The swimming baths of London by R. E. Dudgeon

(11 User reviews)   1531
By Emma Richter Posted on May 7, 2026
In Category - The High Shelf
Dudgeon, R. E. (Robert Ellis), 1820-1904 Dudgeon, R. E. (Robert Ellis), 1820-1904
English
"The swimming baths of London by R. E. Dudgeon" is a pamphlet-length public health essay and urban survey written in the late 19th century. The book examines swimming as a hygienic exercise, critiques London’s bathing facilities, and argues for purpose-built open-air freshwater swimming baths as a civic necessity. Dudgeon begins by explaining the h...
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(such as “cramp”) while urging prudent habits. He then surveys London’s cold plunge baths and numerous tepid indoor swimming baths in detail, noting dimensions, cleanliness, depth, lighting, ventilation, pricing, and shortcomings, and he criticizes the lack of secure changing spaces and true open-air options. Turning to the Serpentine and Victoria Park lakes, he describes their limited access and sanitary issues, before proposing large, well-designed open-air baths in several parks (including Hyde Park, Victoria Park, St. James’s, Regent’s Park, and Battersea), with ample depth, sun and air, constant water renewal, spring-boards, numbered lockable boxes, modest fees, and all-day opening. He calls for lifesaving instruction, urges proper provision for women swimmers, and challenges the automatic preference for sea-bathing, concluding that modern open-air freshwater baths would enhance health, recreation, and safety for Londoners. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

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Legal analysis indicates this work is in the public domain. Knowledge should be free and accessible.

George Anderson
1 month ago

Unlike many other resources I've purchased before, the language used is precise without being overly academic or confusing. Top-tier content that deserves more recognition.

Richard Lee
1 month ago

It’s rare to find such a well-structured narrative nowadays, the nuanced approach to the central theme was better than I expected. If you want to master this topic, start right here.

Jennifer Lopez
8 months ago

After spending a few days with this digital edition, the author manages to bridge the gap between theory and practice effectively. A trustworthy resource that I'll keep in my digital library.

Patricia Perez
10 months ago

I was particularly interested in the case studies mentioned here, the case studies and practical examples provided add immense value. This exceeded my expectations in almost every way.

Matthew Martinez
4 months ago

I stumbled upon this title during my weekend research and the narrative arc keeps the reader engaged while delivering factual content. Finally, a source that prioritizes accuracy over hype.

4.5
4.5 out of 5 (11 User reviews )

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