Tag: Meadowbank Sports Centre

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

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

Calling all potential Hyrox athletes: – July taster sessions at Meadowbank

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.

To book, click here.

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.

Festival City Stories launches at Meadowbank

Street advertising specialists JACK ARTS Scotland have teamed up with the Edinburgh Festivals to share some of the many hidden community stories that sit behind the more well-known festival events – all displayed as an accessible street exhibition surrounding Meadowbank Sports Centre.

Festival City Stories highlights people involved in year-round partnerships between some of Edinburgh’s leading festivals and local community groups, schools and organisations – all captured by Edinburgh-based photographer Ellie Morag. 

The resulting artwork of imagery and words celebrates a diverse range of projects – from children exploring what their rights mean to them, to music programmes sparking joyful connections for people living with dementia.

Amongst the Festival City Stories highlighted are:

  • Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society work with Oaklands additional needs school, on the creation of an interactive multi-sensory show drawing on the importance and exploration of objects
  • Edinburgh International Children’s Festival work with Forthview Primary School, in piloting their new Creative Encounters programme which takes a child’s rights-based approach to programming work
  • Edinburgh International Festival work with Space @ The Broomhouse Hub, on development of The Beacon Club which uses music to spark joyful connections with people living with dementia and facing social isolation
  • Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival work with Passion4Fusion and St Augustine’s RC High School, on HAIR, which centres on Black Hair stories, exploring key historical and political moments up until the present, and how these are diverse representations of ‘Blackness’/Black Culture. 
  • Scottish International Storytelling Festival work on Sensing Stories, an inclusive series of storytelling sessions for groups interested in using storytelling as a wellbeing tool and for developing performance skills
  • Edinburgh Art Festival work with Rhubaba, on a co-created programme of free workshops and events to connect marginalised artists with creativity through film, theatre, photography, ceramics, writing, and more

Jim Cowan, Partnerships and Marketing Manager, JACK ARTS Scotland shares: ‘It’s a pleasure to use our shared street space to champion these vital community voices from year-round partnerships between some of Edinburgh’s leading festivals and local groups, schools and organisations.

“From inclusive storytelling sessions to workshops using the power of objects to unlock creativity – Festival City Stories helps share and celebrate their incredible work with a wider audience by showcasing these artworks on our city streets.’

The public gallery of artworks will be displayed on JACK ARTS Scotland’s poster sites surrounding the Meadowbank Sports Centre, on London Road and Wishaw Terrace, from 17 February to 2 March 2025.

Snooker’s biggest stars heading for Edinburgh

Snooker’s all-time greats head for the Meadowbank Sports Centre in Edinburgh next month for the BetVictor Scottish Open, with the star-studded line up and first round match schedule now confirmed.

Gary Wilson will be aiming to win the title for a third consecutive year, in a fantastic field which includes Scotland’s top player John Higgins, world number one Judd Trump, World Champion Kyren Wilson and many more green baize giants. The event runs from December 9th to 15th at the superb Meadowbank Sports Centre venue in the heart of Edinburgh.

Tickets are STILL AVAILABLE but must be booked fast now that the draw is out. They start at just £15 for one session, or £25 for an all-day ticket which gives fans the chance to watch a wide range of the world’s top stars. For all ticket details visit www.wst.tv/tickets

Gary Wilson, who beat Joe O’Connor in the 2022 final and Noppon Saengkham to retain the title in 2023, starts his defence against China’s Long Zehuang on the opening morning of the tournament on Monday December 9th.

Huge first round clashes over the first two days include:

Gary Wilson v Long Zehuang – – Monday December 9th at 10am

John Higgins v Ian Burns – Monday December 9th at 1pm

Mark Allen v He Guoqiang – Monday December 9th afternoon

Judd Trump v Ishpreet Singh Chadha – Monday December 9th at 7pm

Mark Williams v David Lilley – Monday December 9th evening

Kyren Wilson v David Grace – Tuesday December 10th at 1pm

Mark Selby v Stuart Carrington – Tuesday December 10th afternoon

Luca Brecel v Julien Leclercq – Tuesday December 10th afternoon

Shaun Murphy v Daniel Wells – Tuesday December 10th at 7pm

Ronnie O’Sullivan v Xing Zihao – Tuesday December 10th at 7pm

Neil Robertson v Fan Zhengyi – Tuesday December 10th evening

WST’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Tom Rowell said: “Edinburgh has proved a fantastic location for this event and the players have enjoyed packed crowds and a sensational atmosphere over the past two years.

“So we’re delighted to return to the Meadowbank Sports Centre especially with an incredibly strong line-up of our sport’s leading players. Tickets are already selling fast as this is the opportunity to watch world class sport from as little as £15. With such a high standard on the tour and so many epic matches already this season, there has never been a better time to watch snooker live.”

This is the third of four events in the BetVictor Home Nations Series, with the leading money winner across the series to bank an extra £150,000 bonus. Neil Robertson currently leads the way, just ahead of Kyren Wilson, with Judd Trump third. So there’s plenty at stake aside from the battle for the Stephen Hendry Trophy in Edinburgh.

The BetVictor Scottish Open is televised by Eurosport, discovery+, DMAX and many other broadcasters worldwide.

Edinburgh Leisure’s Festive Gymnastics Spectacular – It’s a Balancing Act!

Tickets are now available for Edinburgh Leisure’s 18th annual Festive Gymnastics Display, where more than 800 gymnasts and cheerleaders from six Edinburgh Leisure venues, plus guest clubs, will come together to dazzle audiences at Meadowbank Sports Centre on Sunday, 24 November 2024.

