Padel is becoming one of the most welcoming sports for LGBTQ+ players in the UK. Its doubles format and smaller courts encourage social interaction, creating spaces where players feel supported and part of a community. This article highlights five UK padel clubs that are leading the way in creating safe and welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ players:
- All-Out Padel at Rocks Lane Chiswick: The first LGBTQ+ padel club in England, hosting monthly social sessions and competitive events.
- Rocks Lane Padel Club Chiswick: A key partner in supporting LGBTQ+ players with excellent facilities and regular social mornings.
- Edinburgh Curveballs at Thistle Padel Club: Scotland's first LGBTQ+ padel club, blending weekly games with social connections.
- Padel Box Bermondsey: A central London hub for LGBTQ+ players, offering indoor courts and community-focused events.
- Rocket Padel Battersea: London’s first riverside indoor padel club, known for its inclusive programs and vibrant social scene.
Each club offers opportunities for players of all skill levels, combining sports with social activities to build connections beyond the court. Whether you're new to padel or a seasoned player, these clubs provide a welcoming space to enjoy the game and meet like-minded individuals.
Top 5 LGBTQ+ Friendly Padel Clubs in the UK: Facilities and Features Comparison
1. All-Out Padel at Rocks Lane Chiswick
England's First LGBTQ+ Padel Club
Launched in 2023 by Lance Shacknofsky, All-Out Padel proudly stands as England's first LGBTQ+ padel club [1][3]. In a short time, the club has built a vibrant community, boasting over 150 members on WhatsApp [5] and a growing Instagram following of more than 600 [5].
Monthly Social Sessions
Every month, All-Out Padel hosts social events at Rocks Lane Chiswick, creating a welcoming space for players to connect. These sessions take place on the last Sunday of the month, running from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. For about £22 ($27), participants enjoy two hours of padel followed by food and drinks at the clubhouse [4]. To join, simply scan the QR codes shared on their social media or send an email to all-outpadel@gmail.com [1].
Open to All Skill Levels
Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced player, All-Out Padel has something for everyone. Rackets are available to rent, and with 12 courts (8 outdoor and 4 covered), the venue ensures players can enjoy the game no matter the weather [6][7].
For those with a competitive edge, the club made waves at the 2024 EuroGames in Vienna, where padel was included for the first time. Sponsored by Rocks Lane, the All-Out Padel team sent eight players who returned with a collection of medals [5][3]. Co-founder John Kat reflected on the experience:
Rocks Lane Chiswick was the first venue to support us, giving us a regular monthly slot and even sponsoring our team for the 2024 EuroGames in Vienna... Eight of us went - and we came back with a bunch of medals! [5]
Building Community Through Partnerships
All-Out Padel collaborates with organizations like Pride in Tennis to host special events and takes part in the LTA's Pro Am Padel Tour Community Days to promote inclusivity. Their active presence on WhatsApp and Instagram helps organize matches and draw in new players. As one member shared:
It's good that it's a safe space for LGBTQ+ people to come along and play padel and enjoy the sport just like anyone else [5].
With its focus on inclusivity and community, All-Out Padel is setting an inspiring example for other clubs aiming to create welcoming environments for everyone.
2. Rocks Lane Padel Club Chiswick
A Pioneering Partnership with All-Out Padel
In 2023, Rocks Lane Chiswick became the first UK venue to collaborate with All-Out Padel, making strides in promoting LGBTQ+ inclusivity in sports [1][3]. The club's efforts extend far beyond just providing court access - they've sponsored team kits, awarded prizes, and supported a team of eight players at the 2024 EuroGames in Vienna, where the team brought home several medals [5]. Co-owner Chris Warren captured the club's ethos perfectly:
We have based our philosophy at Rocks Lane on the feelings, desires, hopes and dreams of every child who has ever kicked, thrown or caught a ball. Everyone is welcome to play, learn, compete and have fun [8].
This commitment underscores Rocks Lane's role as a champion of inclusive sports.
Facilities Built for Inclusivity
Rocks Lane features 12 floodlit courts (8 outdoor and 4 covered), ensuring that players can enjoy the game throughout the year, no matter the weather [10]. Having been crowned LTA National Club Champions multiple times, the club is recognized as one of the UK's top destinations for international padel [10]. Beyond the courts, the clubhouse offers amenities like changing rooms, showers, a licensed bar, and even a pizza oven, creating a vibrant social environment for members and visitors alike [10].
Accessible to Every Skill Level
The club's facilities are paired with programs designed to cater to players of all abilities. Using the Playtomic app, players are matched by skill level, making it easier for everyone to find a good game [7]. In a recent session, half the participants were first-timers, showcasing the club's welcoming approach to newcomers [1]. For players aiming to take their skills to the next level, the Performance Player Pathway, led by Pro Coach Álex Grilo, provides selected participants with free court time, equipment, and advanced training [11]. Court rates are set at $64 per hour during off-peak times and $71 during peak hours [12].
