Image to describe headline of the article
News
December 1, 2025

December 2025 opening hours

DECEMBER OPENING HOURS

Our opening hours are changing over the festive period. Please make a note of these changes so you can plan your visits over the Christmas period.

Changes at Camberwell Leisure Centre, Canada Water Leisure Centre, Dulwich Leisure Centre, Peckham Pulse Leisure Centre, Surrey Docks Leisure Centre and The Castle Leisure Centre include:

6 December – early closure at 4pm
22 December – 7am to 7pm
23 December – 7am to 7pm
24 December – 7am to 3pm
25 December – closed
26 December – closed
27 December –  normal hours
28 December – 7am to 6pm
29 December – 7am to 7pm
30 December – 7am to 7pm
31 December – 7am to 3pm
1 January – closed
2 January – 7am to 7pm
3 January – normal hours

Opening times for Southwark Park Sports and Athletics Centre:

6 December – early closure at 4pm
22 December – 7am to 7pm
23 December – 7am to 7pm
24 December – 7am to 3pm
25 December – closed
26 December – closed
27 December – 9am to 5pm
28 December – 9am to 5pm
29 December – 7am to 7pm
30 December – 7am to 7pm
31 December – 7am to 3pm
1 January – closed
2 January – 7am to 7pm
3 January – normal hours

Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Sports Facility will be closed from 23 December and will re-open on 3 January 2026.

Thank you.

Dulwich swimming pool
News
October 10, 2025

Dulwich pool re-opening – the journey!

Dulwich Leisure Centre: Proudly Reopening After Essential Pool Works

After months of essential work behind the scenes, we’re delighted to announce that Dulwich Leisure Centre swimming pool is reopening on 15 October – restoring a much-loved community facility to full operation.

A building with history – and heart

Dulwich Leisure Centre first opened its doors over 120 years ago, and we’re proud that it continues to serve the Dulwich community today. With its unique heritage and loyal visitors, the Centre has always been a cornerstone for fitness, family fun, and wellbeing in South London.

What happened – and why we couldn’t have planned for it

In January this year, we noticed a decline in pool water quality and evidence of sand entering the water – a sign that the filter media was starting to fail.

Although a recent condition survey had shown the filters were in good shape, we began planning to replace the media as a preventative measure. However, on 22 March, the issue escalated quickly. Increasing amounts of sand were discharged into the pool, and visibility dropped to unsafe levels, meaning we could no longer lifeguard effectively. We made the difficult decision to close the pool immediately and begin replacing the filter media – a job we expected to take around four weeks.

Unfortunately, when our contractors attempted to recommission the filters in early April, two of the three filters failed completely. In simple terms, the filter shells themselves had collapsed – beyond repair – meaning replacement was the only option.

The delays – out of our hands

Our original plan was to reopen by late August. However, swimming pool filters are not off-the-shelf items; they had to be custom-built and shipped from America. Once they arrived, installation was delayed slightly due to the challenging conditions in the plant room.

While waiting for the new filters, our team made rapid adjustments to allow one of the remaining filters to operate safely, meaning we could offer limited swimming sessions and aqua aerobics over the summer to support the wellbeing of our members.

Supporting our swimmers during closure

We know how important swimming is to our local families and schools, so we worked hard to minimise disruption. Many of our swimming lesson customers were successfully transferred to Peckham Pulse Leisure Centre and Camberwell Leisure Centre so that learning and progress could continue during the closure.

Turning challenge into opportunity

While the pool was out of action, we took the opportunity to invest in wider improvements across Dulwich Leisure Centre, ensuring it continues to deliver an excellent experience for years to come.

Our upgrades include:

  • Brand new microfiltration system – the latest technology, filtering particles for crystal-clear water and a more pleasant swim
    • Uses 90% less water, 50% less energy, 30% fewer chemicals, and takes up 75% less space than the old system – supporting our carbon neutral goals
  • Refreshed changing rooms – all showers have been replaced and upgraded with new accessibility rails and seats
  • New pool toys and floats for our younger swimmers

Looking ahead

Although the journey has taken longer than anyone hoped, these improvements mean Dulwich Leisure Centre is now operating with a new state-of-the-art filtration system, improved sustainability, and refreshed facilities – ready to serve Southwark community for decades to come.

 

We’d like to thank all our members for their patience and understanding while the work was completed. We can’t wait to welcome you back for a swim soon.

Image of man in indoor cycling studio with bright colours, celebrating the feel good vibes
News
May 29, 2025

Ride for Pride – 28 June

RIDE FOR PRIDE IS COMING!

