31-07-2025
UK's first floating padel destination is coming to Liverpool waters
Planning has officially been approved for the UK's first floating Padel tennis courts, and it is right here in the city. Set to open at Liverpool Waters in Autumn 2025, the new floating facility is said to be a major sporting and leisure milestone for the country, placing the city alongside global destinations Dubai, Miami, and Helsinki.
The development will feature three courts built on 'state-of-the-art' floating platforms and the world's first floating clubhouse, designed for socialising, fitness, and waterfront relaxation.
Peel Waters, the team behind the Liverpool Waters regeneration scheme, has partnered with a roster of international experts in floating infrastructure and Padel sport to bring the first-of-its-kind project to life. Described as the world's fastest-growing sport, Padel has taken the UK by storm.
READ MORE: I woke up one day and was like 'I'm here, I survived' - there is a reason I'm still here
READ MORE: Premier League winning defender sent ex-partner unwanted calls and gifts
There are over 700 courts nationwide, but none are yet floating. The Liverpool Waters installation promises to change that, creating a 'unique dockside destination for players and spectators alike.'
Peel Waters managing director James Whittaker said: 'Liverpool Waters is leading the way in bringing innovative, world-class experiences to the UK. This new floating Padel facility will become a flagship destination for the sport and for waterside leisure in Britain.
'As a Padel enthusiast, I know firsthand how fun, accessible, and social this sport is. This new floating Padel facility will be a must-visit destination for players around the world, whilst also providing a new amenity for residents and workers in Liverpool City Centre that they have never had before.
"Whether they're playing, spectating, or socialising in the club, we look forward to our community discovering how much fun this sport is for all.'
Liverpool City Council approved the facility, which will be located within Princes Dock and will have three floating Padel courts. The floating clubhouse will be able to host up to 100 guests and will include a bar, kitchen, and decked seating area overlooking the water.
The clubhouse's design is inspired by clean Nordic aesthetics and complements other floating leisure concepts at Liverpool Waters, such as Wyld Sauna.
A retail hub will also be located within the floating clubhouse, selling Padel essentials and a new flagship store for a UK-based lifestyle and leisurewear brand, which will be announced before the opening.
Padel Ventures and FLP ltd CEO Gareth Evans added: 'We're thrilled to announce that planning permission has been officially approved for our brand-new Padel facility at Liverpool Waters — and the timing couldn't be better.
"With Padel rapidly gaining popularity across the UK, this is set to become a standout destination for sport, socialising, and style in the heart of Liverpool.
'Getting planning permission for the UK's first floating Padel destination is just the start. We're planning exciting partnerships, activations and experiences.
"This development will bring together stylish gear, vibrant social spaces, and top tier padel courts all in one location. This club will be more than just a place to play become Liverpool's newest social and sporting hotspot right on the dockside.'
With planning now approved, construction is expected to begin shortly. The courts will be built on a special floating Padel platform from Finland, with the courts themselves manufactured in Spain. Completion is estimated for mid-Autumn 2025.
