Mafia-esque company! I decided to relate here my whole story with this club: it is quite long and full of surprises. So please bear with me ... Few months ago, I went to London Bridge Cottons club and asked for a week trial for which they charged me 20£. I didn't like the club and decided not to come back. How surprised I was when I discovered few weeks later they used my Credit Card details to charge 82£ corresponding to the first month of a 12 months subscription I never asked for. I went back to the club to clarify what I thought was a mistake. The sales team claimed they cannot cancel and I should talk to the "Head Office". Which I did. The "Head Office" said it is non of their business and I should get back to the club. By this point I was pretty angry. So I went back to the club and I complained so loudly that other customers started to turn their heads and they could not ignore me. The sales person now claimed I should talk to "the manager", which was not present. So he booked an appointment. I came back a third time. A new surprise was waiting this time: the person they presented as "the manager" was there the previous time I was complaining - watching the whole scene - while they claimed he was absent. The manager argued the wohle issue was basically my fault. The moment I hand my Credit Card to their sales person was a tacit confirmation I want 12 month subscription. They do not need a signature nor a written contract! He also threatened they will send debt collection agency if I don't pay the full 12 months. I left the club in shock and I went straight to my bank. I was relieved not only they cancelled the subsription but they also got my 82£ refunded. Few weeks later I started receiving letters and phone calls from a Debt Collection agency named CARS. I got nervous and went seeking information on online forums. I discovered there that it is a fake debt collection agency owned by Fitness First. Having the same name and a similar logo to a real debt collection agency in order to scare people into paying. So I ignored all their calls and letters (about a dozen) for few weeks and I never heard from them again.

My recent experiences at Fitness First Cottons have left me with mixed feelings about this gym. While it has its merits, the overall atmosphere and facilities have room for significant improvement. One of the glaring issues is the apparent lack of renovation. The gym seems to be stuck in a time warp, with outdated equipment and an overall worn-out appearance. The need for a facelift is undeniable, as the aging ambiance does little to motivate or inspire a fulfilling workout experience. The air-conditioning woes only add to the discomfort. Inconsistent performance leaves some areas feeling stuffy, hindering the overall workout environment. Moreover, the unmistakable scent of smoke wafting in from outside, presumably due to people smoking in the vicinity, further diminishes the air quality within the gym. Hygiene concerns have also raised red flags during my visits. The hot water supply in the showers is consistently problematic, making post-workout cleansing an uncomfortable task. Additionally, discovering green algae in the showers is not only unappetizing but also raises questions about the gym's commitment to maintaining a clean and sanitary environment. While Fitness First Cottons may still cater to those seeking a basic workout routine, the aforementioned issues undoubtedly impact the overall user experience. The management should consider investing in a comprehensive overhaul to address these concerns and bring the gym up to modern standards. Until then, potential members may want to weigh the pros and cons carefully before committing to a membership. UPDATE!!!!! Despite my initial hopes for improvement, my discontent with Fitness First Cottons has only deepened in the weeks following my review. The promised contact from the club manager never materialized, and it’s been a frustrating three weeks of radio silence. Regrettably, the problems persist within the gym, specifically concerning the shower facilities. An alarming nine out of twelve men’s showers are out of order, leaving patrons with an acute shortage of functional amenities. The lack of hot water exacerbates the issue, making it an uncomfortable ordeal after a workout. What’s equally disheartening is the repeated false assurances from the reception. Every time I raise the concern, I’m told that the showers will be fixed by the end of the week. However, this has become a month-long cycle of unfulfilled promises, and the inconvenience is exacerbated by the fact that no advance notice is given about the ongoing issues. Peak times have become a logistical nightmare, with approximately 15-minute queues forming just to access a functioning shower. This is not only inconvenient but also unacceptable for a fitness facility of this stature. The reception’s failure to proactively inform members about the persisting problems only adds to the frustration and compromises the overall experience. Fitness First Cottons needs to address these issues promptly and communicate transparently with its members. The continued neglect of basic facilities and the unfulfilled promises from the management paint a disappointing picture of a gym that falls short of meeting its members’ needs and expectations.

Poorly managed, overcrowded, dirty and absolutely not worth the price. This used to be a great gym, but it has been plagued by a number of issues for a while now. You expect London gyms to be very busy, but in the evenings it's now sometimes near impossible to work out. The already smallish weight area is usually packed and the freestyle area blocked by classes and/or personal trainers occupying most of the floor. Good luck if you're trying to find a tiny corner to workout for yourself. Weirdly enough the recent so-called "renovation" of the club managed to make things even worse. Yes, the shower rooms have been fixed, but what about the gym floor? The same old machines have just been shuffled around and now there's actually less space than before for stretching, abs etc... No replacement of the tired old machines in sight. When equipment breaks down, it usually takes WEEKS to get fixed. Changing rooms and toilets are still filthy AF - seriously you didn't need to shut down your club for a few weeks to get the easiest issue sorted out. I've seen public toilets in train stations that are cleaner, it's disgusting. It's astonishing that this hot mess of a gym was labelled a Platinum/Tier 1 gym once. Opening hours are also a disaster - I don't know of any premium gym that closes as early as this one, especially on weekends. To finish up, they increased the monthly prices for some longtime members just a month ago - what exactly do we get in return for that?

