David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its 104th UK facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire. The new health, wellness, and racquets club is part of the company's significant investment program and aims to provide comprehensive leisure amenities to the local community.
The facility, located at the Wendlebury Interchange business park, represents a multi-million-pound investment and has created approximately 100 new jobs in the area. It features a wide range of services, including swimming pools, a state-of-the-art gym, and extensive racquet sports courts.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched its newest facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire, marking its 104th club in the UK.
- The new club generated around 100 local jobs and is part of a major investment strategy by the company.
- Amenities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a 100-station gym, multiple racquet courts, and a luxury spa.
- The facility is designed to cater to families, offering dedicated children's areas and activities.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The opening of the David Lloyd Bicester club is a key component of the company's broader expansion and enhancement strategy. The development signifies a substantial financial commitment to the region, aiming to boost local employment and provide a premium wellness destination.
The club's construction and launch have directly resulted in the creation of approximately 100 new full-time and part-time positions. These roles span various departments, including fitness instruction, hospitality, operations, and administration, offering a diverse range of employment opportunities for residents in and around Bicester.
Background on David Lloyd Leisure
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. The company operates 133 clubs, with 104 in the UK and others across mainland Europe. It is known for its family-oriented approach and focus on racquet sports alongside traditional gym and spa facilities.
According to company representatives, the Bicester location was chosen due to the town's growing population and the demand for high-quality family-centric leisure facilities. The club is positioned to serve not only Bicester but also surrounding villages and towns in North Oxfordshire.
Comprehensive Facilities for Fitness and Relaxation
The new Bicester club offers an extensive array of amenities designed to cater to a wide range of interests and fitness levels. The facilities are divided into several distinct zones, each tailored for specific activities.
State-of-the-Art Gym and Studios
At the core of the club is a 100-station gymnasium equipped with the latest fitness technology. The gym features a variety of cardio and strength-training machines, as well as a dedicated free-weights area. This allows members to pursue diverse workout routines tailored to their personal goals.
In addition to the main gym floor, the facility includes several specialized fitness studios:
- A high-impact studio for energetic group classes.
- A spin studio for cycling-based workouts.
- A Mind & Body studio designed for yoga, Pilates, and other wellness practices.
These dedicated spaces allow for a full timetable of over 100 weekly classes, led by certified instructors. The variety ensures that members have access to different training styles, from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to restorative and meditative sessions.
Aquatic and Racquet Sports Amenities
A significant highlight of the David Lloyd Bicester club is its aquatic facilities. The club features both a 25-meter indoor swimming pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool. This allows for year-round swimming, lane swimming, aqua aerobics classes, and family swim sessions.
Did You Know?
The club includes three Padel courts. Padel is a rapidly growing racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. Its inclusion reflects the latest trends in the fitness and leisure industry.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the club provides extensive options. There are three indoor tennis courts and three outdoor courts, all designed to tournament standards. The facility also includes four badminton courts and two squash courts, catering to a broad community of players.
Luxury Spa and Family-Oriented Features
Beyond fitness, the club places a strong emphasis on wellness and relaxation. The integrated luxury spa, known as the Spa Retreat, offers a premium experience for adult members seeking to unwind and rejuvenate.
"Our goal was to create a destination that serves the entire family, from fitness enthusiasts to those seeking relaxation and social connection. The Bicester club embodies this vision with its diverse range of world-class facilities."
The spa facilities include a hydrotherapy pool, a sauna, a steam room, and a salt cave. There are also heated relaxation beds and an outdoor spa garden, providing a tranquil environment for members to de-stress. These amenities are designed to offer a holistic approach to health, focusing on both physical and mental well-being.
Dedicated Spaces for Children and Families
David Lloyd Clubs has built its brand on being family-friendly, and the Bicester location is no exception. The club features a dedicated 'DL Kids' area with specialized activities and facilities for children aged 3 months to 16 years.
The club also offers structured coaching programs for children in tennis and swimming, helping them develop skills in a safe and supportive environment. A soft-play area and an outdoor playground provide additional recreational options for younger family members. This integrated approach ensures that the club can be a central hub for family activity.
The Clubroom and Social Hub
A central feature of the new facility is the Clubroom, a spacious indoor and outdoor area designed for socializing, dining, and remote working. The space functions as a social hub where members can relax after a workout, have a meal with family, or catch up on work.
The Clubroom offers a full menu with a range of food and beverage options. For adults, there is a dedicated business area with charging stations and Wi-Fi, as well as a quiet zone for relaxation. The outdoor patio provides a comfortable setting for al fresco dining during warmer months.
This social aspect is a key part of the David Lloyd model, which aims to build a community around its clubs. By providing a comfortable and versatile social space, the club encourages members to spend more time at the facility, fostering connections and enhancing the overall member experience.