The Sir Doug Ellis Woodcock Sports Centre — Local services in Birmingham

Swim and sauna review * with update*

While this centre still has one of the cleanest facilities that I have used in Birmingham, since rejoining in October 2023, there are several complaints I have had.

Before I critique I will say that the women's only swimming and steam sessions are an amazing addition to the centres offering.

However, since rejoining I have noticed a huge decline in the kind of members who have started joining, a huge influx of men who;

swim in medium and fast lanes, despite swimming at beginning level ( with no correction from staff)

New members have no consideration for swimming etiquette, over taking, cutting others of, unnecessary splashing et. This makes a stress reducing activity very stressful.

Unhygienic practices in the steam room!!!!!!

(I have personal witness a man bring in a blue plastic bags full of oranges and hand them out, and then attempt to peel and eat it in the very full steam room. I have also witnessed a man using shower gel to wash himself while sitting in the steam room.)

The final straw for me was a 4 week maintenance closure, that was announced to members 1 week before the closure date.

Its such a shame, as this was such as beautiful and respectful environment, but I have canceled my membership and wont be returning. 5 star review I've been going to this centre on and off for 3 years and the only thing that makes me cancel my membership is when it is no longer local to me.

For me, it is the only centre where I have felt I am really getting value for money, the changing areas are cleaned constantly, the swimming area is so relaxing - rarely loud, and other swimmers are respectful. However the most stand out thing about this centre is the customer service! Over the last three years whenever I have had a complaint or needed assistance the staff have ALWAYS been polite, helpful and go above and beyond to help.

The only 'downside' I can mentioned is that you have to have a 3month membership when you join, but that's never been a...

I've been a member of several gyms over the years, but this one truly stands out. The cleanliness of the facility is impeccable. Every corner of the gym, from the workout areas to the locker rooms, is spotless. This high standard of hygiene is particularly reassuring in the pool area, which is always crystal clear and well-maintained.

The modern equipment is another highlight. The gym is outfitted with the latest machines and weights, ensuring that every workout is efficient and enjoyable. Whether you’re into cardio, strength training, or a bit of both, the variety and quality of the equipment make it easy to find what you need.

What truly makes this gym exceptional, though, are the instructors. They are knowledgeable, friendly, and always willing to help. Their classes are engaging and challenging, providing the perfect balance of motivation and support.

The only downside I’ve encountered is the limited space for free workouts. While the gym excels in many areas, the designated area for free workout and stretching can get a bit crowded during peak hours. there is just enough space for 3 people and it's cramped in the corner, surrounded by machines. However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the overall high standards maintained in the facility.

Overall, this gym is an excellent place to achieve your fitness goals. The cleanliness, modern equipment, and outstanding instructors make it a top choice. If they could just expand the free workout space a bit, it...

I'm specifically reviewing the pool here because I didn't go to the gym. However I was very impressed. I used the facility with a guest pass that I had received from the nearby hotel where I was staying and had seen pictures of the old Edwardian pool on the internet. It didn't disappoint. There are old fashioned changing cubicles around the outside of the pool and lots and lots of lovely old tiles everywhere. The pool is around 25 yards long, just under 25m, and quite wide. Although it's not great for turning at the end (nowhere to push off the wall), is very wide and when I visited configured as just three lanes so plenty of space for overtaking. What particularly impressed me was that the lifeguards were both very friendly but also very professional in making sure people were swimming in the correct lanes and they washed before getting in the water. Highly...