Frequently Asked Questions

For new players, the best padel rackets in the UK are usually lightweight, easy to control and built with a round head shape. This design gives a larger sweet spot and makes it easier to return the ball cleanly. Most beginners benefit from a racket that prioritises comfort and control rather than power.

Popular starter choices include entry level models from brands like Bullpadel, Head, Adidas and NOX. These rackets tend to offer good value while helping new players develop proper technique.

If you are unsure which type suits your level, we have a full beginner friendly guide on The Padel Directory that explains shapes, weights, materials and the best budget options. You can explore the complete breakdown in our Beginner Racket Guide.

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Padel is designed to be simple for beginners, and most of the core rules are easy to follow.

• Serve underarm and hit the ball into the opposite service box after one bounce. The serve must stay below waist height and must land cleanly before touching the wall.
• Play after the bounce. Once the ball has bounced on your side, it can hit the glass walls and still be in play.
• No direct wall shots. You cannot hit the ball straight into your opponent’s wall without it bouncing on their court first.
• Ball can be played off your own wall. You can use your back glass to return the ball, which is a signature part of padel rallies.
• Scoring follows tennis with 15, 30, 40 and game, with either classic deuce or golden point depending on the club or competition.
• Two hits per side is not allowed. Only one strike per player, and you cannot contact the ball twice.
• No touching the net. Players cannot touch the net or cross into the opponent’s side during a point.
• Ball is out if it hits the mesh fence before bouncing, or if it hits the roof or any object outside the court.

You can read more on TPD here.

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Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis. Points go 15, 30, 40 and then game. If both teams reach 40 it becomes deuce. From here, clubs and competitions can follow one of two rules:

• Traditional deuce where a team must win two consecutive points to take the game.
• Golden point where the very next point decides the game. The receiving team chooses which side will return the serve.

Both formats are common. Social matches often use golden point to keep play moving at a good pace.

Six games win a set, and most matches are best of three sets. Since padel is served underarm and rallies can continue off the walls, the scoring feels intuitive after only a few sessions.

You can read more on TPD here.

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Yes. Many clubs run mixed socials where levels vary, and beginners are usually welcomed and supported. Some of these are bookable on The Padel Directory, depending on the booking system.

Most clubs offer affordable racket hire, though frequent players tend to buy their own for better performance and comfort. View a range of brands and retailers here. Sign up to be a member of TPD to access exclusive offers.

Prices vary by region and court type, usually ranging from around £5 to £15 per person per hour. You can view rough prices and opening times via The Padel Directory here.

Many modern venues allow open access to non-members, especially community clubs and leisure centres.

Indoor courts offer consistent conditions year round, while outdoor courts depend more on weather but often feel more open and social. You can view a list of courts here.

A padel court is 20 metres by 10 metres with a centre net and enclosed walls. Markings follow a simple layout similar to tennis but adapted for the enclosed space.

Padel is almost always played in doubles, although singles courts exist but are far less common. Four players is the standard format. You can view our guides here for more information.

Most beginners only need a racket, comfortable sports clothing and non-marking shoes. Clubs often provide hire rackets for first timers. TPD members can access discounts on equipment here.

Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis and is played in doubles. The ball can rebound off the walls after it lands, and underarm serves are compulsory. Find out more here.

Padel is a racket sport played on an enclosed court where the ball can bounce off the walls. It’s easier to learn than tennis and more tactical than squash, which makes it very accessible for beginners. Find out more rules here.

If you cannot find any courts nearby, expand your search to neighbouring towns. Courts are opening every month, and The Padel Directory updates new venues regularly.

If no padel courts are showing up in your search, widen your radius and check The Padel Directory. Some clubs do not appear on booking apps but are listed in The Padel Directory.

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Use The Padel Directory court finder. It shows every UK padel club in one place and helps you see all nearby options instantly. Visit: https://www.thepadeldirectory.co.uk/find-padel-courts

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Browse our Leeds Padel Courts page for options.

Find venues on our Bristol Padel Courts page.​

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Explore top venues on our Birmingham Padel Courts page.

Discover venues on our Manchester Padel Courts page.

Yes, several venues offer indoor courts. Find them here.

London boasts numerous padel venues. Explore options on our London Padel Courts page.

Yes – whether you’re a club owner, coach, or retailer, you can contact us to list your padel-related business or sponsor content.

Our community in the Padel Clubhouse regularly shares reviews and recommendations for the best rackets to avoid injury.

Our community in the Padel Clubhouse regularly shares reviews and recommendations for the best beginner rackets.

We list trusted padel equipment retailers that offer rackets, shoes, balls, and bags for delivery across the UK.

Prices vary by coach and region. Visit their profile on the coach directory to view hourly rates and lesson types.

Browse the Padel Coaches Directory to find certified padel instructors in your area, including private and group lessons.

Yes! Many clubs listed on our platform offer pay-as-you-go padel bookings. Check the court listing for availability and pricing.

Clubs can list their facilities by contacting us directly. We'll guide you through the process to ensure your club gains visibility among the UK padel community.

Join our Padel Clubhouse, a members-only forum where players discuss equipment, tactics, events, and more.​

Visit our Padel Events section to browse upcoming tournaments, leagues, and social events across the UK.

Yes. The court finder allows you to filter results based on indoor or outdoor settings, as well as other amenities.

Navigate to our Find a Padel Court page. Use the interactive map or list view to search for courts by location, facilities, and court type

Anyone with an interest in padel—be it beginners, seasoned players, coaches, or club owners—can utilize the platform to find courts, join events, seek coaching, or engage with the padel community.​

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The Padel Directory is the UK's leading platform dedicated to padel enthusiasts. It offers a centralized hub to discover padel courts, coaches, events, equipment, and community discussions, catering to players of all levels.​

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