How Much Does it Cost to Play Padel in the UK?
Thinking of picking up a padel racket but wondering how much damage it’ll do to your wallet? Fear not. Padel is one of the most affordable racket sports out there, but like anything, costs can vary depending on where you play, what gear you choose, and how often you hit the court. Let’s break it down.
Court Hire: The Big One
In the UK, padel courts are typically rented by the hour and split between four players (since the game is played in doubles).
UK average: £20-£40 per hour (£5-£10 per person)
Off-peak discounts: Many venues offer cheaper rates during the day.
Membership options: Some clubs offer annual or monthly fees with free or discounted court bookings.
Example: David Lloyd or Club de Padel might charge £28/hour peak, £20 off-peak.
Essential Gear Costs
If you’re brand new, you don’t need to splash out on pro-level gear. Here’s a quick guide to beginner-friendly pricing:
| Item | Budget Range (UK) |
|---|---|
| Padel Racket | £30 - £90 |
| Padel Balls (x3) | £5 - £8 |
| Padel Shoes | £40 - £80 |
| Bag & Grip | £15 - £30 |
Pro tip: Many clubs offer racket hire for a few pounds, so you can try before you buy.
Club Memberships & Coaching
Some clubs require membership to book courts, while others are pay-as-you-play.
Annual Memberships: £50 - £150+ depending on location and facilities.
Coaching sessions: £20 - £45 per session (private or group).
You can usually find beginner clinics or free intro sessions at new clubs.
Hidden Extras to Consider
Court shoes: Non-marking soles are often required.
Travel: Especially if your nearest padel court is a bit of a drive.
Balls wear out quickly: You may need to replace them every 2-3 sessions.
So, What’s the Total Cost to Start?
Let’s say you play once a week for a month as a beginner:
Court hire: ~£40
Racket hire: ~£10
Balls: ~£8
Shoes: ~£50 (one-off)
Total: ~£108 for your first month.
Already hooked? You can invest in your own gear and save long-term.
Padel offers great value for money, especially compared to sports like golf or tennis. With shared court costs and affordable entry-level gear, it’s an easy hobby to get into without draining your bank account.
Ready to give it a go? Learn what padel is, grab your mates, book a court, and start swinging.
