Nottingham’s sports scene is getting a fresh upgrade, and it’s kind of a big deal.
Padel is officially pulling up to Holme Pierrepont Country Park, home to the world-famous watersports centre, with brand‑new courts, big community vibes and a summer launch that might just make this your new obsession. Whether you’re already padel‑pilled or about to Google what it is, SITM has all you need to know.
Leisure Solutions Community Trust has teamed up with Barrio Padel and Nottinghamshire County Council to bring four brand‑new, premium covered Padel Tennis courts to Holme Pierrepont Country Park.
Even better, planning permission is already in place and building work is underway, meaning players could be hitting the courts as early as June this year.
The courts will be run by Barrio Padel, a new company launched in April 2025 by co‑directors Matt Bennett and Matt Shenton, who say they are passionate about growing the game locally.
Matt Bennett said the team has been searching for the perfect spot to expand Padel in Nottingham — and they think they’ve found it.
He said: “We’ve been looking for the right home to create more Padel court capacity in Nottingham for this incredible, fast‑growing sport. Working with Leisure Solutions Community Trust and Nottinghamshire County Council, we’ve found the perfect partners and an amazing location to create a true Padel club.”
Padel is known for being easy to learn, super social and seriously fun, and the new courts are designed to be welcoming for everyone — all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
“Our aim is to offer a premium experience, but in an accessible and inclusive environment,” Matt added. “From the courts themselves to the facilities around them, we want people to feel comfortable, welcome and excited to play.”
Players can also look forward to top‑class facilities, including toilets, changing rooms, showers, a social space, a café/bar and plenty of free parking — all fully covered, so rain won’t stop play.
The name Barrio means “neighbourhood” in Spanish, and that sense of community is central to the club’s vision.
“From June, we’re really looking forward to welcoming everyone to Barrio Padel at Holme Pierrepont and building a friendly, inclusive Padel community,” Matt said.
Ian Phelps, Chair of Leisure Solutions Community Trust, said the partnership is a perfect fit for the venue: “Padel is officially the world’s fastest‑growing sport, so this is an exciting development for Holme Pierrepont. We’re delighted to be working with the Barrio Padel team, who share our passion for bringing sport to as many people as possible.”
Matt Shenton from Barrio Padel added that players will soon be able to stay connected via social media and a WhatsApp community, launching once the opening date is confirmed. Court bookings will be made through the Padel Mates app, which will go live around two weeks before opening.
For more information – visit barriopadel.co.uk
