Best place to get you kids swimming. Wendy is a superstar and really gets the trust and confidence from the children. Would recommend to any one. The swimming baths also has great facilities for all
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Location
Switch location1 Norman Street, EC1V 3AA Islington, GB
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Our daughter loves going to Ironmonger for swimming lessons and progressed really well during the summer swimming camp. Special thanks to Wendy and Stefano!
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I am a long term user (swimming) and very satisfied (I go off- peak). The pool is clean and clear virtually all of the time. The ground floor changing room/showers need more regular cleaning though... See more
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I was lucky enough to get my daughter booked onto the free swimming lessons that are offered in partnership with Islington Council, during school holidays. It has been a God send for my daughter, hel... See more
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Company details
Written by the company
Welcome to Better! We’re a charitable social enterprise, committed to the health and wellbeing of everyone in our community. From gyms, leisure centres and swimming pools to lessons and courses for both adults and juniors - plus libraries and children's centres - we've got it all. So whether you’d like to try something new, keep the kids entertained or have a dip in the pool, discover our inclusive range of activities, suitable for all ages and abilities at your local Better centre today.
Contact info
1 Norman Street, EC1V 3AA, Islington, United Kingdom
4.3
Excellent
125 reviews
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The receptionist Umma has excellent…
The receptionist Umma has excellent costumer service skills. She is able to sort out your issues in due course!
Thanks,
Tefta
November 13, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hello Tefta,
Thank you for your comments and feedback.
Warm regards
Don't come to this pool
Don't come to this pool. It used to be great and for the past 3 years I've been coming here, but now? They keep renting the pool at peak hours and the amount of times I've been kicked out of the pool for clubs hiring it, or because they're doing classes and close 3 lanes and leave people from swimming extremely slow to quite fast, altogether. It's just not worth the money, nor the time. I will definitely stop coming and would not recommend.
October 20, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Nicole
Thank you for your review.
We are very sorry to hear about your experience at Ironmonger Row and appreciate your feedback.
We have passed your feedback on to the General Manager to review, and we hope this will assist in improving the expereince for other members.
Kind Regards
Amir
The swim teachers at ironmonger row…
The swim teachers at ironmonger row have been fantastic teaching both my children (14 and &) from the very beginning of their learning journey in the pool. A particular mention to to Wendy,Bobbie and Lydia who have shown patience and enthusiasm throughout. Overall brilliant people doing a wonderful job.
October 10, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Tommy
Thank you for your review.
We are very pleased to hear your children have enjoyed learning to swim with us, and Wendy, Bobbie, and Lydia have been able to provide great lessons
We really appreciate your feedback, and we will be sure to pass this on to the team at Ironmonger Row!
Kind Regards
Amir
Called this morning to ask if stopped…
Called this morning to ask if stopped by I could see the spa facilities as I wanted to book in for my partners birthday. I was told absolutely. I came in and was told I could not see the facilities. I certainly appreciate there may be sensitive areas but they weren’t willing to show me any of the facilities nor did they offer any customer service like welcoming me or even chatting about what was available. I’ve had plenty of gym and swimming area tours when you join a gym so I’m not sure how this is any different. I just wanted to make sure the facility was nice enough for a birthday present.
October 15, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hello Rachel.
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We're truly sorry to hear about your recent experience at Ironmonger Row Baths.
We understand how important it is to feel welcomed and informed, especially when you're considering a visit for a special occasion like your partner’s birthday.
It’s disappointing to hear that you weren’t able to view the spa facilities and that the customer service fell short of expectations.
We sincerely apologise for any confusion or inconvenience caused.
While we do have policies in place to protect the privacy and comfort of our spa guests, we absolutely should have communicated this more clearly and offered alternative ways to help you explore what we offer—such as brochures, photos, or a detailed explanation of the facilities.
Your feedback has been shared with the team at Ironmonger Row Baths so we can improve how we support and welcome our visitors.
We’d love the opportunity to make this right and help you plan a memorable experience. If you're still considering a booking, please feel free to reach out directly and we’ll do our best to assist you.
Kind regards
The receptionist the old lady not very…
The receptionist the old lady not very polite and she is not good at the job
September 28, 2025
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Ali
Thank you for your review.
We are sorry to see you feel this way, and we have passed your feedback on to the General Manager at Ironmonger Row Baths to review.
Kind Regards
Amir
The women’s changing room has a very…
The women’s changing room has a very unpleasant odor. It smells strongly of urine, and both my daughter and I felt unwell after her swimming lesson.
September 25, 2025
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Customer
Thank you for your review.
We are very sorry to hear about your recent experience at the Ironmonger Row Baths, and your feedback has been passed on to the centre staff to review.
We hope this will help improve your and your daughters' experience with us.
