Thrive with Walfinch
Swimming is more than just exercise for older adults. It helps you or your loved ones stay mobile, improve circulation and enjoy moments of calm and relaxation. In Eastbourne, leisure centres offer warm, accessible pools and welcoming spaces that support older people at every stage of their wellbeing journey. Whether you prefer gentle aqua sessions, peaceful laps, or simply floating in comfortable water, there is a nearby venue to suit every pace.
Here is your guide to the best leisure centres for the elderly to go swimming and relax in Eastbourne, and how Walfinch carers can support you or your loved ones with warmth, encouragement and practical help.
1. The Sovereign Centre.
The Sovereign Centre is Eastbourne’s largest leisure facility, located on the seafront. It offers multiple pools, including a 25 metre training pool and a fun leisure pool with a wave machine, flume and warm water. There are also sauna and steam rooms for post-swim relaxation. Swimming and lessons have been confirmed as long-term features of the centre.
Tips for your visit:
- Join the “Swim for All” or senior swim sessions for a calmer experience.
- Quiet mornings offer the most peaceful time for a visit.
2. Hillbrow Health and Wellbeing.
Hillbrow Health and Wellbeing in Meads offers a 25 metre swimming pool perfect for lane and leisure swimming. It includes a fitness suite in case you want to add guided movement or gentle stretches to your visit.
Tips for your visit:
- Ideal for pairing a light swim with a soft workout.
- Great for reintroducing movement gradually and comfortably.
3. Sovereign Harbour Splash Zone (at Sovereign Centre).
While part of the Sovereign Centre, the fun leisure pool with wave features provides a more relaxed and playful option if you enjoy gentle water movement. The fun pool is heated to around 30°C and offers accessible lagoon-style entry.
Tips for your visit:
- Visit during designated quieter sessions for calm enjoyment.
- Useful for easing back into water after a break or illness.
4. Sovereign Centre Training Pool (Lessons and Warm Water).
Also at the Sovereign Centre, this warm training pool area is quieter and more controlled. It is ideal for gentle swimming lessons or soft guided motion in water.
Tips for your visit:
- Ask about booking in advance for organised swim sessions for older adults.
Why Swimming Supports Healthy Ageing.
Swimming helps older adults in many ways. It offers gentle, supportive movement that promotes:
- Improved joint flexibility and muscle strength.
- Enhanced heart and lung function with low impact.
- Improved mood, reduced stress and better sleep.
- Social connection, routine and emotional support.
To explore how these activities fit with home care routines, visit home care services in Eastbourne.
How Walfinch Eastbourne Can Help.
At Walfinch Eastbourne, our carers offer more than help—they provide trusted companionship that enables you or your loved one to enjoy outings with confidence. We support swimming visits by providing:
- Friendly company.
Encouragement, reassurance and compassion throughout the outing. - Mobility support.
Help with transport, changing, pool access and use of aids. - Personalised visits.
Flexible support schedules—whether weekly or occasional outings. - Trust and care for families.
Enjoy peace of mind knowing your loved one is safe and supported.
Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Swim.
- Pick facilities with warm water, accessible entry, and caring staff.
- Plan visits during quieter hours such as mid-morning.
- Pack essentials including a towel, non-slip shoes, water and medication.
- Wear easy clothing for simple changing before and after the swim.
- Bring a Walfinch carer to provide reassurance and assistance throughout your visit.
Helping You or Your Loved Ones Return to Swimming.
If you’ve taken a break from swimming, you aren’t alone. It can help to start with observation or a short visit to the poolside to ease into comfort. With a gentle Walfinch companion, returning to the water can become a calming and confidence-building experience again.
Final Thoughts.
From the warm, activity-rich pools at the Sovereign Centre to the calm and supportive setting at Hillbrow, Eastbourne offers great options for older residents looking to swim and relax. These venues support physical wellbeing, emotional comfort and social connection.
At Walfinch Eastbourne, our aim is to support you or your loved one to enjoy life through care, movement and meaningful moments.
