David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire, following a £15 million investment. The new health and wellness club, located near the Bicester Village retail park, has created over 100 new jobs and introduces a wide range of premium fitness, spa, and racquet facilities to the local community.
The opening marks the 104th club in the UK for the David Lloyd group and is part of a broader strategy to expand its presence in key regional locations. The facility aims to cater to families, fitness enthusiasts, and professionals seeking a comprehensive wellness and social environment.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has invested £15 million in a new state-of-the-art facility in Bicester.
- The club has generated more than 100 full-time and part-time employment opportunities in the area.
- Key features include a luxury Spa Retreat, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and extensive racquet sports facilities, including Padel courts.
- The opening is part of David Lloyd's ongoing expansion, reflecting growing consumer demand for premium wellness experiences.
A Comprehensive Look at the New Facilities
The Bicester club is designed to offer a complete health and wellness experience under one roof. The extensive facilities are structured to appeal to a diverse membership base, from individuals focused on high-intensity training to families looking for recreational activities.
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Studios
At the core of the club is a 10,000-square-foot gymnasium equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands. The gym floor is zoned for different workout styles, including areas for strength training, cardio, and functional fitness. Members have access to a team of personal trainers for customized fitness plans.
In addition to the main gym, the club features several dedicated group exercise studios. These include:
- Blaze Studio: A high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout combining cardio, strength, and combat sports in a boutique-style environment.
- IGN1TE Studio: Another signature HIIT class designed to challenge members of all fitness levels.
- Cyclone Studio: A dedicated group cycling studio featuring advanced bikes and an immersive audio-visual experience.
- Mind & Body Studio: A tranquil space for classes such as yoga, Pilates, and barre, promoting flexibility and mental well-being.
Fitness by the Numbers
The new Bicester club offers over 120 group exercise classes per week, covering a wide spectrum of activities from high-energy cardio to restorative wellness sessions. The facility's total floor space exceeds 75,000 square feet.
The Spa Retreat and Aquatic Offerings
A significant highlight of the new club is its luxurious Spa Retreat, designed as a premium sanctuary for relaxation and recovery. This area is separate from the main club facilities and provides a quiet, adult-focused environment.
"Our goal was to create a true escape for our members," said Sarah Jenkins, the newly appointed General Manager for David Lloyd Bicester. "The Spa Retreat is more than just a place to relax after a workout; it's a destination in its own right, offering a world-class spa experience right here in Oxfordshire."
The Spa Retreat includes a hydrotherapy pool, several themed saunas and steam rooms, an ice cave for cryotherapy benefits, and a salt therapy room. Heated relaxation beds and an outdoor spa garden complete the experience.
Indoor and Outdoor Pools
The club features extensive aquatic facilities for both fitness and leisure. A 25-meter indoor swimming pool is available for lane swimming and aqua-aerobics classes. Adjacent to this is a dedicated indoor children's splash pool, ensuring a safe and fun environment for younger members.
A key attraction is the 20-meter heated outdoor swimming pool, which allows for year-round swimming. The outdoor area is surrounded by a sun terrace with loungers, creating a resort-like atmosphere during warmer months.
Racquet Sports and Family Services
Staying true to its heritage, David Lloyd Bicester offers a comprehensive range of racquet sports facilities. This includes three indoor tennis courts and four outdoor courts, allowing for play in all weather conditions. The club also features badminton courts and squash courts.
Reflecting current trends, the club has invested in two Padel tennis courts. Padel, a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, is a major focus for the David Lloyd group's new developments.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports globally. According to the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), the number of Padel courts in the UK has more than doubled since 2021. Its social nature and accessibility for players of all ages and abilities have contributed to its rapid rise in popularity.
Dedicated Family and Social Spaces
The club is designed to be family-friendly. The DL Kids program offers a wide range of activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years, with dedicated play areas and a soft-play frame. The club's timetable includes after-school clubs and holiday activities, supervised by a qualified team.
The social hub of the club is the Clubroom and bar, which serves a menu of fresh, seasonal food and drinks throughout the day. This space doubles as a business hub, with comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and dedicated workstations for members who wish to work remotely.
Economic Impact and Future Outlook
The opening of the David Lloyd club represents a significant economic boost for Bicester and the surrounding area. The creation of over 100 jobs spans various roles, including fitness professionals, hospitality staff, spa therapists, and management positions.
Michelle Luxford, a Regional Director for David Lloyd Clubs, commented on the launch.
"We are thrilled to bring our premier health and wellness experience to Bicester. This £15 million investment underscores our confidence in the region and our commitment to providing outstanding facilities that promote a healthy and active lifestyle. The response from the local community has been incredibly positive, and we look forward to becoming an integral part of Bicester life."
The club's location is strategic, capitalizing on the growth of Bicester as a major residential and commercial hub. Its proximity to Bicester Village is expected to attract members from a wide catchment area. The development aligns with a broader trend of consumers prioritizing health and wellness, a market that has seen sustained growth in recent years.
As the club establishes itself, it is expected to not only serve existing residents but also attract new people to the area, further supporting local businesses and solidifying Bicester's reputation as a desirable place to live and work.
