Once upon a time, long, long ago, every morning before hitting her desk, Jo would plunge into the waters at Soho's Marshall Street Baths and do 30 brisk lengths. These amazing 1930s baths were closed in 1997, but have just reopened - with a full gym and workout centre, plus two exercise/dance studios. We've got ever-so-slightly mixed feelings about the replacement of the original wooden changing rooms with swanky modern versions (we won't miss the discarded plasters on a less-than-pristine floor, we will miss the panelled retro feel) - but there is really no excuse for anyone who lives, works or hangs out in Soho not to be ploughing up and down the lanes of this gorgeously refitted bathing venue, with its fabulous sky-lit vaulted ceiling. Swimcaps to the ready, girls.
Marshall Street Leisure Centre, 15 Marshall Street, London W1F 7EL/07801-477 750
