Ignite Padel launches new six-court facility in Liverpool

Padel, a fast-growing racquet sport that blends elements of tennis and squash, continues its global rise with the opening of Ignite Padel, a new six-court facility located in West Derby, Liverpool.

The venue officially launched in Spring 2025 on the site of the former Vagabonds Tennis Club, one of the city’s longest-standing racquet sports establishments. Ignite Padel now offers Championship-level floodlit courts, expert coaching for all levels, and a structured programme of matches, tournaments, and social events—aimed at making padel accessible, inclusive, and community-driven.

The new facility is open daily from 7am until late, catering to early-morning players, after-work sessions, and weekend competitions. In addition to coaching for beginners and advanced players, the club organises regular tournaments where participants are grouped by skill level—bronze, silver, or gold—creating a competitive but welcoming environment.

Future plans include the formation of padel teams to compete in inter-club events across the North West, building on the sport’s increasing popularity in the region.

A spokesperson for the Liverpool-owned business says Padel is becoming the City’s favourite sport because of its accessibility and social atmosphere.

“It’s taking over from football, which is why we felt Liverpool needed more Padel courts because it’s growing so fast and so many people are engaged with it. 

“One of the main attractions of Padel is the social side so alongside our top tier courts we are really trying to build a community. We currently have the biggest ‘Whatsapp Padel’ group chat in the North West which we set up to help people find other players of similar abilities.

“Every time you play, you’re in a four, you’re working together as a team and you’re building a relationship with someone who you’re playing with, either regularly with friends or you can play with different people every time.

“Our booking system allows you to instantly find other people who’ve got open matches and join them so it’s a great way to meet other players and get a game.”

One of padel’s key appeals lies in its ease of play. With a smaller court size, simple rules, and slower ball speeds, it allows newcomers to enjoy rallies and progress quickly. While it shares similarities with tennis, padel’s format is widely considered more accessible for beginners and casual players.

“Tennis can have a reputation for being elitist where padel feels much more inclusive which is why people of all backgrounds and ages are enjoying it so much,” the spokesperson added.

To encourage participation, Ignite Padel offers free racquet hire, and pressurised padel balls are available via on-site vending machines, eliminating the need for specialist equipment. Courts are available in 60-minute and 90-minute time slots, and can be booked online.

Ignite Padel Liverpool is the business’s first venue, but following its early success and high demand, the team behind the venture has plans to expand across the North West and further afield.

Find more information and book a court on the Ignite Padel website.

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