Padel arrives at the Beacon

One of the world’s fastest-growing sports is coming to Sunderland, with two brand-new padel courts opening at the Beacon of Light next month.

The hugely popular sport is coming to the Beacon, with two striking red and white courts opening this October. 

Located next to the Stadium of Light and just minutes from Sunderland city centre, the new courts offer an accessible place for people to discover padel, play with friends or add something different to their regular fitness routine.

Combining elements of tennis and squash, padel is typically played as doubles on an enclosed court and has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK and around the world.

The new courts represent another major addition to the Beacon of Light’s growing sport and wellbeing offer and will help introduce even more people to the venue.

And there is an added benefit to every game played, profits generated through the courts will support Foundation of Light, the official charity of Sunderland AFC, helping fund its life-changing work across the North East.

The distinctive red and white courts also provide a fitting Sunderland backdrop, sitting in the shadow of the Stadium of Light.

Foundation of Light CEO Lesley Spuhler OBE said: “Padel has grown enormously in popularity and we’re really excited to bring it to the Beacon of Light.

“We want the Beacon to be a place where people can be active, try new things and enjoy spending time, and these courts are another fantastic addition to what we can offer.

“Our location is a real strength too. We’re incredibly accessible, close to the city centre and right next to the Stadium of Light, with two brilliant red and white courts that feel very much at home here.

“Most importantly, by choosing to play at the Beacon, customers are also supporting Foundation of Light and helping us continue our work with communities across the region.”

Courts are available seven days a week, with prices starting from £24 per court, per hour during off-peak periods, rising to £40 per hour at peak times.

Rackets can be hired for £2.50 each, with padel balls available to purchase, making it easy for newcomers to give the sport a go without needing to invest in equipment.

All courts must be booked and paid for in advance directly through the Beacon of Light website. 

To have first access to booking the new courts, sign up to our free membership scheme.