths. Everyone had heard of Kent Street Baths!
Kent Street Baths and the word “baths” have become so mellowed together
” by constant association for three generations as to become household words.”
The pool was 100 ft long by 34 ft 6ins wide and constructed in ferro concrete and lined with glazed tiles. The depth of water varied from 3ft 6ins to 9ft. It was a competition bath and very well known in the area and well patronised hosting many important Galas within the Midland District.
The attractive gallery and national regulation diving stage – all set for shows. Courtesy of Birmingham Central Libraries – Patrick Baird 1994. Will expand ++
Kent Street II would have a Gala Hall, slipper baths and Turkish/Russian steam baths and complementing these there would be plunge pools. The turnstiles led to a central position towards an oak panelled ticket office.
Much prized 1st diving medal won in Coronation Year 1953 agj
Remains of the Baths – will expand +
OUTCOME: The Baths closed circa 1960 and was targeted for demolition. however the front superb example of a neoclassical facade warranted reprieve. The building had served as office space and working units until 2004 but had lain derelict until 2009[…]
Read more…Another famous baths Woodcock Street home to National televised swimming championships
There were pleas for saving the front facade but is was in vain. The Baths were eventually cleared in September 2009 to make way for extension car parking and I believe the lower half of the facade will remain to screen the car parking behind? Yes…to some extent.
Aerial view of the site of Kent Street Baths. Google
Will expand to full view ++ Geo reference 1892 – 1914 map
The whole area has been totally cleared of original buildings. Remaining however is part of the lower section of the entrance to the Baths.
Famous in its day. I have very fond memories!
Lovely information! Thank you
When living with my Sister at 4\173 Barford Street B/Ham 5. 1952.
There was no hot water in the house, so every Friday I would go to Kent St Bath House to have my weekly Bath. For 6p (old money, they supplied a small piece of Soap and a Towel.
Then you had a Cubical with Bath and Sink, but most of all “Hot Water from a Tap….Happy Days.