Tag: Edinburgh Leisure

£0 Joining Fee This May: Edinburgh Leisure encourages the capital to Keep Moving and Keep Going 

After trying new ways to move this spring, Edinburgh Leisure is inviting the city to keep going. Throughout May, new customers can join Edinburgh Leisure with a £0 joining fee, making it easier than ever to turn new routines into lasting habits.

The limited‑time offer removes a key barrier to commitment, encouraging people who have already started getting active – or are thinking about starting – to make movement part of everyday life.

The campaign follows April’s popular Spring Pass, which gave Edinburgh residents the freedom to explore gyms, pools and fitness classes without pressure. Now, the focus moves from trying things out to staying with what works.

Keep What You Started 

Whether it’s energetic gym sessions, swimming lengths, group fitness classes or a slower, wellness‑led routine, Edinburgh Leisure memberships are designed to be flexible. Members can move in different ways across the week and adapt their routine as life and energy levels change. There’s no single “right” way to be active. Edinburgh Leisure supports real people, real schedules and real lives. 

Designed for Real Life

Starting something new is one thing – keeping it going is often harder. Busy schedules, rising costs and uncertainty about commitment can all get in the way.

By removing the joining fee, Edinburgh Leisure is making it easier for people to maintain momentum and build routines that fit around work, family and everyday demands. Memberships include access to gyms, swimming, fitness classes and social sports across venues city‑wide, giving members the freedom to change how they move without starting again. 

Supporting Activity Across the City 

The £0 joining fee offer supports participation across Edinburgh Leisure’s network of venues, including Meadowbank Sports Centre, Ainslie Park Leisure Centre and the Royal Commonwealth Pool, helping more people stay active in ways that work for them.

The £0 joining fee offer is available for a limited time throughout May.


To join or find out more, visit: https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/may-membership-offer/ 

Edinburgh Leisure is a charity dedicated to helping people lead more active, healthy lives. With more than 75 sport, leisure and school venues across the city, it creates opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to get active and stay active.

Edinburgh Leisure launches £20 Spring Pass offering two weeks of Unlimited Fitness

A flexible way for Edinburgh residents to dip into gyms, pools and fitness classes this April – and discover movement that fits real life.

Edinburgh Leisure is inviting people across the city to step into spring with its Spring Pass – two weeks of unlimited access to gyms, pools and fitness classes for just £20. 

Available to buy from the Edinburgh Leisure website until 30 April, the Spring Pass is ideal for anyone looking to move more but unsure where to start, getting back into a routine, or simply wanting the freedom to try different activities without a long-term commitment. It’s an easy way to explore and find what feels good. 

A Stress‑Free Way to Start Moving

The pressure to have a plan, a goal, or the confidence to walk into a fitness space already knowing what you’re doing can feel intimidating. 

The Spring Pass lifts that pressure. It gives you the freedom to move in whatever way suits your day – a quick swim before work, a weekend gym session or your first ever fitness class. No fixed routine and no need to know your “thing”. 

Try something out and, if it’s not for you, simply switch it up.

Explore Edinburgh Leisure’s Venues

Spring Pass holders can enjoy all Edinburgh Leisure’s venues, including iconic fitness spaces such as: 

  • Meadowbank Sports Centre 
  • Royal Commonwealth Pool 
  • Victorian Swimming Pools 

Each venue offers a welcoming environment and a mix of activities suited to first‑timers, returners and anyone looking for a fresh start. 

A Simple First Step Into Spring 

No contracts. No long‑term commitment. No expectations. 

Just an easy, affordable way to move a little more this spring – and discover what feels good along the way.  

For more information or to purchase the Spring Pass, visit: Edinburgh Gym and Fitness Memberships – Swim, Climb, Golf 

Edinburgh Leisure is a charity dedicated to helping people lead more active, healthy lives. With 75 sport, leisure and school venues across the city, it creates opportunities for everyone to get active and stay active.

Edinburgh Leisure launches Junior Golf Programme

Edinburgh Leisure continues to strengthen access to multi‑sport opportunities for young people across the capital

As the largest provider of sport and physical activity in Edinburgh, Edinburgh Leisure is continuing to invest in inclusive, high‑quality opportunities for young people with the launch of a brand‑new Junior Golf Instruction Programme.

