Written on: 18/05/2013 by Smartdoodle
Joined blackpool gym with my husband about 5 years ago and decided after a couple if years we didnt have the time to go so have our 3 month notice and left. A couple of years ago i had more time so went to rejoin. I was clearly told that as i was rejoining i wouldn't be tied into a 12 month contract and would only need to give 1 month notice to leave. I agreed to this so signed back up. Now 2 years later i found i am pregnant so wont be able to attend for a while. Sent in my months notice... (read more)
Written on: 13/05/2013 by MLH11
I'm a real admirer of Duncan Bannatyne so thought I would make use of his Inverness facility for gym and spa during my 3-month stay in Scotland. I went in with my toddler to request a price list. I was told that they did not have any prices available. The only way I could get prices was to have a consultation appointment or go online. With a tired toddler and a mother-in-law waiting outside in howling rain I told the person behind the counter that I didn't have time for a consultation and... (read more)
Written on: 03/05/2013
Must be expensive when their membership person refuses to tell you how much and insists you call in to be told. And persuaded?? (read more)
Written on: 09/04/2013
I was given a gift card from my brother for my birthday and a spa day for 2 from my sister. I purchased a gift card for my sister so we could go together and both have a treatment. I handed over my vouchers after having to purchase 2 x £3 for a towel and robe each, as I thought they would be included in a spa day and we didn't bring towels! The girl accepted my vouchers prior to any treatment.It wasn't until we passed reception an hour and a half later, on our way to purchase lunch, that I... (read more)
Written on: 14/05/2013
On our red letter confirmation it stated everything you need to bring towels, robes, slippers, flip flops and gym wear or you could paid £3 for the hire of a eco spa bag, slippers and robe.you got to keep the slippers and bag (THE BAG IS ON SALE FOR £3 ON THE WEBSITE ANYWAY)
paid £34 for a neck,shoulder and back massage also was given a mini scalp massage helped ourselves to hot chocolate, tea coffees and used all of the facilities I thought it was very good value
Written on: 09/04/2013
I joined three friends for a spa day deal at Bannatynes in Mansfield. The deal cost us £37.50 each including a 40 minute treatment. Upon arrival we went through the paperwork which was fine, the reception team were neither overly friendly or particularly rude. But then we were asked if we wanted to 'hire' robes and slippers for another £3. Erm, it's a spa day, one would have thought they would be included. Alas no. Further investigation revealed that towels weren't included either. Sorry... (read more)
Written on: 02/04/2013 by Stop
Poor- 3months tie in notice period, Club's going down hill, Membership transfers fee if you one leaves a joint membership and anther takes over, like a cheap airline that racks up the charges, No Ethics Business , Stop think do you really understand the contract, is it user friendly? (read more)
Written on: 03/04/2013
I hear Ab Salute Gym is coming to Lakeside late July with flexible memberships www.absalutegym.co.uk check it out :)
Written on: 28/03/2013 by Jawlker (1 review written)
I left Bannatyne's when I found the standard of yoga and other tutors for the classes was poor or it was impossible to easily book for the best ones. The notice period is ridiculous; to demand 3 months is just about money making and the staff denied they had received my letter which meant I paid for 6 months when I wasn't using it (£300!!!). Staff attitude and customer service on resolving issues like this was 'take it or leave it hard luck we have you on a binding contract. (read more)
Written on: 15/03/2013 by andreaappelt
I have purchased a gift voucher for 50 Pounds for my husband last year in march. Unfortunately with a very short notice he had to deploy to Afghanistan for over a year. During this time there was no chance for me as a single mom to use the voucher. My husband will now soon return.I really thought to finally use it now. I wasn't aware of the 6 month expiry upon purchase date. Most gift vouchers are good for at least 12 month. I contacted the Head office and explained my situation. I was... (read more)
Written on: 12/03/2013 by TheSnowDaddy (1 review written)
I work a lot from home, so I was not to keen on renewing my membership. I only really used it for the running machine and a little bit of weights. So when I thought about renewing my membership (I pay yearly which I would recommend to everyone) I popped in and spoke to this guy called [name removed] . He didn't see at all interested, just kept firing through the options. What made me a little disappointed is the sales attitude. He kept banging on about its only 4 ponds extra a month and... (read more)
Written on: 07/03/2013
Bannatynes Fitness make [name removed] look like a saint!!!!!! After 2 months of joining ,my medical condition got so bad I couldn't even get to the gym let alone use it, I carried on paying for another 6 months , without even setting foot in the place; then when I lost my job through my illness I stopped my direct debit as money was tight. I thought that was it for the payment side, but aparantly i needed to write to bannatyes as well, even then they would still take my money for 3 more... (read more)
Written on: 10/03/2013
Bannatyne Health clubs would be unable to take money from your bank account if you physically cancelled your dd, also if you just cancelled your dd after 8 months into your 12 month contract!!! without contacting them first you it is understandable that they believe you owe them money. people need to learn to read a contract!