Get ready to spin, sweat, and celebrate—Ride for Pride is coming to Dulwich Leisure Centre and The Castle Leisure Centre this June!

In honour of Pride Month, we’re bringing the energy with bright lights, loud music, and non-stop good vibes. This special indoor cycling event is a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, community, and movement — open to all, and made to bring people together.

Join us!
Not only will you enjoy a fun, themed ride led by Danielle and special guest instructors, you’ll also:
– Boost your fitness with an energising cardio session
– Connect with an inclusive, supportive community
– Celebrate love, diversity and togetherness
– Have an absolute blast while doing it!

Event Details

Saturday 28 June
📍 The Castle Leisure Centre –  09:30am to 12:30pm
📍 Dulwich Leisure Centre –  11am to 2pm

Rides are free – limited spaces available. 

BOOK INSTRUCTIONS – BOOK YOUR SEAT NOW!

Click here to book, select either The Castle Leisure Centre or Dulwich Leisure Centre, Select activitiy – Ride for Pride, select date 28 June, search and book now!

Everyone is encouraged to wear their most colourful outfits, as our studios will be transformed with pride-themed décor for the occasion. Whether you’re riding to support, celebrate, or just have fun—this is an event for everybody and every body.

Let’s Ride with Pride!

Image of the new app home screen
News
May 15, 2025

Exciting new app update coming soon

We’re updated our app to make it so much more than just a booking tool – it’s now your go-to hub for health, fitness, wellbeing, connections and more. Your Booking Icons will still be right where you need them – at the top for quick and easy access but there’s lots that’s new! The updates will be happening in the next few days so keep a look out!

Make sure you’ve got the latest version!
Head to your app store and update the app so you will see all the changes when they come.

What’s new?

  • Updated app tile to look out for on your phone. It’s will change from Southwark Council logo on a grey background to our Move Southwark logo
  • A new Home Screen layout packed with access to much more
  • Quicker access to important notification, news and service updates – click the speech icon top right of your screen above the move Southwark image

Plus we’ve added handy new links so you can dive straight into:

  • Challenges and Tips – from Muscle of the Month to Workouts of the week
  • Wellness Services – discover ways to feel good, inside and out
  • Library of Things – even more resources, tools, and support to explore
  • Activities – discover all the ways to move across our other centres

More features, more inspiration, and more wellbeing, all in one place. We’ll also be adding a Clubs section very soon with links to all the activity and wellbeing clubs that take part in our centres.

Keep your eyes peeled – these updates will be live very soon!

Thanks for being part of our Move community

Lady in active wear doing a hamstring stretch outdoors
News
May 1, 2025

Southside Running Club

Our Move Southwark team at Dulwich Leisure Centre host a fun and friendly running club for the local community. It starts at Dulwich Leisure Centre and the run is 5km. All levels are welcome, from first-timers to seasoned pros! Just turn up for good vibes and great runs. Come along, meet new people, and make Sunday your new favourite day to run!

Venue: The run starts and ends at Dulwich Leisure Centre
Day: Sundays
Time: 10am

Whether you’re just lacing up your running shoes for the first time or you’re chasing a new Personal Best, Southside is the perfect place to connect with a supportive, social group of runners who love to move and motivate.

Ready to run?

Add your name to our next run at Dulwich Leisure Centre reception or email Dulwichinfo@Southwark.gov.uk.

Yoga for Menopause
News
September 30, 2024

Yoga for menopause class special

Yoga for Menopause – Special One-Off Class on World Menopause Day

Join us on Friday 18 October for a unique yoga class designed specifically to support women experiencing menopause. Led by  Alison Beadle, an experienced instructor from Southwark Leisure Centres, this one-off event offers a gentle yet empowering practice that will help you manage the common symptoms of menopause through movement, breath work, and mindfulness.

What is Yoga for Menopause?

Our Yoga for Menopause class is thoughtfully curated to address the physical, mental, and emotional changes that occur during menopause. This class includes a combination of yoga flows and poses tailored to help ease symptoms such as:

  • restless legs
  • stress and anxiety
  • hormonal imbalances
  • joint pain
  • digestive issues
  • sleep disturbances

We also incorporate breath work, which plays a vital role in helping you step out of “fight or flight” mode, bringing your body back into balance. By focusing on your breath, you can reduce stress, regulate hormones, and promote overall well-being, leading to improved digestion, less joint pain, and better sleep.

Why You Should Join

Menopause can sometimes cause us to feel less confident in our bodies and abilities. This class is not just about yoga – it’s about reclaiming your sense of strength and empowerment. Through carefully guided yoga flows, you’ll reconnect with your body, build physical strength, and regain confidence.

