Move over tennis and squash, there’s a new racquet sport captivating Surrey, and it’s not just a fleeting trend. Padel, a dynamic blend of tennis and squash, has taken the county by storm. From purpose-built clubs to additions at traditional racquet venues, this fast-paced, social game is drawing players of all ages and skill levels.
WHAT IS PADEL, AND WHY NOW?
Originating in Mexico in the 1960s, padel has grown into the fastest-growing sport in the world, especially booming in Spain, Italy, and Argentina. Played in doubles on an enclosed glass-walled court about a third the size of a tennis court, it combines strategic play with high-energy rallies. What makes padel uniquely attractive is its accessibility. Minimal technique is needed to get started, yet the tactical depth keeps players hooked for years. In Surrey, padel’s presence is expanding rapidly. Both Ezee Padel in Weybridge and Ashtead Squash, Tennis and Padel introduced courts around 2020 and neither have looked back since. “Globally, padel is a game which anyone can learn to play in a short space of time,” says Peter, the founder of Ezee Padel. “It ticks all the boxes for physical and mental health, plus it’s just fun to play.”
A SPORT THAT’S BREAKING BOUNDARIES
One of padel’s most remarkable features is how it attracts a diverse demographic – families, couples, juniors, and older adults alike. Unlike more technically demanding sports like squash or tennis, padel’s learning curve is surprisingly gentle.
“We’ve seen everyone from juniors to players over 80 years of age picking up a racquet,” says Ezee Padel.
Over in Ashtead, club chairman Mike explains, “We had a lady in her late 40’s who had never played a racquet sport. She started with coaching, got hooked and three years later now represents the club in Surrey interclub matches. That success can only breed more success.”
FROM NOVELTY TO NECESSITY
Since opening its panoramic courts nestled in the greenbelt, Ezee Padel has seen such overwhelming demand that it’s had to close off new memberships. Ashtead’s padel court also went from a novelty to a high-traffic hotspot.
“We went from a handful of players at the start to several hundred by 2025,” notes Ashtead. “We really need another court now!”
Foxhills Country Club in Ottershaw has also extended its padel power and has three courts now. Foxhills’ Country Club and Full Members receive access to a comprehensive schedule of group padel coaching sessions for all ages and abilities. They also offer the chance to play socially and competitively with teams in local leagues and regular in-house tournaments and mixers. They run lots of events and competitions including the Club Championships Finals and Festival of Racquets as well as regular padel open days so guests can try out the sport.
Part of padel’s appeal is its social aspect. Clubs regularly host club nights, tournaments and coaching sessions. These aren’t just for seasoned players; beginners are welcomed with open arms and find themselves part of a community from day one.
“We run a tournament every two months and regular exhibitions,” adds Ezee Padel. “Our Friday friendly and even a recent Padel Dance session showed how much fun people are having with it.”
THE SURREY SURGE
While Scotland was early to the padel party in the UK, Surrey is quickly catching up and now may be leading the charge in southern England. According to both clubs, the sport is reshaping how people approach racquet sports.
“Surrey was slow to get going,” admits Ashtead, “but is now one of the leading counties in the UK. Demographics work in our favour, close to London, good access and clubs are investing.”
Sporting bodies like the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and Sport England have been pivotal in padel’s development. Elmbridge and Mole Valley councils have also provided key support in getting courts approved and built. However, the rise hasn’t been without hurdles.
“Planning permission has become more difficult,” says Ezee Padel, citing noise concerns in residential areas. Ashtead echoes this: “Padel noise can be intrusive. We do our best to mitigate it.” Despite the occasional challenge, both clubs are confident that padel is here to stay.
“It has already started to impact tennis and squash,” notes Ezee Padel. “How juniors are introduced to all three in the future will determine which sports take top spot.”
Ashtead sees it differently: “It’s an additional sport, not a replacement. Members still play squash or tennis, but padel gives them more variety, and that can only be good.”
FACILITIES THAT SERVE MORE THAN SPORT
Padel’s rise has also helped revitalise local clubs. At Ashtead, the introduction of padel has boosted total club membership by around 40%, many from the local area.
“It’s helped us build a stronger sense of community,” says Ashtead. “We’ve even had Chelsea FC players take part in events here!”
Ezee Padel, meanwhile, is giving back by offering free access to U3A (University of the Third Age) members and running regular inclusive sessions.
Both clubs offer strong coaching programmes and social events, ensuring that whether you’re a beginner or an aspiring competitor, there’s a place for you on court.
WHY YOU SHOULD PICK UP A PADEL RACQUET
For those still wondering if it’s worth trying, the message from both clubs is clear: just give it a go.
“It is as simple as dropping the ball and hitting it over the net,” says Ezee Padel.
Ashtead adds, “Have no fear. It’s extremely easy to pick up, especially with good coaching. It’s been labelled the fastest growing sport in the world, and it’s easy to see why.”
FINAL WORD
Padel isn’t just a sport, it’s a movement. With accessibility, fun and community at its core, it’s no surprise that Surrey is quickly becoming a UK hotspot. Whether you’re a former athlete, a total novice, or simply curious, there’s never been a better time to step onto the glass-walled court and discover what all the buzz is about.
WORDS BY: KAISER AKHTAR
