Andersonstown Leisure Centre: A Truly Great Day Out

indoor water park and leisure facility in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Opened in 2020 following a major £25 million redevelopment, Andersonstown Leisure Centre has quickly become a favourite spot for locals and visitors searching for fun things to do in Belfast. The centre is operated by Better, a social enterprise, and combines a modern indoor aqua park with a full fitness and wellness offering. The water park features three high-speed water slides, a surf simulator, leisure pool, toddlers’ play area, and spacious changing facilities – all under one roof.

Families will appreciate the clear zoning of the park: adrenaline-pumping rides for older kids and teens, plus warm, shallow splash zones for younger children and infants. With lifeguards on duty and facilities meeting the latest safety standards, it is ideal for family activities in Belfast. Whether you are planning a weekend outing, a birthday party, or simply seeking a fun way to stay active, the centre offers an enjoyable mix of excitement and relaxation.

In addition to the water park, the facility includes a gym, fitness studio, sauna, steam rooms, and café. Visitors often comment on the friendly and helpful staff, well-maintained interiors, and easy access from Belfast city centre. The location, just off Andersonstown Road, is easily reachable by public transport and provides a convenient base for exploring more of West Belfast.

Seasonal Availability

The Andersonstown Leisure Centre is open year-round, offering consistent indoor family fun regardless of the weather. Special seasonal events, such as festive swims and holiday packages, are offered throughout the year to enhance the visitor experience.

Andersonstown Leisure Centre Location & Directions

132 Andersonstown Rd, Belfast, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, BT119BY

🗺️ Directions to Andersonstown Leisure Centre

Andersonstown Leisure Centre Official Website & Contact Information

Official Website: https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/belfast/andersonstown-leisure-centre

General enquiries

Phone: +44 (0)28 9521 9850

Email: andersonstown@gll.org

Main Attractions

The Andersonstown Leisure Centre is best known for its exhilarating water-based attractions that cater to a wide range of age groups and thrill levels. The centre’s standout feature is its Indoor Aqua Park, which includes three high-speed water slides that twist and turn across the facility. These include the Drop Slide, designed for adrenaline-seekers, as well as more moderate tube slides suitable for older children and adventurous adults.

The central Leisure Pool features a large wave machine that runs at scheduled intervals, recreating the sensation of swimming in the sea but in a controlled, safe environment. This feature is particularly popular with both teenagers and families, and it is a highlight for many first-time visitors.

Another key attraction is the surf simulator, known as the Surf Air, which gives guests the chance to bodyboard or try their balance on a standing wave. Instructors are available for beginners, making this an inclusive activity for anyone curious about trying water sports.

Special Rides

Drop Slide: A vertical plunge slide for thrill-seekers aged 8+, with height and weight restrictions applied for safety.

Flume Slides: Enclosed and open-tube slides that vary in speed and style.

Surf Simulator (Surf Air): A unique indoor feature in Northern Ireland; suitable for children over 1.2m tall.

All special rides are staffed by trained lifeguards, and time slots are managed to avoid overcrowding. Visitors are advised to arrive early during weekends or holidays, as peak times may result in waiting periods for these headline attractions.

Kids & Family Areas

Families with younger children will find much to enjoy at the Andersonstown Indoor Aqua Park. The children’s splash zone offers warm, shallow pools with gentle sprays, tipping buckets, and soft play features. These are designed to be visually engaging and physically safe for toddlers and children under 6.

There is a dedicated toddler pool, heated to a comfortable temperature, with seating areas for supervising adults. Baby and pre-school swimming classes are also offered, allowing little ones to build water confidence in a calm setting.

For families, this section of the park provides peace of mind: separate from the main slides, quieter, and well-supervised.

Relaxation Areas

Not everything is about speed and splashes. Adults and older guests can unwind in the wellness and spa areas, which include:

• Steam rooms
• Sauna cabins
• Jacuzzi-style spa pools

These facilities are located in a quieter zone adjacent to the fitness centre and are included in many entry packages. Loungers and seating areas around the pool allow guests to rest, socialise, or watch family members enjoy the activities.

