Category: Sports & ActiveSee venue photos

Sports & Active

Withdean Sports Complex

Brighton and Hove, Brighton and Hove· BN1 5JD

SEN Suitability Assessment

Based on analysis of 26 public reviews (Sept 2025 – May 2026) · Good confidence

28/100

SEN Score

Based on noise, queues, staff, calm spaces

Breakdown

NoiseChallenging

Crowds & queuesChallenging

Staff supportMixed

PredictabilityMixed

Friendly staffBook ahead recommendedCan get busyWell-maintained facilitiesGood equipment range

Parent summary

Withdean Sports Complex has a welcoming environment with good equipment variety and staff who are generally available to help. The facility is clean, light and airy, which many families appreciate. Crowding at peak times is a notable factor to be aware of, particularly for children who find busy environments or queues challenging.

What visitors say

Visitors consistently praise the clean, well-maintained facility and describe most staff as helpful and welcoming. Many visitors have noted that busy periods can create longer queues and make using equipment more difficult. The venue offers good equipment variety and a welcoming atmosphere.

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

Read reviews on Google →

From SEN communities

dedicated SEN sessionssensory play facilityreduced capacity swimmingyoung carers support

Dedicated SEN sessions available with reduced capacity for swimming lessons
Level Up soft play facility features sensory interactives, puzzles, and mini tramp
Weekly SEND and supervised Under 5s sessions at new soft play area
SEN-friendly swimming sessions mentioned in community consultation feedback
Young Carers Card holders receive free swimming access at facility

Sourced from council news, leisure operator website, SEN directory, local authority documents 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–Fri)

Typically quietest around 6am

6am2pm9pm

Weekends (Sat–Sun)

Typically quietest around 7am

7am12pm5pm

QuietModerateBusyVery busy

⏱ People typically spend 45 min to 2 hr here

Potential challenges

Crowding during busy periods may make using equipment difficult and create longer waits
Noise levels can be elevated when the facility is busy
Phone enquiries have sometimes gone unanswered; visiting in person or checking their website beforehand may be helpful

What works

Staff are generally welcoming and described by many visitors as helpful and understanding
Clean, well-maintained facility with a light and airy feel
Good range of equipment to suit different needs and abilities
Food options available on-site
Manager has been described as understanding and relatable by visitors

Photos

Facilities

Party rooms Free parking

Tips for your visit

Website mentions 'activities specifically designed for different groups including SEND'. Contact the centre directly on 01273 542100 or [email protected] to discuss specific SEND needs and accessibility requirements. No swimming pool on site but other Freedom Leisure centres nearby have pools.

Pricing

Pay as you go options available for activities without membership requirement. Membership options include Unlimited and Student memberships with discounts. Specific pricing not detailed on website.

Parking

Free parking on-site

Free parking on site with up to 3 hours free (registration required at reception). EV charging available. No specific information about blue badge spaces or disabled parking provision. Distance from entrance to facilities not specified.

Accessibility

Website states 'inclusive' facilities and mentions SEND activities available. Two indoor tennis courts, gym, exercise classes, and soft play (Level Up) facilities mentioned. No specific details provided on wheelchair access, lifts, Changing Places facilities, terrain accessibility, or buggy friendliness.

Opening Hours

Monday06:00-22:00

Tuesday06:00-22:00

Wednesday06:00-22:00

Thursday06:00-22:00

Friday06:00-22:00

Saturday07:00-18:00

Sunday07:00-18:00

Frequently asked questions about Withdean Sports Complex

Quick answers drawn from our venue data and review analysis.

Is Withdean Sports Complex autism friendly?

Withdean Sports Complex may be challenging for sensory-sensitive children, with an overall SEN score of 28/100 from our analysis of parent reviews. Withdean Sports Complex has a welcoming environment with good equipment variety and staff who are generally available to help. The facility is clean, light and airy, which many families appreciate. Crowding at peak times is a notable factor to be aware of, particularly for children who find busy environments or queues challenging.

Is Withdean Sports Complex wheelchair accessible?

Yes. Withdean Sports Complex is wheelchair and pushchair accessible. Website states 'inclusive' facilities and mentions SEND activities available. Two indoor tennis courts, gym, exercise classes, and soft play (Level Up) facilities mentioned. No specific details provided on wheelchair access, lifts, Changing Places facilities, terrain accessibility, or buggy friendliness.

Does Withdean Sports Complex have parking?

Yes. Withdean Sports Complex has free on-site parking. Free parking on site with up to 3 hours free (registration required at reception). EV charging available. No specific information about blue badge spaces or disabled parking provision. Distance from entrance to facilities not specified.

When is Withdean Sports Complex least busy?

Based on Google visitor data, Withdean Sports Complex is typically quietest on Thursday around 6am. Term-time weekdays during school hours are generally calmer than weekends and school holidays.

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