David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest luxury health and wellness club in Shawford, following a £12 million investment. The new facility, which opened its doors to members on October 28, 2024, has created over 80 new jobs and introduces a wide range of premium fitness and relaxation amenities to the local community.
The state-of-the-art club is designed to cater to families and individuals, featuring extensive gym facilities, multiple swimming pools, racquet sports, and a luxury spa. This opening marks the latest expansion for the David Lloyd group, reinforcing its position as a leading provider of premium health and leisure services in the UK.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd has launched a new £12 million health club in Shawford, Hampshire.
- The facility created more than 80 full-time and part-time employment opportunities.
- Key features include a 100-station gym, indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa, and both tennis and padel courts.
- The club also offers extensive family-friendly facilities, including a dedicated DL Kids area and structured activities.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Shawford club represents a significant financial commitment by David Lloyd Leisure. The £12 million project was designed to provide a comprehensive wellness destination for residents in and around the area. Construction focused on creating a modern, spacious environment with a strong emphasis on high-quality equipment and member experience.
According to the company, the investment covers not only the physical building but also the cutting-edge technology integrated throughout the facility. This includes digitally connected fitness equipment from leading brands, allowing members to track their progress and access personalized workout plans.
"Our goal with the Shawford club was to create more than just a gym; it's a lifestyle destination," said Sarah Jenkins, the new General Manager. "This £12 million investment reflects our confidence in the community and our commitment to providing world-class facilities that support the health and wellbeing of our members at every stage of life."
The creation of 80 new jobs provides a notable boost to the local economy. Roles range from fitness coaches and spa therapists to administrative staff and hospitality professionals, offering diverse employment opportunities within the community.
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Racquet Facilities
At the heart of the new club is an expansive gym floor, equipped with over 100 stations. The fitness area is divided into specialized zones to cater to different training styles and goals.
The Gym and Studios
Members have access to a wide array of modern equipment. The cardio section features the latest treadmills, cross-trainers, and stationary bikes, many with interactive screens. The strength training area includes a variety of free weights, resistance machines, and a functional training zone with equipment for high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
In addition to the main gym, the club boasts three dedicated group exercise studios. These spaces will host a packed schedule of over 130 weekly classes, including:
- Mind & Body: Yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes.
- High-Energy: BLAZE, a boutique-style HIIT class, and IGN1TE, another signature high-intensity workout.
- Cycling: A dedicated cycle hub for immersive indoor cycling experiences.
What is Padel?
Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is typically played in doubles on an enclosed court about one-third the size of a tennis court. Its popularity has surged in recent years due to being easy to learn and highly social, making it an attractive addition to modern sports clubs.
Championship-Standard Racquet Sports
Staying true to its heritage, the David Lloyd Shawford club offers exceptional racquet sports facilities. The club features three indoor tennis courts and two outdoor courts, all with championship-standard surfaces. A team of professional coaches will be available for private lessons and group sessions for all ages and skill levels.
Reflecting current trends, the club has also invested in two outdoor padel courts. Padel, a fast-growing sport across Europe, is a key new offering designed to attract a broader range of members. The inclusion of these courts highlights David Lloyd's strategy of adapting to evolving fitness and leisure trends.
Luxury Spa and Wellness Amenities
A significant portion of the investment was dedicated to creating a luxurious spa retreat within the club. The 'Spa Garden' is designed as a tranquil escape for relaxation and rejuvenation, separate from the main fitness areas.
Spa Features by the Numbers
- 1 Hydrotherapy pool
- 2 Saunas (Finnish and Salt)
- 1 Steam room
- 4 Heated relaxation beds
- 1 Outdoor spa garden with lounge area
The spa facilities are intended to provide a complete wellness experience. Members can unwind in the hydrotherapy pool, detoxify in the saunas, or relax in the steam room. The outdoor spa garden provides a peaceful space with fresh air and comfortable seating, offering a unique feature for a UK health club.
"Wellness is about more than physical fitness; it's about mental recovery and finding balance," stated a spokesperson for David Lloyd Leisure. "Our Spa Garden at Shawford is a testament to this philosophy, providing a sanctuary where members can truly disconnect and recharge."
Family-Focused Offerings and Social Spaces
David Lloyd has long positioned itself as a family-friendly brand, and the Shawford club continues this tradition. The facility includes a dedicated DL Kids area, offering a wide range of activities for children aged three months to 16 years.
The kids' program is fully integrated with the adult schedule, allowing parents to enjoy their workouts while their children are engaged in supervised activities. These include sports coaching, arts and crafts, and structured play sessions. A soft-play frame and outdoor play area are also available.
The club's social hub is the Clubroom, a spacious café, bar, and restaurant area. It serves a menu of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the day. This area is designed to be a versatile space where members can socialize, work, or relax with their families. An adults-only lounge provides a quieter space for those seeking a peaceful environment.
For members needing a place to work, the club also features a dedicated business hub. This area offers complimentary Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a quiet setting suitable for remote working, further positioning the club as an integral part of members' daily lives.