Leeds retro: 13 pictures capturing Bramley Baths in the 1990s and early 2000s

Bramley Baths holds a unique place in the city's history and the lives of the local community as this collection of pictures from our archive shows.
Gold certificate swimmer Jason Archer, nine, in the water at Bramley Baths in December 1996. Picture: Dan OxtobyGold certificate swimmer Jason Archer, nine, in the water at Bramley Baths in December 1996. Picture: Dan Oxtoby
Gold certificate swimmer Jason Archer, nine, in the water at Bramley Baths in December 1996. Picture: Dan Oxtoby

The only remaining Edwardian bath house in Leeds, the former iron foundry first opened as a pool and public bath house in 1904.

It enabled local residents to wash, swim and use the new Russian Steam Baths, which were fashionable with Edwardians in search of a healthy past-time.

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Budgetary pressures in 2011 led Leeds City Council to seek expressions of interest to take over the management of Bramley Baths and a community-led enterprise took over the reins in January 2013.

Jason Archer, nine, with his Kia-Ora/ASA Swimming challenge award gold medal at Bramley Baths in December 1996. Picture: Dan OxtobyJason Archer, nine, with his Kia-Ora/ASA Swimming challenge award gold medal at Bramley Baths in December 1996. Picture: Dan Oxtoby
Jason Archer, nine, with his Kia-Ora/ASA Swimming challenge award gold medal at Bramley Baths in December 1996. Picture: Dan Oxtoby

Determined to provide an affordable space for health and fitness for all, they have worked tirelessly to ensure the survival of this beautiful Grade II-listed building and its facilities.

This collection of pictures from the Yorkshire Evening Post archive celebrate the role of the baths in the local community during the late 1990s and early 2000s.

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