Ever wondered how much it costs to build a padel court in the UK? A basic court starts at around £26,000, while high-end indoor builds can exceed £85,000. In this article, we break down the main cost factors, timelines, and planning steps so you know exactly what to expect.
Average cost range for building a padel court
The price of building a padel court depends on the design, finish, and installation. A simple outdoor build is the cheapest option. Higher-grade materials, better features, and indoor structures cost more. If you also want to know the exact size and layout requirements, here’s a guide on padel court dimensions.
Outdoor courts
A basic outdoor court costs around £28,000 to £35,000. This includes simple groundworks and standard turf.
Upgraded outdoor courts
With full groundworks, drainage, and extra features, costs range from £55,000 to £80,000.
Indoor courts
Premium indoor courts with advanced features can cost £85,000 or more.
Typical price bands and examples
Disclaimer: These prices are just rough estimates we found online. They’re here to give you an idea of what people are paying. We’re not builders, so these are not our own prices.
If you buy the court materials yourself, it can work out cheaper. For supply-only, you’re looking at about £26,000 for one court, £50,000 for two, and £72,000 for four. Remember, that’s without site preparation or installation.
Adding extras like drainage, lighting, or fencing will push the cost up. Getting the ground ready often takes a big chunk of the budget. It’s also smart to set aside some money for surprises, like levelling or fixing soft ground.
Price bands
Basic outdoor (supply & install)
£28,000 – £35,000. Simple turf, mesh and glass mix. Works on a straightforward site.
Mid-range outdoor
£55,000 – £80,000. Full groundworks, drainage, and better finishes.
High-end indoor or canopy
£70,000 – £85,000+. Better acoustics, full glass walls, and premium lighting.
Supply-only
1 court: £26,000
2 courts: £50,000
4 courts: £72,000
(Doesn’t include installation or ground prep.)
What’s included in the price
Building a padel court has a lot of parts. Most prices cover the basics like groundworks, turf, walls, lights, and labour. Knowing what’s standard and what’s extra makes it easier to plan your budget.
Standard inclusions
- Groundworks: Clearing the site and preparing a solid base, usually with a concrete ring beam.
- Surface: Sand-dressed artificial turf for grip and shock absorption.
- Enclosure and walls: Glass and steel frame. Glass panels up to 3m high, with fencing up to 4m if needed.
- Drainage: Keeps the court playable in all weather. That’s especially important in the UK climate, so you might wonder if you can actually play padel in the rain.
- Equipment: Net, line markings, and all fixings.
- Floodlights and electrics: LED lighting for evening play, plus installation and testing.
- Labour and project management: Design, build, and site supervision.
Optional extras
- Indoor builds or canopies with acoustic treatment.
- Premium glass or custom branding.
- Seating areas or car park works.
- Planning and environmental checks.
- Noise reduction measures for residential areas.
Ongoing maintenance
Maintenance isn’t usually included. Expect costs for brushing, topping up sand, repainting, and replacing worn parts over the years.
Main factors that change the cost
Several things can change the price of building a padel court. Knowing them upfront helps you budget and avoid surprises.
Groundworks
Levelling, drainage, and removing obstacles can add a lot to the cost. Using an existing base, like an old tennis court, can save money. Get a site survey early to spot any hidden issues.
Number of courts
Building more courts at once lowers the cost per court. Shared groundwork, drainage, and set-up mean better value.
Surface, enclosure, and lighting
Different surfaces affect play and price. Full glass enclosures cost more than mixed glass and mesh. Thicker glass and specialist fixings add extra. LED competition lighting improves play but increases the budget.
Indoor builds and extras
Indoor courts need extra building work, acoustic measures, and planning checks. Extras like car parks, access roads, and seating areas will also raise the total. Despite the higher cost, demand is rising fast, and here’s why padel is becoming so popular.
Ongoing costs
Factor in regular upkeep. This includes brushing, topping up sand, glass repairs, and maintaining the lights.