The new programme further enhances Edinburgh Leisure’s extensive junior coaching offer, which already spans a wide range of sports including Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Climbing, Dance, Diving, Football, Gymnastics, Judo, Netball, Swimming, Tennis and Trampolining.

The addition of golf reflects Edinburgh Leisure’s ongoing commitment to ensuring children and young people can access and experience a variety of sports across the city, regardless of background or ability.

Delivered at Meadowbank Sports Centre, Edinburgh Leisure’s fast‑growing coaching hub, the Junior Golf Programme will run indoors, making it accessible year‑round and ideal for beginners.

Meadowbank has seen significant demand across multiple junior sports in recent years, and the introduction of golf builds on this momentum, reinforcing the venue’s role as a centre of excellence for youth sport.

Notably, Gymnastics was successfully introduced to Meadowbank in Summer 2025, enabling the programme to expand its capacity and offer even more opportunities for young athletes.

Designed for children aged 7–12, the programme offers a fun, supportive introduction to golf, led by friendly Community Golf Instructors. Two six‑week courses are available:

  • Golf Minis (Ages 7–9): A playful introduction focusing on confidence, coordination and fundamental movement skills.
  • Fairway Flyers (Ages 10–12): Helping older children develop technique, coordination and an early understanding of the game.

Sessions began on 23 February, with Golf Minis running on Mondays from 3.30pm–4.30pm, followed by Fairway Flyers from 4.30pm–5.30pm. With February and March courses fully booked, be sure to follow Edinburgh Leisure social channels for upcoming sessions.

Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “As a city‑wide provider, our focus is on giving young people the chance to try different sports, find what they enjoy and build confidence through movement.

“The introduction of junior golf at Meadowbank strengthens our multi‑sport offer and helps ensure children across Edinburgh can access high‑quality coaching in a welcoming and inclusive environment.”

For those ready to progress beyond indoor sessions, Edinburgh Leisure also provides access to six golf courses across the city, including Craigentinny, Carrick Knowe, Silverknowes, Portobello, Braid Hills, and the Wee Braids, supporting young players to continue their sporting journey close to home.

Through its expanding junior coaching programme, Edinburgh Leisure remains committed to helping young people be active, confident, and connected, using sport as a gateway to lifelong physical activity across communities throughout Edinburgh.

Further information on Edinburgh Leisure Junior Golf Programme can be found here – Junior Indoor Golf Coaching Edinburgh Leisure.

Edinburgh Leisure triumphs with National Sustainability Award

Groundbreaking composting project sets new standard for food waste reduction in Sports and Leisure

Edinburgh Leisure is thrilled to announce a remarkable achievement – winning its first National Sustainability Award at the prestigious Green Apple Environment Awards, hosted by The Green Organisation.

Perrotine Orr (Director of Operations) and Jill Johnstone (Energy & Sustainability Officer) proudly accepted the 2026 gold award, which recognises Edinburgh Leisure’s outstanding efforts in food waste reduction within sport and leisure venues.

This accolade marks a major milestone for Edinburgh Leisure, reflecting the success of an innovative composting project funded by the Solar Co-operative Community Benefit Fund. The initiative is already transforming how food waste is managed across venues, setting the bar for sustainable practice in the sector.

By harnessing the collaborative spirit of the Sustainability Team, Café Venue Teams, and Grounds Maintenance Team, the project set out with a clear aim – to drastically reduce food waste by establishing on-site composting facilities.

The project owes its inception to one of Edinburgh Leisure’s passionate Green Champions, Ed Bethune, whose grassroots idea has blossomed into a model of environmental stewardship.

Five HotBin composting units have now been installed at pilot venues; Meadowbank Sports Centre, Royal Commonwealth Pool, Edinburgh International Climbing Arena, and Tumbles at Portobello, ensuring food waste from both customers and staff is collected and composted on-site.

Early results have been nothing short of outstanding. Edinburgh Leisure has already generated high-quality, nutrient-rich compost, which the Grounds Maintenance Team is using to enrich greenspace and planting across multiple sites.

Jill Johnstone said, “By producing our own compost, we are not only reducing waste and carbon emissions, but also making a significant saving on operational costs by replacing commercially purchased compost”.

This award-winning project is a shining example of what can be achieved when teams work together with a shared purpose. It represents an important stride towards Edinburgh Leisure’s net zero plan and environment sustainability strategic aim. The collaborative efforts and targeted funding have enabled meaningful environmental impact, propelling Edinburgh Leisure to the forefront of sustainable practice within the industry.

