One of the most important decisions when planning a padel facility is whether to build indoor or outdoor courts. Each option has distinct advantages and challenges, and the right choice depends on your location, budget, and business model. This guide breaks down everything you need to consider.
The UK Climate Factor
Let's address the elephant in the room: the UK weather. With an average of 133 rainy days per year and limited daylight in winter, weather significantly impacts outdoor court usability.
However, this doesn't automatically mean indoor is always better. Many successful UK padel venues operate outdoor courts profitably, particularly in the south where weather is slightly more favourable.
Outdoor Courts
Indoor Courts
Cost Comparison
The financial difference between indoor and outdoor is substantial. Here's a realistic breakdown for the UK market:
Outdoor Court (per court)
- • Court structure: £30,000 - £50,000
- • Groundworks & base: £15,000 - £25,000
- • Lighting: £5,000 - £10,000
- • Total: £50,000 - £85,000
Indoor Court (per court)
- • Court structure: £30,000 - £50,000
- • Building/canopy: £80,000 - £150,000
- • HVAC & ventilation: £15,000 - £30,000
- • Lighting: £8,000 - £15,000
- • Total: £133,000 - £245,000
Note: These are indicative figures. Actual costs vary based on location, specifications, and market conditions. Converting existing buildings can sometimes reduce indoor costs significantly.
Revenue Potential
While indoor courts cost more, they typically generate higher and more consistent revenue:
Typical UK Court Revenue (annual, per court)
Outdoor
- • Peak season (Apr-Sep): £40-50k
- • Off-peak (Oct-Mar): £15-25k
- • Annual: £55,000 - £75,000
Indoor
- • Consistent year-round
- • Premium pricing possible
- • Annual: £80,000 - £120,000
The Covered Court Option
A middle-ground option is the covered (but not fully enclosed) court. This typically involves a canopy or tensile structure that protects from rain while maintaining some outdoor characteristics.
Advantages:
- Rain protection extends playable hours
- Lower cost than full indoor
- Often easier planning permission than full buildings
- Natural ventilation
Limitations:
- Still affected by extreme weather (wind, cold)
- May require heating for winter use
- Lighting still needed for evening play
Planning Permission Considerations
Planning permission is often the biggest hurdle for padel facilities in the UK:
- Outdoor courts: Generally easier to obtain, especially on existing sports facilities. May fall under permitted development in some cases.
- Covered structures: Usually requires full planning permission. Height and visual impact are key considerations.
- Indoor facilities: Most complex, requiring full planning permission plus building regulations approval. Change of use may be needed.
Tip: Engage with your local planning authority early. Pre-application advice can save significant time and money.
Making the Decision
Consider these factors when deciding:
Choose Outdoor if:
You have limited capital, favourable location (south UK), existing outdoor sports facility, or want to test the market before larger investment.
Choose Indoor if:
You want consistent year-round revenue, are in a high-demand area, have access to suitable buildings, or are targeting premium market positioning.
Consider Covered if:
You want weather protection without full indoor costs, have planning constraints, or want flexibility to upgrade later.
The Bottom Line
There's no universally "right" answer. The best choice depends on your specific circumstances, location, budget, and business goals. Many successful operators start with outdoor courts and add covered or indoor facilities as the business grows. Whatever you choose, ensure you've done thorough financial modelling and understand your local market demand.
Planning a Padel Facility?
We can help you evaluate options and connect with the right partners for your project.
Explore Court Solutions