Kind Regards
Amir
They kept overcharging me
They kept overcharging me, and I am not sure if the discount is worth it at the end of the day.
October 1, 2025
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Titlola
Thank you for your review.
We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the change in membership.
Upon looking at your membership, I can see the correct membership has been activated, and a credit has been applied to your account.
Kind Regards.
Amir
Umma (on reception) is always kind and…
Umma (on reception) is always kind and welcoming, and today took time to do on her computer what I could not achieve on my phone, with same info. She even went into her break time to do it. And help me work through the different memberships that might be right for me. A superstar… other swimmers were patient behind me and the pool was peaceful and almost empty. Thank you Umma!
September 30, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hello Lulu,
Thank you very much for your comments and feedback.
I will pass on your comments to Umma
Kind Regards
Great gym
Great gym, fair pricing without contract faff, never crowded, staff are friendly.
September 3, 2025
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Matthew,
Thank you for your fantastic review!
We are so delighted to hear that you are enjoying our facility in Ironmonger Row Baths.
We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service and are happy that this has been reflected in the service you have received.
We have also passed on your comments to the centre!
Warm Regards
Aaiasa
Umma was so helpful on reception .I am…
Umma was so helpful on reception .I am not so great at doing certain things on my mobile.
Umma helped me through completing my membership, without making me feel silly for not being able to do it myself.
Hopefully she will stay in her job as she is a credit to your company .
June 25, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Elizabeth
Thank you for your review.
We are delighted to hear that Umma was able to support you so well at reception. It's great to know she made the process smooth and made you feel comfortable.
We'll be sure to pass along your lovely feedback to her, and we hope to welcome you back again soon!
Kind Regards
Amir
Good gym, poor showers
The gym is very good and well equipped but the changing rooms and especially the showers aren't great. I understand the need for push taps but the period between pushes is ridiculously short meaning you basically have to shower with one hand holding the tap in and the water pressure isn't great either
June 4, 2025
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Roger,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We're really glad to hear you’re enjoying the gym and the equipment at the Ironmoger Row Baths—we work hard to keep it well maintained for our members.
We also appreciate your honest comments about the changing rooms and showers. We're sorry to hear the experience hasn’t met your expectations. Your point about the push taps and water pressure is well taken, and we’ll be reviewing this with our facilities team to see what improvements can be made.
If you have any more suggestions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we value your input and want to make your visits as comfortable as possible.
Kind regards,
Charmaine
Stunning place to swim and do fitness
Stunning place to swim and do fitness. I am very pleased by the way how the place is taking care of. Very clean and feel safe environment to enjoy fitness activities!
June 4, 2025
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hello Assya,
We truly appreciate your fantastic feedback!
It’s wonderful to learn that you had a great time swimming and exercising with us. Ensuring a clean and safe environment is our highest priority, and we’re glad to hear it enhanced your experience. We can’t wait to have you back for more fitness enjoyment soon!
Kind regards,
Charmaine
Exceptional Swimming Team
My grandchild was so
nervous about going swimming lessons because he couldn’t swim and was scared of the water until he met the Lead swimming teacher, Wendy who was amazing. She made him feel relaxed, welcoming, preparing him by explaining what to expect, taking time to allow him to respond when ready. She was patient, calm, clear, humorous and gave short, clear instructions making sure he was happy and able to follow every instruction. He covered a variety of techniques, skills and was swimming well during the lesson and in the next lesson.
Wendy asked one of her team, Reewa, swimming teacher to take over, she was brilliant, she taught him further different swimming styles and breathing techniques, he was good and very happy, he enjoyed his lesson.
I have made friends, family, colleagues aware of the excellent swimming team at Ironmonger and anyone can join, young to elderly. Wendy and Reewa are exceptional, going above and beyond to help children swim and making it fun for them. Wendy and Reewa, you couldn’t get any one as great as them and the team.
June 2, 2025
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Good Afternoon Lavinia,
Thank you for your feedback.
We are delighted to learn that the staff at Ironmonger Row Bath provided you and your son with a warm and supportive experience.
Kind Regards
Exceptional service
Staff member Umma has repeatedly been incredibly helpful at the IRB branch.
Helping both me and my daughter with sorting out our gym memberships, phone app and access.
Umma was polite, professional, and always friendly throughout the process.
Most importantly, she resolved our issue quickly and efficiently.
I have dated today as the positive experience for the review as this was the most recent. Their have been many positive experiences!
Sincerely excellent service.
Thank you, Umma!
May 27, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Theo,
Thanks for your review.
We are so pleased to hear of the exceptional Customer Service from Umma at Ironmonger Row Baths.
Customers and Communities are at our heart and we are delighted that this has been your experience with us.
Warm Regards
Hazal
DREADFUL RECEPTIONIST AND MANAGER
Upset Iron monger stopped free ladies mornings.