Been a member for a while now. The gym is worn out and machines getting too old. Looks and feels very tired. No atmosphere. Very disappointing. Men’s showers problematic for months and have yet to fix all issue. At peak times it’s impossible to wok out. Too busy and the classes are taught in an open area so forget listening to your own music if you wish. Quieter afternoon times the trainers love to make as much noise as they can. Weight training area is small and very inconvenient. If classes is all you do may be better. Spa is nice but also not without its problems. I’m on the look out for something else.

Although this gym is a little more expensive than others, it’s well worth the price. There are boxing bags, a swimming pool, spin bikes, yoga studios and a sauna. Not to mention two floors of multiple gym equipment. The only criticism is that less expensive gyms have deodorant, dry shampoo, hair ties and cotton swabs in their bathrooms but you’d expect a more expensive gym to have these amenities. However, based on the equipment and classes available alone it’s worth the extra expense.

What makes this gym different to low budget gyms is it’s spa facilities which are constantly out of order, no hot water or water at all, no WC, no showers, also it’s not 24/7 like most low budget gym are yet it’s 3 times the price. No point complaining your complaint will be brushed under the carpet

I am so unhappy and I recommend anyone looking for a gym to look at other options as you will end up unhappy, especially with the terrible customer service they had as I have sent quite a few emails explaining my situation and they just don't care and they say they cannot do nothing and that I cannot cancel. Is this for real????? Below I explain all the reasons why I am so disappointed: 1-The hot water has not been working on the showers at the club that is nearest to where I live and which is Cottons Centre at London Bridge and the one I frequent the most for being closer. This is the main but not only reason that makes me want to cancel the membership I have with them as it has been more than 2 months!!!!!! at Fitness First Cottons Centre club (London Bridge) and still nothing has been done about it and this is just unbelievable. Staff won't tell you how long it will take to get fixed and I just feel like being ripped off because I am paying money and I have the feeling that nothing works well and even the hairdryers many times won't work. 2-The gyms are always very cold, no matter where you go inside of the gym including the changing rooms is always super cold. I have mentioned this to the staff and they said that they will increase the temperature but nothing seems to change and it is not pleasant to exercise in those conditions with your muscles cold and especially in this very cold city. 3-Music is super loud, I understand that most of the people get motivated by rhythmic music to work but the level at which you have the music at your clubs is quite unpleasant. 4-The sauna and especially the steam room is always super hot, which makes it impossible to remain there inside and as soon as you go in you just want to get out. As well, I have shared this with the staff but nothing is ever done. 5-Many times I would come to the clubs wanting to use the steam room and it is out of service and it always takes at least a week and many times two to get fixed with staff not being too concerned about it. 6-The clubs are super crowded and they just keep signing up people which again doesn't make it really pleasant to stay or even to go to the gym and if anyone is dissatisfied they won't even allow them to leave like they are doing with me!!!! which feels like a terrible customer service experience and a completely rip off!!!

Poor as always. In particular hygiene is well below average gyms out there. Staff is ok, though unhelpful. But above all, service is seriously lacking: pay your padlock if you forget it, towels service is like if they were forced to do it, equipment quality is average, treadmills really below average. As you can see dirty towels laying around the place, changing room often vandalized, I didn't bother talking about showers' floor.

Good equipment, but some staff lack customer service skills. Still haven't received my refund for my PT session with WALBER (do not trust this guy), I had to stop due to medical reasons, it's been 1year 9months!!! I went in 2weeks before my London to Paris bike ride, forgot my padlock and asked if I could leave my brand new road bike in the lobby, was turned down, had to buy a new padlock and then the bike was stolen!! You pay such a high premium and they cant even let you store a bike for like 1hour!!!

Worst customer service ever. They didn’t show me the gym and I felt like I was in a labyrinth. Only after I got changed to go home I found out there was another hidden part of the gym . I got a 3 days pass but only but for certain hours which they didn’t explain to me, so I lost the other 2 days. The manager was absolutely unhelpful and a bit arrogant. The gym equipment is quite old and it’s too dark in there. swimming pool absolutely tiny. Price was ridiculous. Unsatisfied.

