Events at DISC: Dundee International Sports Centre, Dundee

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29 August 2021 Sunday / 09:30 AM

DISC: Dundee International Sports Centre, Dundee

About DISC: Dundee International Sports Centre

Dundee International Sports Complex (commonly called DISC) is a major multi-sport centre owned by Dundee City Council and run by Leisure & Culture Dundee. Located on Mains Loan (postcode DD4 7AA (www.dundeecity.gov.uk)), it offers a large indoor sports hall, modern gym and fitness studios, plus extensive outdoor facilities. The main sports hall is big enough to host national and even international competitions (www.visitscotland.com) – a fact that earned the venue its “International” name. DISC has a state-of-the-art gym and cycle studio with Life Fitness equipment, as well as a dance studio and gymnasium (www.visitscotland.com) (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). Outside there are floodlit pitches: a full-sized sand-based 3G artificial turf pitch for football and rugby, and a water-based hockey pitch (www.activedundee.co.uk) (www.visitscotland.com). Because of this mix of facilities, DISC is one of the most versatile sports centres in Scotland. It welcomes all ages and abilities – from local school groups and community clubs to elite athletes – with programmes ranging from casual exercise classes to high-level tournaments (www.activedundee.co.uk) (secure.leisureandculturedundee.com). As part of Dundee’s sport infrastructure, DISC has historical importance. For example, it hosted the 2016 European Ladies Indoor Hockey Championships (sometimes called a European Cups event) (secure.leisureandculturedundee.com), and later the EuroHockey Indoor Club Cup, bringing top European hockey teams to Dundee (secure.leisureandculturedundee.com) (www.thecourier.co.uk). Those big events put DISC on the map, but on a daily basis it’s best known as a friendly community hub – where teams play basketball, netball, badminton, futsal, and other court sports (www.visitscotland.com) (www.euansguide.com), and where roller-derby teams also train (a rare use of the hall in Scotland (www.euansguide.com)). Architecturally, DISC is a functional modern sports building. It doesn’t have dramatic architecture, but it is crisply maintained and easily recognised by its “DISC” signage. Inside, the layout maximises flexibility. The high-ceiling sports hall can be quickly re-marked for basketball hoops, badminton nets, five-a-side pitches, volleyball courts or gymnastics. The gym and studios are bright and open. Overall, DISC’s combination of international-standard pitches and everyday community sports rooms makes it unique in the Dundee area. It matters to the local scene because it supports grassroots activity (schools and clubs use it heavily) while also hosting the occasional big sporting showcase. For locals it’s been a key part of Dundee’s sport and health scene for decades – a place where people stay active and where the city’s sports pride (like the under-18s hockey team or the Dundee Roller Derby club) can thrive (secure.leisureandculturedundee.com) (www.euansguide.com).

Events and Programming

DISC is primarily a sports and fitness venue, so the “programming” is mostly sport and exercise. Week by week you’ll find a full schedule of group classes and club activities. This includes regular gym classes like Zumba, Les Mills BodyPump, yoga and aerobics, plus specialist sessions for different sports. The indoor cycle studio, for example, runs spin and “work>>out” biking classes every week (www.leisureandculturedundee.com) (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). The wider gym offers 20+ classes each week (Pilates, circuits, bootcamps, etc) and is open from early morning to late evening (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). The sports hall sees youth clubs and adult leagues year-round – local basketball, netball, badminton and futsal teams book court time. In school holidays DISC typically runs children’s sports day camps (football camps are very popular, about £15 a day or £70 a week (www.leisureandculturedundee.com)) and multi-activity courses that keep the kids busy. DISC also hosts special events. The Dundee City Disability Sport “Discovery Games” has used DISC as a venue. In 2022, for instance, the 23rd annual Discovery Games used DISC for two events (3×3 wheelchair basketball on 11 Sept and boccia on 17 Sept) as part of a city-wide disabled sports festival (scottishdisabilitysport.com) (scottishdisabilitysport.com). In addition, national or regional competitions are staged there. A standout event was the EuroHockey Indoor Club Cup (a top European club tournament) held at DISC in early 2019 (www.thecourier.co.uk), after the city had successfully hosted the European Ladies Indoor Hockey Championships in 2016 (secure.leisureandculturedundee.com). Even media sports programmes have visited: in 2016 the BBC held its “Active Academy” (a sports workshop for pupils) at DISC (secure.leisureandculturedundee.com). Recurring booked events include university and school sports (Dundee University and Morgan Academy use the hall for curricular PE). The venue is also available to book for parties and corporate team-building through the council/Active Dundee site. Overall, from grassroots sports and fitness classes to mid-size championships, DISC sees something almost every day. Most of these are included in the price of membership or pay-as-you-go fees (except one-off camps or tournaments which may charge separately). Admission is generally free for spectators at local matches (clubs often host parents/friends without charge), though special tournaments might have small entry fees (for example, Discovery Games events were £5 per event (scottishdisabilitysport.com)). Repeat visitors will find a reliably busy but well-run programme: classes need booking (especially holiday camps and spin classes) to guarantee a spot (www.leisureandculturedundee.com), while some drop-in activities (gym, studio classes with capacity) run first-come first-served. Pricing varies by activity: for example, hiring the full sports hall costs about £62 per hour (standard rate) and a half-court £50 (www.activedundee.com), whereas gym and classes are covered under membership or small session fees (Active Dundee memberships average £20–£32 per month).

