Tag: Edinburgh Leisure

Free Soft Play membership returns with Under 5s Summer Coaching promotion

Edinburgh Leisure is once again launching its popular Under 5s summer promotion to help families get a head start on the new school year while enjoying added value through free access to soft play facilities.

From 2 July to 27 July 2025, any customer who joins the Under 5s coaching programme will receive one month of free Soft Play membership at any of Edinburgh Leisure’s three soft play venues, valid from 1 to 31 August 2025. Existing Soft Play members who enrol in the coaching programme during this period will have their August Direct Debit payment waived. 

The offer applies to all Under 5s coaching classes, subject to availability, including:

  • Swimming: Swim Baby, Swim Toddler, Swim Nippers, Swim Pre-School, Jump and Dive
  • Tennis: Tennis Tots
  • Football: Kick Starters, Mini-Kickers
  • Athletics: Athletics Pre-School
  • Gymnastics: Gym and Jump, Gym Nippers, Baby Nippers
  • Multi-sport & Dance: Jump into Sport, Basketball Junior Ballers, Ballet Pre-School

To take advantage of the offer, customers simply need to sign up online for one of the qualifying classes. An upfront payment will be taken for the remainder of August, with the first Direct Debit collected in September.

Edinburgh Leisure has three soft play venues across the city at Tumbles at Portobello – which has recently undergone an exciting refurbishment, Clambers at the Royal Commonwealth Pool and Scrambles at Edinburgh’s International Climbing Arena.

With designated baby, toddler, and junior zones, each soft play ensures fun and adventure for kids and a café for tasty treats and snacks for the adults and children.

Eligible customers will automatically receive their free Soft Play membership and will be notified via text message on 31 July. Soft Play cards can be collected on the first visit to Clambers, Tumbles, or Scrambles Soft Plays.

Terms and conditions apply and customers who have left the coaching programme after 31 May 2025 are not eligible for this promotion. Due to limited availability in classes for entry stages in the Junior programme, this soft play offer is only available for Under 5s.

For more information or to book a class, visit: 

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

Get Fit This Festival Season with Edinburgh Leisure’s Summer Pass

Edinburgh Leisure launches new campaign to keep the capital moving this summer

As Edinburgh bursts into life with festivals, fun, and sunshine, Edinburgh Leisure is inviting locals and visitors alike to make this their healthiest summer yet with the launch of its new Summer Pass.

Available from Tuesday, 1 July 2025 – 31st August, the four-week pass offers unlimited access to over 50 venues across the city for just £49 for adults and £35 for young adults (16–24 years).  Everyone who purchases a Summer Pass will be automatically entered into a free prize draw to win a one-year free Full Fitness membership

Whether you’re a festivalgoer looking to stay energised, a student home for the holidays, or a worker wanting to stay active during the summer months, the Summer Pass gives you access to:

  • 17 state-of-the-art gyms
  • 12 swimming pools
  • 750+ fitness classes and 250+ gym-based classes weekly
  • Evolve at Meadowbank – their cutting-edge hybrid gym
  • Europe’s largest indoor climbing arena at Ratho
www.chriswatt.com

Why choose Edinburgh Leisure this summer?

Here are five standout reasons to grab your Summer Pass:

  1. Climb High at Ratho
    Experience the thrill of Europe’s largest indoor climbing arena, with a 28m high main wall, the latest state of the art bouldering facilities, auto-belays, and expert coaching for all levels.
  2. Swim in Style
    Dive into history with five beautifully restored Victorian pools at Glenogle, Portobello, Dalry, Leith Victoria, and Warrender – where natural light meets timeless charm.
  3. Get Social with Sport
    From Pickleball to Walking Netball, their Adult Social Sport sessions are perfect for making friends and staying active, no matter your skill level.
  4. Train Like a Pro at Evolve Meadowbank
    Access their Hybrid Gym and official Hyrox Affiliate Training Club with specialised equipment and classes – all included in your pass.
  5. Low-Intensity Classes
    Prefer a gentler pace? Choose from seated cardio, yoga, strength, and active dance classes at 11 venues across the city.

