David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest facility in Bicester, a £12.5 million project designed to offer comprehensive health, wellness, and leisure services. The new club, which is the 104th in the UK for the group, has created approximately 80 new jobs in the local area.
The state-of-the-art venue features a wide array of amenities, including advanced gym equipment, multiple swimming pools, a luxury spa, and extensive racquet sports facilities. The development aims to provide a premium destination for families and individuals focused on fitness and well-being in Oxfordshire.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £12.5 million facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The project has generated around 80 new full-time and part-time employment opportunities.
- Key features include a 100-station gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, and Padel tennis courts.
- The club is designed to cater to all ages, with dedicated zones for children and family-friendly amenities.
A Detailed Look at the New Bicester Facility
The newly constructed David Lloyd Bicester club offers a broad range of modern fitness and relaxation amenities. Central to the facility is a large, 100-station gymnasium equipped with the latest fitness technology, including cardio machines, weightlifting areas, and functional training zones.
Members have access to both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The 20-meter indoor pool is designed for lap swimming and lessons, while the heated outdoor pool provides a year-round leisure swimming experience. These aquatic facilities are complemented by a dedicated kids' splash pool.
What is Padel Tennis?
Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is played on an enclosed court about one-third the size of a tennis court and is known for being easy to learn and highly social. Its inclusion reflects a growing trend in UK leisure facilities.
Racquet Sports and Group Fitness
The club places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. It includes several tennis courts and has also invested in three Padel tennis courts, catering to the rapidly growing popularity of the sport. Professional coaching is available for members of all skill levels in both tennis and Padel.
For group exercise, the facility houses multiple studios. These include a high-impact studio for classes like HIIT and BodyPump, a dedicated cycling studio, and a Mind & Body studio for yoga, Pilates, and meditation sessions. The club offers a packed schedule of more than 100 weekly classes.
Luxury Spa and Wellness Amenities
A significant portion of the investment was directed toward creating a premium spa area, known as the Spa Retreat. This section of the club is designed to provide a tranquil environment for relaxation and recovery.
The Spa Retreat features a range of hydrotherapy facilities, including a large hydro-pool. Members can also use multiple saunas, steam rooms, and an ice fountain. The area includes heated relaxation beds and an outdoor spa garden, providing a quiet space away from the main club activities.
Investment and Economic Impact
- Total Investment: £12.5 million
- Jobs Created: Approximately 80
- UK Club Number: 104th David Lloyd Club in the UK
- Weekly Classes: Over 100 scheduled sessions
The inclusion of such extensive wellness facilities aligns with a growing industry trend that sees consumers seeking holistic health solutions that combine fitness with mental well-being and recovery.
Family-Oriented Features and Social Spaces
David Lloyd Bicester is structured to accommodate families and provide a community atmosphere. The club includes dedicated DL Kids facilities, offering activities and coaching for children aged three months to 16 years. This allows parents to use the gym or attend classes while their children are supervised.
"Our goal was to create a destination that caters to the entire family's health and wellness needs," stated a David Lloyd spokesperson. "From our state-of-the-art gym and spa to our comprehensive children's programs, we want to provide a space where the community can come together to stay active and socialize."
Beyond the fitness areas, the club features a large Clubroom. This space functions as a café, bar, and restaurant, offering a menu for adults and children. It is designed as a social hub where members can work, relax, or spend time with family and friends after a workout.
The facility also includes an indoor soft play area for younger children and a dedicated business hub with complimentary Wi-Fi, providing a quiet space for members who need to work remotely.
Community and Membership Information
The opening of the Bicester club represents a significant investment in the local economy, not only through the initial construction but also via ongoing employment and local supply chain engagement. The creation of 80 jobs covers a range of roles, from fitness coaching and hospitality to management and maintenance.
According to the company, the club has seen strong interest from the local community since its announcement. Membership packages are available for individuals, couples, and families, providing varying levels of access to the facilities.
The strategic location in Bicester, a growing town with significant residential development, positions the club to serve a large community. The development is part of David Lloyd Leisure's broader strategy of expanding its footprint in key regional hubs across the United Kingdom.