Most Fitness First gyms are filthy. But I would expect more from this one given it’s premium status. 1-towels are dirty and smelly. Towels are used to clean the floors, used for leaks; you name it, you mostly likely will see it. 2-equipment, old and broken. 3-The showers are filthy, the glass walls have a filthy smelly film. Mildew and mould all over. 4-pool no matter what time of day you use it, the water is milky. 5-steam and sauna is smelly. How often do they clean it!! Hardly or never. 6-toilets are dirty. It’s not worth the £95 membership fee.

Rude and absolutely incompetent reception staff, including club manager, clearly not hired based on IQ or EQ, atmosphere resembles a Russian strip club. Tried many FF locations, this one is the worst ever.

I'm so happy my work-related membership of this gym has ended. I've been a reluctant member for three years as it was close to my office and we got a special rate. Otherwise I'd have never stepped foot in the place. The reception staff are friendly - that's the only good thing about it - and the only reason I've given this rating two stars. Beyond that, it's a really dirty gym - there's a constant layer of stickyness on everything - from the floor to the machines. The cleaning staff clearly hate their job. The men's toilets are particularly disgusting - portaloos at the end of Glastonbury are cleaner. Dry urine is calcified on all the walls and floors. Bring your own towel too, unless you're happy with the hand towels they provide. There is too much crammed into a small gym floor - and too many members squeezed in, especially at peak times. Add to this the dozens of unbelievably arrogant and pushy personal trainers (the men - the women are friendly) and you really don't ever have many options to move, let alone work out. Good riddance Fitness First Cottons - you really need to lose your crown as the chain's premium club. Your other branches (Holborn and Spitalfields to name two) are way better - and cheaper too.

Over priced. Too busy.

Overpriced gym with terrible customer services. We were misinformed at sign-up about the flexibility of our memberships, the usual occupancy of the squash courts, which resulted in a quite bad experience and a lot of wasted money overall.

I have been a member of this gym for a year now, but there are concerning issues that are raising and I see they are being reported by other members, even in these reviews. The entire gym is a bit grotty and in desperate need remedial and decorating work. Although the training space is quite wide, equipment often breaks and is not taken care of for days. There have been some treadmills that have not been working for months now, and still there with a "do not use" sign on them. The changing rooms and showers are, frankly speaking, awful. A lot of lockers have been broken for months, and the changing areas are overall quite dirty and not looked after by staff. The showers are regularly broken, dirty, with mould in different cubicles. Some cubicles have been out of orders for months. The swimming pool looks nice, but what is missing is a sign to ask to shower before getting in: unfortunately, users get in the water after having sweated in the steaming room or sauna, so if you swim you would unfortunately feel the sweat. There is a column around the pool that had broken tiles for, I would say, more than 6 months, with tape around it. Although staff are nice, it is frustrating to see how very few of them greet you at reception, and it is even more frustrating to see how many of them are around and yet training equipment are not in order and changing rooms are untidy. I don't want to point a finger as, of course, the blame goes to users as well for not being tidy in first place, but we pay a fee to be in a gym that should function and be nice. Maybe the problem also goes back to fitness first and the contract they have with staff, but despite of that there is an evident lack of care for that facility.

Have been using this gym for a few months now, even though it is usually packed, there are enough alternative machines/equipment that you can get a decent workout. Don't expect a warm welcome - the reception staff are completely ignorant - most times there are 2-3 standing about chatting amongst theselves or doing nothing and still don't bother to acknowledge you when you check in. The personal trainers on the other hand are very nice.

I love this club, especially the reception team! they always make feel so welcomed when I go for my work out. They are very friendly and attentive, and always happy to help. Well done to Annie as well, her classes are powerful. Well done to all of you!

Seriously overpriced for what is offered. Facilities in general need to be cleaned more often and better. Personal trainers should show respect to all people, not only the ones they are training.

Do not trust the staff and read very well the contract before sing it or you will find a lot of surprises.

Apparently, there are thieves in the gym as someone must have stolen my phone in the locker room. The staff couldn't find it and I filed an incident report with the gym and a police report separately. The staff told me this has happened before, which is very unfortunate for a gym that is in the highest FF tier for things like these to happen multiple times.

Great gym but ruined by the staff that work there. Never experienced such a repeatedly set of rude staff at a gym, it's quite the shame but I can see my experience is not alone on here sadly.

Fitness First Cottons is AWESOME. Great atmosphere. Totally friendly, approachable and HELPFUL staff : which means everything. The equipment is top of the range with plenty of variety so you can mix things up. Plus there’s a pool! Great location too. Highly recommend you try it out.

Brilliant facilities and great staff, more expensive than your average gym but totally worth the premium.

a truly luxury gym. great team and everything you could possibly want - spread over two floors and multiple spaces. a large pool with a big sauna, squash courts, spin and cardio studios and an enormous gym floor mean you always get to do a great workout without waiting long for a piece of equipment. great location too - right outside London bridge station and steps from the river. can't recommend enough.

