David Lloyd Leisure Group has officially opened its newest health and racquets club in Bicester, Oxfordshire, following a £12 million investment. The new facility, David Lloyd Bicester, is the company's 103rd club in the UK and is expected to create over 80 new jobs in the local area.
The state-of-the-art club is located at the Wendlebury Interchange business park and offers a comprehensive range of health, wellness, and fitness amenities for families and individuals. This opening marks a significant step in the company's ongoing expansion strategy across the United Kingdom.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £12 million in a new health and racquets club in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The new facility is the 103rd UK club for the group and has created more than 80 local jobs.
- Features include a 100+ station gym, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club aims to provide a premium family-friendly wellness destination for the Bicester community and surrounding areas.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The development of David Lloyd Bicester represents a substantial financial commitment to the region's health and wellness infrastructure. The £12 million project was designed to meet the growing demand for premium fitness and leisure services in Oxfordshire, a county known for its expanding communities.
Construction and development of the site provided a boost to the local economy through contracts with regional suppliers and construction firms. Now operational, the club adds over 80 permanent full-time and part-time positions, ranging from fitness instructors and spa therapists to administrative and hospitality staff.
Strategic Location and Community Impact
The club's location at the Wendlebury Interchange was strategically chosen for its accessibility to residents of Bicester and nearby towns. It is part of a larger commercial development, adding a significant leisure component to the area's amenities.
Local officials have welcomed the investment, highlighting its potential to enhance community well-being and attract further business to the region. The facility is expected to serve thousands of members, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle within the community.
Who Are David Lloyd Clubs?
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. The company operates 133 clubs, with 103 in the UK and 30 across mainland Europe. Known for their family-oriented approach and extensive racquets facilities, the clubs offer a premium experience that combines fitness, relaxation, and social activities.
Inside the New Bicester Facility
The new David Lloyd Bicester club is equipped with a wide array of modern facilities designed to cater to all ages and fitness levels. The extensive offering reinforces the brand's position as a premium, all-encompassing wellness destination.
The centerpiece of the club is its expansive 100+ station gymnasium. The gym floor features the latest equipment from leading fitness technology brands, including dedicated zones for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness. Members have access to a team of personal trainers for customized workout plans.
Extensive Fitness and Racquets Offerings
Beyond the main gym, the club boasts a variety of specialized fitness spaces. These include:
- Three dedicated group exercise studios: A high-impact studio for classes like BodyPump™, a Mind & Body studio for yoga and Pilates, and a state-of-the-art cycle hub for group cycling classes.
- Blaze Studio: A signature David Lloyd high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout studio that combines cardio, strength, and combat exercises.
- Racquet Sports: The facility includes three indoor tennis courts, three outdoor tennis courts, and courts for badminton and squash, catering to both casual players and serious competitors.
These facilities are supported by a comprehensive timetable of over 100 weekly group classes, all included within the membership package.
By the Numbers: David Lloyd Bicester
- Investment: £12 million
- UK Club Number: 103
- Jobs Created: 80+
- Gym Stations: 100+
- Weekly Classes: 100+
- Indoor Tennis Courts: 3
- Outdoor Tennis Courts: 3
- Swimming Pools: 2 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor)
Luxury Spa and Family-Focused Amenities
A key feature of the new Bicester club is its focus on relaxation and recovery. The luxurious Spa Retreat provides a sanctuary for members to unwind and rejuvenate. It includes a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, and heated relaxation beds.
"Our goal with David Lloyd Bicester was to create more than just a gym. We wanted to build a complete wellness destination for the entire family. From our cutting-edge fitness equipment to the tranquil Spa Retreat and dedicated kids' areas, every detail has been designed to support the health and happiness of our members."
– Michelle Guinness, General Manager, David Lloyd Bicester
The club is also designed with families in mind. It features dedicated kids' clubs and activity rooms, offering programs for children aged from three months to 16 years. This allows parents to enjoy their own workouts or relaxation time while their children are engaged in supervised activities.
Swimming and Social Spaces
The aquatics facilities are a major draw, with a 25-meter indoor swimming pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool. The outdoor pool area is complemented by a patio and sun loungers, creating a resort-like feel during warmer months. Swimming lessons for both adults and children are also available.
To foster a sense of community, the club includes a spacious Clubroom and café bar. This area serves as a social hub where members can work, relax, or socialize with friends and family while enjoying a healthy meal or coffee.
Future Plans and Market Position
The opening in Bicester is part of David Lloyd Leisure's broader strategy of targeted expansion in key growth areas across the UK and Europe. The company continues to identify locations with strong demographic profiles and a demand for premium health and wellness services.
According to industry analysis, the wellness sector has shown remarkable resilience and growth. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing health and are willing to invest in high-quality facilities that offer a holistic experience. David Lloyd's model, which combines fitness, relaxation, and social elements, is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.
The company has indicated that it will continue to invest in upgrading its existing clubs while pursuing new development opportunities. This dual approach ensures that the brand remains competitive and continues to meet the evolving expectations of its members.
