Top 10 Best Gyms in London for Beginners: Affordable, Weight Loss, Luxury, 24-Hour & Personal Training Options

 

London is one of the world’s most dynamic cities, and its fitness culture is just as diverse. Whether you’re a complete beginner, looking for weight loss, searching for the cheapest gym membership in London, or interested in a luxury gym with a swimming pool, the capital offers something for everyone.

Choosing the best gym in London can feel overwhelming due to the sheer number of options. From 24 hour gyms in London and women-only fitness centres to hardcore bodybuilding gyms and premium wellness clubs, finding the right gym depends on your goals, budget, and lifestyle.

This comprehensive guide covers the Top 10 Best Gyms in London, focusing on:

  • Beginners & first-time gym users
  • Affordable & budget gyms
  • Weight loss & personal training gyms
  • Luxury gyms with swimming pools & spas
  • 24-hour gyms for flexible schedules
  • Central London fitness centres

If you’re searching for the best gym in London for beginners, or simply want to compare the top gyms in London, this guide is for you.

Why Choosing the Right Gym in London Matters

Joining a gym isn’t just about equipment it’s about environment, motivation, support, and consistency.

The right gym can:

  • Help beginners feel confident and supported
  • Improve weight loss results through expert guidance
  • Save money with affordable gym memberships
  • Provide flexibility with 24-hour access
  • Offer specialist services like swimming pools or personal training

London’s gyms range from low-cost chains to elite fitness clubs, making it essential to choose wisely.

Top 10 Best Gyms in London

Gym Name

Best For

Price Range

PureGym

Affordable & beginners

£20–£35

The Gym Group

Cheapest gym membership

£18–£30

Third Space

Luxury & premium fitness

£200+

Virgin Active

Swimming pools & families

£80–£150

David Lloyd Clubs

Spa & holistic fitness

£120–£200

Fitness First

Central London weight loss

£60–£120

Gymbox

High-energy training

£90–£150

Better Leisure Centres

Budget + pools

£25–£45

Muscleworks Gym

Bodybuilding focus

£50–£80

Curves

Women-only gym

£40–£70

 

1. PureGym – Best Gym in London for Beginners & Budget Users

PureGym is one of the most popular gyms in London, especially for beginners and budget-conscious users.

Why PureGym is Ideal for Beginners

  • Simple gym layout
  • Clear instructions on machines
  • Free beginner fitness classes
  • No long-term contracts

Key Features

  • 24 hour gym London access
  • Modern cardio & resistance equipment
  • Affordable gym membership in London
  • App-based workout plans

Membership Cost

£20–£35 per month

PureGym is widely considered one of the top gyms in London for people starting their fitness journey.

2. The Gym Group – Cheapest Gym Membership in London

If cost is your biggest concern, The Gym Group is one of the best gyms in London for affordability.

Best For

  • Students
  • Beginners on a tight budget
  • Flexible, no-contract memberships

Highlights

  • 24/7 access
  • Clean and simple fitness centres in London
  • Basic but effective equipment

Membership Cost

£18–£30 per month

This is arguably the cheapest gym membership in London without sacrificing quality.

3. Third Space – Luxury Gym London Experience

For those who want premium fitness, Third Space defines luxury gym London standards.

Why It’s Special

  • Olympic-size swimming pools
  • Spa, sauna & steam rooms
  • Elite personal trainers
  • Stylish interiors

Ideal For

  • Professionals
  • High-end wellness seekers
  • Personal training gym London clients

Membership Cost

£200–£300 per month

Third Space is among the best gyms in London for luxury and holistic health.

4. Virgin Active – Best Gym in London with Swimming Pool

Virgin Active is perfect if you want a gym with swimming pool, spa, and group classes.

Benefits

  • Heated indoor pools
  • Family-friendly fitness centres
  • Excellent weight loss programs
  • Yoga, Pilates & spin classes

Locations

  • Central London
  • Canary Wharf
  • Kensington

Membership Cost

£80–£150 per month

It’s a top choice for those seeking the best gym in London with swimming pool.

