Category: Sports & ActiveSee venue photos

Sports & Active

Downham Health & Leisure Centre

Lewisham, Lewisham· BR1 5EW

SEN Suitability Assessment

Based on analysis of 35 public reviews (Jan 2026 – May 2026)

30/100

SEN Score

Based on noise, queues, staff, calm spaces

High confidence

Based on the 35 most recent of this venue's many Google reviews.

Breakdown

NoiseChallenging

Crowds & queuesChallenging

Staff supportGood

PredictabilityMixed

Helpful staffBook aheadPhone access difficultSwimming lessons availableCancellation issuesSEND concerns raised

Parent summary

Staff here are genuinely supportive and willing to go the extra mile – several parents have noted how helpful they've been with registration and problem-solving. The leisure centre does have some operational considerations worth knowing about: access to phone lines can be tricky during busy periods, and online systems (including cancellations) may require patience or a direct conversation with someone on site.

Worth avoiding

Noise levels can rise noticeably during peak hours and busy periods.

What visitors say

Visitors have reported that staff are generally supportive and willing to help, with many finding them professional and responsive to questions during visits. Some have encountered difficulties with online systems and contacting the centre by phone. A small number have raised concerns about cleanliness and inclusivity, so it may be worth checking specific accessibility arrangements in advance.

Based on a sample of public reviews. Experiences vary - every child and every visit is different.

Read reviews on Google →

From SEN communities

SEND support sessionsautism inclusiveadditional needs servicesleisure discounts

Lewisham Council promotes centre as part of autism inclusive borough initiative
Early Years Alliance runs SEND support sessions Wednesdays 1:30-4pm at venue
Be Active leisure discounts available; £23.50 pricing mentioned for Lewisham residents
Venue hosts services for young people with additional needs up to age 25
FREE summer funded spaces available for FSM-eligible children with SEND

Sourced from council, charity/alliance, community forum within the SEN community. Individual experiences vary.

When to visit

Typical busyness patterns based on Google Maps visitor data. Term-time and school holidays will vary.

Weekdays (Mon to Fri)

Typically quietest around 7am

6am2pm9pm

Weekends (Sat to Sun)

Typically quietest around 5pm

8am1pm5pm

QuietModerateBusyVery busy

⏱ People typically spend 45 min to 1.5 hr here

Potential challenges

Noise levels during peak times are notably higher – some children may find this challenging
Online portals and phone access can be difficult; visiting in person or having a direct contact may be more reliable for queries or changes
Cleanliness standards have been flagged by some visitors – worth observing during your visit
Routines and timings may vary – predictability is not always guaranteed

What works

Staff are consistently described as professional, supportive and willing to help – they've assisted families with registration and beyond
Swimming lessons have worked well for some children
Management is responsive to problems when they do arise
Staff demonstrate genuine commitment to supporting families

Photos

Facilities

Free parking Blue badge parking

Tips for your visit

Offers baby and toddler swimming lessons, children's swimming lessons, and intensive courses. 'My Healthy Way' programme provides gentle exercises which may suit some SEND needs. Contact centre directly on 020 8461 9200 for specific accessibility and support information.

Pricing

Membership options available (all-inclusive and swim-only). Day prices and trial sessions offered. Specific pricing not detailed on website.

Getting in & parking

Step-free entryYes
Disabled parkingYes
Accessible toiletYes

Visitors report: Blue badge disabled parking is available at the venue with approximately 70 parking spots.

Accessibility details from Google.

Parking

Free parking on-sitePaid parking on-site♿ Blue badge spaces

Opening Hours

Monday06:30-21:30

Tuesday06:30-21:30

Wednesday06:30-21:30

Thursday06:30-21:30

Friday06:30-21:30

Saturday08:00-18:00

Sunday08:00-18:00

Frequently asked questions about Downham Health & Leisure Centre

Quick answers drawn from our venue data and review analysis.

Is Downham Health & Leisure Centre autism friendly?

Downham Health & Leisure Centre may be challenging for sensory-sensitive children, with an overall SEN score of 30/100 from our analysis of parent reviews. Staff here are genuinely supportive and willing to go the extra mile – several parents have noted how helpful they've been with registration and problem-solving. The leisure centre does have some operational considerations worth knowing about: access to phone lines can be tricky during busy periods, and online systems (including cancellations) may require patience or a direct conversation with someone on site.

Does Downham Health & Leisure Centre have step-free entry?

Yes. Downham Health & Leisure Centre has step-free entry.

Is there disabled parking at Downham Health & Leisure Centre?

Yes. Downham Health & Leisure Centre has disabled (blue badge) parking.

Are there accessible toilets at Downham Health & Leisure Centre?

Yes. Downham Health & Leisure Centre has an accessible toilet.

Does Downham Health & Leisure Centre have parking?

Yes. Downham Health & Leisure Centre has free on-site parking.

When is Downham Health & Leisure Centre least busy?

Based on Google visitor data, Downham Health & Leisure Centre is typically quietest on Thursday around 6am. Term-time weekdays during school hours are generally calmer than weekends and school holidays.

Is Downham Health & Leisure Centre indoors?

Yes. Downham Health & Leisure Centre is an indoor sports & active in Lewisham, so it works as a rainy-day option regardless of weather.

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