Padel - Frequently asked questions

New to padel or keen to learn more?

Here are some frequently asked questions to get you started.

With three high-quality courts now available at The Nest, it has never been easier to discover one of the world’s fastest-growing sports. Browse our frequently asked questions below to find everything you need to know before stepping onto the court.

What is padel?

Padel is a fun, social racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is usually played in doubles on an enclosed court where the walls form part of the game. The sport is easy to learn, fast-paces and suitable for all ages and abilities.

Where can I play padel at The Nest?

The Nest is home to three purpose-built padel courts, providing plenty of opportunities for players to book a game or join an organised session throughout the week. The padel courts are situated beyond the mini roundabout, past the main Hub building and in front of Challenge Woods. Courts 1 and 2 are covered and court 3 is open air.

Do I need experience to play?

Not at all. Padel is widely regarded as one of the most accessible racquet sports. New players can quickly pick up the basics and start enjoying matches from their very first session.

How many players are needed?

Padel is most commonly played as a doubles game with four players on court. However, coaching sessions and practice activities can also be arranged for individuals or smaller groups.

How do I book a court?

Courts can be booked through booking platform Padel Mates.

How does the booking process work on Padel Mates?

The typical booking process is as follows:

Download the Padel Mates app
Create an account and sign in
Find Padel at The Nest
Select an available date and time
Choose the court
Please note Courts 1 and 2 are covered and Court 3 is open air
Add players or open the match for others to join
Pay and confirm the booking

Can you book without creating an account?

No. Padel Mates operates as an app-based booking platform, and court reservations are linked to a registered user account.

Do all four players need an account?

The person making the booking can reserve the entire court for a game and then allocate or invite three other players. If you wish to share the cost of the booking, then the other players will need to register to split the cost of the booking, otherwise the initial booker will bear the responsibility of the court hire.

Can I hire equipment?

Racquets – yes. If you do not have your own racquet these are available to hire from The Store at The Nest @ £4 per racquet for adults and £2 per racquet for juniors.

Balls – no. These are available to purchase from either The Store or in the vending machine in The Padel Pod, situated by the courts. A tube of balls ranges from £7.50-£10 dependant on brand and ball type. . The vending machine in The Pod is card only.

What should I wear?

Comfortable sports clothing and suitable trainers are recommended. Court shoes or trainers with good grip will help you move safely and confidently across the court.

Are coaching sessions available?

Yes. Coaching sessions are available for players of all ages and abilities. For more on the Community Sports Foundation’s latest offering, check ‘Training Sessions’ on Padel at The Nest’s profile on Padel Mates or click here to find out more.

Can I play if I don’t have anyone to play with?

Absolutely. The Community Sports Foundation will be offering opportunities to meet other players through social play sessions, coaching programmes and community events. It’s a great way to get active and make new connections.

Can I find other players through Padel Mates?

Yes, the process is as follows.

Create your profile and set your playing level and preferred venue as ‘Padel at The Nest’. The app uses this information to help match you with suitable players.
Browse available matches. You can see open games and training sessions.
Join an existing game that has empty spots. If a court booking only has 2 or 3 players, you can request to join and fill the remaining place(s).
Create your own game if you already have a court booked. You can set the date, time and level required, then make it visible to other players in the app.
Receive player suggestions. Padel Mates offers match suggestions based on your level, helping you connect with players of a similar standard.
Chat within the app once you’ve connected with players to coordinate the details.

Is padel suitable for children?

Yes. Padel is family-friendly and suitable for children and young people. Junior coaching and youth-focused sessions are available throughout the year – check the ‘Book an activity’ section on the Padel Mates platform.

Is padel at The Nest accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes. The Nest is committed to making the site accessible to everyone. There is accessible parking court side and to support wheelchair users who want to play, an adult sports wheelchair and a child’s sports wheelchair are available to use free of charge. Once you have booked your court, please contact reception 01603 984000 to reserve use of the chairs.

For players who require a hoist to transfer into the sports wheelchairs, a hoist is available in the Changing Places facility located within The Nest’s main Hub building.

How long can I book a court for?

Courts can be booked for 60 minutes, 90 minutes or 120 minutes.

How much does it cost to book a court?

Peak Times – £30 per court, per hour
Off Peak Times – £24 per court, per hour

What are Padel at The Nest opening hours?

Monday – Friday
- Off –peak – 9:00am – 5pm
- Peak – 7:00am – 9:00am & 5:00pm – 10:00pm

Saturday & Sunday
- Off –peak – 5:00pm – 9:00pm
- Peak – 7:00am – 5:00pm

How much are padel memberships?

Adult Membership – £99 per year
Junior Membership – £25 per year
65+ Membership – £25 per year

What are the benefits to becoming a member?

Memberships unlock a great range of benefits including:

20% off court hire *
Free racquet hire
Access to members only events & promotional offers
Priority access to block bookings (up to 6-weeks for off –peak slots)
28-day priority booking
10% discount in The Cafe
10% discount in The Store (including balls, rackets and merchandise)

*The 20% members discount on court hire applies solely to the proportion of the booking attributable to the active member(s). Where a court is share between multiple players, the discount will be applied only to the member’s individual share of the total court fee.

Why choose The Nest for padel?

With three dedicated padel courts, plenty of on-site parking (including accessible parking) a welcoming community atmosphere with café and plenty of opportunities for beginners and experienced players alike, The Nest is the perfect place to discover and enjoy one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports.