About Alness Leisure Centre
Alness Leisure Centre is the modern community sports and fitness hub for Alness in Easter Ross, Scotland. It opened in April 2021 as part of the new Alness Academy campus (www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk ), replacing the old Alness pool. The centre boasts a 25m × 12m six-lane swimming pool with an adjustable moveable floor (www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk ) (www.aliss.org ), a four-court multi-use games hall with retractable spectator bleachers (www.highlifehighland.com ), and a fully equipped fitness suite. A bright, mirror-walled studio is also available for dance, yoga and spin classes (www.highlifehighland.com ). The entire facility is wheelchair-accessible (www.aliss.org ), with ramped entrances and accessible changing rooms (including an accessible shower and toilet). As a £34 million new build in 2020 – part of a Scottish Government school modernisation project (jmarchitects.net ) – Alness Leisure Centre is a state-of-the-art venue that has become a point of local pride. High Life Highland (a council charity) operates the centre, and it serves both school sports and the wider community.
Events and Programming
Rather than hosting touring acts, Alness Leisure Centre’s calendar focuses on sports, fitness and community activities. There are daily swim sessions (public lane swimming, family swims and kids’ “fun” sessions) and a full timetable of group fitness classes – from aqua aerobics and and spindle classes to Zumba and yoga. A popular children’s programme includes nursery ballet, “Mini Kickers” football, netball, shinty and Teen Gym working with 12–15 year olds (www.highlifehighland.com ) (www.highlifehighland.com ). Seasonal and holiday events are common: for example, holiday sports camps and occasional special events such as family Nerf-battle afternoons (www.ticketfairy.com ). Local sports clubs regularly book the four-court hall for badminton, five-a-side football, basketball or archery. The pool also hosts structured swimming lessons (group and intensive courses) year-round. In recent years the centre has staged fun community events – for example, a sold-out Alness Nerf Battle session in March 2024 (www.ticketfairy.com ) – and it often partners with local organisations (like Active Schools) to run free or discounted sports activities for youngsters. There are no large concert-style performances here; instead you’ll find school sports days, fitness challenges, swimming galas and community fundraisers on the venue’s schedule. Ticket prices are typically per-session or per-class rather than flat event tickets (adult swims are around £6.80 for a drop-in (www.places2swim.com ), with lower concession rates). Many fitness classes and swim sessions are included in High Life Highland membership.
Tickets and Booking
Alness Leisure Centre operates a straightforward “pay-as-you-go” model. There is no box office; instead, you simply buy a pass or book sessions. Visitors can pay day rates at reception (by cash or card) or sign up for a High Life Highland membership, which gives access to this and other Highland centres at discounted rates. Most people book activities online through the High Life website or by phoning the centre. Popular items – such as swim lessons, kids parties and seasonal fitness courses – often require advance booking. As a rule, new class blocks (for example term-time lessons and adult fitness courses) go on sale at the start of each term, and registration events are sometimes held (e.g. a summer block swimming registration evening). For parents of swimmers, lesson slots fill quickly, so it’s wise to book early. Likewise, cardio or dance classes in the studio can be busy – signing up a week or two ahead is recommended for best availability. Regular fitness sessions like “open swim” or gym use do not require tickets – you just check in on arrival and pay or swipe your membership card.
Seating and Layout
The centre’s layout is open and modern. The sports hall is a four-badminton-court multipurpose space, with wood-floor courts and wall-mounted basketball hoops. Along one side are tiered bleacher seats for spectators (www.highlifehighland.com ). This is where you sit if watching a five-a-side football match or school athletics meet. The swimming pool area has a narrow spectator gallery and bench seating around the deep end, but no large stands – parents usually stand poolside or squeeze onto benches along the side walls. The studio (with barre and mirrored wall) is for classes, not seating, so any audience for a dance recital would stand around the edges. The fitness gym is an open area with machines; there’s no formal viewing area, though benches at the side can hold personal items. In general, if you’re coming to watch (for example, a child in a swim gala or sports contest), the best vantage is on the bleachers in the hall or along the pool deck, depending on the event. If attending a group class, arrive early – the front rows of spinning bikes or yoga mats are best kept. Acoustically, the gym and studio have modest sound levels (music and instructor announcements), while the hall can echo with bouncing balls and noise. The pool area tends to hum with the sound of splashing, but no PA announcements. As a tip: the centre is brightly lit with plenty of windows and lights, so visibility is generally good from all areas.
