David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened a new £33 million luxury health and wellness facility in Cricklewood, North London. The 95,000-square-foot club is a significant investment in the area, creating over 100 new jobs and offering a wide range of premium fitness, spa, and family amenities.
The new location, situated on Cricklewood Lane, is part of a broader regeneration effort in the community. It aims to provide a comprehensive lifestyle destination for members, combining state-of-the-art equipment with extensive relaxation and social spaces.
Key Takeaways
- Major Investment: The new Cricklewood club represents a £33 million investment by David Lloyd Leisure.
- Job Creation: The facility has created more than 100 permanent jobs in the local community.
- Extensive Facilities: The 95,000 sq ft club includes a luxury spa, indoor and outdoor pools, a modern gym, and dedicated studios.
- Racquet Sports Focus: The club features multiple tennis courts and newly popular Padel courts.
- Family and Work Integration: Amenities include a DL Kids club, a business hub, and a Clubroom for dining and socializing.
A Significant Development for North London
The opening of the Cricklewood club marks a major milestone for David Lloyd Leisure. The £33 million project underscores the company's strategy of investing in high-end facilities that cater to a growing demand for holistic wellness experiences. Construction and development of the site have transformed a previously underutilized space into a modern hub for health and community activities.
Kristen Westwood, the General Manager of the new club, highlighted the project's scale and ambition. She noted the extensive planning and work involved in bringing the state-of-the-art facility to life. The creation of over 100 jobs provides a welcome economic boost to the local area, offering roles across fitness, hospitality, and club management.
Cricklewood Club by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £33 million
- Total Area: 95,000 square feet
- Jobs Created: Over 100
- Padel Courts: 3
- Tennis Courts: 5 (3 indoor, 2 outdoor)
Inside the New Luxury Facility
The club is designed to be more than just a gym. It positions itself as a 'third space' for members—a place between home and work where they can focus on fitness, relaxation, and social connection. The amenities are divided into distinct zones to cater to various needs.
Spa and Wellness Amenities
A central feature of the Cricklewood location is its luxurious spa. The centerpiece is an outdoor Spa Garden, which includes a hydro pool, sauna, and steam room. Inside, members have access to additional relaxation facilities, such as a salt cave and an ice cave, designed to offer a comprehensive thermal spa journey.
Stéphane Ruttan, CEO of David Lloyd Leisure, commented on the company's vision for its facilities.
"We are committed to providing our members with the very best health and wellness facilities. Our new Cricklewood club is a testament to this, offering a truly premium experience that caters to the whole family. It is a place to invest in your physical and mental wellbeing."
Fitness and Training Zones
The gym floor at the Cricklewood club is equipped with the latest fitness technology. It features a wide array of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and functional fitness areas. According to the company, the layout is designed to accommodate all fitness levels, from beginners to experienced athletes.
In addition to the main gym, there are several dedicated studios for group exercise classes. These include:
- A High Energy Studio for fast-paced workouts.
- A Mind & Body Studio for yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- A Boutique Studio for specialized classes like their signature BLAZE workout.
Focus on Racquet Sports and Family Life
David Lloyd Clubs has a long history with racquet sports, and the Cricklewood location continues this tradition. The club includes three indoor and two outdoor tennis courts, offering year-round playing opportunities. A significant addition is the inclusion of three Padel courts, catering to the rapidly growing popularity of the sport in the UK.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is played on a smaller, enclosed court and is known for being easy to learn and highly social. Its popularity has surged across Europe, and its inclusion in new clubs like David Lloyd Cricklewood reflects a strategic move to attract a wider demographic of members.
Family-oriented services are another key component of the club's offering. A dedicated DL Kids facility provides activities and coaching for younger members, allowing parents to use the club's other amenities. The Clubroom serves as a central social hub, offering food and drinks in a relaxed environment suitable for families and individuals alike. For those mixing work with wellness, a dedicated business hub provides a quiet space with Wi-Fi and workstations.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
The new club is situated within the Cricklewood development, a large-scale regeneration project aimed at revitalizing the area. By providing a high-quality leisure facility and creating local employment, the club is expected to contribute positively to the community's growth and appeal.
The investment in Cricklewood is part of David Lloyd Leisure's broader strategy of enhancing its portfolio of clubs across the UK and Europe. The focus on premium, multi-purpose facilities reflects a shift in consumer expectations, where health clubs are increasingly seen as integral parts of a balanced lifestyle rather than just places to exercise.
As the club welcomes its first members, its success will be measured not only by membership numbers but also by its integration into the local community and its ability to deliver on the promise of a premium, all-encompassing wellness experience.
