David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Bicester, Oxfordshire. The £12 million facility, located in the Catalyst Bicester business park, is the company's 103rd club in the UK and represents a significant investment in local community well-being and employment.
The new club began welcoming members on June 10, 2024, following a multi-year development project. It is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs in the area, ranging from management and fitness instruction to hospitality and operations roles.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £12 million facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The club is the 103rd in the UK and is located at the Catalyst Bicester business park.
- The development has created around 80 new full-time and part-time jobs for the local community.
- Facilities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a state-of-the-art gym, a luxury spa, and extensive racquet sports courts.
A Comprehensive Health and Wellness Destination
The Bicester club is designed to cater to a wide range of fitness and leisure interests for individuals and families. The facility spans a significant area, incorporating both indoor and outdoor spaces to provide a year-round experience for its members.
Central to the club's design is its focus on providing a premium experience. According to a company press release, the goal was to create an environment that supports physical fitness, mental well-being, and social connection. The layout and amenities reflect this holistic approach to health.
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Spa Facilities
The core of the new club is its expansive gym, which features the latest equipment from leading fitness technology brands. Members have access to a variety of cardiovascular machines, strength training equipment, and a dedicated functional fitness zone. The gym floor is designed with ample space to ensure a comfortable workout environment, even during peak hours.
Adjacent to the gym is the luxury spa, a key feature of the new development. The spa includes:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- A Himalayan salt sauna
- A steam room
- An ice cave for cryotherapy benefits
- Heated relaxation beds
These facilities are intended to provide members with a comprehensive wellness journey, focusing on recovery and relaxation as much as on physical exercise. "We wanted to offer more than just a gym; we aimed to build a sanctuary for well-being," said Jack Phillips, the General Manager of the new Bicester club.
"Our vision for Bicester was to create a first-class destination where families and individuals can spend quality time together, focusing on their health and happiness. Every detail, from the spa facilities to our kids' programs, has been carefully planned to meet the needs of the community." - Jack Phillips, General Manager
Extensive Racquet Sports and Swimming Pools
Staying true to its heritage, David Lloyd Bicester places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The club boasts three indoor Padel courts, which is a significant feature given the sport's rapidly growing popularity in the UK. Additionally, there are multiple tennis courts and facilities for badminton and squash.
Padel's Popularity Surge
According to the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), the governing body for Padel in the UK, the number of Padel courts in the country has grown by over 300% since 2020. The sport's social nature and accessibility have made it one of the fastest-growing recreational activities.
The swimming facilities are equally impressive. The club includes a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower indoor family pool. An outdoor 20-meter heated pool allows for year-round swimming and is surrounded by a sun terrace and loungers for relaxation during warmer months.
Family-Oriented Programs and Social Spaces
A key part of the David Lloyd model is its focus on family. The Bicester club includes a dedicated DL Kids area, offering a range of activities for children from three months to 16 years old. These programs are designed to run alongside adult fitness classes, allowing parents to use the facilities while their children are engaged in supervised activities.
The club also features a large 'Clubroom' which serves as a central social hub. It includes a restaurant and café area offering a full menu of meals, snacks, and drinks. This space is designed for members to relax, socialize, or work, with dedicated areas for adults and families.
The David Lloyd Clubs Business Model
Founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd, the company has grown into one of Europe's leading health and leisure groups. Its model is based on providing a wide range of premium facilities under one roof, with a strong focus on racquet sports and family-friendly environments. The group now operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe.
The integration of work and leisure is also acknowledged. The Clubroom provides high-speed Wi-Fi and quiet zones, allowing members to use the space for remote work before or after their workouts. This reflects a growing trend of 'third spaces' that blend personal, professional, and recreational life.
Economic and Community Impact
The opening of the new club is a notable economic event for Bicester. The creation of 80 new jobs provides a boost to local employment. These roles cover a wide spectrum of skills, including fitness professionals, spa therapists, chefs, and administrative staff.
The £12 million investment also highlights confidence in the local economy. Catalyst Bicester, the business park where the club is located, is a hub for technology and innovation, and the addition of a major leisure facility enhances the appeal of the area for both businesses and residents.
Local officials have welcomed the development. According to reports from the planning stages, the facility is seen as a valuable addition to the town's amenities, promoting a healthier lifestyle and providing a new community focal point. The project aligns with broader local government goals to improve public health and well-being infrastructure.
The club is expected to attract members from Bicester and the surrounding Cherwell district, further establishing the town as a key regional center in Oxfordshire. Its opening marks the completion of a significant project that has been in development for several years, navigating planning and construction phases to deliver a modern, high-quality leisure destination.