Getting There and Parking
Alness Leisure Centre lies on Dalmore Road in Alness (postcode IV17 0UY), adjacent to Alness Academy and a primary school. From the A9 north/south highway take the Alness exit and follow signs to the school campus. The centre entrance is on Alness Academy Drive off Dalmore Road. There is a large free car park on site (shared with the school), so driving in is easy – just pull into the main lot near the leisure centre entrance. Traffic is usually light, but allow a few extra minutes on weekday afternoons or evenings during school term, as buses and parents are around. Public transport: Stagecoach buses serve Alness via routes from Inverness and Dingwall. For example, route 25 runs between Inverness and Alness; the closest stop is in town, about 800m (10–15 minute walk) from Dalmore Road. Local service 127 also stops on Dalmore Road near the Highbus Plus stop. Alness’s small railway station (on Station Road, IV17 0SE) is about 1 mile southwest; it has step-free access and a small car park (www.scotrail.co.uk ). From the station it’s roughly a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride to the leisure centre. Paid taxis and local ride-share services operate from both Inverness and Dingwall – it’s wise to book ahead, especially in the evenings, as on-demand options are limited. In summer or good weather, some visitors cycle or jog from town along the dedicated pedestrian/cycle routes. The nearest airport is Inverness (main terminal ~30 miles south); a bus or cab from there to Alness will take about an hour.
Inside the Venue
On arrival, visitors pass through a main reception area. Friendly staff will greet you and handle bookings or entry. Membership holders simply scan their cards, while drop-in guests register and pay at the counter. Lockers and changing facilities are located off the main pool and gym entrances. Each locker takes a £1 coin deposit (refundable on return). The men’s, women’s and family changing rooms are modern and clean, each with showers and toilets. There are three large family changing cubicles, ideal for parents with young children, plus one fully accessible (walk-in) changing room equipped with a ceiling hoist and shower seat (www.aliss.org ). For swimmers, the tiled pool deck has benches and hooks for towels. Please remember to shower before entering the pool (as per etiquette). Appropriate swimwear is required (racing swimsuits or shorts, not jeans or undergarments), and swim caps are recommended in lane sessions. The standard depth is 1.2m with the floor at normal depth, lowering to deeper or raising to shallower depending on programme – children’s lessons often use the higher (shallower) setting (www.aliss.org ). After swimming, hairdryers and lockers are available on the changing-room walls.
On the gym side, the high-tech fitness suite (Craig Maclean Gym) is equipped with Technogym treadmills, bikes, cross-trainers, rowers and a full range of weight machines (www.highlifehighland.com ) (www.highlifehighland.com ). A simple induction is required for first-time users (www.highlifehighland.com ), but once trained, members may access it any time during opening hours. Adjacent is the dance/fitness studio: a bright room with wooden floor, mirrored wall and ballet barre (www.highlifehighland.com ). It houses a set of 30 brand-new spin bikes for cycling classes and is used for zumba, Pilates, aerobics and dance lessons. Be prepared to remove outdoor shoes before entering these areas. The gym and studio have no public seating; towels and water bottles should be stowed in lockers to keep floors clear.
Throughout the centre you’ll see signage listing class schedules and rules. Photographs and filming are generally not allowed inside (for privacy). Mobile phones should be on silent mode and used discreetly (no flash photography) especially in the pool area. There is no dedicated café on site, but a vending machine with sports drinks and snacks is often available in the reception foyer. Small items like goggles, swim hats or pads may be sold at reception – otherwise bring what you need. Restrooms (toilets) are located near reception as well as inside each changing block. The building has free Wi-Fi in the main reception area for quick use, but signal can be weak in the pool hall. The atmosphere is family-friendly and energetic: you’ll hear whistles, sport courts in use, and instructors giving cues, so it never feels quiet – bring ear plugs only if you’re sensitive to noise during sports events. A coat rack at reception can hold small bags, but valuables are safer locked away.
Nearby Amenities
Plan to arrive at least 15–30 minutes early for any session or event if you want to grab refreshments or avoid rushing. There are several places to eat and drink near Alness Leisure Centre. The Station Hotel (on Dalmore Road) has a bar and restaurant serving pub classics and is a popular spot for families. In town (a 5-minute drive or 15–20 minute walk), options include Indian takeaway restaurants like Balti Cottage, a Chinese takeaway (88 Cantonese) and Café Picante (coffee shop and light meals). A Morrisons supermarket on High Street has a cafeteria area for quick meals and coffee (www.tripadvisor.in ). The Harry Gow bakery on the High Street is great for pastries or sandwiches. Fancier dining is limited, so if you wish to sit down before an evening session, plan ahead: some restaurants close kitchen services by 7–8pm on weekdays.
