Spare Time

In 1929 Bethnal Green's York Hall was opened as a public baths by King George VI, who was then the Duke of York. In 2008 this Royal visit has been recreated by HRH Duke of Kent.

In 2007, the leisure centre was restored to its former glory along with a state-of-the-art spa facility, which was created to make better use of the old Turkish baths and encourage more women and older people into the leisure centre.

The original Royal visit in 1929

After unveiling a commemorative plaque the Duke was taken to the front steps of the building to recreate the original opening photograph that took place almost 80 years ago.

"York Hall is steeped in history and we're thrilled that the Duke of Kent was able to help us recreate the special visit that saw the centre open back in 1929," said Councillor Shiria Khatun, Lead Member of Culture at Tower Hamlets Council.

The Duke of Kent was also shown a non-contact boxing exhibition in a full size ring by students from Stepney Green School.

Over the past three years York Hall Leisure Centre has undergone a major refurbishment programme. Costing £4.5 million the improvements are part of a joint programme of works to upgrade the borough’s leisure facilities.

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