Written on: 27/02/2013 by LisaFagher (1 review written)
I have just returned from Ballantyne Spa in Norwich absolutely gutted. This was my christmas present that we both took the day off work for. 1.We arrived at 11am - no parking. 2.Were guided through the restaurant bursting with mums and babies to a table next to a lady changing her baby's nappy on the floor - yuk ! 3.Filled out the forms while waiting for our complimentary coffees - ordered two white and received one white and one black as machine not working! 4.We were then given our... (read more)
Written on: 21/02/2013
Me and my partner recently joined Bannatynes at Mansfield after moving from another gym. It's a lovely place with all the facilities i would expect from a mid range gym. The class timetable is varied and great for early risers like me. The gym itself has some lovely new shiny equipment and plenty of it. The gym room isnt the most fancy room i've seen but it's ok and always very clean. The pool area is excellent and again always spotless, as are the changing rooms. The changing rooms... (read more)
Written on: 20/02/2013
Used a spa day voucher for me and my husband and wish we had chose another. The place is like a leisure centre screaming babies in the lounge and only place to eat or drink are noisy vending machines buzzing away in the lounge. Tv blaring and people being shown round for gym memberships. No one shown us how to use lockers as most have a pad lock so could not use these the coin operated ones were full and not clearly marked. The pool is nice but the man cleaning round us while we swam was... (read more)
Written on: 20/02/2013
Bannatynes in Eastbourne is a reasonable gym and facility BUT the whole Bannatyne cancellation policy thing is crazy. I have worked away for some time so finished my gym membership and was just thinking about rejoining a gym, suddenly remembered (as result of these helpful reviews ) the aggro I had when I wanted to finish my membership last time. So I will look at the local council run gym (Sovereign centre Eastbourne) or maybe the Grand Hotel both of which come highly recommended by... (read more)
Written on: 09/02/2013 by Truth1
I had been a member of bannatynes for three and a half years. I finally had enough of things constantly being out if order and having to share a pool in peek time, with mothers who bring their children along with all that's child's bath toys!! So I was swimming up and down with plastic donnasours, elephants you name it bobbing up and down the whole pool. With staff unwilling to do anything about it. So October 2012, I wrote to the Folkestone gym, explaining my problem and giving the 3... (read more)
Written on: 07/02/2013
Disgusting for a private gym!! Filthy with rude staff!! The domestic staff walk around like managers leaving filth everywhere!! I would NEVER recommend this company. I used to be a member of Virgin Health Club in London and for £5 more per month it was a pleasure to train at!!! The showers stink and are disgusting!! The pool walk way is foul!!! Dirt everywhere!! The sauna is never cleaned!! The reception staff are rude!! Don't waste your money!!! (read more)
Written on: 01/02/2013
I have been a member for a good part of a year and find the Staff (from Domestic to Management), Facilities and other Members excellent. My wife and I always look forward to our evenings at the club (3 times per week). For anyone joining Bannatynes at Worksop, all I can say is don't be put off by the other reviews, ask other people who have joined at Worksop. (read more)
Written on: 04/01/2013 by terry555555
Bannatyne Health Clubs In Grove Park is terrible,the people who working there all not friendly,also the manager sarah is awful ,not happy with their service :( (read more)
Written on: 27/02/2013
I agree.
most of the staff are rude and un-careing. i feel sorry for the domestic staff who try to do a fantastic job under poor conditions and i am sure they get a poor wage aswell. i just hope that the powers that be read this and take action...