For late-night transportation, note that local buses usually finish by early evening. The last buses back to Dingwall or Inverness often leave by 8–9pm, so if you know you’ll stay late, book a taxi in advance. Local taxi companies serve the surrounding towns, though waiting times can be longer late at night.
As for lodging, The Station Hotel also offers rooms if you need an overnight stay. Other B&Bs and guest houses exist in Alness (for example, Kiltearn House or the Haven on Hilton Road). If you want larger hotels, Cromarty’s Kincraig Castle Hotel is about 5 miles north and has leisure facilities of its own. Inverness city (about 25 miles south) has many hotel options and might be more convenient if you plan to explore the Highlands or arrive late via train or plane.
What Makes This Venue Special
Alness Leisure Centre stands out as a shining example of a modern community sports complex. It was built as part of a major £34 million rebuild of Alness Academy (jmarchitects.net ), meaning when you walk in you’re in a brand-new facility designed for 2020s standards. The architecture is bright and contemporary: large glass panels and high ceilings flood the interior with daylight, making even a January morning swim feel open and airy. The innovative pool design (complete with a movable floor) is unusual for a rural town centre – it allows the depth to be changed for toddlers’ lessons, exercise classes or deep water polo. (www.aliss.org ). This kind of feature is usually only seen in larger city pools, so locals were proud to gain such a high-grade aquatic space. The multi-sports hall also adds flexibility: it can host four badminton matches concurrently or divide for indoor football, netball or basketball. Having proper spectator seating (www.highlifehighland.com ) means local sports clubs can schedule more sizable tournaments here, and parents can watch events comfortably. The centre’s fitness gym is outfitted to a high standard (Technogym machines) and even has a “Craig Maclean” suite dedicated to serious training (www.highlifehighland.com ).
Historically, the centre launched after the pandemic delays that affected its original 2021 opening plan, so there was a lot of excitement when residents “finally got to take the plunge” in the new pool (www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk ). The highlife community board called the new facilities a “great addition” that would be “well used by the local community” (www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk ). In fact, since 2021 it has become a cultural hub: local primary and secondary schools use the pool and courts for PE classes, competitive swim meets, and annual sports days that draw neighbors together. The community league football and netball games now run on polished wooden floors instead of grass pitches. In short, the leisure centre matters because it brings top-quality sport and fitness opportunities to Easter Ross — a region that previously had to travel far for a mid-size pool or modern gym.
People appreciate Alness Leisure Centre for its combination of accessibility and quality. Families love the changing facilities (three family cubicles, so busy mornings won’t be bottlenecked) (www.aliss.org ), and clubs love the equipment provision. A small anecdote: many local swim club members say they achieved personal best times in the new pool since it is competition-spec with accurate timing. The venue also introduced a new tradition of biannual Health Weeks and fun-runs linked to the centre, helping residents look forward to fitness. Its opening revitalized the old “Alness Gala Week” spirit in town: while the gala events themselves happen nearby, athletes often warm up with laps in the pool or matches in the hall in the lead-up. Artists and performers have even borrowed the community connections: for instance, dance and drama students at Alness Academy sometimes prepare indoor productions to use the studio space for rehearsals. Overall, Alness Leisure Centre is special because it marries high-end sports and leisure infrastructure with a friendly small-town vibe – both newcomers and locals report that it has become a treasured part of Alness life.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility is excellent. The building has ramps and a lift giving step-free access to all areas. Wheelchair users can reach the poolside and use the accessible shower room (equipped with seat and hoist) (www.aliss.org ). Seniors and disabled patrons enjoy reduced rates and free entry for carers if needed. If you or a family member require assistance, simply ask at reception for help or use the staff pull-cord in the toilets.
Bring the right gear. For swimming, pack a swimsuit or trunks, towel, swim cap (often mandatory in lane swim hours) and goggles. It’s a good idea to rinse off before and after swimming. For gym or classes, wear athletic shoes and clothes. All users should be showered and shower-ready – use flip-flops on wet floors. Remember a water bottle; while there is a water fountain, you won’t find a café serving drinks for exercise users. Towels, swim floats or kickboards can often be hired at reception if you forget them (small fee), but personal lockable items (like phone/laptop) should go in your locker. The lockers require a £1 coin deposit (returned on removal).
