Edinburgh Leisure Waives Joining Fees This September
This September, Edinburgh Leisure is making it easier than ever to kickstart your fitness journey with a £0 joining fee across most of its memberships.
With over 50 venues across the city, including 12 swimming pools, 17 gyms, 32 tennis courts, 141 sports pitches, and Europe’s largest indoor climbing arena, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re returning to fitness, trying something new, or looking for flexibility, here are five great reasons to choose Edinburgh Leisure:
Train Your Way Across the City With a Full Fitness membership, enjoy unlimited access to all 12 pools, 17 gyms, 1,000+ weekly gym and fitness classes, the Evolve Hybrid Gym at Meadowbank, and running tracks. Mix up your routine and stay motivated.
Young Adults Save More Aged 18–24 and back in Edinburgh? Get all the benefits of Full Fitness for just £31.99/month with no joining fee. It’s a great way to stay active, try new activities, and meet new people.
Climb Higher at Ratho Experience lead, speed, and bouldering at the Edinburgh Climbing Arena. With a £0 joining fee this September, enjoy access to world-class climbing walls and the new bouldering zone.
Unlimited Golf, Zero Joining Fee Whether you’re chasing a handicap or playing for fun, enjoy unlimited rounds at any of Edinburgh Leisure’s six scenic golf courses with a Golf Membership – and pay no joining fee this September.
Flexible Memberships for Every Lifestyle Edinburgh Leisure offers more gyms, pools, and classes than any other provider in the city. Choose from Full Fitness or single-activity memberships (gym, swim, or fitness classes) to suit your goals and budget.
Join this September with no joining fee!*
Enjoy member benefits including priority booking, free gym induction, and activity discounts. No contract required – freeze or cancel anytime.
As Glenogle Swim Centre in Stockbridge prepares to mark its 125th anniversary, Edinburgh Leisure is inviting the local community to help shape a unique legacy – a time capsule to be planted in the centre’s lovingly restored garden during a celebration event on Friday, 5th September 2025.
One of Edinburgh Leisure’s five cherished Victorian pools, Glenogle – affectionately known as Glennies – has been a cornerstone of the community since it opened on 7 September 1900.
Now, as it celebrates over a century of service, the centre is calling on locals to suggest or donate items for inclusion in the time capsule, which will be buried in the private garden at the Saxe-Coburg entrance.
Sam Machin, former leisure attendant and now owner of the popular Glenogle Café on the mezzanine level, said: “Glenogle is a unique venue at the heart of its community. We’d love for our customers and neighbours to contribute ideas or items that reflect life in 2025 or even their memories of Glennies.
“The time capsule will be a gift to the future – capturing the spirit of today for generations to come.”
The garden where the capsule will be planted is itself a symbol of community care and creativity. Over the past decade, Glenogle customers Marjorie Mantle and Andrew Dixon have transformed the once-neglected plot into a vibrant green space. Nestled through the arch at the Saxe-Coburg entrance, the garden sits on the site of an unfinished Georgian terrace, with a stairway leading down to the pool level.
Marjorie met Andrew and his wife through a regular morning gym class and started to share a nearby allotment plot. The two of them approached the then-manager Wendy Avinou in 2015 with a proposal to revitalise the Glenogle space. Together they improved the soil and planted a variety of flowers and foliage.
“It’s been a labour of love,” said Marjorie. “Seeing the garden flourish and hearing kind words from customers makes it all worthwhile.”
Glenogle’s story is also one of resilience. In the late 2000s, the centre faced the threat of closure. A passionate community campaign – Save Glenogle – led by Marjorie and supported by nearly 10,000 signatures, helped secure a £5.7 million refurbishment. The baths reopened in 2010, blending their original Victorian charm with modern facilities.
Designed by Edinburgh architect Robert Morham under the Public Baths and Wash-houses Act of 1846, Glenogle was originally built to improve public health. As indoor plumbing became more common, the baths evolved into a hub for swimming and fitness, serving generations of local residents and clubs.
Now, as Glenogle looks to the future, the time capsule and garden stand as living tributes to the community’s enduring connection to this historic venue.
