Under-16s Swim Free at BLC
Children and young people under 16 can enjoy free public swimming when accompanied by a paying adult at St Peter’s or Padiham Leisure Centre.
How it works
Check the timetable
Find a public swimming session that works for your family at St Peter’s or Padiham.
Pay at reception
The adult pays the standard public swim admission. Children under 16 get in free.
Bring the family
Any child or young person under 16 swims for free — one paying adult per visit.
Dive in!
Dive in!Enjoy a brilliant swim together and make memories in the pool.
The benefits of swimming
for children & young people
Swimming is one of the best activities a child can do. It builds strength, confidence and wellbeing, and it’s a life skill that lasts forever. Here’s why getting in the water matters:
- Full-body fitness: Swimming works every muscle group, building strength, stamina and flexibility in a low-impact way that’s gentle on young bodies.
- Mental wellbeing: Physical activity in water is proven to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and boost confidence, which is especially important during school years.
- Water safety: Regular swimming helps children become safe and confident in the water, an essential life skill that could one day save a life.
- Heart health: Swimming is an excellent cardiovascular workout, helping to establish healthy habits early and reducing long-term health risks.
- Coordination & flexibility: Different swimming strokes develop coordination, balance and motor skills, benefiting children in sport and everyday life.
- Family time: Swimming together creates shared experiences and positive memories. It’s one of the most enjoyable ways to stay active as a family.
Two great venues to choose from
St Peter’s Leisure Centre
St Peter’s Centre offers accessible leisure and fitness opportunities, including:
25-metre main pool and dedicated training pool
Health suite with jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, and fitted showers
Fully equipped gym with cardio, resistance, and free weights
Fully equipped fitness studio hosting classes from Les Mills and The HIIT Company
State-of-the-art indoor cycling studio
Two sports halls for activities like badminton, table tennis, basketball and football
Two squash courts with seating area
View swimming timetables at St Peter's Leisure CentrePadiham Leisure Centre
Padiham Leisure Centre offers accessible leisure and fitness opportunities, including:
25-metre main pool and dedicated training pool
Health suite with sauna and steam room
Fully equipped gym with cardio, resistance, and free weights
100 fitness classes per week including classes from Les Mills and The HIIT Company
Multi-purpose sports hall suitable for badminton, football, and fitness classes
Free use of Boditrax analysis machine
Outdoor facilities including a cycle greenway route and 5-a-side football pitch
View swimming timetables at Padiham Leisure CentreTerms and Conditions
- Available at BLC swimming pools from 1st April 2026 to 31st March 2027.
- One paying adult (over 16 years) allows one free entry child only.
- Adults with current live BLC memberships can access this offer.
- Free child entry eligible for under 16 years only.
- This offer is only redeemable at leisure centre reception desks and not via the BLC App.
- Offer is not transferrable to any other paid activity.
