Tennis

Free Tennis Open Days return to Barking and Dagenham parks this weekend

Residents across Barking and Dagenham are invited to pick up a racket and enjoy free tennis sessions this weekend as the borough teams up with the National Tennis Association to bring fun, accessible tennis activities to local parks.

Taking place at Barking Park and Central Park, the free Open Days will offer family-friendly coaching sessions and relaxed opportunities to try tennis - whether participants are complete beginners or returning to the sport. 

Event details:

  • Barking Park (IG11 8SS), Saturday 21 March, 9am - 12pm
  • Central Park Dagenham (RM8 1JX), Sunday 22 March, 9am - 12pm

The sessions are designed for all ages and abilities, with professional coaches on hand to guide participants through the basics and help build confidence on the court. All equipment will be provided, and no previous experience is required.

Participants can enjoy a variety of free activities including:

  • Junior Coaching: A lively introduction to tennis for children using age-appropriate equipment designed to develop core skills and confidence.
  • Adult Coaching: Perfect for beginners or those returning to the sport, with friendly coaches helping players learn and improve in a relaxed setting.
  • Family Tennis Time: An opportunity for families and friends to play together and enjoy the courts in a welcoming environment.

The events are part of ongoing efforts to make tennis more accessible in local communities and encourage residents to get active outdoors as the spring season begins.

Councillor Saima Ashraf, Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, said: “We want every resident in Barking and Dagenham to have the opportunity to get active and enjoy our fantastic parks. These free tennis sessions are a brilliant way for families, children and adults of all abilities to try something new, build confidence and have fun together. Working with the National Tennis Association helps us bring high-quality coaching into the community and ensures that sport is accessible to everyone.”

Residents are encouraged to book their space in advance to secure a place at www.barkingdagenhamparkstennis.org.uk