Tickets and Booking

As a public sports centre, DISC does not have a traditional box office. You don’t buy “concert tickets” there, but you do book space for classes or rent courts. For adults and youth attending fitness classes or using the gym, you simply purchase a day pass or membership in advance. Active Dundee membership (online or at any council-run leisure facility) gives full access, whereas non-members can pay per session. Special holiday camps and structured sessions (like tennis lessons or football camp) must be pre-booked online or by phone via Active Dundee (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). For example, the summer football camp requires booking in advance at about £15 per day (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). It’s best to buy these popular slots early – they often sell out. There is no on-site “ticket office” for events; instead, call the centre or use the online booking portal for all activities. Ticket prices per se are mostly free – except where applicable to charity tournaments or competitions. For instance, Charity Swimarathons or Discovery Games may charge a nominal entry fee (about £5 per event for Discovery Games (scottishdisabilitysport.com)) rather than typical sports participation. If an international or regional tournament is held at DISC (like the EuroHockey tournaments in 2016/2019), these events are usually announced publicly and sometimes offer refreshments or programmes, but still generally have free spectator admission in line with most field hockey tournaments. There are no “standing/advanced online ticket” rules like a theatre; you simply arrive and the event (if open) is free to watch. For groups wanting to use the facilities (clubs, schools or companies), the process is to book rooms or fields through the online timetable or by contacting DISC direct. Booking confirmations and facility access are handled by Active Dundee staff. There are no external third-party ticket agencies involved – everything is direct. In practice, “tickets” only arise if you sign up for a paid course (e.g., “football coach John McGregor – children’s camp”) which then may provide a digital voucher or receipt. Otherwise, entry is by showing a membership card or paying at reception. No advanced “VIP” or reserved seat packages exist, as seating is mostly open (see next section).

Seating and Layout

The core of DISC’s layout is its versatile open-plan design. The main hall is a high-ceilinged room with multiple sports markings. There is ample open floor space but no fixed rows of seats. For spectators at events like hockey or roller sports, temporary bench seating is often wheeled in along the walls. The best spots to watch are usually at the sides of the courts or near the official scorer’s table (for hockey matches) – these provide the clearest lines of sight. Because there are no permanent grandstands, audiences are limited in size. However, for indoor tournaments hundreds of fans can be accommodated standing or sitting around the edges of the hall. The dance and activity studio contains mirrors and usually a wooden floor, so anyone watching dance or fitness classes can stand along the mirrored wall. If you want a front-row view for a spin class, arrive early to use one of the stationary bikes in front of the big screen. The fitness gym has views of most machines and free-weight areas; typically people facing the treadmills or bikes can also see the rest of the gym space. In terms of acoustics and lighting, DISC is purely functional: bright overhead lights illuminate the hall and studios, and sound is pumped through ceiling speakers or the indoor cycle system as needed for classes. For example the indoor cycle room has special “performance” lighting and a pro audio system to enhance workouts (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). Outside fields have floodlights so matches can go into the evening. There is no formal auditorium lighting or stage – this is not a concert venue – but sports lighting is very even, so there aren’t harsh shadows or blind spots. Sightlines are mostly unobstructed: the concourse around the sports hall is level, and the only viewing obstacles may be equipment (volleyball posts, etc.) set up for certain activities. One unusual feature is that DISC can convert between different sports layouts quickly. For instance, the full sports hall can split into netball courts or 2–4 badminton courts. Because of this, seats can move too: for larger events, extra folding chairs might be brought in on the side. If you are attending a public game, look for the chairs or bleachers near the entrance of the hall. Children’s classes and after-school clubs often use the center portion of the court, so the perimeter is free for parents to lean on the wall. In general, there aren’t “bad seats” – if you’re close enough to hear what’s happening, you’ll understand a basketball game or karate class just fine.

