Active summer planned across the borough
Families across the Caerphilly county borough are being offered a packed programme of summer activities aimed at keeping children and young people engaged, active and well during the school break. The council’s Sport and Leisure Service is coordinating sessions across multiple sites, with options spanning swimming, outdoor pursuits, sports coaching and free open play.
Organisers say the schedule has been designed to offer easy access to fun, healthy activities in every corner of the borough. The programme includes a mix of free and paid-for options, with strands led by Sport Caerphilly, Caerphilly Adventures, and Caerphilly Play, alongside a tennis partnership with the national governing body for the sport.
“We’ve got another fantastic programme of activities planned this summer, with something for everyone right across the borough. Whether you’re trying something new or enjoying a favourite activity, we look forward to welcoming families throughout the holidays.”
That was the message from Cllr Chris Morgan, the cabinet member for sport and leisure, who encouraged residents to make the most of the offer over the school holidays.
What’s on offer
The council has highlighted a range of sessions intended to suit different ages and abilities. Among the headline options are:
- Swimming – inflatable pool sessions, family swims and intensive crash course lessons at local leisure centres.
- Sport Caerphilly – the Sport Scheme returns, complemented by football and athletics camps.
- Free Park Tennis coaching – delivered in partnership with the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) every weekend for eight weeks.
- Outdoor adventures – climbing wall sessions and Junior Adventure Days via Caerphilly Adventures.
- Free play – Pop Up Play and Play in the Park events from Caerphilly Play.
While many sessions are open access, residents are advised to check availability and any age guidance before travelling, especially during peak holiday weeks.
Where and when
Activities are being staged across the county borough to reduce travel barriers and encourage take-up in local communities. The current confirmed tennis and play locations include the following:
| Activity | Provider/Partner | Location(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park Tennis coaching | Sport and Leisure / LTA | Blackwood Showfields Tennis Courts; Ystrad Mynach Tennis Courts | Free; weekends for 8 weeks |
| Pop Up Play; Play in the Park | Caerphilly Play | Various community venues | Free; disability sessions require booking |
| Swimming sessions & crash courses | Sport and Leisure | Local leisure centres | Family and inflatable sessions available |
| Sport Scheme; football & athletics camps | Sport Caerphilly | Across the borough | Programme details vary by site |
| Climbing wall; Junior Adventure Days | Caerphilly Adventures | Outdoor/adventure venues | Sessions tailored for young people |
Access, booking and inclusivity
Most play opportunities are designed as open, drop-in style sessions to keep barriers low. Caerphilly Play’s disability Pop Up Play is the exception and must be reserved in advance via the Leisure Lifestyle app. Families should also check any specific entry policies for pool inflatables and coaching camps, as age or competency criteria can apply for safety reasons.
The council’s emphasis this year is on wellbeing and helping children remain active through accessible, local provision. The multi-agency approach brings free opportunities, such as the LTA-backed tennis, alongside structured coaching for those seeking more formal sport development.
Why it matters
For many households, the summer break can stretch budgets and limit options for keeping children occupied. By spreading sessions across communities and mixing free activities with low-cost, bookable programmes, the council aims to ease pressure on families and support healthier routines.
Swimming and adventure options provide varied ways to build confidence and fitness, while open play opportunities encourage social interaction and inclusive participation. With coaching camps running in tandem, young people keen on football, athletics or racquet sports can also develop skills locally without extensive travel.
How to get involved
Residents interested in taking part should plan ahead during busy holiday weeks. Key reminders:
- Confirm session times and availability with the relevant leisure centre or programme lead before setting off.
- Use the Leisure Lifestyle app to book disability Pop Up Play sessions.
- Bring suitable clothing and equipment where advised (for example, swimwear and buoyancy aids where required).
- Arrive early for popular sessions such as pool inflatables and weekend tennis to avoid disappointment.
With options running throughout the holidays and weekend tennis scheduled for eight weeks, there are multiple chances for families across Caerphilly to try something new, return to a favourite sport, or simply enjoy time together being active in their local area.