The café area overlooking the water park offers refreshments, light meals, and hot drinks. Parents often appreciate the visibility and central location, making it easy to relax while still keeping an eye on older children.

Unique Features

What sets Andersonstown Leisure Centre apart from other indoor water parks in the UK is its combination of modern design, accessibility, and community-centred ethos. A few highlights include:

• Surf Simulator – One of the only indoor surf machines in Northern Ireland
• Energy-efficient, eco-conscious building design
• Spacious changing village with family cubicles
• Booking system that allows easy pre-planning
• Central Belfast location, easily accessed by both locals and tourists

The atmosphere is clean, modern, and vibrant, with coloured lighting and high ceilings contributing to a sense of openness and energy.

Baby Changing Facilities

Andersonstown Leisure Centre is well-equipped for families visiting with infants. The changing village includes multiple dedicated baby changing cubicles that are clean, spacious, and easily accessible. These are located near both the entrance and the pool areas, allowing parents to attend to their children without having to walk far. The changing units are regularly maintained, and the facilities include:

• Fold-down baby changing tables
• Padded changing mats
• Nappy disposal bins
• Wall-mounted hand sanitisers for hygiene

These thoughtful touches make the centre one of the more baby-friendly indoor aqua parks in the UK.

Bottle-Warming Stations

While the centre does not have formal bottle-warming stations in the changing village itself, staff at the on-site café are happy to assist with warming baby bottles or providing hot water on request. Families often comment on the friendly nature of the staff, who are accommodating to young families and understand the needs of babies and toddlers.

The seating area next to the café also provides a calm space for feeding infants away from the main pool environment, which can be a little loud or overstimulating for very young children.

Baby Pools

The aqua park includes a separate toddler and baby splash area, which features:

• A shallow warm-water pool
• Small fountains and spray jets
• Gentle bubble areas
• Soft, non-slip flooring
• Visually stimulating water play elements

The pool is suitable for babies as young as 6 months, with parental supervision. The water temperature is comfortably warm, specifically adjusted for infants and young children, and lifeguards are always present nearby. This zone is clearly separated from the more intense wave pool and slides, ensuring a relaxed and safe experience for new parents.

Minimum Age Restrictions

There is no minimum age to enter the leisure centre, but for safety reasons:

• Babies must wear approved swim nappies (available to purchase on-site).
• Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult at all times, with a recommended supervision ratio of 1 adult per 2 children under 8.
• Access to certain rides, such as the Drop Slide and Surf Air, is restricted to children over 1.2 metres tall or aged 8+.

Parents should also be aware that the wave machine and larger slides operate on a timed basis, which allows them to plan time in the quieter baby areas during the more energetic moments.

Entry Fees

Andersonstown Leisure Centre offers flexible ticket options to suit families, individuals, and group bookings. Pricing varies depending on the day of the week, time of entry, and age group. Below is a general guide to entry prices for the Indoor Aqua Park:

• Adult (16+): from £9.75
• Junior (3–15 years): from £7.30
• Family Ticket (2 adults + 2 juniors): from £37.90
• Additional child: from £6.10

Note: Prices may increase during peak periods and school holidays. Booking online in advance often provides access to better rates and avoids disappointment during busy times.

Visitors interested in using the gym or spa facilities in addition to the water park can choose combo packages or Better Flex Memberships, which also grant access to other Better-run centres across the UK.

Discounts & Offers

The centre runs regular promotions and community-focused pricing:

• Better Members enjoy discounted rates on all bookings.
• Concession tickets available for students, seniors, and individuals on qualifying benefits.
• School holiday offers often include family bundles and free surf sessions with standard tickets.
• Occasional partnerships with local Belfast attractions or hotels offer combo deals for tourists.

It is worth checking the Offers section on their website before booking.