Written on: 29/12/2012 by MimiTaylor
I wouldn't recommend this gym. Frequently service is given with a sneer rather than a smile, particularly by some of the gym instructors. The gym floor is pretty dark which can feel a little depressing. Although the free weights area is well equipped and pretty popular. There are a lot of cardio machines but I would appreciate a climbing machine rather than repeats of the same equipment. On the plus side there is a wide choice of TV and radio channels to watch when working out. (read more)
Written on: 20/12/2012 by Doctor2012 (1 review written)
When after 10 months of membership I unexpectedly found another job in a different area with no Bannatyne club closeby their reaction and behaviour was rude and unfair. I explained to them at the club and they said there was nothing to be done and I have to pay for the whole 12 months. They did not mention that I needed to give notice at 9 months in order to be able to leave at 12 months. Later they asked me not only to pay for 12 months but even more because I had not given notice at 9... (read more)
Written on: 10/03/2013
it is clearly stated in the contract those terms. 3months notice may be handed in from the ninth month any point after that it is 3 months notice at all times
Written on: 09/12/2012 by truthsayer3 (2 reviews written)
4th time I have been basically verbally attacked by the same nasty old lady at Bannatynes Banbury Club. Half way through my shower she was shouting from the other end of the changing rooms telling me a man was cleaning the toilets and changing rooms and left banging the door. Yes. This is fourth time she has done something like this and nothing was done despite an official complaint to the new manager Paul last time she was unprofessional and rude to her customers. The changing rooms (women)... (read more)
Written on: 19/10/2012
I joined in June and love the place. The facilities are excellent and very clean. All the staff are friendly and approachable, will pass the time of day. The pool, sauna, steamroom, relaxation room are a real treat. Its a little pricey but you get whato pay for. (read more)
Written on: 12/11/2012
This review seems to be an inside job and I am sure there are rules against this type of manipulation.. Conversations among members seem to revolve around the rudeness of majority of staff and unresponsiveness of the manager to comments, concerns and complaints as you can see from the rest of the reviews.
There isn't a reasonable quality gym for miles and Bannatyne are abusing their monopoly.
Written on: 16/01/2013
yes, probably its just wait until you want to cancell it
Written on: 02/10/2012 by Booth A (3 reviews written)
A tip for all of you who are trying to get out of contracts - offer to send in a petition - My club removed the scales from the changing rooms & replaced them with ones you have to pay £1. We used to get weighed all the time - not unreasonable in a gym - so it was going to cost us a fortune plus the new scales were inaccurate as they measure your height & gave me 3 different readings so BMI was wrong. We asked if the free scales could be put back alongside the new ones - as the decision... (read more)
Written on: 28/09/2012 by say.it.like.it.is
I attempted to cancel my membership with Bannatyne's about a week ago. I was aware of the 3 month cancellation policy (even if you're out of contract), so as soon as I found out I was moving I notified the club. I was advised that my last payment would go out on the 1st December and I could use the club until the end of December. I assumed that it would be 3 months from the date of cancellation, but low and behold, it's not. Apparently it's 3 months from your next payment, so if you... (read more)
Written on: 25/09/2012
I booked for a treatment for 9am and was told when I arrived that they had phoned my works at 5.30 pm knowing full well when they left the message nobody was there (as recorded message says works and offices closed at 4.30 pm and reopen at 9am. I send an email to Tamworth branch complaining and had now reply and then to head office complaining I didnt even get the courtesy of a reply off them. Although I have had no problem with treatments in the past I think they could have at least... (read more)
Written on: 01/09/2012 by maysm (1 review written)
I have been at the gym for about 10 weeks and although there were a few admin issues with my direct debit payment there is nothing I would complain about. I only use the gym facilities and all the staff I come across are very kind and helpful. Bannatyne offers a free of charge 6 week fitness review with one of the fitness advisors and for me without that I would be undoubtably lost. The fitness advisors give you a tailored workout to suit the goal you want to achieve. My fitness advisor is a... (read more)
Written on: 29/07/2012
After enjoying a spa day as a gift at the Quay Street gym, I decided to join the Chepstow Street gym due to location. During joining I was told exactly what I wanted to hear. This caused problems later. How the gym dealt with my complaints was to break into my locker remove my stuff and then when complaining about this to revoke my membership after accusing me quite unfairly and untruthly of swearing at a member of staff over the phone. I advised them to invest in staff training as, if this... (read more)
Written on: 09/01/2013
I agree, Chepstow service does not match the other Manchester Gyms. I find the towel inconsistancies silly.
