Time to Thrive
Swimming is more than just exercise for older adults. It helps you or your loved ones maintain mobility, support circulation and enjoy calm, relaxing moments. In the Solihull area, there are several leisure centres offering warm, accessible pools and welcoming spaces that support wellbeing and social connection. Whether you benefit from gentle aqua classes, peaceful laps or simply floating in the water, there is a venue to suit your pace and comfort.
Here is your full guide to the best leisure centres for the elderly to go swimming and relax in Solihull, and how Walfinch carers can support you or your loved ones with warm, caring assistance.
1. North Solihull Sports Centre – Chelmsley Wood
North Solihull Sports Centre features a 25 m main pool, a smaller teaching pool and excellent accessible facilities including pool hoists, ramps and changing spaces. There are “Swim for All” sessions for relaxed swimming as well as adult lane swimming for steady-paced exercise.
Tips for your visit:
- Mid-morning on weekdays is ideal for a quieter experience.
- “Swim for All” sessions are perfect for those who enjoy a calm and steady pace.
2. Tudor Grange Leisure Centre – Solihull Town Centre
Tudor Grange Leisure Centre offers a large 25 m main pool, a smaller learner pool, and full accessibility features. It runs aqua aerobics, adult swimming lessons and general swim sessions suitable for all abilities.
Tips for your visit:
- Aqua aerobics is great for low-impact joint mobility.
- Try early afternoon visits for a peaceful swim.
3. Fox Hollies Leisure Centre – Acocks Green
Just a short drive from Solihull, Fox Hollies offers both a main swimming pool and a teaching pool, with accessibility features including hoists and ramps. The centre runs gentle aquafit sessions and open swims.
Tips for your visit:
- Aquafit classes provide gentle but effective exercise.
- Aim for weekday late-morning sessions to avoid crowds.
4. South Yardley Leisure Centre – Yardley
This community-focused centre offers a bright, modern pool with accessible entry points and warm changing facilities. Calm public swim sessions are ideal for older swimmers.
Tips for your visit:
- Consider quieter midday swim times for comfort.
- Pair your swim with a gentle walk around the local area for extra activity.
5. Stechford Leisure Centre – Stechford
Stechford Leisure Centre has a main pool and teaching pool, along with a variety of swim sessions including “Swim for Fitness” and “Swim for All.” The facilities are accessible and staff are welcoming to older adults.
Tips for your visit:
- “Swim for All” sessions are the best choice for a relaxed pace.
- Use the on-site café to socialise after your swim.
Why Swimming Supports Healthy Ageing
Swimming provides multiple benefits that support physical and emotional health:
- Encourages gentle movement that supports joint flexibility and muscle strength.
- Improves cardiovascular health while being low-impact.
- Eases stress, promotes calm and aids restful sleep.
- Fosters social engagement, routine and emotional wellbeing.
How Walfinch Solihull Can Help
At Walfinch Solihull, our home care services provide more than practical support. We offer companionship, reassurance and confidence. If swimming is important to you or your loved one, we provide:
- Supportive companionship: Gentle encouragement and company from arrival through to return home.
- Mobility and practical help: Assistance with transport, pool access, walking aids, changing and belongings.
- Tailored outings: Care aligned to personal comfort, routine and social preferences.
- Reassurance for families: Peace of mind knowing your loved one is safe, supported and enjoying a positive experience.
Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Swim
- Choose centres with accessible pools, calm lanes and warm water.
- Visit during quieter hours such as mid-morning or early afternoon.
- Bring essentials: towel, non-slip footwear, water and any necessary medication.
- Wear comfortable, easy-to-change swimwear and layered clothing.
- Consider having a Walfinch carer accompany you for ease and confidence.
Helping You or Your Loved Ones Return to Swimming
Returning to the pool after time away can feel overwhelming. Start gently by observing a session, dipping a toe or floating briefly. With the caring support of a Walfinch companion, swimming can again provide calm, confidence and enjoyable movement.
Final Thoughts
From Tudor Grange Leisure Centre’s spacious pool to the friendly accessibility of North Solihull Sports Centre, and the gentle aquafit sessions at Fox Hollies, Solihull offers excellent options for older adults to swim with comfort and confidence. These centres promote wellness, calm and connection in thoughtful, supportive settings.
At Walfinch Solihull, we are honoured to support you or your loved one, helping you thrive through care, companionship and restorative swims one gentle step at a time.