Anyone with ideas or contributions for the time capsule is encouraged to contact Glenogle Café owner, Sam Machin at: sammachin@edinburghleisure.co.uk or drop into the café by 26th August.
Edinburgh Leisure Launches Citywide Coaching Campaign to Kickstart the New School Term
With just 59% of school-aged children meeting the recommended daily levels of physical activity, the start of the new school term is the perfect time to get kids moving. Edinburgh Leisure is encouraging families to help their children discover their next big passion through sport by signing up for one of its fun and engaging coaching courses.
With a spotlight on three exciting sports – Diving, Climbing, and Tennis – the campaign encourages children aged P1 and up to try something new, build skills, and have fun in a supportive, expert-led environment.
Whether they’re scaling new heights, making a splash, or smashing their first serve, there’s something for everyone.
Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure said: “We want to encourage parents to give their children a new exciting hobby to look forward to this term and sport could be their next big thing. As the leading provider of sports and leisure facilities, we have a wide range of coaching opportunities available across our venues for all abilities.
“Sports coaching offers so much more than just learning the game or skill – it helps children build confidence, develop strong listening and communication skills, and stay active in line with recommended exercise levels. It’s about nurturing life skills through movement, teamwork, and fun – giving every child the chance to grow both on and off the court, pitch, or pool.”
It is recommended that children and young people aged 5-18 years should aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity daily, with some of this activity being bone and muscle strengthening.
Preschoolers, aged 3-5 years, should be active throughout the day, with at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity.
In Scotland, it is estimated that approximately 69-71% of children aged 5-15 meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity, including school-based activities. When excluding school-based activities, this figure drops to about 59%. There’s a notable age-related decline, with younger children (5-7 years old) being more active (around 80%) than older teens (13-15 years old) (around 60%).
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
Edinburgh Leisure, in partnership with The King’s Trust, is offering an exciting opportunity for young people aged 16-30 years to launch a career in lifeguarding through a comprehensive free training programme starting next month (August 2025).
To be eligible to apply, candidates must NOT be currently in full-time work or education (including school) and they must be aged between 16 and 30 years old.
Programme Highlights
The innovative ‘Get into Lifeguarding’ initiative provides a structured pathway to employment, featuring:
A pre-selection day with a swim test which will take place on 13 August
Free 1-week National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) course
One week of work experience at one of Edinburgh Leisure pool venues
Mentorship from experienced staff
Job interview preparation
Up to six months of post-programme support
Reimbursed travel expenses and lunches
Programme Timeline
Week 1: King’s Trust Team Building & Employability Skills Workshops at King’s Trust Venue
Week 2: NPLQ course week at Edinburgh Leisure Venue.
Week 3: King’s Trust CV and Interview Preparation Workshops at King’s Trust Venue
Week 4: Work Placement Week at Edinburgh Leisure Venue.
Franek Karwacki, 18, from Trinity, is one of a previous cohort’s success stories. He left Trinity High School in summer 2024 with outstanding A-grade Highers and had been working part-time in a fish and chip shop.
Unlike many of his peers who pursued immediate university education, Franek chose an alternative path. Encouraged by his father, he applied to the ‘Get Into Lifeguarding Course’ offered by the King’s Trust in partnership with Edinburgh Leisure, viewing it as an opportunity for professional development and personal growth.
Unlike his university-bound friends who were burning through their savings, it was an opportunity for him to earn a steady income in his ‘gap year’. The shift work didn’t bother him either with him enthusing: “I quite enjoy the earlies, starting at 5:30am and ending at 2pm, as it gives me time to pursue my passion for basketball,” he says.
The programme opened a door he hadn’t even considered before. “I hadn’t necessarily thought about lifeguarding as a career path,” Franek admitted, “but now I’ve gained skills that were completely paid for and got a job. The support from both Edinburgh Leisure and the King’s Trust transformed what could have been an uncertain period into a real opportunity.”
A year on, having worked as a lifeguard at Leith Victoria, the qualifications have springboarded him into his next chapter. He has recently left Edinburgh Leisure to finally join his peers by heading to university in Sweden to study Economics and Society.
“I’m going to be looking into lifeguarding opportunities while I’m in Sweden to support my studies, so the qualifications have definitely come in handy.”