With this recognition, Edinburgh Leisure reaffirms its commitment to expanding greener operations and building a more sustainable future for all.

Further information on Edinburgh Leisure environmental and Net Zero aims can be found in the most recent Impact Report:

Fit for the Future: Edinburgh Leisure’s Impact in Motion | Edinburgh Leisure

Take On Edinburgh’s Most Unique Aquathlon: 2026 Victorian Pool Crawl Applications Open

75 Participants Sought for Charity Challenge Across Five Victorian Pools This Easter Monday

Who’s ready for their next adventure? Edinburgh Leisure is calling on spirited individuals for the 2026 Victorian Pool Crawl!

It’s a one-of-a-kind aquathlon-style charity fundraiser, taking place on Easter Monday, 6th April 2026, across the city’s five beautiful Victorian swimming pools. Challengers will swim in each pool and then walk to the next, in doing so covering a half-marathon distance whilst raising essential funds for Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme.

Applications are now open for one of the 75 available places.

Event Details & Registration

Participants will swim up to 1 km at each of the five Victorian pools walk a total of 16 km, in one challenging, inspiring day. Each applicant is asked to secure a minimum of £350 in donations, with all proceeds supporting Active Communities, Edinburgh Leisure’s charity programme which supports people with barriers to being active.

Once accepted, a £20 registration fee secures your spot on the Pool Crawl. Every participant will receive an exclusive event t-shirt, swim cap, locker token, swim training plan, finisher’s goody bag, and entry to a prize draw for a year’s Edinburgh Leisure Swim Membership.

Why Support Active Communities?

Yearly, over 14,700 local people benefit from Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme, which offers activities and support to those facing poverty, disabilities, health challenges, and other inequalities.

This Easter Monday, your efforts will help create healthier, more active lives for our neighbours who need it most.

“Active Communities is at the heart of our mission to transform Edinburgh’s health and wellbeing. Every year we help thousands of people across the city overcome barriers to being active by accessing the support and activities they need for a healthier life” says Rachael McCrea, Head of Funding.

“The Victorian Pool Crawl is not only a celebration of our city’s heritage pools, but also a vital fundraiser. We’re excited to welcome a new group of participants to make a real difference this year.”

Returning participant Marek Bernat told us, “Completing the final lane last year was tough, but extremely rewarding.

“We all knew our efforts would help fund local community programmes, and that was a true highlight. It’s an unforgettable challenge.”

£0 Joining Fee Offer: It’s Not Too Late to Start Your Fitness Journey in 2026

As January routines begin to settle and New Year motivation turns into lasting habits, Edinburgh Leisure is reminding Edinburgh residents that it’s not too late to get started, with a £0 Joining Fee offer available until 31st January 2026.

The limited-time promotion removes the upfront cost of joining and applies to a wide range of adult memberships, including Fitness, Gym, Fitness Class, Swim, Climb, Golf, Evolve and Young Adult memberships, helping more people take the first step or return to regular physical activity.

A New Year’s Offer Designed for Real Life

Rather than focusing on short-lived resolutions, Edinburgh Leisure’s January campaign encourages a more balanced approach to wellbeing, centred on small, sustainable habits that fit into everyday life.

With no joining fee and no contract, new members can explore activities at their own pace, supported by welcoming venues and expert teams across the city.

At the centre of the campaign is Edinburgh Leisure’s Full Fitness membership, which offers broad access to gyms, swimming pools and fitness classes across multiple venues – all included under one flexible monthly price.

More Choice Across the City

For those looking for variety, Edinburgh Leisure’s wider membership range provides access to climbing facilities, golf courses, specialist fitness spaces and swimming venues, allowing customers to choose the membership that best suits their interests and goals.

The Full Fitness membership now also includes access to Evolve Meadowbank, Edinburgh Leisure’s flagship hybrid gym and training space, adding even greater flexibility and choice for members looking to train in different ways.

Throughout January, members and new joiners are benefiting from a packed programme of activity, including January gym challenges, expanded Les Mills class timetables and Free Friend Week (19-25 January) – reinforcing the role of motivation, community and enjoyment in staying active.