This gym being the flagship of Fitness First does need to be given more love and attention in terms of maintenance and upkeep as their other Tier 1 gyms are kept in a better state. Bonus points for a nice decent size pool to do some decent swimming laps. Their sauna is never hot enough to get a good sweat out of it. Something that badly needs to be resolved. The towels provided aren’t the best quality. It is thin and rough on the skin. Shower heads in the female changing rooms needs some proper clean from mould and limescale. Maintenance of their equipments are a hit and miss. I reckon a change of some better, newer machines might do the trick. Somehow as I’ve mentioned, their other tier 1 branches at Baker Street and Tottenham court road has a cleaner feel overall and seem better maintained than the flagship. I believe a flagship should be a pride and joy of any brand therefore it is imperative that more TLC is given above all. I don’t get the sense from this at Cottons.

Swimming pool is nice and big, and the whole gym is super spacious. However, when I was there the staff seemed like they wanted to be anywhere but there, and they didn't even provide me with a towel. They also charge you £5 for a padlock for the lockers if you don't bring your own, which I wasn't aware of until I got there. Was considering joining this gym, but after my experience I decided to sign up to Third Space instead, which costs a little more but is miles ahead in terms of services and amenities.

Very disappointed of this gym ( FITNESS FIRST) I have signed for six months for £80 but from my bank account they have take £ 115. I have send many messages but no one answer. I never recommend this place . Never go there again . Shame on you! No even facilities, nothing work properly there . Shame on you

Well-Rounded Fitness Experience I've been a member at Fitness First Cottons, and my experience has been nothing short of excellent. The facility is impressively clean, creating a welcoming atmosphere for workouts. The diverse range of high-quality equipment ensures there's always something for everyone. The staff members are not only knowledgeable but also friendly and approachable. Their dedication to assisting members adds a personal touch to the overall fitness journey. The variety of classes available caters to different fitness levels and preferences, making it easy to stay motivated. Fitness First Cottons goes beyond being just a gym; it's a holistic fitness destination. Whether you're a seasoned fitness enthusiast or just starting, this gym provides the tools and environment to help you achieve your fitness goals. Highly recommend for a well-rounded fitness experience.

I've experienced four sessions with Mark at Learn to Swim, and I can't express how amazing he's been from the very start. As someone who hadn't attempted swimming since childhood and felt a bit self-conscious about learning as an adult, Mark's approach made me feel incredibly comfortable. His guidance not only helped me overcome my fear but also boosted my confidence in the water. I genuinely look forward to our upcoming sessions. If you have any reservations about swimming, especially as an adult, Mark is undoubtedly the instructor you need. Mark consistently imparts valuable insights about swimming that have significantly improved my technique. His lessons are undeniably worth the investment. The streamlined booking process through the Learn to Swim app adds convenience, and the exceptional facilities, complete with clean changing areas and provided equipment, contribute to an overall excellent experience. I wholeheartedly recommend Mark to everyone—friends, family, colleagues, or even strangers. He's simply the best.

Reception staff.... Don't think informing classpass costumers of cancelled classes is Gyms job (it is in all other gyms). Not bothered at all of you travelling all the way there and back for nothing.

All of the front of desk staff and the staff in general are amazing however, one particular individual stands out for all the right reasons - Hannah. Hannah will always great guests with a smile and brighten their day. Consistently professional and funny. By far greatest gym in london.

Always a friendly welcome smile and helpful reception from Miss Devaldes on the front desk. James Potter has helped me to become the strongest and fittest I've been in my 38 years on the planet. Great gym.

I had an unpleasant experience with FF head office. I spoke with Laura who is the Member Services Manager for London Bridge Cottons, and honestly she's the reason I didn't end my membership. Laura listened and took the time to provide an explanation, demonstrating genuine empathy. She helped to provide a fair resolution for my concerns and did more than I expected to support me. She is truly a credit to FF, she epitomises what customer service should be and she quite clearly values members of her club.

no windows loud disgusting showers

As an American living in London, it was incredibly difficult to find a gym that had the quality and space that I’ve grown accustomed to living in the states. After being a member in several gyms in the city, Fitness First Cottons has exceeded my expectations on how a gym should operate in Central London. The customer service is especially extraordinary and I’m always greeted with a smile and the staff are always more than happy to assist with any trouble I may have. Hannah and Beth in particular, have consistently gone above and beyond their call of duty. I highly recommend this gym.

the worst fitness first club which claimed itself to a extraordinary tier zero

The best Fitness First gym in terms of equipment and facilities. It is one of the few FF gyms open on a Sunday which is a real plus. It's usually not too busy at the weekends although I can't speak for the weekdays as I only use it when the Bishopsgate gym is closed. The one criticism I have is thay I think the toilets and shower areas are poorly maintained in comparison to some of the other FF gyms in the area. Overall a great gym and would highly recommend.

