Tag: Edinburgh Leisure

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

Young sports journalist champions Edinburgh Leisure’s ‘Next Big Thing’ coaching campaign

Lorna Husband Journalism graduate who tried a new sport every week.

A young freelance sports journalist from Edinburgh is inspiring others to discover their passion for sport through Edinburgh Leisure’s new coaching campaign, Next Big Thing.

Lorna Husband, 25, has spent 2025 challenging herself to try a new sport every week, documenting her journey through a blog, website, and social media channels including Instagram and TikTok. Her mission? To show that sport is for everyone – and that trying something new could be life-changing.

As part of her adventure, Lorna has taken on everything from fly fishing and fencing to flamenco and velodrome cycling  – and was delighted to meet Sir Chris Hoy a few days later at an event in Dundee.

Among her most daring experiences was diving at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, where she tackled heights from 1m to the formidable 10m platform, and climbing at EICA: Ratho, Europe’s largest indoor climbing arena, alongside her boyfriend who helps film her weekly challenges.

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“As a water-baby, I thoroughly enjoyed my diving challenge,” said Lorna. “My coach Matthew was incredibly patient and encouraging. I hadn’t realised how much leg and core strength diving requires! While I didn’t reach Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix’s level in one lesson, I definitely gained a head for heights.

“Climbing at Europe’s largest indoor climbing arena at Ratho was another highlight – the sheer scale of the arena is breathtaking. It was both physically demanding and exhilarating, and having my boyfriend there to cheer me and compete against made it even more memorable.”

Lorna’s journey began as part of her post-graduate sports journalism course at Napier University, supported by her boyfriend who gifted her a GoPro and helps film her weekly adventures. She’s also launched a website – www.sport-port.co.uk – to help others find a sport they might enjoy or a club to join.

Now, she’s lending her voice to Edinburgh Leisure’s November campaign, Next Big Thing, which aims to encourage children and adults alike to explore new sports through coaching.

“Our campaign is all about sparking curiosity,” said Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure. “Sports coaching helps build confidence, communication skills, and keeps kids active. It’s about fun, skill-building, and learning vital life skills like swimming.”

With only 59% of school-aged children meeting recommended daily activity levels, Edinburgh Leisure is urging families to help their children find their next big passion through sport. Coaching options include swimming, gymnastics, climbing, and more – all delivered by expert instructors in a fun and friendly environment.

Why Join?

  • Fun and 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

Parents and guardians can explore available sessions and sign up at: 

www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/coaching-activities

Let this autumn be the start of something big – because diving, climbing, swimming or tennis could be your Next Big Thing.

Edinburgh Leisure’s Festive Gymnastics Display Returns

A Sparkling Showcase of Talent

Edinburgh Leisure’s much-loved Festive Gymnastics Display is back for another year, bringing together over 800 gymnasts from across the city and beyond to perform in front of an expected audience of more than 2,000 spectators at Meadowbank Sports Centre on Sunday, 30 November 2025.

Now in its 19th year, the event will feature 46 teams from six Edinburgh Leisure gymnastics venues, including a special performance from some of the coaching staff. Joining them are guest clubs from across the Lothians and Fife, showcasing a dazzling array of talent and teamwork.

Dorothy McQueen, Gymnastics Development Officer at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “This event is a celebration of progress, participation and pure enjoyment.

“It’s a chance for our gymnasts to show their families and friends what they’ve been working on all year, and for guest clubs to experience the energy and community spirit of Edinburgh Leisure. The atmosphere is always electric, and it’s a wonderful way to round off the coaching year.”

The day is split into two sessions:

  • Morning session: 09:00 – 12:15
  • Afternoon session: 13:00 – 16:15

Tickets are priced at £5.80 per person, with under-5s free (no seat provided).

Tickets are on sale now via TicketSource, with participating gymnasts guaranteed one pre-sale ticket. Each customer can purchase up to six tickets.

To book tickets, visit: www.ticketsource.co.uk/edinburgh-leisure-events

Edinburgh Leisure is also welcoming volunteers to help the day run smoothly.

