World’s first YMCA shut down for good after 180 years in...

The world’s first YMCA will close its doors for the final time after a failed injunction and be sold to a ‘hotel chain’ in London after running for 180 years. The Central YMCA, which opened originally in 1844, has been forced to close its doors due to ‘soaring maintenance costs and demographic changes’. This is despite becoming central London’s largest gym, including a 25-metre swimming pool, a sauna, a steam room, six exercise studios and a cycling studio.

Image Credit: Metro [Central YMCA premises on it's original and first site on Great Russell Street on 4th December 2023 in London, United Kingdom. YMCA, sometimes regionally called the Y, is a worldwide youth organisation with more than 64??million beneficiaries in 120 countries and founded by George Williams in London, originally as the Young Men's Christian Association. (photo by Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty Images)]

The current site at 112 Great Russell Street opened in 1978 but has been sold to real estate company Criterion Capital. Club member Patrick Joy filed an injunction application in the High Court, but it failed. YMCA CEO Ryan Palmer said: ‘It is with a heavy heart that we close the doors for the final time. We are deeply saddened at the closure of our Great Russell Street site, and recognise the loss to the local community.

Image Credit: Metro [LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 31: Supporters of the central London YMCA building protest at the High Court in support of an injunction being sought to stop Criterion Capital from selling the premises at High Court on January 31, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Guy Smallman/Getty Images)]

‘The site has supported positive change for so many individuals over the years.’. Loyal members began a petition to save the club before its closure. Joshua von Uexkull, who started the petition, wrote: ‘The sale of the Central YMCA Club to a hotel prioritises tourists over Camden’s local community. ‘This decision reflects a growing trend where Camden’s community spaces, youth clubs, health facilities, and swimming pools are being lost to developers at an alarming pace.

‘We cannot afford to lose another irreplaceable venue. The Central YMCA Club is more than just a gym; it’s a cornerstone of our community, providing opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to thrive.’. To get the latest news from the capital visit Metro's London news hub. Two other locations remain in London in Kings Cross and Moorgate. Got a story? Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. Or you can submit your videos and pictures here.

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