Building Community Through Events
Rocks Lane strengthens its community connections by hosting monthly All-Out Padel sessions and five inclusive social mornings each week. These sessions, held Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, include coffee and croissants to create a friendly atmosphere [9]. The club also collaborates with Pride in Tennis for special Pride Month events [3]. To stay in the loop and connect with other players, members can join the Rocks Lane Padel WhatsApp group [7].
3. Edinburgh Curveballs at Thistle Padel Club
Edinburgh Curveballs has taken an important step in Scotland, creating a unique space for LGBTQ+ athletes and expanding opportunities beyond London.
The UK's First LGBTQ+ Padel Club
Founded in 2020 with the backing of LEAP Sports Scotland, Edinburgh Curveballs is the UK's first LGBTQ+ padel club. Jonathan MacBride, the only openly gay man in competitive squash in Scotland, started the club to provide a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ players. Beyond just playing padel, the club serves as a space to discuss important topics like mental health. Since its launch, the club has grown to include around 30 participants, with 10 regular attendees. By June 2022, they had logged over 300 padel sessions at Thistle Padel Club [2][15].
Weekly Sessions and Social Connections
The club hosts weekly sessions on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings. Afterward, members often gather for social drinks at nearby spots, emphasizing camaraderie over competition. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned padel player, the club is open to all skill levels. Newcomers can dive in without investing in equipment right away, as bats and balls are provided [13].
Facilities and Accessibility
Thistle Padel Club features two LED-lit, covered outdoor Redsport Adidas courts, making it possible to play no matter the weather - a huge plus in Edinburgh’s unpredictable climate. Members can easily join the club’s Spond group to stay updated on upcoming events and sign up for sessions [13][14].
Building Community Through Partnership
Edinburgh Curveballs collaborates with LEAP Sports Scotland and is part of the Pride in Tennis network [2]. During Festival Fortnight in June 2022, the club hosted an "Intro to Padel" taster day with professional coach Alejandro de la Caba, drawing 15 participants. These events go beyond padel, encouraging members to explore other activities like choirs and running groups, which have positively impacted mental health [2][3]. As Jonathan MacBride explains:
It's that you're able to come along and you understand each other from the start. You can expect to have comfortable conversations about topics that wouldn't necessarily be brought up by people at your main club [2].
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4. Padel Box Bermondsey
Padel Box Bermondsey stands out as a welcoming hub for LGBTQ+ players, blending top-notch facilities with a strong sense of community. Nestled in a renovated Victorian warehouse, just a 12-minute walk from South Bermondsey Station, this venue has become a cornerstone for inclusive padel in Central London. With five high-quality indoor courts, the club actively supports diversity through partnerships and special events.
Venue Allyship and Community Partnerships
As the main venue for All-Out Padel, Padel Box Bermondsey has made a significant impact by increasing visibility and accessibility for LGBTQ+ players. Beyond offering excellent facilities, the club regularly hosts LGBTQ+ sessions and collaborates with organizations to celebrate inclusivity. In June 2025, for instance, the club teamed up with the LTA and Pride in Tennis to organize a Pride Month Padel Social. Using the Playtomic booking platform, they ensured the event was easy to join. John Kat, co-founder of All-Out Padel, highlighted the importance of these efforts:
That kind of allyship makes a real difference in making the sport more accessible and inclusive for LGBTQ+ players. [5]
This dedication to creating an inclusive environment is evident throughout the club's activities and partnerships.
Creating a Safe Space Environment
Padel Box Bermondsey is committed to fostering a space where everyone feels welcome and supported. Charlie, a member of All-Out Padel, shared how meaningful this openness is:
It's great that facilities like this and others are open to having LGBTQ+ members and players and not hide it away. It's good that it's a safe space for LGBTQ+ people to come along and play padel and enjoy the sport just like anyone else. [5]
The club extends this welcoming atmosphere beyond the courts. Its "Social Box" area, complete with a specialty coffee shop and a bar offering craft beer and cocktails, creates a relaxed setting for players to connect. The mezzanine viewing balcony and additional social spaces further enhance the sense of community, making it more than just a place to play.
Accessibility for All Skill Levels
Padel Box Bermondsey ensures that players of all levels can easily get started. With on-site racket hire, a pro shop, and fully wheelchair-accessible facilities - including modern changing rooms - the club eliminates barriers to entry. For those looking to improve their game, Playtomic Academy sessions cater to various needs, offering "Serve & Sip" socials, technical masterclasses, and "Cardio + Padel" workouts. Court hire costs around $73 per hour, with both peak and off-peak pricing options, making it flexible for different schedules and budgets.
5. Rocket Padel Battersea
Rocket Padel Battersea is making waves as London’s first riverside indoor padel club. Since opening in September 2024, the club has become a hub for competitive play and a beacon for community connection, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. It proudly serves as the home base for All-Out Padel, the UK’s first LGBTQ+ padel group [5]. Nestled along the River Thames, the facility boasts four panoramic indoor courts housed in a stunning 36-foot glass structure [18][19].
