More Turkish Baths – the Spa, Bethnal Green
I’ve already blogged the Ironmonger Row Turkish baths – a great place to unwind if you work in the City or Clerkenwell area.
Those of you living in the East End might prefer the Spa in Bethnal Green. This was the old York Hall baths, and it’s undergone extensive refurbishment recently. Some people will miss the boxer-and-gangster air of the rather seedy old establishment; I don’t think the Krays would have approved of the ciabatta and light lunches now on offer.
Prices are slightly higher than at Ironmonger Row and you have to wear a bathing suit at all times. That slightly spoils the experience for me – I’ve had baths in Hungary (remember, that country was part of the Turkish empire for many years) and Istanbul, and for me, being completely naked is what it’s all about. It might be different for men, but I just don’t think a woman gets the feel of steam or dry heat on the skin while wearing a cozzie.
While the hot rooms and steam rooms are similar to other Turkish baths, the ‘monsoon showers’ are unusual – the water is infused with aromas and you can choose different water pressures ranging from a fine mist to a powerful downpour – from restful to invigorating.
I’m going to carry on slumming it at Ironmonger Row. But if you want a slightly more modern experience, albeit with less street cred, this might be the spa for you.
Photo credit:Thomas Wanhoff on Flickr
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