David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its new £15 million facility in Bristol, marking a significant investment in the region's health and wellness sector. The state-of-the-art club, located near the Emersons Green science park, is expected to create over 100 new jobs and provide premium fitness and leisure services to the community.
The opening represents the company's first new club in the UK in nearly a decade, signaling a renewed focus on domestic expansion. The facility spans over 100,000 square feet and incorporates advanced technology and a wide range of amenities designed for families and individuals.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has opened a new £15 million health and leisure club in Bristol.
- The facility is the company's first new UK club in almost 10 years and has created over 100 local jobs.
- Amenities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, tennis courts, and a dedicated kids' zone.
- The club integrates modern technology, including digital class bookings and member wellness tracking.
A Strategic Investment in Bristol
The decision to build the new club in Bristol was driven by the city's strong economic growth and demographic trends. According to company officials, the location was selected to serve the growing communities in North Bristol and South Gloucestershire. This area has seen considerable residential and commercial development in recent years.
The construction project, which took approximately 18 months to complete, involved local contractors and suppliers, contributing to the regional economy. The £15 million investment covers the land acquisition, construction, and fitting of the extensive facility. This project is part of David Lloyd's broader strategy to enhance its portfolio with modern, family-oriented clubs.
Background on David Lloyd Clubs
Founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd, the company has grown into one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. It currently operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. The brand is known for its racquet sports facilities and comprehensive family offerings.
Inside the New State-of-the-Art Facility
The Bristol club offers a comprehensive range of amenities designed to cater to a diverse membership base. The facilities are divided into several distinct zones, each focusing on different aspects of health, fitness, and relaxation.
Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is a spacious, open-plan gym equipped with the latest technology from brands like Technogym and Eleiko. The gym floor includes dedicated zones for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness. Members have access to over 200 pieces of equipment.
In addition to the main gym, the club features three specialized group exercise studios. These studios will host over 130 classes per week, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT), yoga, Pilates, and the company's signature Blaze and Rhythm classes. A dedicated indoor cycling studio provides an immersive experience for spin class enthusiasts.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £15 million
- Size: 100,000+ square feet
- Jobs Created: Over 100
- Weekly Classes: 130+
- Swimming Pools: 3 (2 indoor, 1 outdoor)
- Tennis Courts: 7 (4 indoor, 3 outdoor)
Aquatics and Spa Facilities
A major draw for the new club is its extensive aquatic and spa area. The club features a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and a separate, warmer indoor family pool. During the summer months, members can use the 20-meter heated outdoor pool, which is surrounded by a sun terrace and lounge area.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym; we wanted to build a premium destination for the entire family to enjoy year-round. The Spa Retreat and our extensive kids' facilities are central to that vision."
The luxury Spa Retreat is designed as a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. It includes a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, an ice fountain, and heated relaxation beds. Access to the spa area is included in certain membership tiers, providing a premium wellness experience.
Focus on Family and Community
David Lloyd Clubs has built its brand on being family-friendly, and the new Bristol location is no exception. A significant portion of the facility is dedicated to children's activities. The DL Kids zone offers a structured program of sports, arts, and educational activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years.
The club also features a soft-play area, an outdoor playground, and dedicated family changing rooms. Specialized coaching programs for swimming and tennis are available for children, run by certified instructors. This focus aims to make the club a central part of family life for its members.
Clubroom and Social Spaces
Beyond fitness, the club is designed to be a social hub. The central Clubroom features a restaurant and café serving a menu of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks. It includes a dedicated business area with complimentary Wi-Fi, allowing members to work remotely in a comfortable setting. An adults-only lounge provides a quiet space for relaxation.
This social aspect is a key part of the company's strategy to foster a sense of community among its members, encouraging them to spend more time at the facility beyond their workouts.
Economic Impact and Future Plans
The opening of the Bristol club is a significant move for David Lloyd Leisure. After a period of focusing on acquisitions and refurbishments, this new build indicates a return to organic growth within the UK market. The creation of over 100 permanent jobs, ranging from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff, provides a welcome boost to the local employment market.
According to a statement from the company, member pre-sales for the Bristol location exceeded expectations, demonstrating strong local demand for premium health and leisure facilities. The company has suggested that it is actively exploring other locations for potential new clubs across the UK, though no specific plans have been announced.
This new facility sets a benchmark for future David Lloyd clubs, integrating digital technology for class bookings and member engagement with high-end physical amenities. As the wellness industry continues to grow, this investment positions the company to capture a larger share of the premium market segment.
