Carlisle’s Victorian Health Suite is set to reopen next Monday.
One of just a handful of similar facilities still operating in the UK, the Grade II listed building on James Street has been given a small makeover.
Work has been going on to refurbish the sauna seating plus the lounge ceiling has been repainted.
The facilities include a sauna, steam room and three heated rooms with an ornately tiled relaxation lounge featuring a cold plunge pool.
The facility is commonly referred to as the Turkish Health Suite because of its style, which was inspired by Turkish baths popular throughout the Middle East.
It was completed in 1909 and is managed by GLL on behalf of Carlisle City Council.
Clark Morton, The Pools general manager at Better, said: “If you haven’t yet visited the Victorian Health Suite, we encourage you to experience the therapeutic benefits within a unique part of Carlisle history and you can expect to leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and proud of your local heritage.
“You’ll be stepping back in time and will be able to marvel at the flamboyant style of the blue, green and grey glazed brick work, on each side there are two elegantly decorated columns. This is the lounge area where there are ten relaxation rooms each separated by the original wooden screens of art nouveau panels.
“The ceiling area is very impressive; the windows are bordered by stained glass providing an abundance of natural light highlighting the features of this wonderful facility.”
Councillor Stephen Higgs, portfolio holder for culture, heritage and leisure, added: “The Victorian Health Suite is an important part of Carlisle’s heritage and we are exploring the best ways to manage the facility after The Pools relocate to The Sands Centre.
“£400,000 funding, secured through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, is available to make good the external parts of the Turkish Baths post demolition and to facilitate the refurbishment of the building.
“The Carlisle Station Gateway and Citadels project will regenerate the area around Carlisle Station and the Victorian Health Suite will be factored into any planning.
“There are no plans to change the Turkish Baths current use and we urge visitors to sample the facilities it has on offer.”
Read about the reopening being welcomed by friends campaign group here
