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Sports Facilities at the University of London: What’s Available?
The University of London does have a dedicated sports centre, known as the University of London Sports Centre, located in Bloomsbury, central London. It serves students, staff, and alumni from all constituent colleges, as well as the general public. The centre offers a wide range of facilities, including a fitness suite, sports halls, and courts for various activities.
Key Facilities Overview
- Fitness Suite: Cardio machines, resistance equipment, and free weights.
- Sports Halls: Multi-purpose courts for basketball, badminton, volleyball, and futsal.
- Climbing Wall: A bouldering and roped climbing area.
- Dance and Exercise Studios: For yoga, pilates, and group fitness classes.
- Squash Courts: Two glass-backed squash courts.
- Outdoor Facilities: Limited, but nearby parks are used for team sports.
The sports centre is part of the University of London’s commitment to promoting physical activity and wellbeing among its community. It is managed by the university’s Sport and Recreation team.
Membership Options: Who Can Use the Sports Centre?
Membership is open to University of London students, staff, alumni, and the public. There are different tiers and pricing structures.
| Membership Type | Eligibility | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Student Membership | Enrolled students of any University of London college | Unlimited gym and class access, discounted court bookings |
| Staff Membership | Employees of the University of London or its colleges | Full use of facilities, priority booking |
| Alumni Membership | Graduates of the University of London | Access to gym and classes, reduced rates for sports |
| Public Membership | Anyone living or working in London | Full access, but higher fees and limited peak hours |
Prices vary, but student membership is heavily subsidised. As of 2025, a student annual membership costs around £150, while public membership is approximately £400 per year. Day passes are also available for occasional visitors.
Location and Opening Hours
The University of London Sports Centre is situated at 1-11 Cartwright Gardens, London, WC1H 9EB, near Russell Square tube station. It is open seven days a week, with extended hours during term time. Typical hours are 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekends. Reduced hours apply during holidays and summer closures.
How to Get There
- Tube: Russell Square (Piccadilly Line) – 5-minute walk.
- Bus: Routes 59, 68, 91, 168, and 188 stop nearby.
- Cycle: Santander Cycles docking station at Tavistock Place.
Sports Clubs and Activities
Beyond the physical facilities, the University of London supports a wide range of sports clubs. These are run by the Students’ Union and cater to different skill levels, from beginners to competitive athletes.
Popular Clubs
- Team Sports: Football, rugby, basketball, netball, and hockey.
- Racquet Sports: Badminton, squash, table tennis, and tennis.
- Martial Arts: Judo, karate, taekwondo, and boxing.
- Water Sports: Rowing, sailing, and canoeing (often using external facilities).
- Fitness and Dance: Yoga, pilates, Zumba, and cheerleading.
Many clubs compete in the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) leagues, and the University of London has a strong tradition of sporting success.
How to Book and Access the Sports Centre
Booking is done online via the University of London Sport website or through a dedicated app. Members can reserve gym slots, book courts, and sign up for classes. Non-members can purchase day passes or pay-as-you-go options for specific activities.
Step-by-Step Booking Guide
- Create an account on the University of London Sport portal.
- Select your membership type and complete payment.
- Log in to book sessions – slots are released weekly.
- Arrive with your student/staff ID or membership card.
Peak hours (5-8 PM weekdays) tend to be busy, so advance booking is recommended. The centre also offers personal training sessions and fitness assessments for an additional fee.
Common Questions About the University of London Sports Centre
Is the sports centre free for students?
No, but student membership is heavily discounted. Some colleges may subsidise or reimburse the cost, so check with your individual college’s student services.
Can I use the sports centre if I’m not a student or staff?
Yes, public membership is available, and day passes can be purchased. However, access may be restricted during peak times to prioritise students and staff.
Does the sports centre have a swimming pool?
No, the University of London Sports Centre does not have a swimming pool. However, some constituent colleges (e.g., King’s College London, UCL) have their own pools, and the university has partnerships with local leisure centres.
Are there any outdoor sports fields?
The centre itself is indoor, but the university uses external pitches and courts for team sports. These include the University of London’s playing fields at Motspur Park and Chiswick.
Can alumni still use the sports centre?
Yes, alumni can purchase a dedicated membership at a reduced rate compared to the public. This includes full access to the gym, classes, and court bookings.
What COVID-19 safety measures are in place?
The centre follows government guidelines, including enhanced cleaning, ventilation, and optional mask-wearing. Hand sanitiser stations are available, and equipment is sanitised regularly.
Alternatives and Nearby Facilities
If the University of London Sports Centre is not suitable, there are many other options in the Bloomsbury area. These include:
- UCL Bloomsbury Fitness: A gym for UCL students and staff, but also open to the public.
- Better Gym King’s Cross: A public gym with a pool and classes.
- The Gym Group Russell Square: A budget-friendly 24/7 gym.
- Local parks: Coram’s Fields and Russell Square for jogging and outdoor exercise.
Students may also have access to their college’s own sports facilities, which often supplement the central centre.
Tips for Making the Most of the Sports Centre
- Book early: Popular classes and peak gym slots fill up quickly.
- Try a class: Group fitness is included in membership and is a great way to stay motivated.
- Join a club: Sports clubs offer social and competitive opportunities beyond the gym.
- Check for off-peak discounts: Some memberships offer lower rates for non-peak hours.
- Use the climbing wall: It’s one of the few indoor climbing facilities in central London and is well-maintained.
Final Checklist for Prospective Users
Before you visit, ensure you have:
- Valid ID (student/staff card or membership card).
- Online booking confirmation (if required).
- Appropriate sportswear and footwear.
- A towel and water bottle.
- Knowledge of the centre’s rules (e.g., no outdoor shoes on courts).
the University of London does have a sports centre that offers a comprehensive range of facilities for its community. Whether you’re a student looking to stay active, a staff member wanting to de-stress, or an alumna/alumnus returning to fitness, the centre provides an accessible and affordable option in the heart of London. By understanding the membership types, booking process, and available activities, you can make the most of what the University of London sports centre has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the University of London have a sports centre for students?
Yes, the University of London Sports Centre at Cartwright Gardens is open to all students of the university’s colleges, with discounted membership rates.
What are the opening hours of the University of London Sports Centre?
Typically 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM weekdays and 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM weekends, but hours may vary during holidays.
Can the public use the University of London Sports Centre?
Yes, public membership is available, and day passes can be purchased. However, priority is given to students and staff during peak times.
Does the sports centre have a swimming pool?
No, the University of London Sports Centre does not have a pool. Students can use college-specific pools or nearby public leisure centres.
How do I book a court or class at the sports centre?
Book online through the University of London Sport website or app. Members can reserve slots up to a week in advance.
Are there sports clubs I can join?
Yes, the university runs numerous sports clubs, from football to yoga. Most are open to all skill levels and compete in BUCS leagues.