Under-16s: Any child under 8 years old must be accompanied in the water by a responsible adult who can swim, according to standard pool rules. Teenagers 12–15 can use the gym only during supervised ‘Teen Gym’ sessions (with instructor) (www.highlifehighland.com ). General fitness classes and the pool have parental guidelines posted – always follow the lifeguards’ instructions. There is no formal dress code besides sportswear; however, revealing bare-chested attire (like bike short removal or crop tops) is discouraged. Gel pens or confetti are not allowed in the pool, and food (beyond bottled water or sports gels) should be eaten outside the pool or gym area. Smoking and vaping are banned everywhere inside the centre (only allowed well away from doorways).
Common mistakes: Don’t underestimate how busy it can be in peak times (usually weekday evenings and Saturday mornings). If you need a lane, arrive a few minutes early to secure a spot. Likewise for popular classes in the studio (spin and Zumba often fill up) – pre-book online through the High Life website. On weekends watch out for youth football or basketball tournaments that may occupy much of the hall; check the weekly timetable in advance on the High Life site or Facebook page. If you drive, note that lanes on Dalmore Road near school times can be congested, so you may need to allow extra time around 3pm.
One insider tip: High Life Highland occasionally runs “Summer Splash” promos and relaxed schedules during school holidays (extended hours or special pool events), so even if something seems closed at term time, it might be open in July/August. Also, if you plan to swim regularly, consider their pay-monthly membership – it can save money if you use the gym or pool several times a week (the High Life site has a cost calculator). Keep an eye on local noticeboards or the Highland Council app for any surprise closures (e.g. for maintenance). Finally, remember that Alness is up in the Highlands: winter mornings can be frosty, so don’t leave wet shoes in the car overnight or they may freeze!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission prices and membership options?
Drop-in fees at Alness Leisure Centre are modest: for example, an adult public swim session is about £6.80 and senior/child rates are lower (www.places2swim.com ). High Life Highland offers discounted monthly memberships (individual, family or ‘All Inclusive’ plans) that cut the per‐visit cost. There are also concession pass rates (for students, senior citizens, etc.) and pay-as-you-go cards. Membership gives unlimited access to this centre and others in the Highlands at no extra fee, so frequent users can save money. Exact pricing changes each year, so check the Highland Council/High Life Highland website or the centre’s noticeboard for the latest admission prices and membership deals.
How do I book a swim or fitness class at Alness Leisure Centre?
You can book sessions online on the High Life Highland website or in person at the centre’s reception. Fitness classes (like spin, yoga or aerobics) and special sessions (such as holiday camps or kids’ lessons) usually open for booking a few weeks ahead. To join most classes, it’s best to pre-book through the Highlife portal (highlifehighland.com) or call the centre during working hours. For unbooked 'open swim' or gym sessions, just arrive and pay at the desk – no advance ticket is needed.
What are the typical opening hours?
Hours vary by day, but generally the centre opens early on weekdays and Saturday. A typical schedule (when school is out) is something like: Mon/Tue/Thu from 6:30–8:00am and 4:00–9:45pm, Wed 4:00–9:45pm, Fri 4:00–8:45pm, and Sat/Sun 10:00am–1:30pm (www.highlifehighland.com ) (www.highlifehighland.com ). Note these times can change seasonally and during school terms, so it’s wise to confirm current hours on the Highlife Highland website or by calling ahead.
Is the sports hall available for community hire?
Yes, the four-court hall is available to rent for clubs and groups. It can serve many sports (badminton, 5-a-side football, basketball, etc.) and also fitness classes. To hire the hall, contact the centre office – rates depend on time of day and booking length. Many local groups (from karate to badminton clubs) use it regularly. Spectators for hall events can sit in the retractable bleacher seating on the side (www.highlifehighland.com ).
Are lockers and showers available?
Yes. There are separate locker rooms for men and women, each with showers and changing areas. Lockers require a £1 coin (refundable) or your own padlock. You will also find showers in the family changing rooms and an accessible shower cubicle with a seat (www.aliss.org ). Remember to bring a towel and toiletries if you plan to shower, or you can usually hire towels and caps at reception for a small charge.
Is Alness Leisure Centre fully wheelchair-accessible?
