Up until 1880, this cove was used by men and women for bathing – but at different times of day, except for 6 – 7.30 am when mixed bathing was allowed. After this time, it was for ladies only. This source provides a view of three bathing machines which are evidence of Victorian anxiety about exposing their bodies to the world. The machines were lowered into and raised from the water using ropes attached to wooden capstans. This photo along with other sources could be support pupils in writing an account of a day at the seaside.