Memories flood back of Dundee’s old waterfront swimming baths

What the old swimming baths looked like (Picture: Dundee City Archives)

Memories of Dundee’s long-lost Central Swimming Baths have been brought back to life after a historic photo shared online sparked a wave of stories from across the city.

The baths, which once stood near Earl Grey Harbour before being demolished in 1974, clearly still hold a special place in the hearts of many Dundonians.

The image, originally from the collections of Dundee City Archives, prompted dozens of people to share their personal experiences of visiting the baths, with many recalling school trips, swimming lessons and regular visits as children. For some, it was where they first learned to swim, while for others it was simply part of growing up in the city.

A common theme in the memories was just how cold the baths could be. Several people described “freezing” walks across the docks to get there, followed by icy water that made each visit unforgettable. Others joked about the “shivery bite” after leaving the pool, especially during the winter months, with some recalling going in wearing just a few old pennies.

Many also remembered the layout and features of the baths itself. There were mentions of diving boards at the deep end and rings hanging from the ceiling, along with changing cubicles that lacked doors, leaving swimmers relying on friends for privacy. Some recalled separate pools for men, women and mixed use, while others spoke of spectator seating above the pool area.

For Dundee’s schools, the baths were a key part of childhood. Numerous comments referenced classes being taken there for weekly swimming lessons, with pupils from across the city, including Clepington and Ann Street primaries, making the journey. Others remembered taking part in school galas, while some went on to join local swimming clubs such as Belmont or Dolphin.

Among the fond memories were also more serious reflections. One person recalled a tragic incident from the late 1960s, highlighting how the baths were not just a place of fun, but also part of the city’s wider history. These stories added a deeper layer to the discussion, showing how the site is remembered in many different ways.

Although the Central Swimming Baths are long gone, replaced decades later by modern facilities like Olympia, the response to the photo shows that their legacy remains strong. For many, it was more than just a pool - it was a shared experience that brought together generations of Dundonians.