The large curtain at the rear of the room leads to the hot rooms. The smaller curtains enclose the changing cubicles which, judging by their size, probably included couches for relaxation after the bath. On the wall between the cubicles and the plunge pool can be seen a drinking fountain.
Rockside Hydro was built in 1862 by Charles Rowland. It continued as a hydro until the beginning of the 1914-18 war when it was requisitioned for use as a convalescent hospital for wounded RAF officers. Between the wars the hydro re-opened as a hotel. It was again requisitioned during the second world war when it was again used by the RAF. Part of the building still stands and has been converted into a set of self-catering luxury apartments.
© Malcolm Shifrin, 1991-2023