Londoners will be able to play padel at one of the capital’s most iconic locations this summer as St Paul’s Cathedral plays host to a set of temporary padel courts from 4 August — 19 September.
The Central London Alliance are behind the move after successful public padel activations in Tower Hill in 2023 and Marble Arch in 2024. The court at Tower Hill will return this year, operating from 26 May — 26 October.
While it is yet unclear how much the facility at St Paul’s Cathedral will cost players, Tower Hill’s court will cost £40 for a 45 minute session, increasing to £50 at peak times. Bookings will open for St Paul’s Cathedral in July.
The move comes as part of the London Sports Festival (LSF), a festival that will run for five months across the city, starting on 22 May.
Guildhall will officially launch the party by hosting football and basketball, while St James’s Park will host pickleball. Table tennis will be held in Paternoster Square from late July while padel table tennis will run from late May to late September at the Tower Suites Walkway.
Tony Matharu, chairman of Central London Alliance CIC, believes the festival can celebrate the “positive impact of sporting activities, engaging the local community and highlighting central London’s innovative and creative skills”.
Matharu went on to add: “LSF isn’t just about competition — it’s about collaboration, health, and creating lasting memories across all ages and backgrounds. LSF is a place where workers, residents and visitors can enjoy the capital and build lasting relationships through sport throughout the summer and beyond, providing an inspirational destination for all.”
Chris Hayward, policy chairman for the City of London Corporation, said that the programme will ensure “unique experiences” are available throughout the working week and the weekend.
“By animating iconic locations such as St Paul’s Cathedral and the Mansion House, we are connecting residents, workers, and visitors through the power of sport,” he added.
Main pic: Garry Knight