The staff are snotty and sadly so are a number of the members (clique). Even more annoyingly is the instructors favourtism with the clique who are at the front of every class. Ignoring anyone else in classes who might be struggling or need advice.
There is a lot of changing room birchiness.
The location and validated parking is the only advantage to this gym. Though the lady with short blonde hair on reception is lovely.
Avoid this gym if you are new or a first time gym member, its not friendly at all. Whereas Quay street and Whitworth are.
Written on: 28/01/2013
Hi
I signed up to the chingford branch in November 2012, I informed the staff that I was expecting to relocate in the new year and was told told that it would not be a problem to cancel my membership in the first three months, I have the document to prove that this was said to me. I have again been relocated and there is not a bannatyne gym where I will be moving. I have made numerous phone calls and each time have been told to send an email which I have done and I am still awaiting a response. After reading the comments posted it seems that I am not the only person struggling with the customer service received and the lack of response from head office to resolve this issue.
Written on: 28/07/2012
We enjoyed our time at Bannatynes today. But we felt that there wasn't enough facilities there for people on a spa day. At the steam room, sauna and jacuzzi you could only fit a few people in and we were finding we had to queue to use these facilities. The relaxation room was full, and as we could not lounge round in our swimwear we had to get dressed constantly. As there were no robes available all day either. The swimming pool was restricted due to children's swimming lessons and groups... (read more)
Written on: 30/06/2012
The gym was alright, plenty of good machines, however the whole thing feels like a but of a con, I would advise that you read all the small print before taking out a membership. The staff are rude and they snap at you, overall not a great experience. I wasted my money, I would advise finding a small, local gym. It will be a lot friendlier. Who needs state of the art gym equipment, when you do not feel welcome. (read more)
Written on: 08/06/2012
Great gym, great staff, especially on reception! They all know my name, know what classes to book for me before i ask, i've been a member for years and just had a great time today and thought i'd share for a change. If you're thinking of joining a gym, look here first, the little extra you pay is well worth it when you look at the extra quality of equipment, staff and cleanliness you receive. Be back again tomorrow for zumba. Pat (read more)
Written on: 08/06/2012
Bannatynes Ashford certainly needs an update in the changing room showers. Clear glass where bums have rubbed against it allows views into next cubicle Lovely!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (read more)
Written on: 28/05/2012
Wow! What a fantastic day me and my partner had at Bannatyne, Peterborough. We were greated by a very friendly and smiley receptionist, who gave us all the info we would need for our spa day. This was also followed up by a tour of the centre by 'Johnny' also a very friendly, informative member of staff. The gym here is nothing short of awesome!! It's huge, has plenty of machines and weights, plenty of water fountens etc etc, staff were also always on hand, should we have needed any advice.... (read more)
Written on: 21/05/2012
I booked an eyebrow tint online but when calling up to check whether I needed a patch test beforehand, I was put through to the call centre. I was then on hold for 45 minutes and then got the message that the call centre was now closed! Unbelievable that you can't even get through to ask someone a very simple question! I have never had this experience at any salon before - this is the first time I have booked to go to Bannatyne's spa and it will certainly be the last! (read more)
Written on: 23/05/2012
Which Spa?
