Ponds Forge International Sports Centre is a recreational facility located in Sheffield, England. It features an Olympic-sized swimming pool that accommodates 2,600 spectators, along with family and children’s pools, including a 50-meter competition pool and a 25-meter diving pit. Additionally, the centre offers water slides and various other amenities.

Ponds Forge also hosts international swimming competitions such as the Aquatics GB championships and Swim England National Championships.

Are you heading to Ponds Forge for a race? Here’s some information you need!

Information For You

Location

Sheaf Street, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2BP

Contact

Phone number: 01142 233 400

Online contact: https://www.everyoneactive.com/enquiries/?siteid=0353

Opening Times

Monday 06:30 – 22:00.

Tuesday 06:30 – 22:00.

Wednesday 06:30 – 22:00.

Thursday 06:30 – 22:00.

Friday 06:30 – 21:30.

Saturday 08:00 – 21:45.

Sunday 08:00 – 21:45.

Reception

The desk/counter is 20m (21yd 2ft) from the main entrance. There is level access to the desk/counter from the entrance.

World-Class Facilities

Ponds Forge is equipped with some of the best swimming facilities in the UK, making it a favorite for competitive swimmers:

50 Metre Competition Pool: This Olympic-sized pool is perfect for high-level swimming competitions, providing the ideal conditions for peak performance.

There is level access from the changing area to the swimming pool.

There is not a ramped entrance into the water.

There is a wet side chair available.

There is a hydraulic hoist for wheelchair users to access the water.

There are no steps into the swimming pool but there is a ladder type entrance into the water and handrail on both sides of the ladder.

25 Metre Diving Pool: Known as the deepest diving pool in the UK, it’s an excellent facility for divers and those looking to practice their techniques.

Leisure Pool: Featuring a lazy river, flumes, a baby fun area, and a wave machine, this pool offers a fun and relaxing environment for swimmers of all ages.

Fitness Unlimited Gym: With 130 pieces of fitness equipment, the gym is perfect for warming up before your race or maintaining your fitness routine.

Fitness Studios: Three fully equipped studios host a variety of fitness classes to complement your swimming training.

Steam Room and Spa: After a rigorous swim, unwind in the steam room and spa for some much-needed relaxation.

Café: Refuel with a range of meals and drinks available at the on-site café.

There is ample room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre

The type of food served here is hot and cold meals and snacks

The cafe is located in the main foyer area

International Sports Hall: This large, flexible events space with 10 courts is ideal for various sports and activities.

Parking

The car park is located at the side of the venue but parking is not free for all users. The car park is accessible via Pond Street.

Travelling To Location

By Car

From the M1 Motorway:

Take Junction 33 and follow signs for Sheffield City Centre via the A630.

Continue on the A630 until you reach the Park Square Roundabout.

Take the exit onto Sheaf Street (A61) and follow signs for Ponds Forge.

The address is: Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, Sheaf Street, Sheffield S1 2BP.

Parking: There is on-site parking available at Ponds Forge: https://bing.com/search?q=travel+to+Ponds+Forge+swimming+pool+Sheffield+by+car&form=SKPBOT.

By Bus

From Sheffield City Centre:

Several bus routes serve the area around Ponds Forge, including routes 120K, 2, 207, 31, and 95: https://moovitapp.com/index/en-gb/public_transportation-Ponds_Forge_Internatio-Yorkshire-site_194867577-2109.

The nearest bus stops are Sheaf Street/Harmer Lane and Pond Street/Paternoster Row, both just a short walk from the venue: https://moovitapp.com/index/en-gb/public_transportation-Ponds_Forge_Internatio-Yorkshire-site_194867577-2109.

Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route and timings.

By Train

From Sheffield Railway Station:

Ponds Forge is a short walk from Sheffield Railway Station, approximately 6 minutes on foot: https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Sheffield-Station/Ponds-Forge.

Alternatively, you can take the tram from Sheffield Stn – Hallam Uni to Fitzalan Sq – Ponds Forge, which takes about 3 minutes: https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Sheffield-Station/Ponds-Forge.

Follow signs for Sheaf Street as you exit the station, and Ponds Forge will be on your left.

Tips for a Successful Visit

Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to get settled and familiar with the venue. Arriving early also helps you avoid any last-minute rush.

Bring Essentials: Don’t forget your swim gear, towel, and any other personal items you might need. It’s always a good idea to pack a spare set of goggles and a swim cap.

Stay Hydrated: Keep a water bottle handy to stay hydrated throughout the event. Swimming can be physically demanding, and staying hydrated is key to maintaining your performance.

Explore the Facilities: Take some time to explore the various facilities available at Ponds Forge. Whether it’s a quick workout at the gym or a relaxing session in the spa, there’s something for everyone.

Get even more information here.