I came last week to spa and the manager of iron monger a very unpleasant lady dark hair came told me I can no longer access the spa due to some technical issues . A Pakistani girl who is receptionist very miserable and arrogant called her manager when I grew upset because I was I could no longer access the spa without paying £50 which is crazy. They refused access to me very unpleasant and rude.
May 20, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi VH,
Thanks for your review.
We have spoken to the centre who have confirmed that due to an error on our systems, some customers were getting free access to our Women's only sessions.
This was flagged and rectified which is why a charge is now applicable.
The centre confirmed they refunded your last session as a goodwill gesture, but going forward if you do wish to attend these sessions you will need to pay or upgrade your membership to one that includes spa access.
Warm Regards
Hazal
Umma the receptionist is a credit to…
Umma the receptionist is a credit to the centre, she is always so welcoming and also helps sort out any issues with such care and attention.
May 23, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Ana,
Thank you so much for your kind words!
We’re thrilled to hear that Umma made such a positive impression when you attended the Ironmonger Row Baths recently. She truly is an asset to our team, and we’ll be sure to pass along your lovely feedback to her. We’re glad she was able to support you with such care and attention — it’s exactly the experience we aim to provide.
We look forward to welcoming you again soon!
Kind regards,
Charmaine
Spa Experience
Visited the Spa on Wednesday and all I can say is WOW.
We had two hours to use the facilities, there are different saunas and steam rooms, tropical showers, plunge pool and a relaxation area.
I also had a 45 minute massage which was unreal. The staff were amazing and made us feel so comfortable throughout our visit
To top it off, the entire spa was spotless. From each feature within the spa to the showers and changing areas.
Can’t wait to come back. Thank you!
May 21, 2025
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Ella,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review!
We're absolutely delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience during your visit to the Old Street Spa. It’s great to know you enjoyed the variety of facilities and that your massage left such a lasting impression. Our team works hard to create a relaxing and spotless environment for our guests, so your kind words truly mean a lot. We can’t wait to welcome you back for another rejuvenating experience soon!
Warm regards,
Charmaine
Spa Experience
Recently visited for a girlie relaxation day.
The Spa was spotless and had a variety of steam and sauna rooms, plunge pool, relaxation area and not forgetting pur favourite part the tropical showers!
We also had a 45 min relaxation massage which was amazing!
Will 100% be back again soon!
May 21, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Alexis
Thank you for your review.
Thank you so much for your lovely review
We’re thrilled to hear that you and your friends enjoyed your girlie relaxation day with us. It’s great to know you loved the spa facilities, especially the tropical showers! And we’re so happy your relaxation massage was amazing.
We can’t wait to welcome you all back again soon for another wonderful day of relaxation.
Kind Regards
Amir
Swimming class 4- 5 year olds
My 4 year has been having weekly swimming lessons in the training pool with Wendy and her team for over a year now and her progress has been brilliant. Her confidence has improved and she's now able to go under water and swim with support. The staff are great and patient, especially Holly. The instructors get in the water with the kids but push them to try things out of their comfort zone and have fun at the same time. I also appreciate the discipline of the class which creates a serious, yet fun, and safe environment.
May 23, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi Jessica,
I hope this message finds you well!
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and encouraging words! We are absolutely thrilled to hear about your daughter's remarkable progress and the growing confidence she is developing in the water. It truly warms our hearts to see her flourish.
Our team, including Wendy, Holly, and the rest of our dedicated instructors, invests a great deal of time and effort into creating a nurturing and engaging environment for all our young learners. We believe that swimming should be a joyous experience, and we strive to ensure that every child feels supported as they explore their abilities.
We particularly appreciate your recognition of the balance we work hard to maintain. It's vital for us to encourage children to challenge themselves while ensuring that every lesson is conducted in a safe, structured, and enjoyable manner. We understand that each child progresses at their own pace, and we take pride in tailoring our approach to fit their individual needs.
Thank you once again for your continued support and trust in our program. We are excited to see even more progress in the weeks ahead and look forward to celebrating your daughter’s achievements together!
Warm regards,
Charmaine
High praise…
Both of my children learned to swim here. Firstly in Wendy’s foundation class, then with Bobbi and Lisa working through the different development levels. Excellent teachers who make learning fun whilst challenging the children to improve their swimming skills. My daughter continues to work towards the academy level and loves her weekly class with Bobbi and Lisa. Highly recommend!
May 22, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Better - Ironmonger Row Baths
Hi D
Thank you for your review and recommendation.
We are thrilled to hear that both of your children have had such a positive experience learning to swim with us.
It is fantastic to know that the Instructors are making a real impact. We’re especially pleased to hear your daughter is progressing towards academy level and still enjoying her weekly classes.
We hope your children continue to enjoy the lessons and reach the level of skills and confidence they desire!
Kind Regards
Amir
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