LSBU Active Sports Centre
Rating
Family of 4
40–80 USD for a family session
Duration
1–3 hours
Best Ages
6–17
About
LSBU Active Sports Centre is the sports facility operated by London South Bank University, open to the public alongside its primary university user base. The centre is a fully equipped multi-sport facility in the heart of south London, offering swimming, gym, sports hall activities, fitness classes, and more to families and individuals. For families with older children and teenagers, the centre provides access to facilities that go significantly beyond what community leisure centres typically offer.
The swimming pool is a popular feature — family swim sessions are available at family-friendly times and represent good value compared to dedicated leisure centre pools in the area. The sports hall accommodates badminton, basketball, volleyball, and other court sports, making it a versatile space for active families who want more than a simple gym session. Junior memberships and pay-as-you-go access make the centre financially accessible at different levels of commitment.
The university campus setting is clean, well-maintained, and efficiently run, reflecting the high standards expected by its academic community. For teenagers particularly, using a university sports facility provides a motivating environment that feels genuinely grown-up and serious about sport. The centre's south London location near the Elephant and Castle makes it well-connected by tube and bus.
For families in Southwark, Lambeth, or across the river from the City, LSBU Active is an underrated and well-priced sporting destination worth exploring.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Nursing / Changing
true
Kid Meals
true
Setting
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekends and school holidays; check the family swim and junior sport timetable
Wait Times
Minimal — most activities are bookable in advance
Nearby Food
The university campus has a cafe; Elephant and Castle has a wide range of food options within walking distance
Why Kids Love It
A full-size sports centre with a pool, gym, and courts — older kids love feeling like they're using a proper grown-up facility, and the variety means there's always something new to try.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Check the public timetable carefully — some sessions are university-only; family and public access is scheduled at specific times
- A family or multi-visit pass saves meaningfully over individual session prices
- Bring a padlock for lockers; many sports centres no longer supply them
What to Bring
- Swimwear and towel for pool sessions
- Sport-appropriate clothing and trainers for court and gym activities
- A water bottle — hydration is important for active sessions
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
40–80 USD for a family session
Tips to Save
- Buy a multi-visit pass or family membership for significant savings over pay-as-you-go rates
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Monday
- 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday
- 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM