Public Baths

The Public Baths, built in 1893 and designed by Walter Hanstock, are constructed from rock-faced stone with ashlar dressings and feature slate roofs. The main front has a central projecting entrance block that is three stories high, topped with a hipped roof and a central chimney stack. It includes three single light transom windows with flanking pilasters and a linking entablature that extends across the single flanking doorways. These doorways feature double panel doors and overlights set in moulded ashlar surrounds with swagged pediments. Above, there are two 2-light cross casements with flanking pilasters and entablature hoods, and between these windows is a decorative panel depicting a winged cherub supporting two pilasters. The building also has two unusual cross mullion, through-eaves dormer windows with elaborately carved gables and finials. Each side of the entrance block has single storey wings, each containing five circular windows in intricately carved surrounds. Between the wings are single Doric pilasters and a continuous entablature, with double pilasters at the outer bays. Above this, there is a balustrade with single urns at either end. The side facades are single storey. To the left at the rear is a tall square chimney stack with an elaborate bracketed top. Inside, the central block retains much of its original interior, including miner glazed entrance screens and doors with stained glass panels, as well as doors, windows, a staircase, fireplaces, and ceilings. The large pool to the left has an inserted ceiling, although the original viewing gallery above is still intact.