David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest facility in Reading, Berkshire, following a £25 million investment. The new club, located at the Thames Valley Park, is expected to create over 100 permanent jobs and provide extensive health, wellness, and leisure amenities to the local community.
The state-of-the-art facility is the company's 103rd club in the United Kingdom and is part of a broader strategy to expand its premium family-oriented leisure offerings. The opening marks a significant addition to the area's recreational infrastructure, catering to a growing demand for comprehensive wellness services.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd has opened a new £25 million leisure club in Reading, Berkshire.
- The facility is located at Thames Valley Park and has created over 100 jobs.
- Features include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a large gym, spa facilities, and dedicated family areas.
- The club is the 103rd David Lloyd location in the UK, reflecting continued company expansion.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Reading club represents a substantial financial commitment from David Lloyd Leisure. The £25 million investment has been used to construct a facility designed to meet modern wellness standards and provide a wide range of activities for all age groups.
Construction of the multi-purpose site focused on creating distinct zones for fitness, relaxation, and family activities. According to company representatives, the goal was to build a community hub where members can focus on their physical and mental well-being in a premium environment.
"Our aim with the Reading club was to create more than just a gym. It’s a destination for families and individuals to connect, relax, and pursue a healthy lifestyle," stated a spokesperson for David Lloyd Leisure.
The creation of over 100 new jobs is a significant economic benefit for the Reading area. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to administrative and operational staff, providing diverse employment opportunities within the local community.
Extensive Facilities and Member Offerings
The new club offers a comprehensive suite of amenities designed to cater to a broad membership base. The design prioritizes space and quality, ensuring a premium experience for all users.
By the Numbers: Reading David Lloyd Club
- Total Investment: £25 million
- Jobs Created: Over 100
- Gym Size: 12,000 sq ft
- Tennis Courts: 5 (indoor and outdoor)
- Swimming Pools: 2 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor)
Members have access to a large, modern gym equipped with the latest fitness technology. The facility also includes dedicated studios for group classes such as yoga, Pilates, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). The club's digital platform allows members to book classes and track their fitness progress seamlessly.
Swimming and Racquet Sports
A key feature of the new club is its extensive aquatic facilities. A 25-meter indoor swimming pool is available for lane swimming and lessons, while a 20-meter heated outdoor pool provides a year-round leisure swimming option. A separate indoor splash pool is available for younger children.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the club includes several championship-standard tennis courts, both indoor and outdoor. Squash and badminton courts are also available, supported by a coaching program for players of all skill levels. According to the club, these facilities are designed to support both casual play and competitive training.
Focus on Family and Relaxation
David Lloyd has consistently positioned its clubs as family-friendly destinations, and the Reading location continues this tradition. The facility includes a dedicated DL Kids area, offering activities and coaching for children while parents use the club's other amenities.
A crèche service is also available, providing professional childcare for the youngest members. The club's restaurant and lounge area, known as the Clubroom, offers a social space for families to dine and relax together.
The Growth of the UK Leisure Industry
The UK health and fitness market has seen consistent growth, with an increasing focus on holistic wellness that combines physical activity with mental relaxation and social connection. Premium leisure clubs like David Lloyd are capitalizing on this trend by offering comprehensive facilities that go beyond a traditional gym, incorporating spas, family areas, and social spaces to create a complete lifestyle destination.
Beyond fitness, the club places a strong emphasis on relaxation and recovery. The integrated spa facility, known as the Spa Retreat, is a central component of the wellness offering. It includes:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- An ice fountain and feature showers
- Heated relaxation beds
This spa area is designed as an adults-only sanctuary, providing a quiet space for members to de-stress and rejuvenate. The availability of such high-end relaxation facilities is a key differentiator in the competitive leisure market.
Strategic Location and Future Outlook
The choice of Thames Valley Park as the location for the new club is strategic. The business park is a major employment hub in the region, providing a large potential membership base of professionals working nearby. Its accessibility from Reading and surrounding areas also makes it a convenient choice for local residents.
The opening of the Reading club is part of David Lloyd Leisure's ongoing expansion. The company continues to identify new locations and invest in upgrading its existing portfolio to meet the evolving demands of its members.
As the wellness industry continues to grow, facilities that offer a comprehensive and high-quality experience are well-positioned for success. The new Reading club, with its significant investment and extensive range of amenities, reflects this industry trend and strengthens David Lloyd's presence as a leader in the UK's premium leisure sector.