5. David Lloyd Clubs – Premium Fitness & Spa

David Lloyd combines fitness, relaxation, and lifestyle.

Best For

  • Weight loss
  • Stress relief
  • Long-term fitness commitment

Features

  • Tennis courts
  • Luxury spa
  • Personal training gym London services

Membership Cost

£120–£200 per month

Ideal for people who want more than just a workout.

6. Fitness First – Best Gym in Central London for Weight Loss

Fitness First is known for structured training and expert support.

Why Choose Fitness First?

  • Excellent for weight loss
  • Highly qualified personal trainers
  • Central London locations

Specialties

  • Body transformation programs
  • Small group training
  • Personal trainer gym near me London option

Membership Cost

£60–£120 per month

One of the best gyms in Central London for weight loss.

7. Gymbox – High-Energy & Unique Training

Gymbox breaks traditional gym norms with creative workouts.

Best For

  • Motivation
  • Fun fitness classes
  • Intermediate to advanced users

Stand-Out Features

  • Boxing rings
  • DJ-style workout sessions
  • Unique training spaces

Membership Cost

£90–£150 per month

Gymbox is among the top gyms in London for energetic environments.

8. Better Leisure Centres – Affordable Gym with Pool Options

Better Gyms are council-run fitness centres offering excellent value.

Why They’re Popular

  • Affordable gym in London
  • Swimming pools included
  • Community-focused

Membership Cost

£25–£45 per month

A great option for families and casual gym-goers.

9. Muscleworks Gym – Best Bodybuilding Gym London

If serious muscle gain is your goal, Muscleworks Gym stands out.

Ideal For

  • Bodybuilding
  • Powerlifting
  • Advanced lifters

Equipment

  • Heavy free weights
  • Competition-grade machines

Membership Cost

 £50–£80 per month

A true bodybuilding gym London classic.

10. Curves – Best Women-Only Gym London

Curves offers a supportive, comfortable environment for women.

Benefits

  • Women-only gym London
  • Beginner-friendly circuits
  • Weight loss focused

Membership Cost

£40–£70 per month

Perfect for women seeking privacy and confidence.

How to Choose the Best Gym in London

Consider These Factors

  • Budget & membership cost
  • Location (near home or work)
  • Opening hours (24 hour gym London)
  • Personal training availability
  • Beginner-friendly environment

Frequently Asked Questions – Best Gyms in London

Which is the best gym in London for beginners?

The best gym in London for beginners includes PureGym, The Gym Group, and Curves. These gyms offer beginner-friendly equipment, clear workout guidance, affordable memberships, and a non-intimidating environment ideal for first-time gym users.

What is the cheapest gym membership in London?

The Gym Group and Better Leisure Centres provide some of the cheapest gym memberships in London, with prices starting from around £18–£25 per month and no long-term contracts.

Which gym in London is best for weight loss?

Fitness First, Virgin Active, and PureGym are among the best gyms in London for weight loss. They offer structured training programs, group fitness classes, and access to qualified personal trainers.

Which is the best gym in Central London for weight loss?

Fitness First and Gymbox are considered the best gyms in Central London for weight loss due to their central locations, expert personal trainers, and high-intensity fitness programs.

Are there any 24 hour gyms in London?

Yes, PureGym and The Gym Group are popular 24 hour gyms in London, allowing members to work out anytime, including early mornings and late nights.

Which is the best gym in London with a swimming pool?

Virgin Active, David Lloyd Clubs, and Better Leisure Centres are some of the best gyms in London with swimming pool facilities, along with spa and relaxation areas.

Is personal training available in London gyms?

Yes, most top gyms in London offer personal training services. If you are searching for a personal trainer gym near me in London, Fitness First, Third Space, and Virgin Active are excellent options. 


London offers some of the best gyms in the world, catering to every fitness level and budget. Whether you want a luxury gym London experience, an affordable gym in London, or a 24 hour gym, the city has endless choices.

The key is consistency choose a gym that fits your lifestyle, motivates you, and supports your fitness goals