Dorothy McQueen, Gymnastics Development Officer, explained: “Gymnastics is a great way for individuals to learn and build on the fundamentals required for physical development, well-being, and personal growth.

“Our annual Festive Display provides a fun and energetic way to the showcase skills the gymnasts and athletes have been working so hard on throughout the year.

“The focus for this event is on participation and enjoyment, rather than perfection, allowing gymnasts and athletes of all skill levels to shine. The atmosphere is relaxed and supportive, making it a delightful experience.

“It’s a bit of a balancing act to keep youngsters interested and engaged in sport, but our Festive Display adds a real sparkle to our programme for both participants and spectators!”

Alongside over 30 performances by Edinburgh Leisure gymnasts, the event will feature special guest appearances from regional clubs like Acrobay, Cheer Evolution, City of Edinburgh, Falkirk, Jack Kane, and Kestrel, showcasing a range of talent.

Edinburgh Leisure is also looking for volunteers to help the event run smoothly. With over 1,500 spectators and 500+ participants expected, volunteers are crucial to keeping things on track.

“You don’t need to know anything about gymnastics to help,” Dorothy McQueen shared. “It’s a great opportunity to get involved, whether assisting with registration, helping out in the warm-up area, or guiding guests to their seats. Anyone with time to spare, even part of the day, is welcome!”

Anyone interested should contact Dorothy McQueen – Dorothy.mcqueen@edinburghleisure.co.uk 

Tickets are priced at £5.50 each for spectators aged 5 and over, while under-5s enter for free (though without a reserved seat).

Tickets are available for either the morning or afternoon sessions via Ticket Source – https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/edinburgh-leisure-events

Edinburgh Leisure’s gymnastics programme offers something for everyone, from Baby Nippers for toddlers to more advanced classes for older children in disciplines like general gymnastics, trampolining, acro and display gymnastics. It’s just one of 12 sports offered across 17 venues, all designed to help children improve agility, develop new skills, and grow their confidence.

To find out more about gymnastics classes and coaching opportunities, visit Edinburgh Leisure’s website for inspiration.

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

BodyCombat™ 100 – Master the moves, feel the movement

In a celebration of the 100th release of BodyCombat™, Edinburgh Leisure is hosting a day dedicated to this popular workout, loved by many across the city.

Being held on 21st September at Edinburgh Leisure’s Meadowbank Sports Centre from 9.30-11.30 am, entry is free for members or just £5 for non-members.

BodyCombat is a workout combining multiple martial arts disciplines set to music which appeals to all ages and abilities as it is incredibly adaptable to the individuals’ fitness level. One of the oldest and most popular fitness class programmes, it comes sixth in popularity behind BodyPump, RPM, Aquafit, Yoga and Pilates.

Alex Smith, Fitness Class Manager at Edinburgh Leisure said: “Last year Edinburgh Leisure hosted 400,000 BodyCombatters across the city and we want to celebrate their commitment to the programme. Even if you’re new to BodyCombat, come along and give it a try to master the moves and feel the movement.”

BodyCombat is available at Ainslie Park Leisure Centre, Drumbrae Leisure Centre, Craiglockhart Leisure Centre, Leith Victoria Swim Centre, Meadowbank Swim Centre, Royal Commonwealth Pool, Gracemount Leisure Centre, Glenogle Swim Centre, Portobello Swim Centre and Kirkliston Leisure Centre.  

Spaces are limited so make sure you book your place now online or via the Edinburgh Leisure app.

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/bodycombat100

Strut Your Stuff at a Super Saturday Fitness Festival

Edinburgh Leisure is pumping up the volume with their first festival of fitness classes at Meadowbank Sports Centre on Saturday, 4th May 2024.

The Super Saturday Fitness Class Festival will be an opportunity to try over 15 different fitness classes on a Super Saturday Workout like no other.

You can work up a sweat with the crowds at popular high-octane favourites like Bodypump and Zumba or try out some new acts like Shapes. And if you prefer life in the slower lane, their relaxation stage will be offering more peaceful Yoga and Pilates sessions.

With activities starting from 9am across four different stages, there will be something for everyone. Spaces are limited so make sure to book your classes now online or on the app.

Entry is free for Edinburgh Leisure members and just £5 per class for non-members. All classes must be pre-booked.

Edinburgh Leisure offers more classes across the city than any other provider and they have recently unlocked their Fitness Class Membership to ensure customers have access to all the classes they want, wherever they’re at, in the city or in life.

Their Fitness Class Membership now offers full access to more than 750 fitness classes a week across all their venues.

And if you sign up before 31 May 2024, you can take advantage of their No Joining Fee Offer – available for a limited time only.

To join now, https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/join

To find out more about Super Saturday and to pre-book the fitness classes on offer, visit:  https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/super-saturday. 

If you’re on the Edinburgh Leisure app, click the Fitness Class Bookings or the Super Saturday Tile on the Meadowbank Sports Centre’s tile.

Free football to keep the kids amused this February half-term

Looking for ways to keep the kids amused this half term, then look no further than some free football being offered by Edinburgh Leisure.

Suitable for young people aged 11 – 18 years, the football sessions will run on the main pitch at Meadowbank Sports Centre from 1:30pm – 3:00pm on Tuesday, 13th, Thursday 15th and Friday, 16th February.. 

Participants can come along, stay active and socialise while enjoying the outdoors. Sessions don’t need to be booked – kids can simply turn up and have fun.  

Wherever you’re at on the map or in life, Edinburgh Leisure is here to help the people of Edinburgh enjoy a healthier, happier, and more active life.

In the heart of communities, we’re the largest provider of sport and leisure facilities across the city. As a charitable trust we provide activities for everyone as they move through their lives.