Active Allyship and Community Engagement
Rocket Padel Battersea isn’t just about the game; it’s about fostering inclusivity. The club regularly hosts All-Out Padel sessions and social events, creating a space where LGBTQ+ players feel valued and supported. Lou, a padel player, shared their experience:
"This has been amazing… championing LGBTQ+ players, making them feel seen, heard, and welcome in environments like this… I've met so many amazing people" [5].
Beyond its LGBTQ+ focus, the club partners with local charities, youth groups, and schools to provide free introductory padel sessions. This outreach ensures that the sport reaches under-served communities, extending its impact far beyond the courts [16].
A Social Space for Everyone
Rocket Padel Battersea has cultivated a vibrant social atmosphere that goes hand-in-hand with its sporting offerings. After a match, players and spectators can unwind at the on-site bistro and bar or enjoy the dedicated spectator areas, which encourage a relaxed and inclusive hangout culture [19]. The facility is fully equipped with changing rooms, a pro shop, and a warm-up zone, all supported by a friendly and attentive staff [19]. Open every day from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., the club’s extended hours cater to players with varying schedules [18]. For updates on LGBTQ+ events, players can follow All-Out Padel on Instagram or join their WhatsApp group [5].
Flexible Pricing and Inclusive Programs
Rocket Padel offers flexible pricing with peak and off-peak rates through the Padel Mates booking system [18]. In partnership with the LTA, the club also provides coaching and development programs tailored to all skill levels [20]. Adding to its range of offerings, the club runs inclusive initiatives like "Padel & Prams", designed for new parents [17]. These diverse programs underline Rocket Padel’s mission to create a welcoming environment for everyone, no matter their background or experience.
Conclusion
The clubs featured in this article - All-Out Padel at Rocks Lane Chiswick, Rocks Lane Padel Club, Edinburgh Curveballs at Thistle Padel Club, Padel Box Bermondsey, and Rocket Padel Battersea - highlight how padel thrives on the principles of inclusivity. Through regular sessions, funded programs, and partnerships with organizations like Pride in Tennis and LEAP Sports Scotland, these initiatives actively work to break down barriers and promote mental well-being [2][3].
What sets padel apart as one of the fastest-growing LGBTQ+ friendly sports in the UK is its doubles-only format and smaller court size, which naturally foster interaction and a sense of community [3]. The impact is tangible: Edinburgh Curveballs has seen around 30 participants join since it began, with a dedicated group of 10 regular players [2]. Meanwhile, All-Out Padel, launched in 2023, continues to expand with monthly social events held on the last Sunday of every month [1]. These welcoming spaces not only enhance well-being and confidence but also serve as stepping stones to deeper community connections [2][3].
FAQs
What makes padel clubs inclusive and welcoming for LGBTQ+ players?
Padel clubs that embrace LGBTQ+ inclusivity work hard to create spaces where everyone feels welcomed and respected. These clubs often have clear diversity and inclusion policies in place and host events designed to bring people together and build a sense of community.
Some go the extra mile by organizing LGBTQ+-focused social gatherings, offering flexible membership options, and fostering a warm, judgment-free environment. These efforts not only make the sport more accessible but also give players the chance to sharpen their skills, make new friends, and enjoy the game without hesitation.
Initiatives like LGBTQ+ leagues or Pride-themed events add another layer of representation and connection. They celebrate diversity while ensuring that players from all walks of life feel seen and appreciated.
How can I join an LGBTQ+ friendly padel club in the UK?
Joining an LGBTQ+ friendly padel club in the UK is a welcoming experience for players of all skill levels. Clubs like All-Out Padel in Chiswick, the first LGBTQ+ padel club in England, and the Catford Padel Collective, which offers outdoor courts and regular social events, are fantastic starting points. The best part? Many of these clubs don’t require memberships, so it’s easy to jump in and play.
You’ll also find inclusive options like Edinburgh’s LGBTQ+ padel group, which emphasizes community and support. Clubs such as Stratford Padel Club and Padel 4 Everyone are also celebrated for their friendly and inviting atmospheres. Getting involved is simple - use apps like Playtomic to book courts, attend social events, or join community meetups. These clubs often host gatherings that make it easy to meet new people and enjoy the game in an inclusive and supportive environment.
What kinds of events do LGBTQ+-friendly padel clubs organize?
Many LGBTQ+-friendly padel clubs go beyond just sports, creating spaces where people can connect and feel a sense of belonging. For example, some clubs host social tournaments that welcome players of all skill levels. These events aren’t just about competition - they’re about having fun, meeting new people, and enjoying the game in a relaxed, inclusive setting.
Beyond the courts, many clubs organize community meetups. These might include themed gatherings or casual hangouts, offering opportunities for members to bond and build friendships in a more informal atmosphere.
A number of clubs also prioritize mental well-being by fostering safe spaces for LGBTQ+ members. Whether it’s through group socials or weekly games open to all ages and abilities, these activities help strengthen community bonds while making the sport more accessible and welcoming for everyone.
