[title]
Saunas are having a main-character moment right now. From macro-counting gym bros to pensioners leisurely filling their days, the hot boxes are beloved by everyone. So, it’s good news that London’s oldest spa (and a pretty affordable one) has reopened after months of closure.
The historic Porchester Spa in Bayswater has re-opened its doors after three months of renovations. The Grade II-listed building, famous for its art deco interiors, has had some serious upgrades.
A key part of the renovation focused on the gym, where seven new pieces of equipment, including leg curl and machines, were added in response to customer feedback. You know what they say about skipping leg day.
The 30-metre pool has also had a sustainable makeover, with a new heat-retaining cover installed to improve energy efficiency, alongside and air source heat pump which is expected to cut the centre’s CO2 emissions by 60 percent every year.
The centre has also introduced a new women-only gym, and transformed the the main workout studio with new floors, walls, mirrors, and equipment.
The spa facilities themselves, which feature two steam rooms, a sauna, cold showers, and three Turkish baths, haven’t been upgraded but remain an important part of the site.
Councillor Cara Sanquest, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: ‘Porchester Centre is an iconic part of Westminster, and this extensive refurbishment will ensure more people from all communities can access top-quality facilities to stay active.’
The best affordable spas in London.
Community saunas are coming to Walthamstow and Camberwell.
Get the latest and greatest from the Big Smoke – from news and reviews to events and trends. Just follow our Time Out London WhatsApp channel.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out London newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.