Padel Tennis

What is Padel Tennis?

Padel is a form of tennis that is easy to play, fun and extremely sociable. It is played mainly in a doubles format on an enclosed court about a third of the size of a tennis court and can be played in groups of mixed ages and abilities, as it is not power dominant. The rules are broadly the same as tennis, although you serve underhand and the walls are used as part of the game with the ball allowed to bounce off them.

One of the fastest growing sports across continental Europe, Padel has gained increasing popularity over recent years, with over six million people currently playing in Spain. The LTA has adopted the sport and is committed to supporting its growth throughout the UK.

  • The fastest growing racket sport in the world
  • A mix between tennis & squash (but much easier to learn how to play!)
  • Team sport played as doubles (but can be played with 2 or 3 players)
  • A very sociable game for all ages and abilities

Key Facts

  • The serve is under-arm
  • Played in an enclosed court
  • Balls can be played off the side and rear walls
  • Played with a foam-based stringless Padel bat
  • Ball is similar to a tennis ball
  • Scoring is the same as in Tennis

We’re delighted that this new and exciting sport of Padel has arrived in Durham & Cleveland! There are now over 50 Padel courts within Durham & Cleveland and you can find your nearest court here.

We are especially leased to welcome two Registered Venues to the County, where you can play with the added reassurance that both venue and coaches offer excellent facilities supported by highly trained staff, comprehensive insurance cover and the highest standards of welfare and safeguarding.

At Tennis World you will find Middlesbrough Padel Club where they have two Padel Courts for use by the local community as well as members, with additional courts opening in 2026. 

At Vida del Padel in Hartlepool and in Eston you will have all the assurance of a Registered Venue in their brand new facilities, with coaches on hand and keen to introduce you to this great new sport.

New Padel courts are arriving thick and fast, with developments in Durham, Sunderland, Darlington, Stockton, Thinford, Gateshead now open and more set to open in 2026. For further information check out LTA Padel.