Portobello Swim Centre

“Good place for swimming lessons even for babies. Good swimming instructors, fun swimming lessons and songs. There are a few occasions the swimming pool is not warm enough.”

“The building itself is a nicely renovated pool from the late 18th century. The two pools are rather small and enjoyable only if quiet, while the gym I haven't seen much of or have ever used, but looks a bit tiny too. The only real "problem" I have is the unisex changing rooms with the showers not having a door, it makes washing and changing quiet uncomfortable. Staff is very useful, and if nice weather it's a nice view to come out to”

“It pains me to leave such a negative rating, but this place isn't fit for purpose anymore. Everything is constantly breaking - I can't remember the last time a week went by without part of the building being closed for maintenance and repairs. The website is impossible to navigate and as such there is little to no communication about imminent closures for repairs. I can't count the number of times I've pitched up for a swim only to be informed at reception (or by the lifeguard) that the pool is either closed or being used for club swimming/family swimming/aqua ceilidh (not kidding!) or insert any other excuse with no communication whatsoever. Also, if you work 9-5, then you only have two 45 minute slots to choose from during the work week for lane swimming, and I guarantee that at least one of these will be cancelled for some reason with no notice. If you've got young kids, or if you're retired, then go for it by all means (that's if you're happy to pay £60 for dirty changing rooms, tepid showers, and constant maintenance issues), but if you work full time, then don't bother. You'll just be continually let down and frustrated that you're not getting anywhere near your money's worth. Go elsewhere.”

“At 10am it was already filthy. I'd booked the turkish baths and was told 'none of the hot rooms would be hot.' Its a good job I'd only visited because I had a free pass otherwise what would I be paying for? The changing rooms are foul. So dirty and also -unisex, with showers that don't have doors. I've never seen this in a leisure centre before and the whole experience was so uncomfortable. The gym is also tiny. The staff are really grumpy and not afraid to show it - When I told the lady at reception I was on a 7 day free pass and therefore wanted to know where to go etc as I'd not been there before, she rolled her eyes and sighed! Ha! You couldn't make it up! Will not visit again. The whole place made my skin crawl. Really don't understand the 5 star reviews, the place is disgusting.”