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.
Eastbourne is known as one of the UK’s most tennis-friendly towns. With its sunny coastal climate and long tradition of the sport, it is the perfect place for seniors to enjoy tennis in a relaxed and sociable setting. Whether you are returning to the game or looking to stay fit and meet new people, Eastbourne offers plenty of wonderful places to play.
Here is your guide to the best tennis clubs for seniors to play in Eastbourne, and how Walfinch Eastbourne carers can support you or your loved ones with companionship, encouragement, and practical help.
Devonshire Park Lawn Tennis Club – Eastbourne Town Centre
Home of the famous Eastbourne International, Devonshire Park Lawn Tennis Club is one of the most iconic venues in the country. When not hosting professional tournaments, it welcomes members of all ages and abilities. Seniors can enjoy coaching, social tennis, and relaxed doubles matches on high-quality grass and hard courts.
Tips for your visit:
- Try morning or early afternoon sessions when courts are quieter.
- Choose doubles or social tennis groups for a relaxed pace.
Willingdon Lawn Tennis Club – Willingdon
Willingdon Lawn Tennis Club is a friendly and community-focused club located just outside Eastbourne. It has all-weather courts, social tennis sessions, and coaching suitable for older players. The welcoming environment makes it ideal for those returning to tennis or wanting to play at a comfortable level.
Tips for your visit:
- Join a daytime social tennis group to meet new people.
- Bring water and snacks to enjoy in the clubhouse after your game.
Hampden Park Tennis Club – Hampden Park
Hampden Park Tennis Club is a local favourite known for its relaxed and inclusive atmosphere. With well-maintained courts and friendly members, it provides the perfect environment for seniors who want to play without pressure. The club also offers group coaching for all ability levels.
Tips for your visit:
- Consider weekday sessions for a calm, friendly experience.
- Ask about flexible memberships that suit casual players.
The Meads Lawn Tennis Club – Meads Village
Set in one of Eastbourne’s most scenic neighbourhoods, The Meads Lawn Tennis Club offers stunning views and a supportive tennis community. Seniors can enjoy doubles sessions, coaching, and social events throughout the year. The club’s social activities make it a great place to stay connected while keeping fit.
Tips for your visit:
- Join doubles or mixed sessions for a balanced, enjoyable game.
- Stay for coffee or lunch in the nearby cafés after playing.
Eastbourne Sports Park – Cross Levels Way
Eastbourne Sports Park provides an excellent option for those who prefer flexible, pay-as-you-go tennis. The venue has multiple outdoor courts, group sessions, and community tennis activities designed for all ages. Seniors can book courts easily online and enjoy the open, friendly environment.
Tips for your visit:
- Try early morning sessions to enjoy cooler temperatures in summer.
- Use the on-site café for refreshments after your game.
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 Eastbourne Can Help
At Walfinch Eastbourne, we understand that staying active and connected is key to thriving in later life. Our home care services in Eastbourne are designed to support people in continuing to enjoy 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 Eastbourne clubs offer “rusty racquets” programmes that help players ease back into the game gently. With the caring support of a Walfinch Eastbourne carer, seniors can regain strength, confidence, and joy on the court.
Final Thoughts
From the historic Devonshire Park Lawn Tennis Club to welcoming venues like Willingdon and Hampden Park, Eastbourne offers a fantastic range of tennis opportunities for seniors. These clubs provide not only physical activity but also connection, friendship, and community.
At Walfinch Eastbourne, we are proud to help people thrive in later life. Whether it’s a friendly tennis game, a walk along the seafront, 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.