To start with the positives, it is large space, a good variety of equipment with a large number of benches fora central London gym. Reception staff has always been friendly and helpful and joining and the leaving the gym were extremely simple for me. However, I do feel the gym has gone downhill. The toilets are more often than not very dirty with the shower floors becoming slimy and slippy. The gym itself is well equipped but machines remain broken for months on end which is extremely poor considering the monthly price. Moreover, certain personal trainers horde equipment at busy times. Certain mornings and evenings have also become so busy that any attempt at a proper workout has become impossible. Overall, quite an average experience at a high cost.

I only can agree with Larissa K, reception staff is either rude, unpolite and makes the impression that is doing the job forced by someone. But It's not only the reception but I was also mislead by sale team when I signed up. Long story anyway. There are just very ocasionally great staff members, which that's the reason I gave 3*, otherwise it would be 0 If I could. Thanx to Anne and her great classes.

Aggressive and misleading sales team

They have friendly and helpful employees. The classes are dynamic and the exercises change every week. They have also introduced a Salsa class that I love. One of the best gyms I have ever been to. The Spa area is spacious and the pool is always clean (difficult to find in other gyms). The PTs are nice and always ready to help you if you need it.

I've been going to the gym for a couple of months now and can't recommend it highly enough. As a previously active, though gym averse individual, I was initially drawn to the gym by the excellent swim classes provided by Mark at Learn to Swim Limited. I have since taken out a monthly membership to take advantage of the rest of the gym and am enjoying the lovely spacious atmosphere, the friendly staff and the incredible range of equipment available, providing endless ways to shape your training routine. Thanks guys!

My membership was transferred to this branch when my original branch was closed down just under a year a go. As a gym, it has everything you need....swimming pool/Badminton court/Studios and a wide arrange of equipment I could spend all day listing. They also have a wide arrange of classes you can take at various times day that works for you. I find the staff to be professional and friendly and the instructors very knowledgeable of the classes they conduct. The swimming pool is one of my favourites to use, though you have to time when to go due to it getting busy etc. You an finish of with a nice sauna or steam in the rooms provided. The shower facilities can be a bit of a let down as they do tend to have issues with cold water not working. All in all, I've come to like using this gym as it fits into work life balance.

Echoing other recent comments here, I only have negatives to say about Fitness First Cottons (ironically the “flagship location”) The biggest issue is hygiene and no hot water. The club and facilities are often dirty and unkept, and the hot water has barely worked over the past two months. I’ve emailed back and forth with the club manager and despite his replies saying it’s being fixed, it never is. I appreciate he may be doing all he can, but at some point corporate has to step in and update the facilities. I will be passing my complaints on to the Omsbudsman as at this point the club is not providing the services it agreed to in the membership agreement.

I go to Cottons London Bridge for my home gym, and if you enjoy occasional sauna therapy, then it is definitely worth the money. They have a decent-sized pool, one sauna, and one steam room (although sometimes the steam room is not working), but given that you have access to all Fitness First branches in London - overall it's definitely worth it.

My regular gym, great vibes can get busy in the afternoons but I dont mind. Swimming pool is quite warm which is okay in the winter, but tough in the summer. Love the classes, love the rox room and cool staff. Enjoy chilling in the sauna and steam after and having a chat. Could do with some loungers in the pool area and a water fountain!

They have only one thing in the shower booth: shampoo+bodywash 🧴

Very friendly staff! :) Jacob and Rocky have been digging a lot to find an item I lost! Thank you so much guys! 😊 my trainer Valter is amazing and the gym is very nice! :)

I’ve been training with Jack Morrissey for the last few months and can’t thank him enough for his help! I had a session once a week, and it was really the highlight of the day, Jack has always motivated me and pushed me to do my best but equally he listened to my feedback and never overly pushed me if I had a bad day and wanted to take it a bit easy. He is a perfect trainer if you are just starting out and not sure about your gym routine, he is great at creating the exercise plans and the areas that you need to focus on. Moreover he has a great personality and super easy to talk to. I definitely recommend!

Been going to this gym for 3 months about 4x a week and I really have no complaints other than the weight section could be slightly bigger. Staff are cool enough, facilities are good, sauna + steam room. You can’t go wrong

Member since I arrived to London. Little bit busy at first hour (7-9am) but is worth it. Good personal trainers, Will and Stefano, sympathetic and professional, and the best of all, the most wonderful moment of every morning: Elena saying good morning with his beautiful Spanish smile!!

Pool, big gym, good people, nice staff

What a joke this place is very rude lady at the reception refuse my entry because I had tear 2 membership although my usual club sent text message confirming I can use other club as they have issues with showers. Where is the loyalty and this is one of the reason this gym group suffering with a lot of gym closure. Shame as I have been member for several years now.