From assisting with registration to guiding guests, it’s a great opportunity to get involved in a community event. No gymnastics experience is required.

To volunteer or for more information, contact Dorothy McQueen at:

Dorothymcqueen@edinburghleisure.co.uk

Edinburgh Leisure’s gymnastics programme caters to all ages and abilities, from toddlers in Baby Nippers to advanced gymnasts in disciplines such as trampolining, acro and display gymnastics.

Learn more at: www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/coaching

Accounts Commission: Rising charges and reduced spending impacting council culture and leisure services

Councils are spending less on culture and leisure services, reviewing the services they offer and increasing or introducing charges. Yet gaps in the data collected at a local and national level means we don’t have a full understanding of the impact of these decisions on health, wellbeing and prevention.

Scotland’s councils play a vital role in supporting communities by delivering a wide range of cultural and leisure services. These services aim to keep communities healthy and connected, improving residents’ quality of life. The level of services offered, and how they are provided, is a decision for individual councils.

Whilst councils are spending more on services overall, spending on culture and leisure services reduced by three per cent in real terms in the five years from 2018/19. At the same time income from charges increased by 27 per cent, whilst overall satisfaction and attendance rates for some services remain below pre-pandemic levels.

Removing these important services risks increasing inequalities and exclusion, with rural and more deprived communities having a greater reliance on these facilities. Failure to adequately consult with communities and assess the equalities impacts of service changes has led to some councils reversing decisions and communities taking legal action.

Jo Armstrong, Chair of the Accounts Commission, said: “Culture and leisure services are vital to our health and wellbeing, supporting national and local priorities and supporting people to be better connected. Gaps in national data need to be addressed to better understand how these reductions in spending on culture and leisure are impacting communities.

“As councils manage continued pressures due to increasing demands and costs, culture and leisure services have experienced a disproportionate share of council savings measures.

“Communities must be fully consulted on decisions to close, centralise facilities or changes to charging. Failing to do this risks deepening inequalities and legal action by communities.”

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Breaking Down Barriers: Edinburgh Leisure’s Get Active Card supports healthier lives during Challenge Poverty Week

With Challenge Poverty Week (Monday 6th – Sunday 12th October 2025) taking place this week, Edinburgh Leisure, a registered charity and the city’s largest provider of sports and leisure facilities, is highlighting its commitment to supporting people affected by poverty and inequality to lead active, healthy lives.

Phil Trodden, Health Development Officer at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “Poverty and poor health are closely linked. Despite Edinburgh being one of the wealthiest cities in the UK, Edinburgh faces one of the greatest levels of inequality.

“Nearly 82,000 people here are living in poverty, according to the Edinburgh Poverty Commission. Life expectancy can differ by as much as 14 years between the city’s most and least affluent areas.

“We know that people living in deprived communities are far less likely to be physically active, which can have a huge impact on their health and wellbeing.”

Bridging the Gap with the Get Active Card

Edinburgh Leisure’s £10 Get Active Card is designed to break down barriers to physical activity for adults experiencing poverty. The card offers off-peak access to gyms, swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms, and group fitness classes across the city – helping people enjoy the life-changing benefits of being active, regardless of their circumstances.

Lorraine’s Story: A Life Transformed

One person who has benefitted from the Get Active Card is Lorraine, who lives with multiple sclerosis and had to stop working due to her health.

After a challenging period of illness, Lorraine was initially unsure about returning to exercise. However, with the encouragement of Edinburgh Leisure’s supportive staff and fellow participants, she soon found herself enjoying regular sessions and gaining confidence in the gym – something she never thought possible.

When funding ended for the programme, she was referred to, Lorraine discovered the Get Active Card. “It’s unbelievable value,” she says.

“Without it, I wouldn’t be able to maintain regular physical activity, especially in a gym setting.” Lorraine has seen improvements in her strength, motivation, and overall quality of life, and has even inspired others to get active.

