The Padel Tennis Boom: Where to Play in Brighton

Padel tennis has firmly established itself in Brighton, evolving from a niche interest into a staple of the local sports scene. Often described as a hybrid of tennis and squash, it is played in doubles on enclosed glass courts about a third the size of a traditional tennis court. Its popularity stems largely from its accessibility; the underarm serve makes it easy for beginners to pick up quickly, while the glass walls keep the ball in play longer for more experienced players. The city has seen a significant expansion in facilities recently, particularly at the Withdean Sports Complex, which has become a central hub for the sport. Just yesterday, on April 13, 2026, three new covered padel courts were officially inaugurated at Withdean, built through a partnership between Game4Padel, Brighton & Hove City Council, and Freedom Leisure. These new courts feature a state-of-the-art canopy for year-round play and floodlighting for evening sessions, replacing the temporary court that saw a 90% occupancy rate during its three-year run.

For those looking to get started or improve their game this month, the Withdean Sports Complex offers a variety of coached sessions and social events. Karen Hazzard, the Director of Padel, and coaches Andy Paterson and Jacob Kelly lead several programs throughout April and May 2026. Beginners can join Jacob Kelly’s sessions on Thursday evenings for £18, or £16 for members, while those looking for an introduction to the sport can find sessions on April 18, 20, 25, and 27 for £16. There are also specific slots for intermediate players and ladies-only coaching. If you don't have your own gear, the staffed reception at Withdean provides racket hire for £4 per hour. The facility operates on a 'Pay & Play' basis, allowing non-members to book courts up to seven days in advance, while members get a ten-day window. Beyond the padel courts, the complex remains a versatile site with 3G football pitches, squash, tennis, and a gym, with a new community swimming pool expected to begin construction later this year.

Another major location for the sport is Hove Beach Park, which is part of the 'Kingsway to the Sea' regeneration project. This area transformed the space between Hove Lagoon and the King Alfred Leisure Centre, introducing four padel courts in late 2024 and six tennis courts in early 2025. The popularity here has been notable, with the padel courts maintaining a 97% occupancy rate throughout the previous summer. For players who enjoy a competitive but social atmosphere, the 'Americano' tournament format is frequently used in local sessions. In an Americano, players compete individually but rotate partners and opponents each round, with points tracked per person. It is a common way to meet other players in the community, often managed through apps like PadelFast or PadelMix. Social Americano sessions for improvers and intermediates are scheduled at Withdean throughout late April and early May, typically costing around £22 for a 90-minute session.