Best gym in the city! Why? The people!! All trainers and colleagues are lovely, very friendly and genuinely willing to help if you need advice or support with your health and wellbeing. I feel like going to my extended family, so good. Keep up the good work guys!

Equipment is great, gym is clean and well maintained, although the space would benefit from some more mirrors by lifting platforms. Reception staff are friendly and helpful. Where it falls down, like with all commercial gyms, is management's lack of encouragement for clientele (and personal trainers) to put equipment away or rerack weights. Some PTs are blinkered to their own planned sessions and lack the common courtesy to ask you if you're finished with equipment. However, this complaint is a staple of any commercial gym chain, and the problem is less pronounced here than at chains like pure gym.

Next to my work best gym

I enjoy flexing by the pool mainly

The best Fitness First gym in London. Great location with exceptional classes, and able to bring a guest every Friday. I became a member because of the facilities, but stayed a member because of the friendly greetings at reception. Elena is able to encourage, motivate and cheer you up all at once! Personal trainers, like Abiola are all beasts, very approachable and friendly.

I've been a member at this gym for a while now and I have to say that the gym facilities are amazing along with great classes. The best thing is the warm welcome for the reception team always happy and full of great energy. Big up Hannah when your next there she's amazing.

I used to go to the gym to get bigger. Now I just go to meet lovely Elena at reception.

Excellent gym.

Good gym. Can get busy but if you go at good times it's very decent

Decent place to workout

I had a great experience while I was in London. Swimming pool great, team always friendly and helpful and not to forget: the team who works "back stage" get my best recommendations – great support!!!

Was ok but very busy and hard to find

This is a Very good place to train or just to relax by the swimming pool after using the sauna and steam rooms. Highly recommend it.

Good.

Amazing little fitness world in the basement of Hays Galleria WOW!

I have been a loyal member for 10 years and as from the moment you walk through door the service manager Laura makes the experience both professional and fun, the good experience continues throughout the gym floor where there is a lot of equipment and the pool is 20 meters in length making it one of the best in central London. The overall experience being a luxury one and great value for money. The whole team works as dream making the members feel as family.

I've had a positive experience on multiple occasions. Would recommend. Favourite central London gym.

10/10 Gym really welcoming thank you

Great facilities and friendly staffs.

Great services! The gym is very spacious and clean, has lots of equipment. The staff members are extremely helpful.

I come here nearly everyday and the gym is always clean and COVID safe. Great equipment, lots of space and a big variety of classes. Most importantly, all the staff are welcoming and helpful.

I’ve been a member for years and the current manager is the friendliest of all, supported by a welcoming team. Post covid it’s a great place to work out with ready access to all equipment and plenty of pool space.

Brilliant gym, situated right opposite London Bridge station the facilities are top of the range and the team is fantastic especially Eduardo he is the best. 5 star everyday

Absolutely love training here ☺️ staff are very friendly and helpful! Just need more of Jahrels classes! He's the best 😀💃

The gym is very spacious and fully equipped. Everything looks clean and well maintained, the pool is crystal clear and most importantly the trainer are not pushy which is one of the main reasons why I've left my previous gym. The staff is friendly and always ready to give a hand. Also, love the steam room right next to the sauna.

Long time member here and for good reason. Its a great gym staffed by friendly, warm and knowledgeable people. Fantastic facilities including swimming pool, sauna and steam room which is just wonderful after a workout. I always leave feeling better than I did when I entered! Highly recommended!

I’ve been going to FF Cottons centre for more than 10 years. It’s a great gym, one of the best around in terms of equipment, space, different areas to work out in etc… It’s generally the “right” amount of busy… enough people training to have an atmosphere but not so many that you ever have to wait for a long time for equipment.

Fitnessfirst cottons is such a friendly and welcoming place, the staff are very helpful as I’ve received a lot of useful tips to get the most out of my workouts. The gym is very spacious so you have lots of room to workout and clean, the pool is a plus. You definitely get your moneys worth.

I Have been at Fitness First London Bridge Cottons for over 6 years. The Gym is convenient to London Bridge station. The gym offers a variety of Great workout areas for Cardio and Weights - also great free weight area. The Team are professional and friendly. Pool area is very spacious & clean. Good facilities to get washed before work.

I have been a member here for years - great gym! Big club, various studios, great variety of equipment, good swimming pool, sauna and steam room to relax after workout. Oh and the clean spacious changing rooms are great. Staff is always very friendly and helpful when needed.

Great gym, long term member. Excellent range of gym equipment, including free weights and cardio. Gym large, never too busy in the morning to work out. Would recommend.

Fitness First Cottons is my favourite place to train at! Incredible customer service. The staff are always so lovely and welcoming! Especially Hannah Edwards who always puts a smile on my face and makes my day just that little bit better. Facilities are excellent, so much choice of equipment and it’s always kept so clean and tidy! I love the vibe in this gym and it has great music.