Ready to make this your fittest summer yet?

Visit www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/membership/summer-pass to find out more and sign up.

Swing into Summer with Edinburgh Leisure’s Citywide Golf Campaign

Edinburgh Leisure is inviting locals and visitors alike to “Swing into Summer” with a fresh campaign celebrating the city’s six diverse golf courses and a new exhibition showcasing Edinburgh’s rich golfing heritage.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a curious beginner, Edinburgh Leisure offers the perfect tee-off point with a choice of six scenic courses across the city. With both 9- and 18-hole options, flexible memberships, and pay-as-you-play access, there’s something for every skill level and schedule.

The “Swing into Summer” campaign aims to boost participation in golf by highlighting the sport’s accessibility, sociability, and health benefits—especially for retirees, young professionals, and casual players looking for a relaxing way to stay active.

It also positions Edinburgh Leisure as the ideal launchpad for summer golf adventures, including the prestigious Scottish Open in North Berwick this July.

Discover the Courses

  • Braid Hills – A historic course with panoramic views and a legacy tied to golfing legends like James Braid and Tommy Armour.
  • The Wee Braids – A family-friendly 9-hole course perfect for beginners and quick rounds, just minutes from the city centre.
  • Silverknowes – A coastal gem with generous fairways and stunning views across the Firth of Forth.
  • Craigentinny – A walkable parkland course with vistas of Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill, offering a mix of challenging holes.
  • Carrick Knowe – Nestled near Murrayfield Stadium, this mature course blends tradition with modern design.
  • Portobello – A compact and forgiving 9-hole course with tight greens and a memorable finishing hole.

Teeing Off Through Time: A Golf Heritage Exhibition

As part of the Edinburgh 900 celebrations, Edinburgh Leisure is proud to present “Teeing Off Through Time”, which will be on permanent display at Silverknowes Golf Course.   There will also be an opportunity to visit the exhibition from 9–15 July at St James Quarter, next to Mhor Bakery on Leith Street, where it will be on display as part of Edinburgh Leisure’s contribution to Edinburgh 900.

This free exhibition explores Edinburgh’s pivotal role in the history of golf, showcases the stories behind Edinburgh Leisure’s six courses, and celebrates iconic local tournaments like the Dispatch Trophy and Gibson Cup.

Visitors can also view rare photographs and memorabilia from the Braid Hills and Silverknowes collections, made possible by the Sporting Heritage Grants Programme and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which will be on display again at Silverknowes from the beginning of July.

Book Your Round Today

Whether you’re chasing birdies or just enjoying the views, there’s never been a better time to play.

Book your round and explore Edinburgh’s golfing legacy today.

Book online now – https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/golf/

Scan here to get a bird’s eye view of Edinburgh Leisure’s golf courses.

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Grand celebration as Tumbles at Portobello reopens following refurbishment

Tumbles Soft Play at Portobello has reopened following a refurbishment that has transformed the much-loved venue into a dynamic new world of adventure—Explorer Island.

The reopening was marked with a special celebration attended by friends, family, and the 15 winners of the recent sandcastle photo competition.

These lucky young adventurers were treated to an exclusive party, complete with fun activities, party bags, and the honour of being the first to explore the reimagined play space.

As part of the festivities, the Tumbles team selected 15 “Star Guests”—children from across different age groups—who joined beloved characters Emma, Fox, and Squirrel on their first expedition through the upgraded soft play environment.

“Our Explorer Island is a whole world of fun—an island where anything is possible, and adventure awaits,” said Ashliegh Murray, Manager at Tumbles. “We’re so excited to welcome families back to a space that’s been designed to spark imagination, creativity, and active play.”

The refurbishment is part of Edinburgh Leisure’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, inclusive spaces for children and families.