Getting There and Parking

DISC sits at Mains Loan, just west of Dundee city centre (www.dundeecity.gov.uk). Its postcode (DD4 7AA) will take you right to the centre on most satnavs. By car, head for Lochee Road and turn onto Mains Loan. There is a large free car park behind the building (www.accessable.co.uk). Parking is free for everyone – pay-and-display is not used, and you don’t need to reserve a spot. Blue Badge holders have three designated accessible spaces in the main lot; each bay is about 3.2m × 5.4m (www.accessable.co.uk), with a gently sloping ramp up to the entrance for easy wheelchair access. The car park is open-air but well lit after dark. If those spots are full, there is additional parking next to the outdoor pitches, just a short walk around the side (www.accessable.co.uk). Altogether there are dozens of spaces, so arriving early still usually finds parking even on busy evenings. Public transport is easy too. Many bus routes serve the Mains Loan area. For example, Xplore Dundee’s Route 23 (the Woodside Circular) stops at Clepington Road opposite DISC (look for the “Mains Loan” bus stop) on frequent service (www.xploredundee.com). Stagecoach also runs services 10, 20, 21 and 21A through the West End that stop nearby (these buses run from the city centre past Blackness Road/Lochee Road towards Whitfield). From the city centre it’s only a 5–7 minute ride. The main Lochee Road shopping area is about 10 minutes’ walk away along Clepington Road if you prefer. If you’re using rideshare or taxi, the drop-off zone is right at the front entrance of the complex on Mains Loan. Taxis will queue on Mains Loan outside the building, and you can easily step straight into the foyer from the curb. By bicycle or on foot, DISC connects to several popular routes. There are bike racks at the rear of the centre next to the car park, and the walk from town is downhill via Lochee Road. The official website notes the venue is “less than 10 minutes from the city centre” by car and is easily accessible by bus, car or foot (www.leisureandculturedundee.com).