Real Impact, Real Stories

“Other cardholders have described the Get Active Card as ‘lifechanging,’ ‘a lifesaver’ and ‘so valuable’.

“For many, it’s the only way to access affordable exercise, improve their health, and find respite from daily challenges,” Phil Trodden explains.

How to Apply

Anyone in receipt of the following benefits may be eligible for a Get Active Card:

  • Universal Credit
  • Income Support
  • Job Seekers Allowance
  • Guaranteed Pension Credit
  • Employment Support Allowance (ESA)

There are no joining fees or monthly subscriptions- just pay when you can. The Get Active Card costs £10 per month and gives access to Edinburgh Leisure’s gyms, swimming pools and fitness and gym classes, 7 days a week, up until 4pm each day.

The Get Active Care is not available online or via Direct Debit. To sign up, visit any Edinburgh Leisure venue and speak to a Welcome Host, or find out more at: 

www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/get-active-card. 

Edinburgh Leisure aims to welcome 150 new Get Active Card holders across its venues in October, with around 900 passes already sold each month.

Keeping the Spirit Alive: Sporting Memories Club carries Edinburgh 900 legacy forward

Edinburgh Leisure celebrates National Sporting Heritage Day (30 September) by spotlighting the Sporting Memories Club at Meadowbank Sports Centre – a lasting legacy of the Edinburgh 900 exhibitions.

As National Sporting Heritage Day (#NSHD2025) shines a light on ‘Collections at Risk’, Edinburgh Leisure is proud to showcase the Sporting Memories Club –  a weekly gathering for older adults, including those living with dementia and their carers to share stories and relive sporting moments.

Launched in April 2025, the club was inspired by a one-off Sporting Memories event held at the Royal Commonwealth Pool last year, which coincided with the launch of Edinburgh Leisure’s Edinburgh 900 exhibitions. The success of that event led to the creation of a regular Wednesday session at Meadowbank Sports Centre.

“The club is more than just a chat over tea – it’s a celebration of shared history, community spirit, and the joy of sport,” said Donna Mackey, Partnership Manager at the Sporting Memories Foundation.

“Thanks to lead volunteer Bob Irvine, sessions are engaging and inclusive. No booking required – just turn up!”

Join the Conversation

Whether you’re a lifelong sports fan or simply enjoy a good story, the Sporting Memories Club welcomes you.

  • What: Sporting Memories Club
  • Where: Meadowbank Sports Centre, London Road, EH7 6AE
  • When: Wednesdays, 1:00–2:30 pm – Free to attend
  • Who: Open to all, including people living with dementia and their carers
  • Further info: samscott@edinburghleisure.co.uk

Celebrating Heritage Through Exhibitions

The Sporting Memories Club is one of several legacies from Edinburgh Leisure’s contribution to Edinburgh 900, a City of Edinburgh Council initiative marking 900 years of the city’s history. Over the past year, Edinburgh Leisure delivered three pop-up exhibitions:

  • 25 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Edinburgh Leisure
  • Great Lengths – Celebrating Edinburgh’s Victorian pools and the Royal Commonwealth Pool
  • Teeing Off Through Time – Edinburgh’s golf journey

Hosted across venues including the Royal Commonwealth Pool, Glenogle Swim Centre, Meadowbank, and Ocean Terminal, the exhibitions attracted over 12,000 visitors.

“These exhibitions have strengthened community connections and laid the groundwork for future collaborations,” said Kerry Teakle, PR Officer and Edinburgh 900 lead.”

Supporting Heritage Through Community Grants

To mark last year’s National Sporting Heritage Day, Edinburgh Leisure received a £500 micro-grant from the Sporting Heritage Community Grants Programme, funded by National Lottery players and the Heritage Fund.

This supported a small permanent golf heritage exhibition at Silverknowes Golf Course, complementing Teeing Off Through Time and uncovering untold community stories.

The success of this project led to an invitation to present at the Sporting Heritage Study Day at the Heart of Midlothian Museum on 26 September.


Collections at Risk – Can You Help?