Andersonstown Leisure Centre Tickets Booking

All water park sessions must be booked in advance online through the official Better website. This helps manage visitor numbers and ensures everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. The booking process is straightforward and allows users to:

• Choose a specific session time
• Add extras (e.g., surf simulator, locker hire)
• Receive instant email confirmation

Walk-ins are accepted subject to availability but are not guaranteed, especially during weekends and school holidays.

Refund/Cancellation Policy

If you are unable to attend a booked activity, it is essential to cancel your booking at least 4 hours prior to the scheduled start time. Failure to cancel within this timeframe or non-attendance will result in a £3 no-show charge, which will be automatically applied to your account.

This charge also applies if you forget to scan your membership barcode or bypass the barcode reader upon entry, as the system will not register your attendance. The £3 fee can be paid online or at the centre’s concierge desk. Please note that further booking privileges will be suspended until any outstanding fees are settled.

For birthday party bookings, if unforeseen circumstances such as a child’s illness prevent attendance, the centre will make every effort to reschedule your party to a suitable alternative date. Refunds for such bookings can also be requested in line with the centre’s cancellation policy.

Daily Schedule

Andersonstown Leisure Centre operates seven days a week, offering a range of swimming sessions, aqua play, gym access, and surf simulator bookings. However, opening hours can vary depending on the specific area of the facility. Below is a general schedule for the Indoor Aqua Park and associated features:

• Monday – Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Please note that these are general facility hours. Aqua play and water slide sessions typically operate in pre-booked 90-minute slots, with timetables published online weekly. It is highly recommended to check the latest swimming timetable on the Better.org.uk website before planning a visit.

Seasonal Changes

Andersonstown Leisure Centre is open all year round, including most bank holidays, with the exception of:

• Christmas Day
• Boxing Day
• New Year’s Day

During school holidays and half-terms, the centre typically extends Aqua Park hours and adds additional swim sessions, especially for families. These peak-season changes are announced in advance and reflected in the booking portal.

In summer months, the centre sees higher visitor traffic, so it is advisable to book in advance and arrive early. Off-peak visits during weekdays or late afternoons are a good choice for a quieter experience.

Peak & Off-Peak Info

Peak hours: Weekends, school holidays, public holidays (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Off-peak hours: Weekdays before 2:00 PM and evenings after 6:00 PM

Off-peak bookings may come at a discounted rate and are ideal for visitors looking to avoid crowds. Surf simulator sessions are typically more available during off-peak periods and are easier to book last minute.

Public Transport

Andersonstown Leisure Centre is conveniently located on Andersonstown Road, just 15 minutes from Belfast city centre, making it easily accessible via public transport. The nearest bus stops are located directly outside the centre, with multiple Translink Metro services serving the area:

• Metro Bus 10b, 10c, and 10f all stop within walking distance.
• Great Victoria Street Station (train and bus) is the nearest major public transport hub, located about 3.5 miles away.
• Taxis and app-based rideshares (like FonaCab and Value Cabs) are widely available throughout Belfast.

The ease of access makes Andersonstown an ideal stop for both locals and tourists searching for family-friendly activities in Belfast.

Wheelchair & Accessibility

The centre offers comprehensive accessibility features, including step-free access, pool hoists, and accessible changing rooms, catering to guests with diverse needs. Features include:

• Step-free entrance
• Lift access to all floors
• Accessible changing rooms and showers
• Pool hoists and gradual slope entry into the main pool
• Designated disabled parking bays near the entrance
• Trained staff available to assist guests with mobility or medical needs

Andersonstown Leisure Centre meets UK accessibility standards and is considered one of the more inclusive indoor aqua parks in Northern Ireland.

Andersonstown Leisure Centre Parking

There is a free on-site car park available to all guests. Parking includes:

• Over 100 standard spaces
• Designated family spaces near the front entrance
• Several accessible parking bays
• Well-lit and CCTV-monitored for safety

During peak hours, the car park can get busy, so early arrival is advised for the best spots.

Car Charging Stations

At present, there are no dedicated electric vehicle (EV) charging points at the centre. Visitors driving electric vehicles are encouraged to use the nearby EV charging stations located at Kennedy Centre (1.1 miles away) or along the Falls Road corridor, both of which are compatible with most UK charging apps.

