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Swimming Pools

Portobello Swim Centre

📍 Joppa, Scotland

★4.1(673 Google reviews)👶All ages

Historic Victorian swim centre in Edinburgh with two renovated pools, Turkish baths, aquafit classes, yoga, pilates, and swimming skills sessions. Toddler and baby swimming lessons available.

✓ Good baby lessons✓ Experienced instructors✓ Frequent closures✓ Unisex changing rooms✓ Historic building

🏆 Funzaroo Verdict

Best for families with babies and toddlers attending swimming lessons, where the instruction quality justifies the unreliability of the building. The historic atmosphere adds character and the maintenance record is a serious practical issue for families depending on a fixed weekly session.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

💡Check the centre's website or call ahead before travelling — closures happen without notice
⏰Lane swimming outside working hours is very sparse — check the schedule carefully
🎟️Changing rooms are unisex with open showers and no privacy doors
🚗Water temperature varies — bring an extra layer for poolside waits

💬 What Families Are Saying

View all reviews →
4.1
★★★★★

673 Google reviews

G Reviews from Google

B

Barimah Appau

6 months ago

★★★★★

“Good place for swimming lessons even for babies. Good swimming instructors, fun swimming lessons and songs. There are a few occasions the swimming pool is not warm enough.”

J

Jonas

a month ago

★★★★★

“The building itself is a nicely renovated pool from the late 18th century. The two pools are rather small and enjoyable only if quiet, while the gym I haven't seen much of or have ever used, but looks a bit tiny too. The only real "problem" I have is the unisex changing rooms with the showers not having a door, it makes washing and changing quiet uncomfortable. Staff is very useful, and if nice weather it's a nice view to come out to”

💬 What parents mention

Changing room discomfortLesson quality

Overview

Portobello Swim Centre operates two Victorian-era renovated pools alongside Turkish baths, a gym, and a group fitness studio. Baby and toddler swimming lessons are offered with experienced instructors. Aquafit, yoga, pilates, and general fitness classes run through the week. Water temperature can be inconsistent. The facility experiences frequent maintenance closures, sometimes without advance notice. Changing rooms are unisex with open showers — no privacy doors.

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday06:40 – 21:00
Tuesday06:40 – 21:00
Wednesday06:40 – 21:00
Thursday06:40 – 21:00
Friday06:40 – 21:00
Saturday08:00 – 16:00
Sunday09:00 – 17:00

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