Fully refurbished Tenterden Leisure Centre opens its doors
1 October 2026
The recently completed refurbishment of Tenterden Leisure Centre marks a significant milestone for the local community, enhancing the facilities available for health, fitness, and family activities. The £2.6 million project, funded through a partnership between Ashford Borough Council and the non-profit organisation Freedom Leisure, brings a host of new features designed to benefit residents and visitors alike.
Among the major upgrades is a brand-new interactive soft-play centre, ideal for younger children seeking an engaging environment to play and explore. The swimming pool has also been revitalised with new water-play features, promising to make swimming more enjoyable for families. Additionally, the café has been modernised and expanded, offering more seating options for patrons to relax and enjoy refreshments before or after their activities.
The refurbishment extends to the essential amenities within the centre, including upgraded changing rooms and toilet facilities, which are now more accessible and comfortable for all users. Moreover, the exercise class and indoor cycling studios have been refurbished, creating a more inviting atmosphere for fitness enthusiasts. The enhancements are expected to help Tenterden Leisure Centre continue its role as a central hub for community health and wellbeing.
In line with the Council's commitment to promoting active lifestyles, these improvements support the aims outlined in the Borough Plan. The Council's vision is to encourage residents to engage in more active and enriched lifestyles, and the upgraded facilities are a step towards achieving that goal.
To celebrate the completion of the refurbishment, Tenterden Leisure Centre is hosting a Big Open Weekend from 2-4 October. This event provides an excellent opportunity for community members to explore the new facilities, meet the staff, and participate in various activities. Highlights of the weekend include free Pilates classes, complimentary gym access, and several special events such as the Learn to Swim Discovery Day, Floats & Features, and InflataFun.
The open weekend promises a fun-filled experience for families and individuals of all ages, allowing them to discover the range of offerings at the centre. Those interested in participating in any of the activities can find further details and make reservations through the dedicated Big Open Weekend webpage on the Tenterden Leisure Centre’s website.
Local officials express optimism that the upgrades will attract more visitors to Tenterden and enhance community engagement with the leisure centre. The positive reception from early visitors suggests that the improvements have already begun to make an impact, fostering a renewed enthusiasm for fitness and leisure activities in the area.
As Tenterden continues to develop its community facilities, the leisure centre remains a key asset in promoting health and wellbeing for all. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the new offerings and make Tenterden Leisure Centre a part of their active lifestyle.