Pickleball

Find Pickleball Courts Near Me

Enjoy pickleball at Better

Pickleball is a fast-growing, fun racquet sport that everyone can enjoy. Combining elements of table tennis, tennis, and badminton, pickleball is perfect for all ages and abilities and is both social and energetic. We’re bringing this fantastic sport to a Better leisure centre near you so you can enjoy it with your friends and family. 

In partnership with Pickleball England, the sole delegating body for the sport in England, we’re working to bring pickleball to as many people as possible, starting with your local Better leisure centre. Check below to find a pickleball court and learn how to book a session.

Find a pickleball court near me

What is pickleball?

Founded in 1965 by three American dads who wanted to entertain their family, pickleball is a fast-paced and family-friendly racquet sport. 

Played on a badminton-sized court with a net, you'll use paddle-like racquets and a hollow, perforated ball. Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles, and the rules are similar to badminton and tennis, but with a few key differences. Players must stay within court boundaries, and only the serving side can score points, adding an exciting element to every serve.

Another unique rule is the "two bounce" rule, which keeps the game engaging and dynamic for all levels of player. After the ball is served, the receiving side must let it bounce once before returning, and then once on the serving side before play continues. After that, it’s a fast-paced battle of volleys and groundstrokes until the point is won!

Pickleball court sessions

Pickleball Drop-In Sessions

Our pickleball drop-in sessions are held throughout the week and are open to players of all abilities. They provide a great opportunity to experience the game and stay active with this exciting sport. All the equipment you’ll need is available for use onsite, and sessions are open to both members and non-members.

Class names

  • 50+
  • Beginners

Social Sessions

Our pickleball social sessions, also scheduled throughout the week, bring together adults of all abilities and are coordinated by a lead instructor. These sessions include a warm-up, rotational games, and a cool-down. Equipment is provided and sessions are open to both members and non-members.

Class names

  • 50+
  • Beginners
  • Improvers

How to book a pickleball court?

Booking a court with Better is a breeze! You can either book online or via the Better UK app. Prefer to speak to someone? Book in person at any centre.

To make a booking on the website:

  1. Visit our ‘Book Activity’ page
  2. Find your nearest Better centre
  3. Select ‘Sports Hall  Activities’ and then choose Pickleball to see timetables and availability
  4. Click ‘Book’ on the timeslot you want and log in to complete your booking

On the Better UK app:

  1.   Log in and find your nearest Better centre
  2. Select ‘Sports Hall Activities’ and then choose Pickleball to see timetables and availability
  3.   Click ‘Book Now’ on the timeslot you want and follow the instructions to complete your booking
Book padel now

Where can I play pickleball near me?

From London through to Newcastle, pickleball is sweeping through the UK, with many Better centre’s ready to host on a court near you. Take a look below at all our participating locations:

North Kesteven

Bath and North East Somerset

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it hard to play pickleball?

Pickleball is one of the easiest racquet sports to learn, making it ideal for beginners and perfect for players of all ages and skill levels to pick up the basics quickly! It combines elements of other popular sports like tennis, badminton, and table tennis, but with simplified rules and a smaller court. So whether you’re new to racquet sports or have some experience, you’ll find pickleball to be a fun and straightforward game to play.

Pickleball vs padel - how do the two compare?

Both pickleball and padel offer unique challenges and great fun, but their playing styles and court setups are distinct, with several key differences. 

  • Pickleball is played on an open court with a net, using a perforated ball.
  • It can also be played as singles or doubles, and focuses on quick reflexes and coordination.
  • On the other hand, padel is played on an enclosed court with walls, combining elements of tennis and squash, with its ball being made of rubber. 
  • Padel is also typically played in a doubles format and emphasises strategy, positioning, and teamwork.

Why is pickleball so popular?

Pickleball is taking the world by storm, and it’s easy to see why. Its booming popularity is due to its fun, social, and accessible nature, so whether you’re a beginner or experienced player, you’ll find it incredibly easy to learn and enjoy. The blend of strategic play and physical activity is perfect for all ages, and the double’s format really encourages social interaction, creating a strong sense of community among players. With its fast-paced, engaging gameplay and the inclusive atmosphere, pickleball is a magnet for new enthusiasts eager to join the fun.


Ready to get on the pickleball court and see what the buzz is about? Give pickleball a try and become part of the excitement!

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