Ive used the one in Barnsley loads of times and they've been great.
Definitely recommend you try this one, most of my friends go too
George x
Written on: 21/05/2012
Fantastic, been a member for 5 years now and just had my fitness review done for the 3rd time this year ( at no extra cost i might add). Fitness instructor Russ was great, knows me by name and always makes the sessions fun and motivating. The facilities are great, but best thing is how welcoming the staff are, from reception to cleaners to fitness. Couldnt be happier and would recommend it to anyone. (read more)
Written on: 20/05/2012
Gym at Stotfold GL14. Dont go there absolute terrible attitude from the manageress. She is all nice when she wants to get you to purchase a membership, but beware, a real nasty piece of work! This has left a bad taste and would never recommend this gym. The gym itself is nice inside, but the atmosphere takes away all of that. (read more)
Written on: 13/05/2012 by mrsgreen
joined the gym at the start of the year at Dodworth the staff was brilliant while i was joining but soon found out they have a terrible attitude and most of them seem like they really do not want to be there cannot wait until my membership is over will not be joining again which is a shame as the gym itself is excellent (read more)
Written on: 30/04/2012
I stopped going a couple of years back to the Brindley Place gym. Classes were OK, but often no lockers available, equipment too busy, changing room stank at times and more than once the showers were out. I have just received notice of a CCJ - pay £200 or else. Don't touch them with a barge pole. just a money making machine. (read more)
Written on: 19/04/2012
nice enough gym with great pool -but was disgusted with the lengths i had to go to- just to prove i had a broken ankle - although they finally cancelled my membership with a little £95 fee! cheers bannatyne! (read more)
Written on: 16/04/2012 by Bham.sportsman
Wet areas i.e steam room, sauna are in poor condition. You have to give your card to get a towel and then bring your dirty towels all the way to the front desk to get back your card. When you complain saying that they should find a more customer friendly way to manage their towels, they claim that this is a best practice! Is this a joke?? Sadly not. (read more)
Written on: 14/04/2012
Booked Spa Days at Bannatynes twice now in Inverness and Edinburgh Centre and both times have been bad. Both occasions treatments booked were changed on the day. Website offers misleading to what get on the day. Staff unhelpful and stick to the line, no goodwill shown in light of mistakes and misunderstandings. Confusion over payments, taking twice and weeks spent out of pocket. Shame, very frustrating when should have been a nice treat. (read more)
Written on: 14/04/2012 by Kevy89
Started off well but when it came to cancelling it became a nightmare. When joining you sign a contract for 12 months, stating that you must give 90 days notice prior to cancelling ( Biggest rip off I have ever came across) How they can justify this, I don't know! And if you decide to give one months like I initially did - they pester you for the remainder until they threaten to issue a CCJ on you. If you want my advice, stay well clear of Bannstynes Fitness, they should wear a mask when... (read more)
Written on: 10/03/2013
you just decided! you signed a contract and have stated in your comment that you knew it was 3 months notice of course the company will chase you for the rest of the money you signed to say you would pay?!?!
Written on: 29/03/2012
Partially agree with Pencilpoppy, I have recently joined Banbury. When you join you are suggested that you will be made very welcome. Often reception is left empty during evenings, and for high charges they have for memberships I struggle to see where that money goes. PLEASE PLEASE install wifi in the building (Its 2012!!!) (read more)
Written on: 21/03/2012 by Pencilpoppy40 (1 review written)
I recently rejoined Bannatynes in Banbury. Manager who initially saw me was very efficient and friendly but almost too quick to get rid of me. Essentially the customer is not left feeling special. Went to changing rooms and overheard two women saying how dirty the place had become. Used the gym - great. Swimming pool and jacuzzi - great. Went for a bite to eat - not so good. Watched from the eating area with interest. Customers left at 'bar' area with no one serving. Phone rings for ages.... (read more)
Written on: 13/03/2012
I was a member of the bannatynes gym at Wakefield for 3 years, very clean and all equipment was well maintain and very friendly staff. The ony problem i had with bannatynes was when it come to canceling my contract, you have to give 3 months notice, which i did in writting but they then claimed that i had not given any notice at all and was trying to get me to pay a further 3 months of fee's. i sent email's and letters to the gym explaning that i had given them notice so i was not going to... (read more)
Written on: 17/03/2012
Interesting. I have a Bannatynes down the road and expressed interest in joining a few years ago. I was very put off by the fact that they can't (or won't!) give you a simple breakdown of monthly/annual fees. I was told I would have to book a tour first but, if it was out of my price range why would I want to see it? And of course when I finally got some information it is indeed an expensive option. I decided not to join as I couldn't tie myself into the minimum contract and I was very wary of their attitude. I don't like companies which don't make their pricing clear from the start. I have since been rung three or four times to see whether I am interested in joining. Ultimately it is not the price that has put me off. It is this sort of obscure policy. I sense there would be trouble if you didn't read the small print with a microscope and therefore will keep away from it.
