Watford residents can now try one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports, as PadelStars has officially opened five brand-new padel courts at Woodside Playing Fields, on the former Owls Bowls Club site...
Padel combines elements of tennis and squash and is known for being easy to learn, highly sociable and suitable for all ages and abilities. Typically played as doubles on an enclosed court, the sport has seen huge growth across the UK in recent years. The LTA estimates that approximately 860,000 people played padel in Great Britain in 2025, more than double the number from 2024.
The new venue features three covered and two uncovered floodlit courts built to international standards. A refurbished clubhouse, complete with toilets, changing rooms and a café-bar for players and visitors, is due to open later this summer.
PadelStars will be offering free taster sessions, free equipment hire for the first few months, affordable court fees and a wide range of coaching programmes, competitions and social events.
Membership options are available, although courts can also be booked on a pay-and-play basis.
Players can book by downloading the Nettla app on iOS or Android, where they can create an account, book courts and connect with other players.
There are also plans to work with local schools, offer holiday camps, run themed events for different groups and provide disability access throughout the site. A player development pathway will also be introduced for young people interested in developing their skills further.
Andy Knee, CEO of PadelStars, said: “We’re delighted to open in Watford and bring this exciting sport to even more people. Padel is easy to pick up, incredibly social, great fun and a fantastic way for people of all ages and abilities to stay active. We’re looking forward to building a real community around the club.”
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “It’s great to see these new courts now open and ready to welcome players from across Watford. We want residents to have access to modern, high-quality leisure facilities, and this is another excellent addition to the town’s sporting offer.”
Councillor Tim Williams, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services and Parks, said: “These new courts are a brilliant addition for North Watford and will help more people get active and try something new. It’s exciting to see another well-used community sports facility brought to life.”
More details and booking information can be found at padelstars.co.uk.