Local Fitness, Close to Home

With a strong local focus, the campaign continues to highlight key venues such as Royal Commonwealth Pool, Edinburgh International Climbing Arena Ratho and many more, supporting communities where demand for accessible, affordable fitness remains high. Whether returning after a break or trying something new, Edinburgh Leisure offers inclusive spaces for all ages, abilities and experience levels.

Join Before January Ends

With only weeks remaining to take advantage of the £0 Joining Fee offer, Edinburgh Leisure is encouraging anyone still considering joining to act before the end of January and carry their New Year momentum into the months ahead.Offer valid until 31st January 2026.

Find out more and join online:

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/january-membership-offer/

Next Big Thing: Discover Your Children’s Hidden Talent For Just £3

Edinburgh Leisure is kicking off the new year by giving primary-aged children the chance to discover a new passion – without the commitment.

Their popular ‘Next Big Thing’ Coaching Tasters are here, offering £3 taster sessions from 26 January – 1 February, plus an exclusive half-price February coaching offer when you sign up on the day.

The campaign aims to spark curiosity and encourage kids to try something new, from swimming and gymnastics to tennis and more. All sessions are delivered by expert instructors in a fun, friendly environment.

“Sports coaching isn’t just about learning a skill – it’s about building confidence, making friends, and staying active,” said Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure.

“Our tasters give families the chance to explore what works for their child before committing to a full programme.”

With only 59% of school-aged children meeting recommended daily activity levels, Edinburgh Leisure is urging parents to help their children find their next big passion through sport.

Why Join?

  • Fun, friendly coaching for all abilities
  • Expert instructors to guide every step
  • A great way to stay active, make friends, and build confidence
  • Flexible options across the city

Book Now: Explore available sessions and sign up at:

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/coaching-tasters/

Make this January the start of something big – because diving, swimming, gymnastics, basketball, athletics, badminton, tennis or football could be your child’s Next Big Thing.

Clip’n’Climb Levels Up: Five Thrilling New Challenges Arrive at EICA: Ratho

Edinburgh Leisure’s popular action attraction, Clip‘n’Climb at the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA): Ratho is getting an exciting refresh this December, introducing five brand-new climbing elements designed to push your limits and keep the fun flowing.

From today – Friday 12th December – visitors can experience the ultimate vertical playground with these new additions:

  • Constructor
  • Zig Zag
  • Champion Lead
  • Hexed (replacing Orbital)
  • Jungle Vines (replacing Dry Ice)

These innovative challenges replace older features and promise fresh excitement for climbers of all ages. The upgrade will increase capacity from 20 to 22 climbers per session, ensuring Clip ‘n’ Climb remains one of Edinburgh’s most thrilling family attractions. Edinburgh Leisure has partnered with EP Climbing (Entr-Prises) to deliver this exciting transformation.

Picture – Chris Watt Photography
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Vicky Harper, Manager at EICA: Ratho, said: “The Vertical Drop Slide, is being replaced, and we’re installing three new elements in its place.

“The other two new elements will take us from 15 to 18 unique challenges and from 19 lines and a vertical drop slide to 22 lines Each one offers something different – whether you’re tackling the honeycomb-inspired Hexed or testing your balance on Jungle Vines.

“This refresh keeps the experience exciting for our regular visitors and gives newcomers even more reasons to come and climb. It’s all about fun, fitness, and facing your fears in a safe environment. Clip ‘n Climb is a fantastic way to spark an interest in climbing and a great activity to entertain the kids.”

No previous climbing experience is necessary, and the activity is suitable for children aged 4 years and up as well as adults.  Clip ‘n Climb is open Friday to Sunday, and during the school holidays, with sessions lasting 55 minutes. 

Prices are £17.25 per child and £20.75 per adult.

For those looking for a thrilling, private adventure for a group, exclusive group bookings and party packages are available, including catering options. 

Book your adventure now at:

https://ecom.roller.app/eicaratho/activities/en/home

Picture – Chris Watt Photography
07887554193
info@chriswatt.com
www.chriswatt.com

EICA: Ratho is Europe’s largest indoor climbing arena and a true destination venue. Located just outside Edinburgh, it offers something for everyone – from world-class climbing and bouldering walls to Scrambles soft play, a welcoming café, fitness facilities and free parking.

With the recent opening of Lost Shore Surf Resort nearby, EICA: Ratho is the perfect spot for an action-packed day out for families, friends, and adventure seekers.

