The Stour Centre

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Ashford’s Premier Multi-Million Pound Leisure Destination

The Stour Centre stands as Ashford’s flagship leisure facility, having reopened in 2021 following a transformative £7.5 million refurbishment that elevated it to become one of East Kent’s most comprehensive family entertainment and fitness destinations. Strategically located opposite Ashford International train station, this state-of-the-art facility managed by Freedom Leisure on behalf of Ashford Borough Council offers an exceptional blend of aquatic experiences, cutting-edge fitness facilities, and family entertainment across multiple levels.

World-Class Aquatic Facilities

The Stour Centre boasts some of the finest pool facilities in East Kent, featuring a 25-metre main pool perfect for serious swimming and lane training, complemented by an exhilarating leisure pool complex. The leisure pool showcases two thrilling 50-metre flumes, the dynamic Raging River experience, invigorating water jets, cascading features, and two relaxing poolside jacuzzis. Families with young children can enjoy the dedicated circular teaching pool, while the specially designed bubble pad provides safe water play for babies and toddlers.

Premium Fitness and Wellness Experience

  • Refurbished Gym: State-of-the-art equipment with latest cardio machines, free weights, and resistance training
  • Spin Studio: Dedicated cycling studio with immersive group fitness classes
  • Additional Exercise Studio: Versatile space for fitness classes, yoga, and personal training
  • Wellness Facilities: Relaxing sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi for post-workout recovery
  • Professional Services: Qualified personal trainers and custom fitness programmes

Multi-Level Family Adventure Zone

The spectacular new multi-level soft play and clip & climb centre represents one of the most exciting additions to the refurbished facility. This innovative adventure zone provides thrilling climbing challenges and safe play areas designed for children of all ages and abilities, making it a premier destination for birthday parties, family outings, and active entertainment. The facility combines physical challenges with fun, encouraging children to develop confidence, coordination, and social skills in a secure environment.

Sports Courts and Activity Spaces

Active sports enthusiasts can enjoy professional-standard squash and badminton courts equipped for competitive play and casual recreation. The courts feature excellent lighting, quality flooring, and viewing areas, making them ideal for tournaments, league play, and individual bookings. The facility also offers various group fitness classes and sports activities throughout the week.

Costa Coffee Café and Social Hub

The completely revamped reception and café area features the popular Costa Coffee brand, providing a comfortable social space for visitors to relax, refuel, and socialise. The café serves a comprehensive menu of hot and cold beverages, light meals, and snacks, making it the perfect spot to unwind after activities or meet friends before workouts.

Complete Ashford Experience

Explore the historic Ashford town centre with its excellent shopping at County Square Shopping Centre and charming Ashford Designer Outlet. Discover nearby Godinton House & Gardens for beautiful heritage experiences or enjoy outdoor adventures at Conningbrook Lakes Country Park. Sports enthusiasts can visit the adjacent Julie Rose Stadium for athletics, while families will love Hollywood Bowl Ashford for entertainment.

Visitor Information & Accessibility

Transport Links: Ideally positioned opposite Ashford International train station with excellent rail connections to London, Canterbury, and Dover, plus comprehensive local bus services.

Sustainability Focus: As a not-for-profit charitable leisure trust, Freedom Leisure is committed to environmental responsibility and community health improvement initiatives.

Membership Options: Flexible membership packages available including family, individual, and student rates, plus day passes for visitors.

Awards Recognition: Named finalist for Swim England Pioneering Pool Operator Award 2025 and shortlisted for ukactive Organisation Innovation Award.

Additional Information

  • Total Investment: £7.5 million comprehensive refurbishment completed 2021
  • Management: Freedom Leisure on behalf of Ashford Borough Council
  • Pool Features: 25m main pool, leisure pool with dual 50m flumes, teaching pool, baby pool
  • Fitness Facilities: Fully equipped gym, spin studio, additional exercise studio
  • Adventure Zone: Multi-level soft play and clip & climb centre
  • Sports Courts: Squash and badminton courts with professional standards
  • Wellness: Sauna, steam room, dual poolside jacuzzis
  • Dining: Costa Coffee café with comprehensive menu
  • Special Features: Raging River experience, water jets, cascades
  • Target Audience: All ages and abilities with inclusive design principles
  • Community Focus: Educational swimming programmes and health initiatives
  • Safety Standards: Qualified lifeguards and safety equipment throughout

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