If you’ve heard a strange new sound echoing from the sports hall at the Rye Leisure Centre on Sunday mornings—something like a cheerful “pop-pop-pop!”—you’re not alone. That satisfying thwack is the unmistakable sound of pickleball, the fastest growing sport in the UK, and it’s officially found a home here in Rye.
So what is pickleball exactly?
Imagine if tennis and table tennis had a baby—that’s pickleball. It’s a fun, social, and fast-paced paddle sport played on a similar sized court as badminton but with a lightweight plastic ball (with holes, like a wiffle ball) and solid paddles that are a bit larger than ping pong bats but smaller than tennis racquets.
One of pickleball’s biggest appeals is how accessible it is to all ages and fitness levels. While it’s enjoyed by people of all generations, the average age of UK pickleball players is around 55, and it’s especially popular among active older adults. The court is smaller, the game is lower-impact, and the rallies are longer, allowing for plenty of movement without being overly strenuous on the joints. It’s no surprise that players often say they’ve never had so much fun exercising!
Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles, and the rules are simple enough to pick up in a single session. Here are the basics:
Games are usually played to 11 points (win by 2).
Players serve underhand, diagonally across the court.
Only the serving team can score points.
There’s a special no-volley zone near the net called “the kitchen”, where players can’t smash the ball out of the air.
It’s all about placement, strategy, and good-natured fun—not brute strength.
Our local club has been gathering every Sunday from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm since November last year and due to increasing demand, we’ve just launched a brand new Tuesday evening session from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, also at Rye Leisure Centre.
We’re a welcoming group that operates on an open play basis, meaning everyone gets a turn—regardless of age, ability, or experience. Absolute beginners are encouraged to come along and give it a go. We have spare paddles and lots of friendly folks happy to guide you through your first game.
We play on four courts, usually in doubles format, which is ideal for socialising and teamwork. Occasional singles games pop up too, depending on the number of players attending.
All residents and visitors are welcome, and we’re proud to have hosted players from across the UK and even overseas. Whether you’re in town for the weekend or looking for a regular community to connect with, you’ll be greeted with smiles and enthusiasm.
The club is pay-to-play and open to both Rye Leisure Centre members and non-members alike. The excellent staff at the Centre have been incredibly supportive of this growing movement. In fact, they’re planning to invest in brand new pickleball equipment—including nets, paddles, and balls—to make the experience even better for everyone involved. Centre manager Daniel Lynn has even expressed interest in picking up a paddle himself—so don’t be surprised if you spot him on the court soon!
As the organiser of the Rye Pickleball Club, I bring my background as a board-certified health and wellness coach and certified pickleball leader through Pickleball England to create a space that’s not just active, but uplifting. Whether you’re after connection, movement, or a brand-new hobby, you’ll find something special here. Pickleball also provides much laughter and joy—something we could all use a bit more of these days.
So come along and give it a try—your first game might just turn into a lifelong love.
Where: Rye Leisure Centre
When: Sundays 10 am–1 pm and Tuesdays 6–8 pm
Cost: Pay-to-play (open to members and non-members)
Format: Open play – all abilities welcome
Visitors: Locals and guests from the UK and abroad welcome!
Want to know more or get involved? Just drop in or reach out for details.
Image Credits: Dena Smith-Ellis .