Key upgrades at Tumbles include:

  • New light and video features in the baby and toddler zones
  • A reconfigured layout for enhanced play experiences
  • Upgraded versions of favourite features
  • Extended café seating with fixed options
  • New flooring throughout the soft play and café areas
  • A refreshed reception area
  • A redecorated birthday party room for the return of celebration packages

Tumbles is one of three soft play centres operated by Edinburgh Leisure, a charity dedicated to helping everyone in the city lead more active, healthy lives. With over 30 facilities across Edinburgh, the organisation continues to invest in spaces that inspire movement, imagination, and community connection.

Open 7 days a week from 09.15 – 17.00, Tumbles offers wonderful adventures for kids aged 0 – 10 with designated baby, toddler and junior play areas.

For more information about Tumbles at Portobello and upcoming events, visit: 

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/tumbles-soft-play/

Edinburgh Leisure celebrates local volunteers during Volunteer Week

Edinburgh Leisure has paid tribute to the vital role of its volunteers with a special Volunteer Thank You Day, held on Thursday 6 June as part of the UK’s annual Volunteer Week celebrations.

The event brought together 60 of the organisation’s 190 volunteers for a day of appreciation, connection, and insight into the impact of their contributions. Hosted at one of Edinburgh Leisure’s Meadowbank Sports Centre, the gathering recognised the essential role volunteers play in supporting health and wellbeing across the city.

“Our volunteers are the heartbeat of many of our community programmes,” said Stephen Hughes, Volunteer Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure.

“They help us reach more people, deliver more services, and ultimately improve lives through physical activity. This event was a small way to say a big thank you.”

Volunteers at Edinburgh Leisure support a wide range of initiatives, from health walks and inclusive fitness sessions to youth engagement and wellbeing programmes. Their efforts help reduce barriers to physical activity and promote healthier, more connected communities.

The celebration also offered volunteers the opportunity to share their experiences, learn more about Edinburgh Leisure’s services, and connect with fellow volunteers and staff. Many spoke of the personal rewards of volunteering, including meeting new people, supporting others, and seeing participants grow in confidence and wellbeing.

Volunteer Week, which runs annually in early June, is a UK-wide initiative that recognises the invaluable contributions of volunteers in all sectors.

Interested in Volunteering?

Edinburgh Leisure is always looking for enthusiastic individuals to join its volunteer team.

To learn more about current opportunities, visit: 👉 

edinburghleisure.co.uk/careers/volunteer

Edinburgh Leisure launches new Inclusive Fitness Programme for Adults with Additional Support Needs

Edinburgh Leisure has expanded its commitment to inclusive fitness by launching a comprehensive new programme of gym sessions and exercise classes specifically designed for adults with additional support needs.

The new “Fit and Active” initiative offers a diverse range of weekly activities across two venues, with all sessions free to attend for cardholders. Classes include seated strength training, danceability sessions, gymability workouts, inclusive circuits, retro dance, and seated cardio options.

“We’re delighted to introduce these new classes that provide accessible fitness opportunities for adults with additional support needs,” said Sara Kemp, Community Development Officer (Equalities) at Edinburgh Leisure.

“Our goal is to ensure everyone in our community has the chance to stay active and healthy in a supportive, welcoming environment.”

The programme runs throughout the week at both Meadowbank Sport Centre and Leith Victoria Swim Centre, with sessions carefully scheduled to provide regular opportunities for participants. Activities range from traditional gym-based workouts to creative movement classes like danceability and retro dance.

Weekly Schedule:

  • Monday: 1:1 gym sessions at both venues
  • Tuesday: Four different classes at Meadowbank including seated strength, danceability, gymability, and inclusive circuits
  • Wednesday: Danceability class at Leith Victoria
  • Thursday: Gymability sessions at Leith Victoria
  • Friday: Retro dance and seated cardio classes at Meadowbank

All sessions are included free of charge with a Fit and Active card.

Interested participants can apply for their card by emailing:

fitandactive@edinburghleisure.co.uk.

The programme represents Edinburgh Leisure’s ongoing commitment to providing inclusive recreational opportunities for all members of the Edinburgh community, ensuring that fitness and wellbeing services are accessible to people of all abilities.

