Govanhill Baths

Govanhill Baths is an Edwardian-era bathhouse located at 99 Calder Street that originally served as a public bathing facility. Inside are three swimming pools, Turkish baths, and a traditional wash house that locals call the steamie.

The foundation stone was laid in 1914 by Lord Provost Daniel Macaulay Stevenson, with the building opening between 1912 and 1917. It was created to provide a place for residents without home plumbing to wash and bathe.

The building reflects the community's identity, serving as a gathering place where different cultures come together. Today it hosts poetry readings, art shows, and events that bring neighbors together and celebrate the neighborhood's diversity.

The building is managed by the Govanhill Baths Community Trust and is being restored to create a modern wellness center. Visitors should check current opening hours and ask which areas are accessible during their visit.

In 2001, residents occupied the building for 143 days to protest its planned closure, one of the longest occupations of this kind in British history. Their action showed how deeply the community valued the place and wanted to preserve it.

Location: Glasgow City

Location: Glasgow

Architects: Alexander Beith McDonald

GPS coordinates: 55.83830,-4.26319

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:51