Tucked away in the leafy village of Loughton just outside of Milton Keynes, the National Badminton Centre, or NBC, is the beating heart of English badminton.
Operated by Badminton England, the centre is far more than just a training ground for elite athletes. It’s also a welcoming and modern hub that caters to fitness enthusiasts, casual players, professionals, and visitors alike. It’s also home to the National Badminton Museum.
So whether you’re a badminton fan looking to play, train, relax, or swot up on the history of your favourite sport, here’s what you can expect from a visit to the NBC.
A home for champions – and everyone else too
The centre serves as the official training base for the England and Great Britain national badminton squads, offering eight state-of-the-art courts where top-tier athletes fine-tune their skills. But it’s important to note that it’s not an exclusive clique. These same professional-standard courts are available for public use throughout the week – either through membership or through the No Strings programme – making it possible for everyday players to enjoy a game in the very same space where Olympic hopefuls train.
Court hire is accessible and flexible, with prices structured by time of day. Super off-peak sessions (typically after 10 pm) start at just £12 per hour, rising to £15 during off-peak daytime hours (9 am to 6pm), while it’s £20 for peak times (6pm-10pm). Whether you’re playing socially or training competitively, the centre offers a high-quality experience at fair rates. There are also daily drop-in sessions that don’t require a booking, starting at £5.50 for members or £6 for non-members.
Gym bunnies welcome
Beyond badminton, the National Badminton Centre also houses a fully equipped health and fitness club. With two gym suites and dedicated studios, members can enjoy a wide array of group classes, from spin and circuit training to yoga and pilates. Facilities include saunas, spacious changing rooms, and personal training services. The gym is open for remarkably long hours (6.45am – 10pm Monday to Friday and 8am – 8pm at weekends) to suit both early risers and night owls.
Refuel at the bar
After a tough training session or a casual game of badminton, visitors can unwind at the delightfully-named Shuttle Cafe and Bar, nestled alongside the scenic Lodge Lake. Open from early morning until late, the cafe serves up breakfast, lunch, and light bites. In the evenings, you’ll find all live sport broadcast on the big screens.
Know your history
Tucked within the centre is one of British sport’s hidden gems: the National Badminton Museum. Opened in 2003 and granted charity status in 2007, the museum is run by a team of volunteers. Open daily with free admission, the museum houses one of the world’s most extensive collections of badminton memorabilia. From antique racquets and shuttles to Olympic jerseys and historic photos, the museum offers a fascinating look at the sport’s global history and England’s proud legacy within it. It’s a must-visit for fans and an unexpected delight for curious visitors.
Stay the night
If you’re travelling from afar or you’re simply looking for a quiet retreat at the national home of badminton, the NBC’s on-site Lodge Hotel offers comfortable and affordable accommodation. The 25-room hotel is modern and practical, featuring ensuite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, tea and coffee making facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Guests will not only enjoy complimentary breakfast, but they’ll also have free access to the gym facilities used by Olympic Athletes, along with the health club, sauna, and free on-site parking.
Find out more about the National Badminton Centre
