The best UK guide to getting started in padel
Beginner-friendly guidance, practical tips and UK club discovery — without the jargon or intimidation.
Choose your starting point
Tell us your starting point and we’ll guide you on your way to playing padel.
I’m New to Padel
Never played before? Perfect! Start here with the basics and build confidence before you step onto court.
• Understand what padel is
• Know what to expect from your first session
• Learn what you need to play
• Find beginner-friendly clubs
Start Here
I Already Play
Already caught the padel bug? Find more places to play and keep developing your game.
• Improve your game
• Understand ratings and progression
• Explore equipment and kit
• Find courts, clubs, and events
Explore Here
Built for beginners, backed by real experience
We’re Steph and Jen and a few years ago we were exactly where many of our readers are today. We’d heard people talking about padel. We were curious. It looked fun. But actually getting started felt surprisingly complicated.
we spent more time trying to work out how to book a court than actually playing. The apps were confusing, the websites assumed we already knew what we were doing, and almost nothing seemed written for complete beginners.
We nearly gave up before we’d even played our first game. Just honest advice from two people who still remember exactly what it feels like to be new.
That’s why we created Padel Tennis Guide. A friendly, practical guide to getting started in padel without the jargon, assumptions or pressure. Just honest advice from two people who still remember exactly what it feels like to be new.
That’s why we created Padel Tennis Guide. A friendly, practical guide to getting started in padel without the jargon, assumptions or pressure.
Ask Padel Tennis Guide
Helpful beginner guidance, club discoveries and useful tips from PTG.
Beginner padel FAQs
Is padel easy for beginners?
Yes. Padel is generally easy to get started with because it is social, accessible and usually played as doubles.
Do I need any experience to start playing padel?
No. One of the reasons padel has grown so quickly is because it’s genuinely beginner-friendly. You don’t need tennis experience, expensive equipment, or a high fitness level to get started.
How do I find a padel court near me?
The easiest way is to use the Padel Tennis Guide directory.
You can search for clubs near you, discover beginner-friendly venues, find intro sessions, and see which clubs offer racket hire if you’re trying padel for the first time.
New courts are opening across the UK every month, so there’s a good chance there’s one closer than you think.
What do I need to bring to my first padel session?
Comfortable sports clothing, trainers with decent grip and a water bottle are usually enough.
Most clubs provide rackets for beginner and intro sessions, so there’s no need to rush out and buy equipment before you’ve even played.
Ready to start playing?
Find a beginner-friendly club and take your next step into padel.