The class is open to all experience levels. Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, you’ll find a welcoming and supportive space. There is no “right” or “wrong” here – the focus is on what feels best for your body at that moment.

Class Details

We are offering four sessions on Friday 18 October for council staff and residents at the following locations:

  • Tooley Street (Council staff only): 10am to 11am
  • Castle Leisure Centre: 12:30pm to 1:30pm
  • Dulwich Leisure Centre: 4pm to 5pm
  • Peckham Pulse Leisure Centre: 6pm to 7pm

Each session will guide you through mindful movement and breath work, leaving you feeling more balanced and energised. We would love for you to join us in celebrating World Menopause Day with this special yoga class. It’s a wonderful opportunity to nurture yourself, reconnect with your body, and feel supported by a community of women going through similar experiences.

Bookings now open

>> Book here for leisure centre classes

>> For Council Staff bookings at Tooley Street email Ben.Stancombe@southwark.gov.uk

 

Come as you are, and do what feels right for you – we look forward to sharing this empowering practice with you.

swimming teacher with students in the pool
News
July 18, 2024

Free swimming lessons for children in Year 5, 6 or 7

Southwark Council to offer hundreds of free swimming lessons for children this summer

In response to the alarming statistic that one in three children leave primary school unable to swim*, Southwark Council has launched a new initiative to provide free swimming lessons for children between 9 and 12 years old who cannot swim. The initiative reflects the council’s commitment to promoting active lifestyles, readdressing barriers preventing children from learning to swim and raising awareness of water safety practices.

Starting this summer, over 240 free spots will be offered to children in the borough. The lessons will held at Peckham Leisure Centre and The Castle Leisure Centre, consisting of a five day course with each session lasting 30 minutes per day over five consecutive days.

Councillor Mwangange, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Parks and Young People, said: “As a young person growing up on the Kingswood Estate, the free swimming lessons I received at my primary school, Dulwich Wood, encouraged my healthy lifestyle at such a young age.”

“Learning to swim is not just about recreation; it’s a crucial life skill that enhances safety around water and promotes a healthy lifestyle. By offering these free swimming lessons, we are addressing a significant gap in water safety education and ensuring that more children in Southwark have the confidence and ability to enjoy water activities safely.”

The free swimming lessons aim not only to teach children basic swimming techniques but also to instill confidence in the water and raise awareness about water safety practices. This initiative is part of Southwark Council’s broader efforts to improve community health and wellbeing by providing accessible recreational opportunities for young residents. Places will be issued on a first come, first serve basis.

How to apply for a free swim lesson place:

If you are a parent or guardian of a child aged 9 to 12 who can’t swim, you can apply for a swim place by emailing the participating centres:

Peckham Pulse Leisure Centre: email lauren.smith@southwark.gov.uk
The Castle Leisure Centre: email jodie.sees@southwark.gov.uk

Course dates:

Peckham Leisure Centre:

Monday 29 July to Friday 2 August at 1pm

Monday 12 August to Friday 16 August at 1pm

Tuesday 27 August to Friday 30 August at 1pm

The Castle Leisure Centre:

Monday 5 August to Friday 9 August at 2.30pm

Monday 12 August to Friday 16 August at 2.30pm

Monday 19 August to Friday 23 August at 2.30pm

Notes

*A report by Swim England revealed that around 30% of children in the UK leave primary school without being able to swim. This statistic underscores the need to improve access to affordable swimming lessons to ensure children’s safety and well-being, particularly at this time of year.

News
July 2, 2024

The Benefits of Indoor Cycling Classes and Why You Should Try It

If you’re looking for a high-energy workout that’s both fun and effective, Indoor cycling classes might be the perfect move for you!

There is a great sense of community in our Southwark Leisure indoor cycling classes that offer numerous health benefits and cater to various fitness levels. Here’s why you should consider giving Indoor cycling a try and who can benefit from these classes.

What is Indoor Cycling?

Indoor cycling, involves riding a stationary bike in a class setting, usually led by a motivating instructor. These classes often feature high-energy music, various cycling techniques, and a mix of energy systems through endurance, and interval training.

Six benefits of Indoor Cycling Classes

  1. Cardiovascular health

Indoor cycling is an excellent cardio workout. The high-intensity intervals help improve heart health, increase lung capacity, and boost overall cardiovascular endurance.

  1. Calorie burning and weight loss

A single Indoor class can burn anywhere from 400 to 600 calories, making it an effective workout for weight loss and fat burning. The combination of high-intensity intervals and sustained efforts keeps your metabolism elevated, even after the class ends, contributing to more calories burned throughout the day.