Shuttle Service

There is no dedicated shuttle service operated by the centre. However, it is easily reachable via public transport or a short taxi ride from major city locations and hotels. For large groups or school bookings, private coach drop-offs can be arranged in advance.

Bike Storage

There are bike racks available near the main entrance, offering secure parking for visitors who prefer to cycle. The centre is accessible via dedicated cycle lanes running along Andersonstown Road, making it a convenient option for local residents.

Customer Ratings

Customer Reviews

“Fantastic for families – our kids (ages 6 and 10) absolutely loved the wave pool and slides. Staff were helpful and really attentive.”

“The facility is spotless and modern. We tried the surf simulator and it was great fun! Lifeguards were friendly and made us feel safe.”

“Booked for a toddler splash session. The baby pool was warm, and the changing areas were spotless. Loads of room even during peak hours.”

Safety & Cleanliness

Safety is a recurring theme in user feedback. Lifeguards are always present, well-positioned, and attentive. The centre has clear signage, scheduled maintenance checks, and enforces child supervision rules consistently.

Cleanliness also receives high praise, with guests noting:

• Regular cleaning of changing rooms and toilets
• Clean, clear pool water with no strong chlorine smell
• Tidy communal areas and organised queue systems

These qualities contribute to the positive perception of Andersonstown as not just fun, but also safe and hygienic – a key priority for parents.

Food & Drink

Andersonstown Leisure Centre offers a convenient on-site café, located near the pool area with large viewing windows. The café serves a selection of hot and cold drinks, light meals, and snacks, including:

• Toasties, sandwiches, and wraps
• Fruit pots and yoghurts
• Children’s lunch boxes
• Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and soft drinks

The seating area is clean, family-friendly, and includes high chairs. It provides an ideal place for parents to relax while keeping an eye on older children in the pool area.

Bringing your own food into the water park or changing village is not permitted, but outside snacks can be consumed in designated café or lounge areas.

Accommodation

The leisure centre does not have on-site accommodation, but there are numerous family-friendly hotels within a short distance. Recommended nearby options include:

• Crowne Plaza Belfast (15-minute drive)
• Maldron Hotel Belfast City
• Premier Inn Belfast City Centre

Some partner hotels occasionally offer package deals with swim sessions or family discounts, particularly during holidays or half-terms.

Seating & Lounging Areas

The pool area includes poolside benches and seating zones, ideal for supervising adults. There are also seating clusters near the toddler pool and in the relaxation zones (e.g., sauna and steam areas). These are arranged for visibility, comfort, and spacing, even during busy sessions.

Changing & Locker Facilities

The modern changing village includes:

• Family changing cubicles
• Accessible changing rooms
• Lockers of varying sizes (£1 coin return system)
• Hairdryers and drying areas

Lockers are easy to use and located close to the pool entry, allowing visitors to store belongings securely during their visit.

First Aid & Medical Assistance

The centre has an on-site first aid room and all lifeguards and floor staff are first aid trained. Emergency alarms and first aid kits are available throughout the pool and fitness areas. The team is well-prepared to assist with minor injuries, lost children, or health-related issues.

Toilets

There are multiple toilet areas located within the changing village and near the reception area. These are regularly cleaned and include baby changing stations, children’s height-accessible sinks, and gender-neutral family toilets.

Water Fountains

There are refillable water stations available in the gym area and café, and guests are encouraged to bring reusable bottles. This supports the centre’s commitment to reducing plastic waste.

Wi-Fi Availability

Free public Wi-Fi is available throughout the facility. Signal strength is strong in both the café and leisure areas, making it easy for guests to stay connected or work while children play.

Baby-Friendly Facilities

Yes, Andersonstown Leisure Centre is extremely baby-friendly, with dedicated baby changing rooms, splash pools, warm temperatures, and helpful staff. Parents with infants often report feeling comfortable and well-supported during their visit.

