National Open Weekend – 22nd & 23rd November 2025
This November, Islington’s leisure centres are throwing open their doors for a weekend of free activities and fun. Join us on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd November for the National Open Weekend, where you can explore new ways to stay active and well this winter. Whether you're a seasoned gym-goer or just curious to try something new, there’s something for everyone across Archway Leisure Centre, Cally Pool & Gym, Highbury Leisure Centre, Ironmonger Row Baths, Islington Tennis Centre & Gym, and Sobell Leisure Centre.
What’s on across Islington?
| Centre | Activity | Day | Time |
| Archway Leisure Centre | Gym Taster | Saturday & Sunday | All Day |
| Adult & Junor Gym | Saturday & Sunday | All Day | |
| Abs Blast Fitness Class (Strength & Conditioning) | Saturday | 2pm-2.30pm | |
| Circuits Fitness Class (Strength & Conditioning) | Sunday | 2pm-2.45pm | |
| Cally Pool & Gym | Adult & Junior Gym | Saturday & Sunday | 12pm-2pm |
| Gym Taster | Saturday & Sunday | 3pm-5pm | |
| Junior Swimming Lesson (age 5-11) | Saturday | 10.30am-11am | |
| Family Fun Swim | Sunday | 9am-10am | |
| Highbury Leisure Centre | Gym Taster | Saturday & Sunday | 12pm-1.30pm, 3pm-4.30pm |
| Adult & Junior Gym | Saturday | 12.30pm-2pm | |
| Ironmonger Row Baths | Gym Taster | Saturday & Sunday | 3pm-5pm |
| Adult & Junior Gym | Saturday & Sunday | 12pm-2pm | |
| Junior Swimming Lesson (age 5-11) | Saturday | 10.30am-11an | |
| Islington Tennis Centre & Gym | Gym Tasters | Saturday & Sunday | 1pm-2.30pm |
| Junior Tennis (age 5-8) | Saturday | 10am-11am | |
| Sobell Leisure Centre | Gym Taster | Saturday & Sunday | All Day |
| Adult & Junior Gym | Saturday & Sunday | All Day | |
| Social Pickleball | Social Pickleball | 10am-11am |
How to book
Non-members can participate by creating a free account via the Better UK app or online here
Bookings are available via the Better UK app o rwebsite. If you book via the app, select the ‘Other Activities’ tile and press 'Open Weekend' alternatively click below:
What to bring
Please wear suitable workout clothing and footwear for your chosen activity. We also recommend bringing a towel and a bottle of water to stay refreshed throughout your session.
If you're joining us for a swimming activity, all participants must wear clean and appropriate swimwear. For guidance on what’s suitable, please refer to our swimwear policy here
Health information
Please inform a member of staff about any health conditions you have before taking part in any activity. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.
What to expect
Open Day Gym Taster Session
Description: Kickstart your fitness journey with a free trial of the gym. Staff will be on hand to demonstrate machines and advise on the best ways to achieve your fitness goals.
Open Day Adult & Junior Gym Taster Session
Description: Kickstart yours and your child’s fitness journey with a free trial of the gym. Staff will be on hand to demonstrate machines and advise on the best ways to achieve your fitness goals.
Open Day Strength and Conditioning Master Class
Description: Build muscle and feel better with our Strength and Conditioning classes. Experience great, motivational group exercise classes like Legs Bums and Tums and Circuit Training that’ll help you strengthen and condition your whole body. Experience a few of the disciplines in this Strength and Conditioning Master Class.
Social Pickleball
Description: Try our social pickleball sessions, a fun way to stay active and meet new people. With its easy-to-learn rules and sociable pace, pickleball is perfect for all ages and abilities. Come along and discover why it’s one of the fastest-growing sports around! Equipment will be provided, 16+ Years.
Swim School
Description: Dive into safety and confidence— Join us for your child's initial assessment in joining our Swim School and get an introduction to water safety! Suitable for 5-11 year olds.