  1. Low-Impact exercise

Unlike running or other high-impact cardio activities, Indoor cycling is gentle on your joints. The smooth, controlled movements minimise the risk of injury while still providing an intense workout. If you suffer with joint issues or you’re recovering from certain injuries this could be a great class for you.

  1. Improved muscle tone

Indoor cycling primarily targets your lower body, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. Regular classes can help tone and strengthen these muscles, leading to improved muscle definition and endurance. Some classes also incorporate upper body exercises for a full-body workout.

  1. Mental health benefits

The combination of physical exertion, rhythmic pedalling, and energetic music can significantly boost your mood. Indoor cycling releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones, which help reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. The sense of achievement after completing a challenging class can also enhance your mental well-being.

  1. Motivation and community

Indoor classes are often characterised by their vibrant, community-focused atmosphere. The energy of a group setting, coupled with the encouragement from instructors and fellow participants, can provide a significant motivational boost. This sense of camaraderie can help you stay committed to your fitness goals.

Who is Indoor Cycling Suitable For?

Beginners: Indoor cycling is highly adaptable, making it suitable for beginners. Instructors can provide modifications for different fitness levels, allowing newcomers to build their endurance and strength gradually.

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts: For those already engaged in regular exercise, Indoor classes offer a new challenge. The high-intensity intervals can improve athletic performance, increase stamina, and provide a change of pace from regular workouts.

Individuals with joint issues: Because Indoor cycling is a low-impact activity, it is ideal for individuals with joint problems or those recovering from lower-body injuries. The controlled movements help build strength without placing undue stress on the joints.

Weight loss seekers: Indoor classes are an excellent option for those looking to lose weight. The high-calorie burn and metabolic boost make it an effective part of a weight loss regime.

Busy professionals: With classes typically lasting 30 to 60 minutes, Indoor cycling is perfect for those on a tight schedule. It offers a comprehensive workout in a relatively short amount of time.

Conclusion

Indoor cycling classes provide a dynamic, engaging workout that benefits both your physical and mental health. Whether you’re a fitness newbie or a seasoned athlete, there’s a place for you in an indoor class. With its cardiovascular benefits, calorie-burning potential, and supportive community, Indoor cycling is a workout worth trying. Step into a class, pedal to the beat, and experience the transformative power of Indoor cycling for yourself.

Three mature men in a gym
News
June 3, 2024

Men’s Health Week: Free health checks and advice

Come and get involved in our free programme of activities in support of Men’s Health Week. You can check your vital health stats, get access to health advice and resources, come and try a workshop or exercise session.

Take some time this week to check in with yourself and observe what’s happening in your body and mind. Encourage your friends and family to do the same. This simple act can make a significant difference in your life or someone else’s.

Men’s Health Week Activities:

Self-service health checks

If you’re short on time you can check your vital health stats in just five minutes with our self -service health kiosks at Peckham Pulse Leisure Centre and The Castle Leisure Centre. They are free to use and are located in the foyers.

30 minute health and fitness checks

Meet with one of our health and fitness experts to check your vital health stats and help you understand what they mean. You can then take some basic physical tests to check strength, mobility and fitness. Just choose the ones you want.

  • Mobility check
  • Simple strength test (Bodyweight squats in 1 minute)
  • Cardio starter challenge (5-minute brisk walk on the treadmill

Where: The Castle Leisure Centre

When: 30 minute sessions are available during the following times.

Monday 10 June: 7am to 9am and 3pm to 5:30pm, Tuesday 11 June: 7am to 9am and 3pm to 5:00pm, Wednesday 12 June: 7am to 9am, Thursday 13 June: 8am to 11m and 5pm to 7pm, Saturday 15 June: 10am to 2pm and Sunday 16 June: 2pm to 4pm

Where: Peckham Pulse Leisure Centre

When: 30 minute sessions are available during the following times.

Monday 10 June: 9am to 1pm, Tuesday 11 June: 5pm to 7pm, Wednesday 12 June: 9am to 1pm, Thursday 13 June: 5pm to 10pm, Friday 14 June 6pm to 8pm

How to book:

Please call the leisure centre or visit reception.

Exercise Workshops and Classes

Come and join in a workshop or class led by one of our Fitness Motivators. 

