Somerset is poised to embrace a dynamic new chapter in its recreational landscape with the imminent arrival of its very first dedicated indoor padel courts. This groundbreaking development marks a significant milestone, introducing the world’s fastest-growing racket sport directly into the heart of the county, promising year-round accessibility and a vibrant new hub for sports enthusiasts.

The highly anticipated facility, spearheaded by Padel People, is set to officially open its doors in Shepton Mallet this September. This state-of-the-art venue boasts an impressive configuration of three double padel courts alongside a dedicated singles court, ensuring ample space and diverse playing options for individuals and groups alike. It’s a welcome addition to the growing network of indoor sports venues across the UK.

Padel People’s commitment extends beyond merely establishing new sports facilities; it centers on making this exhilarating sport genuinely accessible and affordable for everyone. Court hire at the Shepton Mallet site will commence from an incredibly competitive £12 for off-peak singles courts and £20 for off-peak doubles courts, figures considerably lower than many comparable venues nationwide, democratizing access to this engaging activity.

A crucial advantage of these new indoor courts is the guarantee of uninterrupted play, irrespective of Britain’s famously unpredictable weather conditions. This climate-controlled environment ensures consistent opportunities for players to engage with the sport, making it an ideal choice for both casual enthusiasts and dedicated athletes looking for reliable Shepton Mallet activities.

George Sandbach, Founder of Padel People, expressed immense enthusiasm for the expansion into Somerset. “We’re thrilled to be expanding into Somerset and bringing padel to the Shepton Mallet community,” he stated, emphasizing the company’s core ethos of inclusivity and encouragement for new players to discover the sport.

Sandbach further elaborated on their mission: “Our mission has always been to make padel welcoming and accessible to players of all ages and abilities. With our competitive pricing and indoor facilities, we’re creating the perfect environment for players looking to try something new and complete beginners to discover this addictive sport.” This highlights the broad appeal of padel as a racket sport.

Often described as a captivating hybrid of tennis and squash, padel is played on an enclosed court roughly one-third the size of a conventional tennis court. The game’s inherent social nature, combined with its relatively easier learning curve compared to other racket sports, has propelled its explosive popularity across Europe, now rapidly gaining traction within the UK’s racket sports scene.

The Shepton Mallet facility is meticulously designed to cater to a wide spectrum of players, from absolute beginners eager to try a new form of physical activity to seasoned racket sport athletes seeking a fresh challenge. It represents a significant boost for Somerset sports and offers a unique opportunity for community engagement through active participation.

This innovative new venue will undoubtedly foster a vibrant padel community, encouraging healthy lifestyles and providing a fantastic new leisure option for residents across the county. The arrival of these new sports facilities marks a landmark moment for recreational opportunities in the region, promising a bright future for indoor sports in Somerset.