May Community News
May brought plenty of activity across our centres, here are the highlights.
Family Rackets returns for a busy May half term and expands for Summer
Another brilliant Family Rackets session took place at Cherry Hinton Leisure Centre this May half term, with the courts full from the start. Families of all ages got involved, from young children trying rackets for the first time to older siblings and parents enjoying relaxed, active fun together.
Thanks to the strong demand, Family Rackets will now run every Friday throughout the summer holidays, 12pm–1pm, with children paying just £1. It’s an easy, affordable way for families to stay active over the long break.
City Paddling Pools open for Summer, just in time for the heatwave
Cambridge’s paddling pools officially opened for the season on 23rd May, perfectly timed for the hot bank holiday weekend. These free outdoor spaces remain a key part of the city’s summer offer, giving families a fun and local way to cool off.
At King’s Hedges, renovation work on the splashpad continues, including new play features. An opening date will be confirmed once works are complete.
Heatwave brings one of the busiest Mays ever at Jesus Green Lido
Jesus Green Lido recorded one of its busiest Mays on record, welcoming 25,800 visits across the month. The bank holiday week alone saw 12,300 visits, as residents made the most of the sunshine.
The lido also attracted strong media interest, with coverage from BBC, ITV, Channel 5, and several radio outlets, highlighting both its heritage and its importance as an accessible Outdoor Swimming space. It’s been a fantastic start to the season.
Record-breaking year for the GLL Sport Foundation
GLL has announced a record 3,234 athletes supported through the 2026 GLL Sport Foundation, the UK’s largest independent athlete award programme. Now in its 18th year, the GSF has provided nearly £20m in funding and support, helping young athletes manage rising training and travel costs.
This year’s national award fund totals £2.23m, offering bursaries, wellbeing support and access to over 250 GLL facilities.
In Cambridgeshire, we’re proud to have 40 successful applicants, our biggest cohort yet, with plans underway for the local awards celebration.
Supporting local families Through the Grassroots Activity Grants
GLL is once again partnering with Cambridge City Council to deliver the Grassroots Activity Grants, offering eligible families three months of fully funded swimming lessons.
The scheme was hugely successful last year, helping families who may otherwise struggle to access regular lessons. With water safety and early swimming skills more important than ever, we’re proud to support this impactful programme again.
Residents who meet the criteria can apply directly through the City Council, with successful applicants referred into our centres for their funded lessons.