Written on: 09/03/2012 by Sue_of_Reading
We booked this as a relaxing treat for my husband and I. All the staff from reception, treatment rooms, pools and cafe area were polite, sociable proffesional and helpful. Everywhere in the facility was of a high standard and spotlessly clean. This proved to be a lovely and relaxing experience, and we have no hesitation at recommending this facility, or revisiting it again ourselves. (read more)
Written on: 17/05/2012
I guess that this last comment was written by Bannatyne himself! It is inconsistent with the other remarks.
I was looking for a gym and only wanted to find out the cost and fell upon this page. I've decided not to go any further in view of the above comments.
Written on: 03/03/2012 by simbo54 (4 reviews written)
So bannatynes is pricey, damn pricey, but its is also really good. The staff are lovely, facilities even better and they have helped me lose loads of weight which is great. (read more)
Written on: 02/03/2012 by clare2011 (8 reviews written)
I visit Bannatynes in Inverness every day and I am not going to give a bad review of Bannatynes just because of one or two unpleasant staff members. I find the value for money exceptional and the staff for the most part are very friendly. If you be reasonable with them then they will be reasonable with you. In particular I would like to compliment manager Paul Sanderson of the Inverness Bannatynes who has been particularly helpful to me. I believe it is extremely good value for money and... (read more)
Written on: 29/02/2012 by godsnafu
I very nearly wrote a length review regarding the experience I had working there. But felt it unnecessary, and unfair. So I shall leave it to your own experience. However, all I do ask is that you bare in mind those you see working within the clubs and spas are paid minimum wage, and told how to run their facilities, and have very little impact on any serious changes. You'll have to climb the ladder to find anyone with any real authority. Cheers. (read more)
Written on: 02/03/2012
Totally agree with having to climb the ladder. I have to use the disabled changing room at Bannatynes. Now I am not 'obviously' disabled ie in a wheelchair or something like that, but anyway a rather unpleasant domestic called me an effing B for using it and saying it was only for disabled people. On explaining what my disability was he replied 'I don't give a monkeys' so my next stop was the manager.
Written on: 25/02/2012
My daughter and I went to Dannatynes in darlington for a Spa Day.We had never been to a health club before but were amazed at how relaxed and peaceful the atmosphere was.We were given fluffy robes and slippers and full access to the facilities.we had our spa treatments which was a massage and a facial which was amazing then we were free to use the pool jaccuzzi and sauna.The relaxing room was so nice and peaceful.We didnt use the gym but there was no one in there so we would have had the... (read more)
Written on: 18/02/2012 by Laurajane1985
I'm not sure where all the previous moaners were but they can't have been at the same place my fiancé and I went on Friday 17th Feb 2012. Reception were polite and helpful, let us get on with our spa day. The pool had a ladies aqua aerobics class which we were told about, we went in the jacuzzi to wait which was so warm and relaxing! Had a lovely swim after the class had finished and used the sauna and steam room too! All facilities were the size you would imagine for a gym/spa and were no... (read more)
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Billie-Leigh's Comment
Written on: 11/04/2013
This company should be ashamed expecting you to pay £42 when they already had been paid by your brother.