Try something new for free
Residents of Swindon are invited to enjoy a weekend of some free fitness, fun, and family-friendly activities as part of a special open weekend at local leisure centres.
On Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th July, Dorcan Recreation Complex, Link Centre and Haydon Centre and Gym will be opening their doors for a packed programme of completely free activities as part of GLL’s nationwide Open Weekend– perfect for anyone wanting to try something new, get active, or simply explore what their local centre has to offer.
Whether you're interested in trying some pickleball, a swimming lesson taster session, or just checking out the gym, there’s something for everyone – with expert instructors on hand to support beginners and seasoned fitness fans alike.
Link Centre
Swimming lesson tasters
We’ll be offering a taster sessions for our learn-to-swim lessons on Saturday.
Ice skating lesson taster
Want to learn how to skate? We'll be running ice skating lesson taster lessons for 5-15 year olds.
Gym
For those that just want to try out our gym, we will also be providing free bookable taster slots for both adult and juniors on both Saturday and Sunday.
Studio
We'll be running a HIIT class and a Women's strength class.
| Location | Saturday | Sunday |
| Swimming pool | Swimming lesson tasters, 12:00-13:00 | |
| Ice rink | Ice skating tasters, 10:45-11:15 & 11:15-12:45 | |
| Gym | Open Day Junior Gym, 10:00-14:00 Open Day Gym, 09:00-18:00 |
Open Day Junior Gym, 10:00-14:00 Open Day Gym, 09:00-18:00 |
| Studio |
HIIT class,10:15-10:45 Womans Strength, 11:15-12:00 |
Dorcan Recreation Complex
Swimming lesson tasters
We’ll be offering a taster sessions for our learn-to-swim lessons on Sunday.
Sports hall activities
We'll have our dry inflatable blown up for you kids to try for free! We'll also have walking netball taster sessions available on Sunday.
Gym
For those that just want to try out our gym, we will also be providing free bookable taster slots on Saturday afternoon.
| Location | Saturday | Sunday |
| Gym | Taster sessions, 8:00-16:00 | Taster sessions, 8:00-16:00 |
| Swimming pool | Swimming lesson tasters, 12:00-13:00 | |
| Hall | Inflatable, 10:00-16:00 |
Walking netball, 11:00-12:00 Inflatable, 10:00-16:00 |
Haydon Centre and Gym
Sports hall activities
We'll have pickleball taster sessions on both Saturday and Sunday in our sports hall. No previous experience required!
Gym
You can try our gym facilities out for free on both Saturday and Sunday. They'll also be a rowing challenge set up at Reception.
Studio
You can try some of our fitness classes for free too, including circuits, yoga and body conditioning.
| Location | Saturday | Sunday |
| Sports hall | Pickleball taster, 10:00-11:00 | Pickleball taster, 10:00-11:00 |
| Gym | Taster sessions, 7:00-14:00 | Taster sessions, 7:00-14:00 |
| Studio | Circuits, 9:00-9:50 |
Body Conditioning, 9:00-9:50 Yoga, 10:00-11:00 |
To book our open day activities please visit the Open Weekend Tab when it is available and select the date you would like to attend. Please note the Swimming Options will be bookable under swimming tab. Lesson should be booked at reception.
What do I need to bring?
Please wear comfortable and appropriate clothing for all classes and activities; all equipment is provided. Please make sure you bring a towel and water with you.
What if I have a health condition?
Please make sure you let the members of staff know about any health conditions prior to activity.
What if I have never been before?
If you're new to any of the activities or unsure about using certain equipment, feel free to ask one of our staff members. We’re here to guide you. If you’re using the gym or taking part in any physical activities today, please ensure you’ve warmed up first. If you need guidance, our fitness instructors are here to help.
Do I have to be a member?
No, our open day sessions are open to everyone. Non-members can participate by creating a free account via the app or online at https://bookings.better.org.uk/register, then simply booking an available open day activity.
As part of the registration process, customers must agree to the activity terms and conditions, which include a signed waiver granting access into the centre.
For any questions ahead of the day please email link@gll.org , dorcan@gll.org or haydon@gll.org . We look forward to welcoming you on the day!