Splash Back In Time

The heritage swim event at Victoria Baths was organised to help raise vital funds for the Baths.
The heritage swim event at Victoria Baths was organised to help raise vital funds for the Baths.

For one day only, Victoria Baths in Manchester gave people the chance to enjoy the first public swim in the Grade II* listed building in 24 years. The heritage swim event in May was organised to increase awareness and help raise vital funds for the Baths as it continues to make its journey towards restoration.

Swimmers were transported back in time and were able to use the original changing cubicles. The water was heated, but the building wasn’t, so swimmers came prepared to wrap up warmly after their swim. The Tea Room sold old-fashioned hot drinks including Vimto and Bovril on the day to add to the experience.

Gill Wright, project development manager for Victoria Baths commented: “Lots of people enjoy visiting Victoria Baths, but it is a very rare opportunity for members of the public to be able to swim here. “We wanted to create an experience that enabled people to relive the Baths in its heyday, and to demonstrate what a wonderful and unique swimming experience it offers.”