For more information about the Fit and Active programme or to apply for a membership card, contact Edinburgh Leisure at:

fitandactive@edinburghleisure.co.uk.

Calling All Mini Explorers: Sandcastle Creators Wanted!

Win Your Spot at Tumbles’ Exclusive Reopening Celebration

Edinburgh Leisure invites brave young adventurers to join Emma, Fox, and Squirrel on an epic journey through the newly reimagined Tumbles Soft Play at Portobello, Edinburgh.

The lucky adventurers will be among the first to discover the exciting new world that awaits within Explorer Island.

Ashliegh Murray, Manager at Tumbles at Portobello, said: “Our Explorer Island is a whole world of fun.

“An island where anything is possible, and adventure awaits! We’re looking to our customers to be part of the excitement when we reopen.

“Our new play frame will feature Emma, an adventurous redhead with a baseball cap and torch, alongside her trusty companions Fox and Squirrel. These young explorers are searching for brave new friends to join their quest for play and discovery.”

“We’re inviting parents and kids to unleash their creativity and to send us a photo of their little adventurer with a sandcastle they’ve built, (even if it’s with a little help from their friends, siblings or parents), and a short description explaining why their little adventurer should be part of this grand adventure.

“The Edinburgh Leisure team will select their favourite 15 explorers to join us at the exclusive reopening party, date and time still to be announced.”

As the latest of Edinburgh Leisure’s three soft plays to receive a makeover, Tumbles at Portobello is undergoing an exciting transformation.

The renovations include:

  • Interactive elements in the baby and toddler zones
  • Reconfigured layout for enhanced play experiences
  • Upgraded versions of current favourite features
  • Extended café seating with fixed options to maximise space
  • New flooring in the soft play and café area
  • A refreshed reception area on first floor
  • Redecorated birthday party room for the return of celebration packages

How to Enter:

  • A photo of your little explorer, dressed for adventure, next to their sandcastle creation
  • A brief explanation (300 words or less) of why they should join Emma, Fox, and Squirrel at the reopening party
  • Child’s name and date of birth
  • Parent/guardian contact number and email

All entries must be received by 5pm, Tuesday 27th May 2025.

The Tumbles team will select 15 children from across age groups to be their special “star guests” at the grand reopening celebration, where they’ll join other young adventurers in being the first to explore the reimagined play space.

Edinburgh Leisure is a charity dedicated to creating opportunities for everyone to lead more active, healthy lives. They operate over 30 sports and leisure facilities throughout Edinburgh, including three soft play centres designed to inspire active play and imagination in children.

Teeing Off Through Time: New golf exhibition debuts as legendary Dispatch Trophy returns

A captivating new golf exhibition, ‘Teeing Off Through Time,‘ has been unveiled at Braid Hills Golf Course, coinciding with preparations for the milestone 125th Edinburgh Evening News Dispatch Trophy.

The exhibition celebrates Edinburgh’s rich golfing heritage just as the city’s most prestigious amateur team golf championship returns to Braid Hills.

The historic Dispatch Trophy, dating back to 1890, will commence on May 17th with the final scheduled for May 24th. This beloved tournament features a unique double foursome’s format with four-player teams and has been a cornerstone of Edinburgh’s golfing tradition for over 130 years, interrupted only by the two World Wars and the COVID-19 pandemic.

‘Teeing Off Through Time’ is the third exhibition in Edinburgh Leisure’s series celebrating Edinburgh 900 and is free to visitors in the foyer of Edinburgh Leisure’s Braid Hills golf course.

The exhibition chronicles Edinburgh’s pivotal role in golf’s origins, showcases Edinburgh Leisure’s six golf courses and their vibrant communities, explores the evolution of golf clubs, highlights the storied histories of the Dispatch Trophy and Gibson Cup, and provides information on joining Edinburgh Leisure’s golf club.

