How-tos
Where to play squash
- England Squash
- 4 min read
Squash is easier to get into than you think. You don’t need to be super fit, know all the rules, or have all the kit. You just need somewhere to play, someone to hit with – or a beginner-friendly session where you can give it a go.
With more than 4,000 courts across England, you’re probably closer to a squash court than you think. The best place to start depends on what feels right for you: a casual hit with a friend, a local club night, or a group session designed for beginners.
Book a court at a leisure centre
If you’ve got a friend who’s up for trying something new, booking a court at a leisure centre is one of the simplest ways to get started.
Leisure centres are great for beginners because they’re flexible and low commitment. Most courts are booked in short sessions, often around 40 minutes, so squash can fit around you – after work, at lunch, or whenever you have a gap in your week.
Prices vary by venue and time.
For your first game, don’t worry too much about the rules. Instead:
- Start by gently rallying and trying to keep the ball going.
- Make the aim having fun, not keeping score.
- Play at your own pace.
Find your nearest leisure centre using the England Squash Finder.
Try a local squash club
If you enjoy your first few games and want squash to become a regular part of your week, a local club is a great next step.
There are 1,500+ venues across England, and many are welcoming places for new and returning players. Clubs can help you meet people, find someone to play with, get coaching, and join club nights or leagues when you feel ready.
Many clubs also run social sessions, so squash can become more than just a one-off activity. It can be a regular way to move, switch off and feel part of something.
Ask whether your local club runs beginner sessions such as Squash 101. These are fun, social and inclusive sessions designed especially for people who are new to squash or coming back after time away.
Find your nearest club using the England Squash Finder.
Check out a university, college or school
Universities and colleges often have excellent squash facilities, and some allow public bookings. If you live near a campus or you’re a student, then universities and colleges can be a great option. Many have bookings open to the public, making them a handy, flexible place to start.
Squash is also played at many schools across the country so there may be facilities closer than you think.
Find your nearest facility using the England Squash Finder
What you don't need as a beginner
There are a few things you need as a beginner in squash: comfortable clothes, a bit of curiosity and a willingness to give it a go.
But there are also lots of things you don’t need to get started:
- You don’t need to know the rules. You’ll pick them up as you go.
- You don’t need to be ‘fit enough’. Everyone starts somewhere.
- You don’t need to get everything right. Nobody expects you to.
- The main thing is just giving it a go. Start with a beginner session or a relaxed hit with a friend and see how you go.
Want to start in a group rather than figuring it out on your own?
Our Session Finder makes it easy to find beginner-friendly sessions and local venues, including group sessions like Squash 101. Just enter your location to find a session that works for you.
