Gateshead has added a major new sporting facility to its roster with the opening of Pikup Padel at Follingsby Park, close to Washington. The site features 11 courts, making it one of the largest padel venues in the North East and a notable addition to local leisure provision.
What the new centre offers
Padel, a racquet sport combining elements of tennis and squash and commonly played in doubles, has seen rapid growth across the UK. Pikup Padel’s Gateshead venue is intended to cater to that rising demand, providing facilities aimed at players of all abilities and seeking to establish a strong local community around the sport.
- Court count: 11 indoor courts
- Location: Follingsby Park, on the route towards Washington
- Operator: Pikup Padel (flagship site)
Speaking about the choice of location, Pikup Padel’s managing director emphasised the strategic nature of the site and the company’s ambitions for growth in the region.
"Launching our first-ever site was a major decision, and Follingsby Park immediately stood out as a location that reflects our vision for the sport, while enabling us to become part of a dynamic and growing business community."
Local impact and context
The launch follows a period of expanding interest in padel across the North East, with facilities already established in nearby Newcastle, South Shields and Sunderland. Earlier this year a Padel Up site opened near the Metrocentre; Pikup’s arrival in Gateshead adds capacity and choice for players and clubs.
For residents, the new centre promises easier access to coaching, regular social play and competitive opportunities without travelling to larger cities. From an economic perspective, such leisure investments can support local employment and bring additional footfall to neighbouring businesses in Follingsby Park.
Practical information
ChronicleLive reported that the courts were busy on the day of their visit, indicating early local uptake. Those interested in playing should check Pikup Padel’s booking system for session times, coaching offers and membership details.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Courts | 11 indoor courts |
| Site | Follingsby Park, Gateshead |
| Operator | Pikup Padel |
The new centre represents the latest chapter in the sport’s local expansion and offers Gateshead residents a high-capacity venue to play, learn and watch padel as it becomes an increasingly prominent pastime in the region.