Yes. The centre is designed for full accessibility. There are ramps into the building and a lift between floors. All main areas (pool, gym, studio) have step-free access. The poolside is reached by a gently sloping ramp, and wheelchairs can reach the viewing areas. Accessible toilets and hoist-equipped changing facilities are provided (www.aliss.org ). Staff are accustomed to assisting visitors with mobility needs – just ask at reception if you need any help or special arrangements.
What should I bring and wear for my visit?
For swimming: bring a swimming costume (or shorts), towel, swim cap and goggles if you use them. Street clothes or jeans are not allowed in the pool. Most people also bring flip-flops or sandals for walking on poolside tiles. For gym or classes: wear comfortable sports clothing and indoor trainers. No jeans or boots in the gym; shirts and shorts/leggings should cover modestly. Always bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, and of course a form of payment or membership card. It’s also smart to rehydrate and shower before entering the pool, as per pool rules.
Can I bring my child without swimming experience?
Children who cannot swim unassisted are allowed only in the family changing rooms or designated family swims, and must always be supervised by an adult in the water. Generally the rule is that kids under eight must have a competent adult (someone who can swim) with them. For very young or novice swimmers, there are dedicated “Kids Swim” or “Family Fun Swim” sessions where floats and life vests are provided. Normal lane swim sessions are reserved for good swimmers.
Where is the nearest bus stop and train station?
The closest bus stops are on Dalmore Road/High Street in Alness, served by Stagecoach routes (e.g. the Inverness-Alness 25). The stops are around an 800m walk from the centre. Alness railway station (Far North Line, ScotRail) is about 1 mile away on Station Road (IV17 0SE). It has step-free access and a small car park (www.scotrail.co.uk ). From the station or bus stop, it’s a 10–20 minute level walk to Alness Academy Drive. You can also catch a local taxi from there to the centre if needed.
Is there a swimming timetable or public lane timetable available?
Yes. The centre publishes a weekly timetable showing public swims (family swim, open lane swim, fun sessions) and all classes. Typically, “fun sessions” (casual pool play) occur in weekend mornings, lined-up sessions are in the evenings, and early mornings are often lane-swims for adults. The current schedule is posted online on the High Life Highland site (see the Alness page) and on a noticeboard at reception. Always check it before you go, as hours change during school terms, holidays and maintenance closures.
Does Alness Leisure Centre host birthday parties?
Yes. You can book pool or sports hall parties for birthdays through the centre. Typically these packages include pool time or hall hire plus use of the changing rooms for presents/eating. Pool party slots often run in the early evening or weekend afternoons. It’s best to reserve these well in advance (they are popular on Saturdays). Call the centre’s bookings line for details on the current party packages and costs.
Are there any age or dress restrictions?
There is no formal dress code beyond appropriate attire. Swimmers must wear swimwear without metal (no underwire), and non-swimmers should cover up if they are near the pool. For gym and classes, athletic clothing is expected (no ripped jeans, no bare torsos). As for age, children under 16 are welcome, but those under 8 must be accompanied by an adult in the pool. Gym users under 16 must stick to teen classes; free weights and machines otherwise require a parent present if under 16. Also, for safety, any swimming teachers or lifeguards on duty may require non- or weak swimmers to stay in designated shallow areas.
Is mobile phone or Wi-Fi available inside?
The centre does not generally offer public Wi-Fi to visitors. You can use your mobile phone (in reception or lobby) where signal permits. In the pool hall phones often have spotty service under the roof, so if you need to text or calls do that in the foyer. Note: Flash photography is discouraged in all areas, and most visitors avoid using their phones in pool sessions to respect others’ privacy and safety.
Can I store my belongings securely?
Yes. Coin-operated lockers are available in the changing rooms for swimmers, and also near the gym. Each locker fits a bag or coat and uses a £1 refundable key. It’s strongly recommended to use them, as loose items can easily get wet or misplaced on poolside. There is no staffed coat check, but small personal items (wallet, keys, phone) can be handed to reception if you prefer. The centre is not responsible for lost valuables, so lock them up or keep an eye out.
What fitness equipment is in the gym?
The fitness suite has a full range of Technogym machines (www.highlifehighland.com ) (www.highlifehighland.com ). Expect cardio equipment (treadmills, upright and recumbent bikes, cross-trainers, rowing machines) and over a dozen resistance machines (leg press, chest press, rowing erg, etc.). Free weights bench (up to 30kg dumbbells), squat rack, and cable machines are also provided. New users must do a safety induction with staff, after which the equipment is available for use anytime within the open hours. If you need training tips, personal trainers are available by appointment (ask at reception).