“With the Dispatch Trophy being played at the Braids, and the Scottish Open taking place at the Renaissance Club in July, we’re hoping there will be lots of golfers interested in paying the exhibition a visit,” said Kerry Teakle, PR Officer at Edinburgh Leisure, who has led the project.

“The timing couldn’t be better to celebrate our city’s tremendous golfing heritage.”

The exhibition will remain at Braid Hills until Thursday, May 29th, before moving to Silverknowes golf course. Golf enthusiasts will have another opportunity to view the exhibition from July 9-15 as part of the broader Edinburgh 900 Exhibition at St James Quarter, where it will be displayed in a unit on Leith Street, next to Mhor Bakery.

Edinburgh Leisure was selected to represent the “City of Leisure” theme at the St James Quarter exhibition. Their previous Edinburgh 900 exhibitions, ‘Great Lengths’ and ‘Your Health is for Life,’ which showcase the organisation’s 27-year commitment to promoting active lifestyles and the history of swimming pools in Edinburgh, will also be on display.

“Having the opportunity to again display our other Edinburgh 900 exhibitions alongside the newer golf exhibition at St James in July is the perfect opportunity to showcase all the great facilities we have,” Kerry added. “It also highlights Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programmes which supported 14,782 people in 2024-2025 who face significant barriers to physical activity, including those affected by health conditions, disabilities, inequalities, and poverty – empowering participants to improve their health, wellbeing and quality of life.”

Edinburgh Leisure received funding for the exhibition as part of the prestigious Edinburgh 900 celebrations, a landmark initiative commemorating the city’s rich history spanning almost a millennium.

The full Edinburgh 900 programme examines the city’s evolution through commerce, conflict, faith, and finance, while celebrating Edinburgh’s present and envisioning its future aspirations.

Marathon Mums rally for Active Communities during Seriously Social Week

Four Edinburgh mothers who bonded through a local exercise group are in the final stages of training for the Edinburgh Marathon, running as a relay team to raise funds for the charity that supported their return to fitness after childbirth – a timely example of community impact as Edinburgh Leisure prepares to celebrate Seriously Social Week.

The women met through the Active Mums programme, part of Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities initiative. They’ll join 55 other participants participating on behalf of Edinburgh Leisure at the Marathon events.

The Edinburgh Marathon Festival weekend (24-25 May) will feature 11 Edinburgh Leisure participants running the full marathon, 12 in the half marathon, 4 relay teams, 10 running the 10k, 8 running the 5k and four juniors.

Chio Martinez, one of the relay team members, explained: “Like many people looking for a fundraising challenge in 2025, I signed up to raise funds for Active Communities and Edinburgh Leisure by taking part in the Edinburgh Marathon Festival. Of course, there are lots of other big-name charities out there, but funding for smaller projects is under threat in Edinburgh, and this is my way of giving something back.

“Active Mums has been a lifeline for me and other mothers with young babies and toddlers. It’s not just about fitness—it’s created a community where I’ve formed meaningful connections, established a vital routine, and found reasons to leave the house on those challenging days.

“The programme offers clear fitness milestones in a judgment-free environment where we all understand the unique struggles of postpartum wellness. It’s given me the confidence to take on the EMF challenge—something I never would have considered before. We’re all excited to step up to this challenge together, and it’s become the perfect motivation to keep moving forward on our fitness journeys.”

The Active Mums relay team has already exceeded their fundraising target and have raised £945, which is 150% of their £600 fundraising target.

Seriously Social Impact

The marathon fundraising effort comes as Edinburgh Leisure marks the second Seriously Social Week (12-16 May), part of a national campaign showcasing the work of charities that prioritise people over profit, connect communities, and promote health, happiness, and creativity for all ages and abilities.

Organised by Community Leisure UK, each day of Seriously Social Week highlights how organisations like Edinburgh Leisure create social impact and foster healthier, happier communities. The campaign focuses on five key themes: health and wellbeing, community, inclusion, employment and skills, and the environment.

Jen Holland, CEO of Edinburgh Leisure, said: “We are proud to be part of a network of charities operating with a social conscience, delivering social good through public leisure services.

