Free Gym and Swim returns to Watford this summer!

Watford Central Gym

Young people in Watford will once again be able to stay active for free this summer as the Free Gym and Swim programme returns for the school holidays.

Everyone Active's Watford Leisure Centre Central and Watford Woodside Leisure Centre, managed in partnership with Watford Borough Council, are offering free gym and swimming sessions for under 19s throughout the school summer holidays from Monday 27 July to Thursday 27 August.

The programme gives young people the opportunity to access gym facilities and swimming sessions at no cost, helping them stay active, improve their wellbeing and make the most of the summer break.

At Watford Woodside Leisure Centre, free swimming sessions will take place every Monday and Wednesday, while free gym inductions and gym sessions will also be available on Mondays and Wednesdays.

At Watford Leisure Centre Central, free swimming sessions will be available every Tuesday and Thursday, with free gym inductions and gym sessions taking place on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Young people wishing to use the gym must first attend a free junior induction session before accessing the gym sessions.

To take part, residents should check the designated time slots for each activity at both centres. Full details are available on the Everyone Active website at everyoneactive.com or through the Everyone Active app. For further information or assistance, email Watfordactivecommunities@everyoneactive.com.

Peter Taylor, Elected Mayor of Watford, said: "We know the school holidays can be an expensive time for families, which is why we're pleased to support free activities that help young people stay active, healthy and entertained throughout the summer.

"Free Gym and Swim has become a popular part of the summer holidays in Watford, giving young residents the opportunity to enjoy our excellent leisure facilities, spend time with friends and build healthy habits that can last a lifetime.”

Iain Milton, contract manager for Everyone Active said: “Both our leisure centres in Watford have recently benefited from a gym refurbishment worth more than £3 million, giving young people access to some of the best equipment each centre has ever had. Alongside that, our swimming sessions are a great way for local young people to build confidence in the water and stay active with friends. We're proud to work with Watford Borough Council to offer both for free to under 19s this summer, helping them try something new and build habits that will hopefully last well beyond the holidays."

In addition to Free Gym and Swim, Watford offers a wide range of free and affordable activities throughout the summer holidays. Residents can enjoy the council's Big Events Programme, including outdoor entertainment, family activities and events taking place across the town.

For more information, visit everyoneactive.com and watfordactually.com

Published: 21st July 2026

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