Karen West, Manger at Portobello Swim Centre emphasised the programme’s broader mission: “This initiative is a win-win. We’re providing young people with a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and potentially launch a career in the leisure industry.
“For many young people, like Franek, this could be life-changing for them.”
How to Apply
For Programme related enquiries and to apply, email by 7 August:
Edinburgh Leisure is calling on the public to lace up their walking shoes, don their tartan and join them for a cause that truly matters – helping older adults in Edinburgh stay active, connected, and happy.
On Saturday, 14th September 2025, a team from Edinburgh Leisure will be taking part in the Edinburgh Kiltwalk, walking to raise vital funds to support older adults across the city – and they want you to join them.
Every step taken and every pound raised will go directly towards improving the lives of older people – not just funding a project but making a real difference to real people.
The money raised will support participants of Ageing Well, one of Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programmes, which offers a lifeline of physical activity and social connection to older adults across the city.
Last year, almost 80 participants joined the Edinburgh Leisure Kiltwalk Team and raised £17,500, enabling the delivery of the 2024-25 project. This year they’re aiming for £15,000 to keep this life-changing work going. Every penny (plus gift aid) goes directly to Ageing Well.
All those signing up to the Kiltwalk to raise funds for Edinburgh Leisure will receive a 50% discount on the registration fee and an Edinburgh Leisure T-shirt and a tartan-themed snood.
Rachael McCrae, Head of Funding for Edinburgh Leisure explained: “Many people don’t realise we’re a charity. Ageing Well supports older adults in Edinburgh to stay active and stay connected.
“It’s led by a fantastic team which includes many older adult volunteers and offers walking, cycling, gardening, buddy swimming and more. Like many charities with reduced funding, we’re feeling the pinch! Every pound raised will help keep this going – and with your Kiltwalk steps, you’ll get active too!”
The Kiltwalk has three walk lengths, which can be signed up, with the 50% reduced registration for:
The Big Stroll (approx. 11 miles) – £20£10 registration fee
The Wee Wander (approx. 5 miles) – £13.00£6.50 for adults, £7.00£3.50 for children
Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme supports 14,700 people annually who face the greatest barriers to getting active– people affected by health conditions, inequalities, and poverty.
Your participation in the Kiltwalk will raise crucial funds to promote health, happiness, and connectedness among older adults in Edinburgh whilst contributing to a fantastic and enjoyable event.
To find out more about signing up with Edinburgh Leisure to walk the Kiltwalk, and to get your 50% discount,click here.
Edinburgh Leisure is on the hunt for the next generation of divers. For those who have been inspired by divers such as Jack Laugher, Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix (daughter of Fred!) and Tom Daley, Edinburgh Leisure is offering the opportunity for children to come and try diving with our experienced coaches at the Royal Commonwealth Pool to see if they have a talent for the sport.
Children should be between 5 and 16 years old, able to swim 10 metres unaided, confident in deep water and submerge in water without googles. No experience in necessary as they will be learning basic skills but those interested in gymnastics, trampolining, acrobatics or similar sports might enjoy this opportunity to try a new sport.
Priced at just £3, the diving taster sessions at the Royal Commonwealth Pool are offered on:
Monday 4 – Friday 8 August at 17.10 – 17.40
To secure a place, interested people should visit the Edinburgh Leisure website – https://shorturl.at/uLDKw
Edinburgh Leisure offers a world class diving programme at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, complete with a dedicated Dry Dive Area with trampolines and harnesses, which enables more experienced divers to practice the twists and turns before trying them out on the boards.
Their diving programme follows the National Diving Award Scheme right through to competitive level.
Athletes training at the Royal Commonwealth Pool include local Edinburgh boy, James Heatly (GB); Yona Knight-Wisdom (Jamaica) and Grace Reid, who grew up in the capital, are amongst other Olympians who have previously trained at the Commie.
One of Edinburgh Leisure’s five cherished Victorian pools, Dalry Swim Centre, is marking a remarkable milestone – 130 years of serving the city – with a day of celebration on Monday, 14th July.
“Dalry has been at the heart of the community for decades,” said Wendy Avinou, Manager at Dalry Swim Centre. “We’re so lucky to have this gem of a building still in use today. Generations have learnt to swim here – grandparents, parents, and now their children. It’s a living legacy.”