This year’s theme highlights the vulnerability of sporting collections. If you have memorabilia related to Edinburgh Leisure venues – such as the Royal Commonwealth Pool, the ‘old’ Meadowbank Stadium or any of the golf clubs that use Edinburgh Leisure courses – please contact Kerry Teakle, PR Officer at kerryteakle@edinburghleisure.co.uk.

Share your stories: #NSHD2025


Partnerships That Keep the Memories Alive

A collaboration with the Living Memory Association (LMA) has extended the reach of the exhibitions.

Currently, Great Lengths and 25 Things are on display at LMA’s Ocean Terminal space until 28 October, opposite the Wee Museum of Memories.

LMA also runs social history projects, free play areas, and reminiscence groups, and is working with Edinburgh Leisure on a podcast capturing personal stories from Glenogle Swim Centre, which recently celebrated its 125th anniversary.

Learn more: www.livingmemory.org.uk/activities.php

Find What Moves You: Edinburgh Leisure’s Mind & Body Event returns this October

Bookings go live today, Tuesday, 30th September for Edinburgh Leisure’s latest Mind & Body Event, a full-day celebration of movement, mindfulness, and wellbeing.

Taking place on Saturday, 25th October at Meadowbank Sports Centre, this special event invites both members and non-members to explore the variety of mind/body classes available across Edinburgh Leisure venues.

Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve flexibility, or simply find a moment of calm, this event offers something for everyone. Attendees can choose from energising sessions in Studio 1 or calming, restorative classes in Studio 2 and the Cycle Studio, with expert instructors guiding each experience.

Classes include:

Studio 1 – Higher Energy

  • 09:00 – Fitness Pilates (Sterenn L)
  • 10:15 – Shapes: Pilates & Barre Conditioning (Alex S & Krista B)
  • 11:15 – Pilates (Kris F)
  • 12:30 – M1ND: Unwind (Sara K)

Studio 2 – Slow It Down

  • 08:00 – Hatha Yoga: Restorative Flow (Simone B)
  • 09:00 – Vinyasa Yoga: Energy Flow (Cat P)
  • 10:15 – Body Balance (Mari A)

Cycle Studio

  • 11:15 – Ashtanga Yoga: Strength Flow (Mark S)
  • 12:30 – Yin Yoga: Unwind (Zosia R)

Additional classes are still to be confirmed, promising even more opportunities to explore what moves you.

All classes are just £5.25 for non-members and are free for Edinburgh Leisure Members. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or simply curious, this is your chance to try something new in a welcoming, relaxed space.

Book via the Edinburgh Leisure app or on the website from 30th September and join Edinburgh Leisure for a day of movement, mindfulness, and feel-good energy.

For more information:  https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/mind-body-fitness-event/

Rain or Shine, It’s Tee-Time: – Craiglockhart Unveils New Golf Experience

Craiglockhart Tennis and Leisure Centre is about to change the game for golfers in Edinburgh. Whether you’re a seasoned player looking to sharpen your swing or someone seeking a fun, new experience with friends, the cutting-edge Trackman Golf Simulator officially opens today, Monday, 29th September. 

Occupying the space formerly used as a spin studio at the entrance to the tennis centre, this exciting new addition represents a significant investment in leisure innovation by Edinburgh Leisure. The simulator offers a powerful, immersive indoor golf experience – perfect for training, socialising, or simply enjoying the game, rain, or shine.

Costing just £25 per hour, customers can bring their own clubs, or Edinburgh Leisure can provide. Bookings are per session and can accommodate up to four people at each hour-session. 

“We’re thrilled to bring this state-of-the-art golf simulator to Craiglockhart,” said Kirsty Stobie, Manager at Craiglockhart Tennis and Leisure Centre.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for golfers of all levels to enjoy the game in a new way, and we’re proud to offer our members something truly special with the discounted launch offer.”

Whether you’re chasing performance or just looking to play for fun, book now via the Edinburgh Leisure app and website:

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/trackman-golf-simulator/