I love this gym! The facilities are all of incredible standard (shower room is to die for), it’s super clean and well kept, and the staff are amazing. The space it big and has lots of great equipment. PTs work you hard but fair in classes with good energy. After workout lead by trainer Yvette I was feeling the DOMS for real, she’s epic. All around lovely team - super knowledgeable and keen. Couldn’t recommend enough!

What a great club! The staff are so friendly and helpful. As someone who is visually impaired this makes a nuge difference and this club is definitely one of the best fitness firsts I have been to. The club has everything you could ask for including great classes and I couldn't be happier!

An extremely nice and clean gym with a wide range of amenities. Very friendly and professional staff that have helped with anything I need - this gym is definitely worth joining. Valter is especially great and has really changed my outlook on fitness and training.

The staff here honestly put a smile on my face every single day! I've been coming here for a few years now and I've loved being a member here, I couldn't think of going anywhere else. Gym is always clean, great classes and a nice big pool which I love using on the weekends. Definitely recommend joining this gym!

I went for a swim session in the evening, the gym is very clean first of all and I was really impressed by the size of the changing rooms! The functional area is well structured and there is a variety of equipment available,the weight room however felt a bit crowded as most of the gyms The swimming pool wasn't crowded and had 4 swimming lanes available.

Very nice facilities and staff at the reception are always friendly, welcoming and very helpful especially when you arrive there on the first day. The swimming pool is good size and Mark is an excellent teacher. The changing rooms are spacious and the showers are very good, something important to me.

Amazing gym, lovely staff and awesome classes. Really glad I joined this gym. Was worried about joining a gym as I haven't been since before covid, but I've always felt welcomed and accommodated here. Thanks to Karl Blake Garcia for organising a free month for me after I recommended a friend to join!

Fitness First Cottons is a great fitness centre. I started attending for swimming lessons with Learn to Swim and experienced really welcoming and friendly staff, a high standard of cleanliness and changing room facilities and an excellent swimming pool. I would absolutely recommend this Fitness First branch.

I had a break from Fitness First for about 3/4 months because of other commitments but I have always really liked this gym and the environment. Everyone is welcoming and friendly and the PTs are always willing to help. Special shout-out for Jono who is great at what is does and always brightens up my day!

I'm extremely happy that I chose Learn to Swim at Fitness First. I've been very anxious in the water, having a bad experience when I was younger. I've tried swimming lessons at my local leisure centre and did not get anything out of it. Chosing Learn to Swim and Fitness First was the best choice I've made, Mark is an incredible instructor who has made me comfortable in the water and taught me the mechanics of swimming. I'm feeling more confident in the water and happy I made the best choice.

Amazing gym! Love trainning with Laura, one of the best personal trainer I came across with! She makes my weight loss programme so much exciting and fun. She keeps you going and to stay motivated each week. Very supportive and encouraging to push you to your limit. Her classes are very good too!

Fantastic gym - feels like a hotel! Pool is large and the spa (steam and sauna) are lovely and hot. The trainers there are all great - special shout out to Laura!

Currently really enjoying improvement swimming lessons with Mark and Learn to Swim, at Fitness First Cottons. Mark is very professional and also very personable, clearly born to teach. He’s hands on, in the water with me, setting fun tasks with various bits of kit and isolating different aspects for scrutiny. The 20m pool at Cottons Fitness First is very neat and kept at a very pleasant warm temperature, which is very welcome in these winter evenings (for general feeling, think Spa... rather than public leisure pool). It’s never too busy and I’ve often had the lane to myself. The changing rooms and facilities are excellent. The Fitness First staff are very welcoming, friendly and professional. The general vibe is positive, fun and well managed. The gym itself looks spacious, well equipped and is a bit of a hidden oasis, conveniently right beside London Bridge station but tucked away underground from the hustle & bustle above. Check it out :-)

I have been to the pool at this Fitness First a few times for swimming lessons. It's really conveniently located, extremely close to London Bridge station. The pool is a good size and never too busy after work in the evenings. The changing rooms are a good size, with plenty of lockers. Towels are provided which is definitely a plus!

It’s a great place for swimming! Particularly I have to say Mark is an incredible instructor, he has great knowledge of swimming ,and also very good at teaching swimming at a understandable and easy way! He always teaching me with great patience, and always standby for help! I didn’t know how to swim at all at the beginning, and I wasn’t confident enough to swim, but Mark teaching me in a very start way, made me feel very confident to swim, and he always encourage me. I learned how to swim very fast! I can’t believe!

I recently joined the gym and impressed by the open and clean space, lots of equipment and machines. Had a great PT session with Santiago (really recommend). However the nice feeling isn’t reflected in the shower area, mold in the ceiling, cold water and just some soap so if you’re looking for that nice spa feeling this isn’t the place. It’s those little details better gym offers like shampoo/conditioner/flat iron they lack.