Gym Floor HIIT Class: 45 minute high intensity fitness blast at Dulwich Leisure Centre, Monday 10 June: 12:30pm and 5pm

Gym Floor Strength Workshop: Learn how to lift weights effectively in this 45 minute workshop at Dulwich Leisure Centre, Tuesday 11 June: 2pm and 5pm and Sunday 16 June 10am and 2pm

Spin Class: Feel the exhilaration of a group indoor cycling class at Seven Islands Leisure Centre, Saturday 15 June: 9:30am to 10:15am

Core and posture analysis at Dulwich Leisure Centre, Saturday 15 June: 11am, 12 pm, 1pm and 3pm

How to book:

Please call the leisure centre or visit reception.

Men’s only swim session: supporting mental health

Swimming, like all exercise, releases endorphins in your brain. These are the feel good hormones. They help to increase positivity and bring about a sense of wellbeing and happiness. Join us for a one-hour men’s only swim session to float, swim, relax and enjoy the calm of the water.

Where: Camberwell Leisure Centre

When: Thursday 13 June, 7pm to 8pm

Free weight loss 12-week programme for men

We run a weight loss programme for men of over 45 who either live in or are registered with a GP in Southwark. Over 90% of men who take part lose weight, get more active, reduce stress and improve their mood.

>> Lose weight with free help: find out if you’re eligible today

 

Get a free health and wellbeing MOT

Get blood pressure and healthy weight checks at a free event. You can also get advice on diabetes, cancer screening, smoking, alcohol, mental health, and more

>> Find an event near you

 

Get help to stop smoking

The Southwark Stop Smoking Service provides 12 weeks of free, confidential one-to-one stop-smoking support which is available in-person or via the telephone service

>> sign up today

 

Walk and talk groups for mental health

Join The Proper Blokes Club for weekly walks along the south side of the Thames path on Thursdays at 6:30pm. Enjoy great views of the river to help you clear your mind and meet a great community

 

>> Join the next walk

Rows of exercise equipment at Dulwich Leisure Centre
News
April 24, 2024

Centre improvement highlights

Work to improve our leisure centres is gathering pace following the essential ‘behind the scenes’ work we undertook after taking back our Leisure Centres in June 2023.

This included significant investment in:

  • replacing pumps and fixing pipework for our pools
  • bringing faulty lifts back into use
  • servicing air conditioning and ventilation units
  • deep cleaning ducting
  • fixing boilers and doing some cosmetic improvements.

We have also addressed some long-standing issues at Surrey Docks (new pontoons on the Docks), Camberwell/Dulwich (leaking roof) and Peckham (new lift).

Current changing room improvements

We are currently working on improving the changing facilities including repairs to lockers, cubicles, ceilings, lighting, tiling, replacing showers and vanity areas. There are replacements to alarm systems and access control systems planned, keeping you safe and improving your visit.

Centre decoration

As part of the programme of general decoration across the centres, we are repainting walls, replacing ceiling tiles, repairing damaged areas and generally freshening things up! You will have seen the improvements at Peckham already and the work that is taking place in Camberwell. Dulwich, Surrey Docks and Castle will be coming soon.  

Our net zero commitment

Southwark council is committed to becoming a net zero carbon emitter by 2030. We have a huge programme of carbon reduction initiatives across our centres in support of this ambition. Included in this are:

  • new pool covers to reduces heat loss overnight
  • new efficient LED lighting
  • upgrades to our building management system and photovoltaic panel installations are all coming in the next 12 months.

These investments are testament to Southwark Council’s commitment to addressing health inequality, by enabling more people to have an improved experience in the leisure centres, and more opportunities to continue to increase their health and wellbeing.

What’s happening at your centre?

Dulwich

  • new air conditioning systems in the studios and gym
  • replacement ventilation system throughout
  • locker upgrades
  • a more welcoming reception area
  • general decoration throughout
  • upgraded Pool Plant for a more pleasant bathing experience
  • changing room improvements
  • a ‘library of things’ (tbc)

The Castle

  • a more welcoming reception area
  • general decoration throughout
  • upgraded Pool Plant for a more pleasant bathing experience
  • locker upgrades
  • new televisions and display panels

Camberwell

  • new air conditioning systems in the studios and gym
  • repairs to the heating and ventilation system
  • locker upgrades
  • a more welcoming reception area
  • general decoration throughout
  • upgraded Pool Plant for a more pleasant bathing experience
  • changing room improvements
  • new televisions and display panels
  • A ‘library of things’ (tbc)

Peckham

  • new air conditioning systems in the studios and gym
  • repairs to the heating and ventilation system
  • locker upgrades
  • upgraded Pool Plant for a more pleasant bathing experience
  • changing room improvements
  • a new accessible pool hoist
  • new televisions and display panels

Surrey Docks

  • locker upgrades
  • changing room improvements
  • new televisions and display panels
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