To mark the occasion, staff will be donning Victorian swimwear in a light-hearted video to be shared on social media ahead of the big day. The team is also inviting past and present swimmers to stop by and share their memories.
John Duke, a regular swimmer at Dalry remembers: “I’ve been swimming at Dalry since the early ’90s and used to come after work at Oven Fresh, and even after moving house twice, I kept coming back. I brought my grandkids here three times a week, and I’ve been part of the over-60s sessions every Monday and Wednesday.
“Dalry’s always had a personal feel. The staff know me, they know my medical needs – I have diabetes, and they’ve always looked out for me. After my first shoulder operation, I used the pool for rehab – though I could only last five minutes in the sauna before the metal in my arm started heating up.
“Some of my favourite memories are the Christmas parties for the over-60s. They’d bring out a giant inflatable dog that took up half the pool, and we’d have a laugh before heading upstairs for sandwiches and a wee drink. Billy Reid, the supervisor, even dressed up as Santa! It’s not just the pool – it’s the staff and other customers that make Dalry special.”
Grove Swimming Club, founded in 1901 and still training at Dalry, will showcase a nostalgic display of historic photos, medals, and trophies. They are due to celebrate their 125th anniversary next year.
One former member fondly recalls:“I was a member of Grove back in the 1950s. I went to Balgreen School, and we were taken to ‘the baths’ – I loved Dalry.
“After swimming, we’d grab a wee ‘shivery bite’ from the shop down the road before catching the bus home. Those were the days.”
And another member, Christine Baker, who is still involved with Grove Swimming Club said: “Dalry was a huge part of my childhood—from baths in the upper gallery to learning to swim with my dad.
“I joined Grove Swimming Club in the ’60s and I’m still involved today. So many happy memories.”
Children from Dalry Primary School have contributed artwork celebrating the centre’s history, which will be proudly displayed in the foyer.
Adding historical depth to the celebrations, Jackie Sangster from Historic Environment Scotland will deliver a talk on the legacy of Edinburgh’s Victorian swimming baths.
Many of the city’s contemporary swimming pools were part of a scheme to build public baths to promote cleanliness and hygiene among the working classes, who did not have routine access to such facilities. To attend, please contact Martin Bews, Operations Manager: martinbews@edinburghleisure.co.uk to register your interest and confirm timings.
Dalry Swim Centre, with its elegant 7-bay Italianate façade and sunlit 25-yard pool, has been a community cornerstone since 1895. In 2010, it was saved from closure thanks to a passionate local campaign backed by 3,500 petitioners, MSP Sarah Boyack, and Councillor Donald Wilson. A major refurbishment in 2018–2019 modernised the facility while preserving its historic charm.
Dalry is one of five stunning Victorian pools operated by Edinburgh Leisure, alongside Warrender, Leith Victoria, Glenogle, and Portobello. These venues blend timeless architecture with modern amenities—including upgraded changing rooms, energy-efficient systems, and warm, welcoming spaces.
Part of Edinburgh 900 Celebrations
Dalry’s anniversary is part of Edinburgh Leisure’s “City of Leisure” theme for Edinburgh 900.
Visit Edinburgh Leisure’s Edinburgh 900 exhibitions, all under one roof at St James Quarter on Leith Street (next to Mor Bakery) on until 15 July, 10:00 – 16:00, to explore:
Great Lengths – the story of Edinburgh’s Victorian pools
Your Health is for Life – 25 things you didn’t know about Edinburgh Leisure
Edinburgh Leisure staff will be on hand to discuss membership options, fundraising, and volunteering.
As the largest provider of sport and leisure facilities across Edinburgh, Edinburgh Leisure helps people enjoy healthier, happier, and more active lives.
Their facilities and programmes serve community members of all ages and abilities. As a charitable trust, every penny they receive goes back into supporting the health and wellbeing of Edinburgh residents.
Edinburgh Leisure is on the hunt for the next generation of divers
For those who have been inspired by divers such as Jack Laugher, Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix (daughter of Fred!) and Tom Daley, Edinburgh Leisure is offering the opportunity for children to come and try diving with our experienced coaches at the Royal Commonwealth Pool to see if they have a talent for the sport.