Lost & Found Policy

Lost items can be reported to the reception desk or via email. Found items are kept in a secure location for up to 4 weeks. Identification is required for collection. Valuable items (phones, wallets) are handled with extra care and logged by staff.

Smoking Areas

The centre is a smoke-free facility. Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited inside the building. There is a designated smoking area located outside near the car park entrance for those who require it.

Dog-Friendly?

The centre does not permit dogs inside the building, with the exception of registered assistance dogs. Water bowls are occasionally provided outside during warmer months for owners walking dogs nearby.

What is the Andersonstown Leisure Centre swimming timetable?

The swimming timetable at Andersonstown Leisure Centre varies throughout the week and is updated regularly online. Sessions for the indoor aqua park, swimming lessons, lane swimming, and toddler splash times are available in clearly defined 90-minute slots. Guests can view and book available time slots via the official.

Does Andersonstown Leisure Centre have a swimming pool?

Yes, Andersonstown Leisure Centre features a large leisure pool with wave machines, a toddler splash zone, and a separate surf simulator. It also includes high-speed flume slides and a vertical drop slide, making it one of the most dynamic indoor water parks in Northern Ireland.

How do I book Andersonstown Leisure Centre?

Advance bookings can be made via the Better UK app or the official website, ensuring a seamless entry process and guaranteed session times. Guests can choose specific activities, time slots, and extras like the surf simulator. Bookings can be made up to a week in advance, with confirmation sent via email. Walk-in availability is limited during busy periods.

What are Andersonstown Leisure Centre opening times?

The centre is open Monday to Friday from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and Saturday to Sunday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. However, aqua park access is available only during specific session times. Always check the current timetable before visiting.

What are Andersonstown Leisure Centre prices?

Standard admission starts at around £8 for adults and £6 for children, with under 3s going free. Family passes and surf simulator add-ons are also available. Concessions and discounts apply for members, students, and during school holidays.

What do reviews say about Andersonstown Leisure Centre?

Reviews on TripAdvisor and Google consistently rate the centre 4.4 to 4.5 stars. Visitors praise the cleanliness, family-friendly design, and variety of water attractions. The centre is particularly popular with families looking for fun things to do in Belfast.

What services are offered by Andersonstown Leisure Centre?

The centre offers:

• An indoor aqua park with water slides and wave pool
• A modern gym and fitness studio
• Sauna and steam room facilities
• Surf simulator sessions
• Swimming lessons and school programmes
• Birthday party bookings
• On-site café and relaxation zones

Do you have to book for Andytown swimmers?

Yes, booking is required for all swim and aqua park sessions at Andersonstown Leisure Centre (“Andytown”). This helps manage capacity and ensures a better experience for guests. Sessions often fill up quickly during weekends and holidays.

Where is Andersonstown Leisure Centre located?

The centre is located at Andersonstown Road, Belfast, BT11 8EB, just a short drive from Belfast city centre. It is accessible via public transport and offers free parking on-site.

What is Ireland’s biggest Lough?

The largest lough in Ireland is Lough Neagh, which is also the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles. While not directly related to the leisure centre, many visitors exploring outdoor and water-based attractions in Northern Ireland also visit this natural landmark.

Does Ireland have an Olympic-size swimming pool?

Yes, Ireland does have Olympic-size swimming pools, including the National Aquatic Centre in Dublin. However, Andersonstown Leisure Centre is designed more for recreational and family use than elite competition, offering slides and surf instead of lane training.

Step inside the vibrant world of Andersonstown Leisure Centre through our curated photo gallery. These images showcase the centre’s most exciting attractions, including its towering spiral water slides, colourful splash play zones for children, and the thrilling Surf Belfast indoor wave simulator. Families can get a glimpse of the clean and spacious swimming lanes, cheerful toddler areas, and the relaxed seating available for spectators.

Whether you are planning a visit or just curious about what to expect, these photos offer a real look inside one of Northern Ireland’s most exciting indoor water parks. From joyful moments on the slides to the sleek modern architecture, each image highlights why Andersonstown Leisure Centre is a must-visit destination for families in Belfast.