Time to Thrive
Tennis is a sport that adapts beautifully to later life. For seniors, it offers gentle physical exercise, cognitive stimulation, and opportunities for valuable social interaction. With doubles matches, shorter games, and supportive coaching, it is accessible to people of all abilities. Tennis helps improve balance, mobility, flexibility, and mental wellbeing, encouraging an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
The Richmond and Putney area is one of London’s most picturesque and vibrant regions, filled with parks, green spaces, and welcoming tennis clubs. Whether you’re rediscovering tennis after a few years away or looking for a sociable, low-impact way to stay active, you’ll find a range of friendly clubs here that cater to all levels and abilities.
Here is your guide to the best tennis clubs for seniors to play in Richmond and Putney, and how Walfinch Richmond, Putney & Wandsworth carers can support you or your loved ones with companionship, encouragement, and practical help.
Richmond Lawn Tennis Club – Richmond
Richmond Lawn Tennis Club is one of the area’s most popular venues, offering a relaxed and sociable environment for players of all ages. Seniors can join daytime social sessions, doubles matches, and “rusty racquets” programmes to ease back into the sport. With its leafy location and strong community spirit, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy tennis at a comfortable pace.
Tips for your visit:
- Attend weekday morning sessions for a friendly crowd.
- Stay for tea or coffee in the clubhouse after your match.
Priory Park Tennis Club – Kew
Set near Kew Gardens, Priory Park Tennis Club offers a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere with a great mix of social and competitive tennis. Seniors can enjoy doubles matches, relaxed group coaching, and year-round play on all-weather courts.
Tips for your visit:
- Try early morning sessions for a quieter game.
- Combine your visit with a walk through Kew Gardens afterward.
Putney Lawn Tennis Club – Putney
Putney Lawn Tennis Club is one of southwest London’s oldest and most established clubs. It’s perfect for seniors looking for friendly, flexible play. The club offers daytime social tennis, coaching for all abilities, and regular community events. Its inclusive environment makes it ideal for those returning to tennis after a break.
Tips for your visit:
- Join a daytime doubles session to meet other friendly players.
- Ask about “rusty racquets” or low-impact coaching sessions.
Barnes Tennis Club – Barnes
Just across the river from Putney, Barnes Tennis Club is a friendly and scenic club with a strong community spirit. It provides regular social sessions, senior-friendly doubles, and group lessons. With its village atmosphere and peaceful surroundings, it’s a great place for relaxed, enjoyable play.
Tips for your visit:
- Attend weekday morning sessions for a laid-back experience.
- Enjoy a post-game stroll by the Thames or lunch in Barnes village.
Sheen Lawn Tennis & Squash Club – East Sheen
Sheen Lawn Tennis & Squash Club offers excellent facilities and a variety of sessions suitable for older players. Seniors can take part in doubles matches, gentle coaching, and social events throughout the year. The club is known for its warm, welcoming members and supportive coaching team.
Tips for your visit:
- Opt for doubles or group coaching to stay active in a relaxed way.
- Check the club calendar for social gatherings and events.
Why Tennis Supports Healthy Ageing
Tennis provides physical and mental health benefits that contribute to healthy ageing. Regular play supports flexibility, strength, and balance, while the strategy of the game keeps the mind sharp. Time spent outdoors reduces stress and boosts mood, and the social side of tennis fosters friendship and connection, which are key to emotional wellbeing.
How Walfinch Richmond, Putney & Wandsworth Can Help
At Walfinch Richmond, Putney & Wandsworth, we understand that staying active and connected is key to thriving in later life. Our home care services in southwest London are designed to help people continue enjoying activities they love, including tennis. We can provide:
- Supportive companionship: Friendly encouragement and company from home to the tennis club and back, part of our Companionship Care.
- Mobility and practical help: Assistance with transport, tennis gear, and refreshments, available through our flexible Home Care Services.
- Tailored outings: Care designed around individual preferences, such as attending weekly tennis sessions, also offered with Live-In Care.
- Reassurance for families: Peace of mind knowing loved ones are safe, supported, and enjoying themselves.
Tips for a Comfortable Tennis Experience
- Choose clubs with all-weather or indoor courts for year-round play.
- Opt for doubles matches to keep games light and sociable.
- Stay hydrated and bring a hat or sunglasses for sunny days.
- Wear comfortable, supportive tennis shoes.
- Consider having a Walfinch carer accompany you for encouragement and reassurance.
Helping You Return to Tennis
Returning to tennis after time away can feel daunting, but it can be approached gradually. Start with coaching sessions or social doubles to rebuild confidence. Many Richmond and Putney clubs offer “rusty racquets” programmes that help players ease back into the game gently. With the caring support of a Walfinch Richmond, Putney & Wandsworth carer, seniors can regain strength, confidence, and joy on the court.
Final Thoughts
From the friendly courts at Richmond Lawn Tennis Club to the vibrant community at Putney, the Richmond and Putney area offers fantastic opportunities for seniors to stay active, connected, and fulfilled. These clubs provide not just fitness, but also companionship, fun, and a true sense of belonging.
At Walfinch Richmond, Putney & Wandsworth, we are proud to help people thrive in later life. Whether it’s a friendly tennis game, a riverside walk, or companionship at home, our carers are dedicated to helping every individual live life to the fullest.
With the right support, it’s always Time to Thrive.