From Positive Destinations to Rising Star: How Josh Ward found his future at Edinburgh Leisure

Edinburgh Leisure is celebrating one of its own as Josh Ward, Swim Teacher at its iconic Leith Victoria Swim Centre, scooped the Rising Star Award at the recent Scottish Leisure Network Group Awards.

The Scottish Leisure Network Group (SLNG) is a not-for-profit organisation for leisure and sport providers in Scotland. Founded in 2003, its purpose is to help members, such as local authority leisure trusts and university sports departments, share best practices, provide industry guidance, and develop benchmarking processes.

Josh’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of opportunity.  Starting out on Edinburgh Leisure’s Positive Destinations programme – an employability initiative supporting young people from deprived areas – Josh faced significant challenges. Surrounded by negative influences and lacking financial support, his future could have taken a very different path.

Instead, Josh embraced the programme, earned his lifeguard qualification, and began his career as a Leisure Attendant.

Recognising the need to create a positive environment for himself, Josh made the brave decision to transfer to a venue further afield, away from peer pressure. That move marked a turning point.

With encouragement from his manager, Josh trained as a Swim Teacher, gaining his Scottish Swimming Teaching Qualification. Two years on, he’s not only thriving but inspiring others.

“Josh is a fantastic role model for our team and for the young people who come through our programmes,” said Louise Bathgate, Manager at Leith Victoria, who nominated him for the award.

“His journey shows what’s possible when someone is given the right support and opportunities. He’s passionate, committed, and always goes the extra mile for his swimmers and colleagues.

“Josh’s approach to swim teaching reflects the values of our organisation, creating an inclusive, supportive, and high-quality experiences for all his participants.  He is known for building strong relationships with children and adapting his teaching style to meet individual needs.

“He has played a key role in supporting both participants and less experienced staff, particularly through our Care-Experienced and Active Communities programmes. His patience and ability to connect with others make him a trusted and respected member within his team.”

One customer commented said “Josh is doing a great job running the Skills & Development and Master’s swim classes. He’s always friendly, encouraging, and brings great sets for us to swim. His feedback on technique has significantly improved my swim times.”

Josh’s success comes as sportscotland celebrates Role Models in Sport this December, highlighting individuals who inspire others to get active and achieve their potential. Josh embodies that spirit – from overcoming personal challenges to becoming a trusted and respected Swim Teacher who makes a real difference in his community, said Jack Martin, Coaching Workforce Manager at Edinburgh Leisure.

Edinburgh Leisure offers a range of career pathways, from entry-level roles to specialist coaching and teaching positions. Josh’s story is a powerful reminder that a career in leisure isn’t just a job – it can be life-changing.

Find out more about careers with Edinburgh Leisure at: 

www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/work-for-us

Edinburgh Leisure launches unmissable £1 Black Friday Membership Deal

Edinburgh Leisure is making it easier than ever to kickstart your fitness journey in time for the festive season with an unbeatable offer: a £1 joining fee across all memberships, available for a limited time only from 14th – 30th November.

Whether you’re looking to swim, lift, climb, or stretch your way to better health, Edinburgh Leisure’s Full Fitness membership offers the best value in the city – giving you access to the widest range of activities across multiple venues, all with no contract and total flexibility.

This year’s offer is even more exciting with the inclusion of Evolve Meadowbank, a cutting-edge hybrid gym and Hyrox training club, now part of the Full Fitness package. It means more choice, more flexibility, and even greater value – all under one membership.

More Than Just a Gym

From state-of-the-art gyms and swimming pools to fitness classes, golf simulators, and climbing walls, Edinburgh Leisure offers something for everyone. And with a strong local focus, the campaign is shining a spotlight on three key venues:

  • Meadowbank Sports Centre – Featuring a modern gym, two fitness studios, Evolve Hybrid Gym, running track, and Café Refresh.
  • Leith Victoria Swim Centre – Home to a 25-yard Victorian pool, sauna, gym, and three group fitness studios.
  • Craiglockhart Leisure and Tennis Centre – Offering gym access, fitness classes, all at the home of tennis

Don’t Miss Out

This limited-time offer is your chance to join Edinburgh Leisure for just £1 plus the cost of whichever flexible membership you choose to suit your lifestyle and experience the breadth of fitness activities available across the city.

With no contract and local venues on your doorstep, there’s never been a better time to move more and feel great.

Offer valid from 14th – 28th November 2025.  Join now:

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/black-friday