Go for Gold: Play and Try Sports Day
Join us on our Commonwealth Games inspired sports taster day where kids can try a variety of activities, build confidence, and discover what they love, guided by expert coaches.
Future athletes wanted
Edinburgh Leisure venues have been home to the Commonwealth Games in 1970, 1986 and 2014, and we are proud to host one of the country’s best junior coaching programmes.
To celebrate the Games returning to Scotland, we’re hosting free sports taster sessions between Thursday 30 July and Friday 31 July at Drumbrae Leisure Centre and Meadowbank Sports Centre.
Kids will have the chance to try out real Commonwealth Games sports including judo, netball, swimming, gymnastics, basketball and athletics. Book now via the links below!
Could your child could be a budding Commonwealth Games athlete in the making? Funded by 2026 Summer of Sport #GameOn
Book now at Meadowbank Sports Centre and Drumbrae Leisure Centre
With thanks to 2026 Summer of Sport funding, each of our sports days are entirely free. Choose a centre (or both!) to come and try out these free kids’ activities. Everyone is a winner and children will receive a goody bag at the end of the event.
Meadowbank Sports Centre – Thursday 30th July
Try out select games in a real two-time Commonwealth Games venue!
- Gymnastics
- Basketball
- Athletics
Drumbrae Leisure Centre – Friday 31st July
Make a splash and try out even more real Commonwealth Sports!
- Judo
- Netball
- Swimming
Please remember to bring both suitable dry sport clothing and swimwear.
Edinburgh Leisure and the Commonwealth Games
The Royal Commonwealth Pool was purpose-built for the 1970 Commonwealth Games, hosting swimming and diving events and showcasing Edinburgh on the international stage. Since then, it has remained a world-class aquatic venue, also featuring in the 1986 and 2014 Games and continuing to host elite competitions alongside community activity today.
Nearby, Meadowbank Stadium (now Meadowbank Sports Centre) was constructed as the main athletics venue for the same Games, officially opening in 1970. It went on to make history by hosting the Commonwealth Games twice both in 1970 and again in 1986, cementing its place as one of Scotland’s most iconic sporting arenas.
Together, these venues represent a lasting legacy of international sport in Edinburgh – spaces where world-class athletes have competed, and where new generations continue to be inspired to get active.