Where can Canberra’s best leisure centres be found? Photo: Belgravia Leisure.
Dropping in to one of Canberra’s best leisure centres can be an excellent way to maintain your health, improve your fitness, hang out with friends and family, or enjoy some much-needed relaxation.
But not every leisure centre is the same. Some have multiple pools and swimming lessons on offer, while others focus more on gym facilities or extra features such as saunas and spas.
Whether you’re swimming for fun or planning to get some serious exercise in, the leisure centre you choose should be safe, supportive and equipped with a range of amenities to suit your needs.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a leisure centre, and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great leisure centre?
Choosing the right leisure centre can make or break your visit, so take the time to do some research and think about what facilities you’ll need.
If you want to swim laps, you’ll want a large pool with multiple lanes. Having fun with the kids? Look for a centre with a splash park or toddler pool. It can be helpful to keep the following in mind:
Facility range, hygiene and quality. It might seem obvious, but the condition of the amenities in your chosen facility will significantly impact your experience. Carefully maintained pools, modern gym equipment, clean changing rooms, and safe play areas will all make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable.
Accessibility. A great leisure centre makes accessibility a top priority so everyone can enjoy it, including people with a disability, seniors, and families with young kids. Things like ramps, accessible change rooms and inclusive swimming programs show the centre is committed to the whole community.
Diverse programs. There should be something on offer for everyone. This could look like group fitness classes, swimming lessons, personal training sessions, social water sports, and fun activities for kids.
Convenience. It’s much easier to stay consistent when your leisure centre fits into your day. That’s why having one close to home with easy parking or public transport nearby, and flexible opening hours, makes a real difference.
Professional and supportive staff. Friendly, knowledgeable staff can really lift your experience. Whether it’s a qualified instructor guiding a class or someone at reception helping you feel at home, having a supportive team makes all the difference in feeling confident and safe.
The best leisure centres in Canberra
Region Canberra’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Canberra and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Region Canberra's editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Canberra and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Next Gen Clubs
Next Gen Canberra is a state-of-the-art gym and leisure centre with a huge range of quality amenities to explore.
Skilled staff manage more than 100 group fitness classes a week. Also on offer are tennis and squash courts, an indoor and outdoor pool, plus a sauna, steam room and spa. There's even a creche service to look after the kids while visitors enjoy some me-time.
"Very helpful, great facilities, lovely place to be a member," Patrick says online.
Club Lime ANU
Club Lime at ANU is spread across two floors dedicated to health, wellness and enjoyment.
On ground level, the club has a full-length lap pool for swimmers of all kinds, plus a steam room, sauna, and spa perfect for post-workout recovery. Upstairs features a fully stocked gym with group fitness classes, free weights, and plenty of cardio machines.
"Good, clean gym with a variety of equipment. It has a swimming pool and steam room too," Nakul says on Google.
If you’re looking for other places around the city to enjoy being active, you might like our articles on the best playgrounds, the best martial arts schools, and the best dance studios in Canberra.
Your experience with leisure centres in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had an experience with any of the swim schools listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all leisure centres in Canberra open to the public?
Not all leisure centres in Canberra are open to the public. Some are private and you need to be a member to access them. This could include, for example, a pool that’s attached to a privately run gym. If in doubt, get in contact with reception to ask.
Are all leisure centres in Canberra open all year round?
It’s best to check online to see when the leisure centre you choose is open. In Canberra, indoor pools attached to leisure centres tend to be open all year round, but outdoor pools can be closed over the colder months.
How much does it cost to use a public pool connected to a leisure centre?
The cost for using a public pool can depend on whether you're a concession holder, when you visit, and what facilities you plan on using. Some pools have package deals available to book multiple visits.
Does the ACT Government run any leisure centre pools?
The ACT Government oversees the contract management of multiple local swimming pools. Canberra Olympic Pool, Lakeside Leisure Centre, Gungahlin Leisure Centre and Active Leisure Centre offer a range of indoor facilities all year round. Dickson Pool and Manuka Pool are entirely outdoor facilities, operating only in summer.