Children should be between 5 and 16 years old, able to swim 10 metres unaided, confident in deep water and submerge in water without
r without googles. No experience in necessary as they will be learning basic skills but those interested in gymnastics, trampolining, acrobatics or similar sports might enjoy this opportunity to try a new sport.
Priced at just £3, the diving taster sessions at the Royal Commonwealth Pool are offered on:
Monday 4 – Friday 8 August at 17.10 – 17.40
To secure a place, interested people should visit the Edinburgh Leisure website – https://shorturl.at/uLDKw
Edinburgh Leisure offers a world class diving programme at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, complete with a dedicated Dry Dive Area with trampolines and harnesses, which enables more experienced divers to practice the twists and turns before trying them out on the boards.
Their diving programme follows the National Diving Award Scheme right through to competitive level.
Athletes training at the Royal Commonwealth Pool include local Edinburgh boy, James Heatly (GB); Yona Knight-Wisdom (Jamaica) and Grace Reid, who grew up in the capital, are amongst other Olympians who have previously trained at the Commie.
As part of the city-wide Edinburgh 900 celebrations, a new exhibition celebrating Edinburgh’s rich sporting legacy opens tomorrow (Wednesday) at St James Quarter.
Free and open to all, the exhibition invites visitors to explore Edinburgh Leisure’s proud history of leisure and sport through engaging displays and stories.
Located in a dedicated Edinburgh 900 pop-up on Leith Street, next to Mor Bakery, the exhibition showcases the “City of Leisure” theme and features highlights from three captivating Edinburgh Leisure displays.
Great Lengths & Your Health is for Life
Discover Edinburgh Leisure’s 27-year commitment to promoting active lifestyles and delve into the fascinating history of the city’s Victorian swimming pools, including the iconic Royal Commonwealth Pool.
Teeing Off Through Time
Celebrate Edinburgh’s prestigious golfing heritage designed to be displayed at the 125th Edinburgh Evening News Dispatch Trophy, held at Braid Hills Golf Course in May.
Learn about the city’s pivotal role in golf’s origins, explore Edinburgh Leisure’s six scenic golf courses, and uncover the stories behind historic tournaments like the Dispatch Trophy and Gibson Cup, which have shaped local golfing traditions for over 130 years.
Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, history buff, leisure enthusiast or simply curious, this exhibition offers a unique opportunity to experience Edinburgh’s sporting spirit – all under one roof.
Admission is free, and no booking is required. If you missed the exhibition at the Royal Commonwealth Pool last autumn, now’s your chance to catch it in the heart of the city.
You can learn about Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programmes, which support over 12,500 people affected by health conditions, disabilities, inequalities, and poverty to get active; membership options including their 4-week summer pass, available now; fundraising initiatives, and volunteering opportunities too.
Are you Hyrox curious? Wondering what all the hype is about? Now’s your chance to find out. Edinburgh Leisure is inviting fitness enthusiasts and beginners alike to experience the buzz of Hyrox with two exclusive taster sessions this July.
Taking place on Wednesday 16th and 23rd July at 8:00 am at Meadowbank Sports Centre, these one-off sessions are designed to introduce newcomers to the world of Hyrox in a fun, supportive, and beginner-friendly environment. Tickets are just £5 per person, with only 16 spots available per session – so early booking is essential.
No experience? No problem. These sessions will cover the basics, offering a hands-on introduction to the unique hybrid fitness format that’s taken the world by storm.
Edinburgh Leisure made waves in the fitness scene last September with the launch of their hybrid gym and official Hyrox Affiliate Training Club at Meadowbank – the first of its kind from a leisure trust in the UK. Since then, they’ve been at the forefront of the hybrid training movement, offering classes for both beginners and seasoned Hyroxers.
Take the first step towards transforming your fitness journey. Become a member of Edinburgh Leisure’s hybrid gym and take advantage of their exclusive HYROX training programmes with no-joining fee if you sign up on the day. Existing Edinburgh Leisure members can join Evolve hybrid gym as an add-on to their existing membership.
Don’t miss your chance to get a taste of Hyrox – book your spot today and see what the hype is all about.
Find out more and join today – https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/memberships/
