Summer holidays don’t have to mean expensive days out. In fact, some of the best family memories are made doing something simple together, like a splash in the pool, a friendly game of badminton or trying a new sport.
There are so many affordable ways to stay active this summer in Stockport. After all, you can’t spell Stockport without sport.
Here’s our guide to some of the best-value activities you can enjoy together over the holidays:
- Swimming
When the weather warms up, there’s nothing better than heading to the pool. Who says you need an expensive flight and a beach to enjoy the water?! Whether you’re introducing little ones to the water, practising your strokes or simply enjoying some family fun, swimming is one of the most affordable ways to stay active while having fun.
Swimming is also a fantastic full-body workout, helping to improve fitness, build confidence and create healthy habits that can last a lifetime.
Price: £14.00 for a family ticket (two adults and two juniors) or included in a membership
If you’re not feeling confident about taking a dip with the kids or don’t fancy getting wet yourself, swimming lessons are the next best thing. With affordable monthly payments for weekly lessons, your children can learn a lifesaving skill while you watch from a nice, dry seat!
Check out swimming lessons in Stockport
- Padel
Padel isn’t just for groups of adults; the whole family can join in and experience the latest fitness craze.
Combining elements of tennis and squash, Padel is easy to pick up, incredibly social and suitable for all ages. You don’t need years of experience to enjoy it, making it perfect for families wanting to try something different together.
Life Leisure is home to an indoor court in Reddish and an outdoor court in Stockport town centre, meaning you can play whatever the British weather decides to do.
Price: £10.50 for a family session or included in a membership
- Badminton
Badminton has been a family favourite for generations, and for good reason.
It’s easy to learn, keeps everyone moving and is just as enjoyable whether you’re playing competitively or simply having a laugh together. A game of badminton is a brilliant way to spend an active afternoon without spending a fortune.
And with three locations to choose from across Stockport, there’s bound to be a court near you.
Price: £10.50 for a family session or £3.65 per person for Social Badminton.
- Family fitness
The gym isn’t something you think of when planning a family activity, but why not?!
Our growing range of family sessions makes it easier than ever to get active together, and gives kids the opportunity to explore the gym environment from a young age.
From family gym sessions where children can work out alongside parents, to new instructor-led family fitness classes in a welcoming gym environment, these sessions are designed to help everyone enjoy moving together.
‘Gymtimidation’ is a barrier many adults face when making the decision to get active. Showing children that the gym is a friendly, welcoming space from a young age can help combat these feelings of anxiety before they even begin, carving the path for an active life for them.
It’s a great opportunity for the whole family to build confidence, learn new exercises and discover that exercise can be fun.
Price: From £5.50 or included in a membership
- Table tennis
You’ve probably played this while on holiday, but did you know you can play at home too?
Table tennis is fast-paced, easy to learn and perfect for all ages. Whether you’re looking for something fun to keep the kids entertained for an hour or challenging grandparents to a family tournament, it’s a brilliant way to stay active while sharing plenty of laughs.
With equipment ready to use, it’s one of the easiest sports to try this summer.
(Yes, you might spend more time chasing the ball across the room the first few times, but you’ll have fun doing it.)
Price: £10.50 for a family session or £3.65 per person for Social Table Tennis
- Pickleball
If you’ve never heard of pickleball, you’re not alone. It’s less popular than other racquet sports, but don’t be surprised if it becomes your new family favourite.
Mixing elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball is simple to play and suitable for almost everyone. The smaller court means less running, making it ideal for families with different ages and abilities playing together.
It’s sociable, addictive and guaranteed to bring out your competitive side in the best way possible.
Price: £10.50 for a family session or £3.65 per person for Social Pickleball
We hope this has shown you that keeping the family entertained over the holidays doesn’t have to cost the earth.
At Life Leisure, we’re passionate about making sport accessible, affordable and welcoming for everyone. Whether you’re trying something completely new or rediscovering an old favourite, we can’t wait to welcome you into our hubs (or courts!).
With plenty of activities available across Stockport every week, flexible booking options and sessions for every age and ability, finding your family’s next adventure has never been easier.
Ready to put the sport in Stockport?
Browse activities, book your sessions and get moving with Life Leisure today.
*Prices correct as of July 2026