Having swim lessons here with Mark Trude. Mark is an EXCELLENT swim coach. I had tried to self learn to swim using YouTube videos and trial and error before signing up to lessons with Mark and my swimming has come along leaps and bounds. His attention to detail and understanding of the challenges of you as a client is second to none. I would thoroughly recommend his swim coaching!

I was about to write a review for the other London Bridge Fitness First to learn that it closed in April! I will still post as the team and the manager Jacob may still be working at FF. This is what I was going to say - "I really like the layout of this gym, it’s quite small but each area is nicely sectioned over the floors and there’s a big variety of equipment to grab if you’re doing your own thing on the mats. The team have always been super friendly and upbeat which makes such a difference at 6.30-7am! Jacob the manager is awesome, after doing his class I had a question about improving wrist strength, I assumed he would explain 1 exercise with some advice but he gave me a good 30 mins of his time got the equipment out and showed me exercises that would help! His care and knowledge was truly great. I haven’t been to this gym in awhile as I move around London, but looking forward to going back as it’s always a great experience."

The gym is very comfortable and vibrant. It has everything you need for a good training session. Jacobs classes are really well structured and he’s very positive, funny and always helpful. He brights up my day!

We've been taking swimming lessons from Mark at the club - he is a really really fantastic teacher! After just 4 lessons, our swimming skills have improved massively. Mark's lessons are extremely focused and structured to meet individual goals. His methods are holistic and focus on developing your swimming and breathing techniques with some great theory and practice (including videos and demonstrations), while also reminding us to have fun and enjoy swimming! The pool and facilities are also very clean and tidy. I would highly recommend joining Learntoswim with Mark for anyone looking to learn or improve swimming skills!

Really good equipment and amazing classes but what a letdown the issues with the showers.. no hot water or very little and its been going on for weeks now. Despite multiple reports, the issue is still ongoing. Some are even out of order and the ceiling built up mold. Needs addressing immediately not acceptable considering the monthly fee.

Happy to join this gym after taking Mark’s swimming classes! And took one TraX challenge guided by Jacob, he is very nice, professional and engaging. Very nice experience.

I highly recommend the swimming lessons with Mark for any adult learning to swim for the first time or wanting to improve their technique. Mark is very knowledgeable, patient and friendly and makes all lessons very enjoyable. He gives great advice and helps you build your confidence in the water. The lessons are well planned out, structured and Mark breaks down all concepts in small steps making it easier to understand. The booking system is also very easy to use and the pool is very nice and clean. All other staff are also very friendly.

Fitness First is my happy place where I can come to relax and destress after work. The FF Team are incredibly kind and encouraging and their energy is infectious. Jacob, the manager, is an absolute ray of sunshine and is always ready to help clients and regular gym-goers alike achieve their goals and fulfil their potential. The gym facilities are extensive and maintained to a high quality. The changing rooms are kept very clean and there is a continual supply of towels.

The problem of no hot water in the changing rooms has persisted for more than five months, despite my numerous official complaints. Regrettably, the issue remains unresolved. Given this situation, I cannot recommend this gym to anyone considering joining or signing up. Despite being marketed as a premier fitness facility, it does not justify the monthly membership fees. From my perspective, the quality of the spa and gym facilities, as well as their cleanliness, has significantly deteriorated over the past year. This decline has reached an unacceptable level. Consequently, I am actively seeking alternative gym options.

The reason I am giving one start is very simple, the gym follows a predatory system where they over-contract to maximise profit. The downside of this is that clients are not able to user the services the gym is supposed to provide, unless the client shows up at strange hours such as 6am-7am or 10am-11am. I've showed up, believe it or not at some of those hours, and it seems others were doing the same thing as me to be able to workout, and I literally gave up going to this gym, literally wasting £1k. Main think I don't like about them is that they follow the year contract abuse, where even if you would want to end the contract you will not be able to, unless you paid already for the full contract, or will have to pay for the full duration, even though you were not able to use their services AT ALL on outside working hour time windows. They will reason that you can use their services, but at certain hours, but to do that basically you will have to quit your job. That is why this is a predatory system, and monthly systems were enforced by law, so that the most you can lose is £100, not £1k. Lesson learnt, but me or anyone I know will never join this gym ever, and I hope this review will discourage others from doing so also, unless they change their policy and allow to end contracts fairly, as they clearly know they are over-contracting. Gym area is way too small for free weights, not what someone would expect from a £115 per month. Showers damaged and not ever fixed. Pool is nice, but got ear infection after my first swim. (clearly not clean enough) Gym trainers take priority on machines over normal clients when they train their own clients, for some reason. Other than the above, the gym is ok-ish, but expensive for what it offers.