Explore Brisbane’s past at Spring Hill Baths
A relic of a bygone era, the Spring Hill Baths is one of Brisbane’s best kept secrets. Showcasing old-world charm with classic changing rooms and mezzanine grandstand seating, this heritage-listed swimming pool lets visitors step back in time and relish a small part of Brisbane’s history.
Built in 1886, the Spring Hill Baths was Brisbane’s first in-ground public pool. Set on Torrington Street, walking past you could easily be forgiven for missing its unassuming entrance. As you step inside, an aqua-blue pool stands like a sentinel with open views of the clouds passing in the sky, while brightly coloured changing cubicles circle the perimeter.
When the pool first opened, only men had the pleasure of frolicking about the water. One year later, women were permitted to join in, but only at separate, designated swimming times to the men. Ladies only nights were held, with sneaky mixed bathing introduced unofficially on Saturday nights in 1910, and then officially from 1928.
The Spring Hill Baths offers a 25-m indoor heated pool – making it a perfect option for swimmers all year round – as well as a kiosk, Pilates studio, aqua aerobics and swimming lessons.
Image via Your Brisbane: Past and Present.
Spring Hill Baths
14 Torrington Street, Spring Hill
Ph: 1300 733 053
Open: Monday to Thursday 6:30 am to 7:00 pm, Friday 6:30 am to 6:00 pm, Saturday to Sunday 8:00 am to 5:00pm