David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, spa, and racquets club in Rugby, Warwickshire, following a £12 million investment. The new facility, located on the grounds of Rugby School, is expected to create over 80 new jobs and provide a wide range of premium wellness and leisure amenities to the local community.
The club is the 104th location for the David Lloyd group in the UK and represents a significant expansion of its portfolio. The state-of-the-art facility includes swimming pools, a modern gym, racquet courts, and an expansive spa area, catering to families and individuals seeking comprehensive health and fitness options.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £12 million health and wellness club in Rugby, Warwickshire.
- The new facility has created more than 80 full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
- Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, a 100-station gym, multiple racquet courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club is part of a partnership with Rugby School, providing facilities for both members and students.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The development of the new Rugby club is one of David Lloyd's most significant recent investments. The £12 million project was designed to deliver a premium experience, combining fitness, relaxation, and family-friendly activities under one roof. Construction was completed on schedule, with the club opening its doors to founding members in early autumn.
According to the company, the facility aims to become a central hub for health and wellness in the region. The investment reflects growing consumer demand for high-quality leisure spaces that offer more than just a standard gym. The club's design focuses on creating a welcoming environment for all ages and fitness levels.
“Our goal was to create a destination that supports the health and wellbeing of the entire Rugby community. This £12 million investment demonstrates our commitment to providing world-class facilities and creating local employment opportunities.” - Michelle Dand, Head of Fitness Product, David Lloyd Clubs
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The opening has provided a notable boost to the local economy, creating over 80 new jobs. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to administrative staff and management positions. This influx of employment is a welcome development for the Rugby area.
The company has focused on hiring from the local community, ensuring that the economic benefits of the new club are felt directly within the region. The long-term operation of the club is also expected to support local suppliers and service providers.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Amenities
The new David Lloyd Rugby club spans a significant area, housing an extensive range of modern equipment and purpose-built spaces. The design emphasizes both functionality and luxury, providing members with a comprehensive wellness journey.
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is the 100-station gymnasium. It features the latest equipment from leading brands, including advanced cardio machines, a large free-weights area, and specialized functional training zones. The gym is designed with an open-plan layout to create a spacious and motivating atmosphere.
Facility by the Numbers
- £12 million total investment
- 80+ new jobs created
- 100+ gym stations
- 20-meter indoor swimming pool
- 25-meter outdoor swimming pool
- 4 dedicated group exercise studios
- 3 Padel tennis courts
Aquatic and Spa Offerings
A key attraction is the club's extensive aquatic and spa facilities. Members have access to both a 20-meter indoor pool and a 25-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming. The outdoor area is complemented by a sun terrace and lounge area for relaxation during warmer months.
The club's luxury spa, known as the Spa Retreat, is designed as a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. It includes a range of hydrotherapy experiences:
- Himalayan salt sauna
- Eucalyptus-infused steam room
- Ice cave for cold therapy
- Deep relax beds
- Outdoor spa garden with a sauna and relaxation zones
These facilities are designed to help members recover from workouts, reduce stress, and improve overall wellbeing. The spa is a core part of the David Lloyd premium membership experience.
Racquet Sports and Group Fitness
True to its heritage, the new club places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. It features multiple tennis courts designed for players of all abilities. A significant addition is the inclusion of three Padel tennis courts, reflecting the rapidly growing popularity of the sport in the UK.
Beyond racquet sports, the club offers a diverse group fitness schedule with over 100 weekly classes. Four dedicated studios host a variety of workouts, from high-energy sessions to holistic practices.
What is Padel Tennis?
Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is played on an enclosed court about one-third the size of a tennis court and is typically played in doubles. Its growing popularity is due to its social nature and ease of learning compared to traditional tennis.
The class offerings include David Lloyd's signature programs like BLAZE, a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class, and SPIRIT, which combines yoga, Pilates, and meditation. Other classes range from indoor cycling to dance-based fitness and strength training.
Family-Focused Features and Community Integration
David Lloyd Clubs has built its brand on being family-friendly, and the Rugby location is no exception. The club features dedicated spaces and programs for children, including a DL Kids club, coaching sessions, and a family lounge area.
The Clubroom serves as the social heart of the facility, offering a space for members to work, socialize, and dine. It features an indoor and outdoor terrace and provides a menu with healthy and family-friendly food options. This design encourages members to spend more time at the club beyond their workouts.
Partnership with Rugby School
The club's location on the grounds of the historic Rugby School is the result of a strategic partnership. This collaboration provides students with access to world-class athletic facilities, supporting the school's sports programs. In return, David Lloyd gains a prime location with strong community ties.
This public-private partnership model is becoming more common for leisure operators, allowing them to integrate into established communities while providing modern facilities for educational institutions. The arrangement is seen as mutually beneficial, enhancing the offerings of both the school and the club.
