Although leisure centres include a degree of cross-over with gyms and health clubs, the naming of facilities is, in general, indicative of what they offer.
Leisure centres are often run by the local authority or local council, and cater for families and kids, with a variety of activities. Why not check our dedicated leisure centre search.
With hundreds of leisure centres dotted around the country, the variety of activities and facilities on offer is huge. However, there are also several features in common.
Most leisure centres will have a pool - though not simply a lap pool. At a leisure centre you are more likely to find kids pools, fun slides, maybe a heated outdoor pool, or even a hot tub or Jacuzzi.
For relaxing after your swim look for a Health Suite - just the place to sweat it out and pamper those pores in the sauna or steam room, or sample the skincare treatments available in the treatment rooms.
Fitness facilities are common, whether it is a gym, or a range of studios offering fitness classes, while some leisure centres even have an ice rink, with the chance for recreational skating, curling, or ice hockey matches.
Children's health will usually be a key element, with a variety of classes and activities to get kids into sports and fitness, soft play areas, or even a place for birthday parties.
Sports hall activities will likely include badminton, table tennis, five-a-side football and basketball, with outdoor options including tennis or netball courts, or maybe a floodlit all-weather pitch.
And when your activities are over, there will usually be a snack bar or caf?, or the option to choose something from a vending machine.
There are even leisure centres with their own restaurants, art galleries and theatres. So check out your local facility - it might offer a lot more than you ever imagined.
