Coventry Central Baths , Part Of Coventry Sports And Leisure Centre

Coventry Central Baths is a listed swimming facility on Fairfax Street with indoor pools and open-air sunbathing terraces built in the mid-20th century. The building combines water sports spaces with generous outdoor areas and now functions as part of the Coventry Sports and Leisure Centre.

The facility was built in the mid-20th century as a municipal swimming complex reflecting the values of public recreation at that time. It received Grade II listed building status in 1997, recognizing its architectural significance in the development of bathing facilities in Britain.

The baths show how Coventry provided public spaces for swimming and relaxation in the community. The sunbathing terraces reflect the everyday rhythm of how people spent their leisure time in the mid-20th century.

Access is through the Coventry Sports and Leisure Centre main entrance, where staff can guide you to the bathing areas. The indoor pools and outdoor sunbathing sections are clearly separated, so it helps to know which area you plan to visit first.

The original sunbathing terraces show how important outdoor sun exposure was to British bathing culture in the post-war years. Many visitors overlook these external areas, which remain largely unchanged from their original design.

Location: Coventry

GPS coordinates: 52.40914,-1.50453

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:44