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London’s Premium Public Restrooms: Influencer Investigates High Cost of Covent Garden Facility
London is reportedly home to one of the UK’s most expensive public restrooms, according to social media personality Callum Ryan. Intrigued by the claim, he visited the location to determine if the facilities justified the elevated price.
The need for restroom access is a universal experience. While complimentary facilities in cafes or shops are sometimes available when out in public, this is not always guaranteed.
While some public restrooms remain free of charge, others require payment. According to the online content creator, 2theloo in Covent Garden is purportedly the “most expensive place to use a public toilet in the UK.”
Documenting his visit to the ‘toilet store’ on TikTok, Ryan demonstrated the £1.50 entry fee required before accessing the facilities. Once inside, he conveyed considerable approval.
Inside the Expensive Restroom: Cleanliness and Amenities
Ryan detailed the restrooms as consistently clean and well-supplied with toilet tissue. Each cubicle was also equipped with a hook for personal items such as jackets or bags. He commented, “To be honest, it’s not bad, especially considering the price. It’s clean, which is paramount; it’s not unhygienic.”
Unexpected Comforts and Retail Offerings
Adding to the positive aspects, Ryan noted a surprising feature: a heater, describing it as “quite a pleasant addition.”
The restroom also functions as a retail space, offering items ranging from sanitary products to beverages. Each wooden cubicle also features decorative elements.
Industry Perspective on Premium Public Toilets
Raymond Boyd Martin, head of the British Toilet Association, stated in 2022 to The Sun that “The Covent Garden toilet is the most expensive restroom in Britain.”
He further elaborated, “Many individuals begrudgingly pay £1 [at that time], but this reflects the cost of maintaining a high standard of hygiene in a public restroom.”
Public Reaction: Cost vs. Cleanliness Debate
On TikTok, reactions in the comment section to the price point were varied. Many users expressed shock at the cost, with comments such as “Paying to use the toilet shouldn’t be necessary.” Another user exclaimed, “That price is outrageous!” One commenter stated, “I refused to pay and left.”
Conversely, some respondents indicated a willingness to pay for guaranteed cleanliness. One user wrote, “I would pay that if they are indeed clean! Public restrooms are often so filthy that I avoid them.” Another echoed this sentiment: “Definitely justified for a clean facility.” A third commenter agreed, “I would gladly pay for this service if it ensures spotless restrooms.”
2theloo’s Vision for Public Restrooms
Covent Garden’s official website describes the restrooms as ‘award-winning’. Upon the opening of the Covent Garden location, 2theloo stated, “Our aim is to maximize the public restroom experience.”
They further elaborated, “Our restrooms undergo cleaning after each use, feature thoughtful design, are spacious, soundproof, and incorporate touch-free technology. Our restroom philosophy is centered on collectively reshaping global perceptions of public toilets.”
2theloo launched its inaugural ‘toilet store’ in Amsterdam in 2012 and has since expanded to over 175 locations worldwide.