“Our core mission is about purpose, not profit, helping people first. We support Edinburgh in becoming healthier and happier with quality health and wellbeing services for everyone, regardless of age or ability, including those with serious health conditions, which helps reduce the financial burden on the NHS.”

The Marathon Mums relay team exemplifies this mission in action. Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programmes supported 14,782 people in 2024-2025 who face significant barriers to physical activity, including those affected by health conditions, disabilities, inequalities, and poverty—empowering participants to improve their health, wellbeing, and quality of life.

These vital Active Communities programmes depend on funding and fundraising to continue their work using physical activity to transform lives and communities across Edinburgh. The initiatives foster social inclusion, promote physical activity, and enhance overall wellbeing throughout the city.

Support the Marathon Mums:

Edinburgh Leisure champions Community Wellbeing during Seriously Social Week


Edinburgh Leisure is dedicated to enhancing social value and will mark the second Seriously Social Week in May, as part of a national campaign showcasing the work of charities that prioritise people over profit, connect communities, and promote health, happiness, and creativity for all ages and abilities.

Organised by Community Leisure UK, Seriously Social Week runs from May 12 to 16, with each day highlighting how organisations like Edinburgh Leisure create social impact and foster healthier, happier communities. Themes include health and wellbeing, community, inclusion, employment and skills, and the environment.

Jen Holland, CEO of Edinburgh Leisure, stated: “We are proud to be part of a network of charities operating with a social conscience, delivering social good through public leisure services.

“Our core mission is about purpose, not profit, helping people first. We support Edinburgh in becoming healthier and happier with quality health and wellbeing services for everyone, regardless of age or ability, including those with serious health conditions, which helps reduce the financial burden on the NHS.

“Just a few of our achievements include supporting over 12,500 people through our Active Communities programmes; offer over 160 health and wellbeing classes weekly; assisting 1,245 refugees and relocated individuals in staying active and connected; providing discounted community access to over 2,500 people; and offer sporting facilities to over 550 Edinburgh sports clubs across 35 different sports.

“Seriously Social is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the difference we make and why we do what we do and aligns perfectly with the themes of Seriously Social.”

As the largest provider of sports and leisure facilities in the city, Edinburgh Leisure offers activities for everyone throughout their lives. As a charitable trust, every penny is reinvested into the health and wellbeing of Edinburgh.

Being active improves physical and mental health, and Edinburgh Leisure aims to support as many people as possible in feeling their best.

In 2024, Charitable Trusts and Social Enterprises across England, Scotland, and Wales generated £1,598,045,306 in social value*, equating to an average of £228 per person. A study by Public Health Scotland found that of the 62,941 deaths in Scotland in 2022, over 3,000 were due to physical inactivity, with cancer and cardiovascular disease accounting for about one-third of these.

Last year, Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities team supported over 12,500 people in improving their health and wellbeing through projects focused on falls prevention, mental health, long-term health conditions, and supporting those on low incomes and experiencing inequalities.

Kirsty Cumming, CEO of Community Leisure UK, said: “Our members don’t just deliver public leisure and cultural services; they support social change for the better every day of the week.  

“As social enterprises and charities, they prioritise people over profit, are run by local people, and have everyone’s best interests at heart. Seriously Social Week showcases how they go above and beyond in supporting individuals and communities.

“This sector quietly supports people and communities daily, not for profit, but because it’s the right thing to do.”

More than 110 Charitable Trusts and Social Enterprises deliver public leisure and culture in Scotland, Wales, and Ireland as part of the Community Leisure UK network. In 2024, they:

  • Welcomed over 209 million visits
  • 86% delivered activity referral programs
  • 70% offered strength and balance programs for over 50s
  • Worked with 193 local authorities
  • Collaborated with over 100,000 community groups
  • 87% offered volunteer opportunities
  • Over 70% provided holiday activity and food programs
  • 38% offered youth activity sessions that helped reduce local crime


For more information, visit www.seriouslysocial.org.uk