Ilford Opens London’s first Ping Hub
January 2025 saw the first-ever London Ping Hub opened at the Ilford Exchange in Redbridge. Despite challenges on launch day – including Elizabeth Line closures and even transporting a table tennis robot across a packed Central Line – the event proved a huge success. The space attracted a mix of league players, complete beginners, and returning enthusiasts, all eager to engage with the new facility.
What is the Ping Hub?
The Exchange Ping Hub is a free-to-play, fully accessible table tennis space for the local community. Located in The Loft area of The Exchange Shopping Centre, it offers:
- Four permanent table tennis tables
- Free access to bats and balls
- A welcoming environment for players of all ages and skill levels
The initiative has been made possible through the combined support of Table Tennis England, The Exchange Shopping Centre, and Ilford BID. With London set to host the 2026 World Team Table Tennis Championships – exactly 100 years after the first Championships were staged in the capital – the Ilford Exchange Ping Hub marks the beginning of a wider social impact programme.
Ping Hubs offer:
- Coaching sessions
- Social play and community events
- Competitions and leagues
- School activities and well-being sessions
The Ilford Exchange launch has already seen new players connected with local clubs and leagues. The ambition is to expand these opportunities, making table tennis a bigger part of community life – helping people to get active, connect socially, and enjoy the sport.
More Ping Hubs are planned across London, with the aim of creating opportunities for people to play, watch, and experience table tennis at every level.
Want to Play? Find out more and book a table at book a table at Exchange Ping Hub
