Ongar Leisure Centre

The leisure centre has gone down hill since being taken over by places for people, staff cut backs and now hardly any classes at weekends for people that work during the week. I did circuits for 3.5 years, but it got stopped and has never been put back on the calendar. I no longer see the point in paying for a membership when you are not getting value for money.

Since being refurbished last year, it feels fresher, cleaner and less cluttered, especially in and around the swimming pool viewing area. There are now seats both inside the swimming pool area, as well as in the viewing area so you can choose where to sit. Haven't been in the gym area yet, but if it's had the same kind of makeover the reception has, I'm sure it'll look great.

After a bad injury to my back, Theo Newton the PT has really helped me adapt my training and with Theo’s new work out routine I am not in pain and I am really enjoying my training.Highly recommend Theo if your looking for a Personal Trainer

Sport hall is not good lighting and flooring for badminton, slippery and spot lights blinding for some shots. Impossible to get a child’s place in beginners gymnastic been waiting 2 years, staff not greatly helpful with this, told me to ring back in august. Just put on extra sessions for popular classes it’s not difficult to figure out. Find it limited in classes in day and popular classes like yoga or aqua fully booked before you’ve had a chance to look! Gym is pretty good. Had an update and have lights and good equipment. Swimming pool - family swim has changed, family of 2 have to pay same price as family of 4 now which is £15 last time I looked, that’s if it not fully booked…again, a shame it doesn’t really cater for our town and surrounding villages, it used to but no one seems to care, so we don’t visit as much as I would like as it’s fully booked or class/session not available not really value for money for the membership, so they’ve lost my membership but It seems they’re not that bothered…

Just wish it would be upgraded a bit. And would really appreciate some steps down into the main pool that were disabled friendly! I have banged/bruised my knees and found it very difficult to pull myself up vertically out of the pool (yes they do have a lift contraption to put you in/out of the pool, but I wouldn't be seen dead in that, very embarrassing, plus I'm not that disabled). Also adding a steam/sauna would be fantastic!

Not sure what happened to this place but it looks like it's being run by a bunch of incompetent and greedy lotThe staff are doing what they can and they're always helpful but everything else is pretty badYou just have to go to the changing rooms and you'll throw up, mould, paint coming off the walls, dirt everywhereAnd why is the water so cold?????I take my kids there for the swimming lessons and they're shaking every time they come out of the pool plus they have a cold the next day!!Get it sorted or get rid of the management/directors, they're clearly useless

It's a nice quiet pool and well maintained. However my reason for 2stars is the pool temperature if the water. the minimum pool temperature for babies under 12lbs should be a recommended 32 degrees... Cold swimming pools can cause hyperthermia in babies. The staff assured me the pool was warm enough for babies as they have lessons there, but I got a temperature reading of 28!... After 15mins my baby was shivering. I think it's dangerous to state the pool is warm enough, when all documents online state absolutely no less than 30 degrees. I understand that in this economic environment the temperature will need to be reduced However it shouldn't be at the expense of safety.

This is a fantastic facility for the local community. The range of amenities, from the well-maintained swimming pools to the modern gym and fitness classes, is impressive. The staff is not only friendly but also knowledgeable, offering guidance and support for all fitness levels.What sets this leisure centre apart is its commitment to inclusivity, making it accessible for all ages and abilities. It's a place where families, fitness enthusiasts, and those looking for a fun, active day out can all feel at home.The cleanliness and overall organisation of the centre are noteworthy, creating a positive experience for every visit. This is a true asset to the community, promoting health, wellness, and enjoyment for all. I highly recommend it!

Fantastic leisure centre, with a gym that I actually feel comfortable going into. It feels warm and friendly, as opposed to cold and clinical. No long mirrors to pose in front of!! Love Raquel. So happy to help.