David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £15.5 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's third in the Edinburgh area and 104th in the UK, has created approximately 80 new jobs and offers a wide range of premium fitness, spa, and family-oriented amenities.
The club aims to serve the growing communities of Shawfair, Dalkeith, and the wider Midlothian region, providing a comprehensive destination for health, relaxation, and social activities. The opening marks a significant expansion for the David Lloyd brand in Scotland.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £15.5 million in a new club located in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The facility has generated around 80 full-time and part-time jobs for the local community.
- Features include a 10,000 sq ft gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa garden, and extensive racquet sports facilities.
- The club is designed to be family-friendly, with dedicated kids' zones, activities, and a crèche.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The new David Lloyd Shawfair represents a significant commitment to the region's health and leisure infrastructure. The £15.5 million project was developed to meet the increasing demand for high-quality, family-focused wellness facilities in the expanding residential areas south of Edinburgh.
Construction of the purpose-built club was completed on schedule, delivering a modern and spacious environment for members. According to company officials, the Shawfair location was strategically chosen to cater to new housing developments and provide a central hub for local residents.
"We are thrilled to bring our premier health and wellness experience to the Shawfair community," stated Michelle Chambers, General Manager of David Lloyd Shawfair. "This club is more than just a gym; it's a place for families to spend quality time together, for individuals to achieve their fitness goals, and for everyone to relax and socialise."
The creation of 80 jobs spans various roles, including fitness coaches, spa therapists, children's activity leaders, and hospitality staff. This provides a welcome boost to the local economy and offers new employment opportunities in the leisure sector.
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Training Facilities
At the core of the new club is an expansive 10,000 square foot gymnasium. The gym is equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands, ensuring members have access to top-tier equipment for all types of workouts.
The space is organized into distinct zones to cater to different training styles. These include a large cardio area with treadmills, cross-trainers, and bikes, alongside extensive strength training equipment and a dedicated free weights section. A specialized functional fitness area provides space for dynamic workouts using equipment like kettlebells, plyometric boxes, and suspension trainers.
Fitness at a Glance
- Gym Size: 10,000 sq ft
- Group Studios: 4 (High-Impact, Mind & Body, Cycling, BLAZE)
- Personal Trainers: Team of certified coaches available
- Signature Classes: BLAZE, IGN1TE, SPIRIT, and Cyclone
In addition to the main gym floor, the club features four purpose-built group exercise studios. A high-impact studio hosts energetic classes like IGN1TE, while a Mind & Body studio offers a tranquil setting for yoga, Pilates, and the new SPIRIT class. There is also a dedicated indoor cycling studio for classes like Cyclone and Rhythm, and a bespoke BLAZE studio for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts.
Comprehensive Aquatics and Spa Amenities
The aquatic facilities at David Lloyd Shawfair are a central attraction, designed for both fitness and relaxation. The club includes a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, as well as a shallower, warmer indoor family pool.
A key highlight is the heated 20-meter outdoor pool, which allows for year-round swimming. Adjacent to the outdoor pool is a dedicated kids' splash pool, providing a safe and fun area for younger children during warmer months.
The David Lloyd Spa Garden Concept
The Spa Garden is a signature feature of newer David Lloyd clubs, designed to offer a premium, resort-style relaxation experience. It combines indoor thermal facilities with outdoor elements, creating a seamless transition between different relaxation zones. This concept aims to provide a sanctuary for members to de-stress and recover, separate from the main fitness areas.
The Luxury Spa Garden
For adults seeking tranquility, the club boasts an extensive indoor and outdoor spa. The centerpiece is the Spa Garden, which features an outdoor hydro pool, comfortable lounge beds, and a relaxing sauna cabin.
Inside, the spa facilities continue with:
- A crystal steam room
- A Himalayan salt sauna
- An invigorating ice cave
- A deep relax room with heated beds
These amenities provide a comprehensive thermal spa journey, designed to promote relaxation, muscle recovery, and overall well-being. The spa is reserved for adult members, ensuring a peaceful environment.
Family and Racquet Sports Focus
David Lloyd Clubs are known for their strong emphasis on racquet sports and family activities, and the Shawfair location is no exception. The club offers a full range of facilities to cater to all ages and skill levels.
Racquet Sports
The club features three indoor tennis courts and three outdoor courts, allowing for play in any weather. It also includes four badminton courts and two squash courts. A team of professional coaches is on-site to provide lessons for both adults and children, from beginners to advanced players.
The comprehensive racquet program is designed to encourage participation and skill development within the community.
Facilities for Children and Families
A significant portion of the club is dedicated to younger members. The DL Kids program offers a structured schedule of activities for children aged 3 to 11, including sports, arts and crafts, and imaginative play. A large indoor soft play frame provides a space for children to play freely.
For parents with very young children, an on-site crèche is available, staffed by qualified childcare professionals. This service allows parents to enjoy the club's facilities while their children are cared for in a safe environment.
Social and Work Spaces
Beyond fitness, the club is designed as a social hub. The spacious Clubroom serves as a central point for members to eat, drink, and socialize. It features a restaurant offering a full menu of meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the day.
An adults-only area provides a quiet space for relaxation or work. The club also includes a dedicated business hub with workstations, charging points, and complimentary Wi-Fi, catering to members who wish to work remotely in a comfortable setting.
The combination of fitness, relaxation, and social spaces positions the new David Lloyd Shawfair as a comprehensive lifestyle destination for the Midlothian community.