Inside the Venue

Stepping through the automatic front doors, you’ll find a bright reception area where staff welcome all visitors. For everyday use, you don’t need a ticket – members “swipe in” and non-members can pay at the desk or sign a waiver for drop-in activities. The main lobby has a row of lockers, including some lowered lockers for convenience, located just inside the entrance (www.accessable.co.uk). These coin-operated lockers (or key-return lockers) are handy for stashing coats and bags as you change. The reception counter is a medium-height desk about 4m from the door (www.accessable.co.uk), made for easy access (there’s step-free level entry from the door (www.accessable.co.uk)). Staff at reception can give you a key or token for a locker, explain the daily schedule, and issue refunds if needed. Inside, DISC has a friendly and straightforward atmosphere – think bright corridors tiled in mild colours, line-marked floors, and motivational posters on the walls. Ventilation and heating keep the large spaces comfortable year-round, so it feels airy in winter or cool in summer. Keep in mind that DISC is primarily a sports facility, not a club or café, so you won’t see plush lounge areas. Seating is functional: a few benches are along corridor walls and in the sports hall for short rests, but most people stand or use the wall when waiting. The club floor (gym) and indoor cycle studio are particularly impressive. The gym was newly refurbished with modern Life Fitness equipment (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). You’ll find treadmills, cross trainers, bikes, and rowers along the windows, plus weight machines (Smith machine, pull-down, leg machines etc) and a free-weight area for serious workouts (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). Adjacent to the gym is the indoor cycling room: it’s a darkened space with immersive lighting and a giant screen, filled with IC6 Wattbike stations. This classroom plays instructor-led spin classes and even virtual sessions when no live class is scheduled (www.leisureandculturedundee.com) (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). A pro-quality sound system thumps music throughout the cycle studio, so it definitely feels like taking a high-energy class (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). Outside of class times, members can hop on any bike and play on-demand workout videos on the screen. For sports hall users, the layout is simple: you enter through double doors into the big hall (which typically smells faintly of rubber gym mats). The hall has curtains for dividing it into two halves or more, depending on the activity. A basketball hoop, netball rings, or volleyball standard might be in place if those sports are running. There are wall-mounted wall-bars (for climbing exercises) and wall mats in one corner. Changing areas for the sports hall and gym are down a corridor opposite reception. The main changing rooms are about 15m from the entrance and have showers (www.accessable.co.uk). One of the sets of showers in the reception-area changing room is step-free, making it easier for someone in a wheelchair (www.accessable.co.uk). However, most showers (in other changing areas) do have a small step into the cubicle (www.accessable.co.uk), so if you need a level shower it’s best to use the one right by reception. There are separate male and female changing rooms (with lockers and benches) provided in both the hall wing and gym wing (www.accessable.co.uk) (www.accessable.co.uk). Showers and standard toilets are found inside those changing rooms. Regarding comfort and amenities: there is no full-service café, but a small drinks/snacks stand is sometimes set up at busy times (for example, at city tournament days). Otherwise the centre expects most people to bring their own water bottle. The policy requires indoor trainers only (to protect the floors), and typically no glass bottles are allowed – plastic bottles or sports flasks are OK. Gyms normally provide paper towel rolls, and you are asked to wipe down machines after use. Coat racks or shelves are not specially noted except inside lockers; so keep your personal belongings secured in a locker or on you. As for connectivity, there is no public Wi-Fi system widely advertised, so assume you’ll have to use your mobile data. That said, phone reception is generally fine in the building. Emergency alarms, fire exits and first-aid points are clearly signed. The entire venue is smoke-free. Photography by the public is not officially restricted, but it’s uncommon to see people casually taking photos in a sports centre – simply be respectful of people’s privacy if you do. Finally, DISC is well set up for accessibility. As noted, the entrance is flat and wide. The reception desk is tall but has a lower section on the side for wheelchair users (www.accessable.co.uk). Wide corridors lead to all main halls and studios, and doors generally open inwards to maximise clear opening width (www.accessable.co.uk). Accessible toilets are near reception and have rapid-entry doors (no key needed) with Braille/tactile signage (www.accessable.co.uk). The accessible toilet has plenty of space (2.5m x 2.2m) with grab rails and a right-hand transfer shower area (www.accessable.co.uk) (www.accessable.co.uk). A dedicated accessible shower (with adjustable head and seat) sits inside the same unit (www.accessable.co.uk). Overall, a wheelchair user should find the main spaces navigable (with assistance on the small ramp from the car park if needed (www.accessable.co.uk)).

Nearby Amenities

Although DISC is slightly outside the downtown, there are plenty of convenience spots nearby. First, right on Lochee Road (just 5–10 minutes’ walk east) is the heart of Dundee’s West End shopping. West Henderson Street has cafés, a bakery, and quick food shops. Sandy’s Bar – a historic, no-frills pub – is located in Lochee just a few blocks east (www.thecourier.co.uk), catering to locals with reasonably priced pub food and drinks. Just beyond that is a cluster of fast-food and takeaway outlets: you’ll find a pizza/takeaway shop, an Indian take-away and a small kiosk with hot snacks. If you walk a little further towards Tannadice (2–3 blocks east along North Balunie Road), there are a couple of well-known eateries (for example, Grassmarket Bar & Kitchen or The Foundry), though these are 1–2 miles away and often take ~10 minutes by car. For more substantial dining, the city centre is under a 10-minute drive (www.leisureandculturedundee.com) (or about 30 minutes on foot). In town you have everything from coffee shops (Costa, Starbucks) and sandwich bars to bars/restaurants (The Quay, Abercromby’s, etc.) and ethnic restaurants (Sarabha or Tapeo around Dudhope Terrace). Hotels are mainly in the centre: the boutique Malmaison (a steakhouse hotel) and the Highlander or Premier Inn by Seabraes are the closest, all about 2 miles away. The large Dundee Leisure and Culture complex (with Olympia pool and Dundee Ice Arena) is adjacent to DISC, so if you need swimming or ice-skating that’s just next door. Right opposite the venue (on Lochee Road) you’ll also see major shops like Aldi and Co-op for groceries and snacks. There’s a pharmacy open in the area, plus a petrol station about a mile on Balgowan Road if you need to fill up or grab juice. Public conveniences (toilets) are not found outside at DISC, so plan any bathroom breaks for on-site facilities. For convenience: arriving early, you could easily combine a trip to DISC with errands. For example, park at DISC and walk to Tesco or Lidl in the Lochee Gate complex (about 5 minutes east on Lochee Road). Cafés like Mains Loan Café are very near (directly across the road and under the railway bridge) for a quick coffee. Bank machines (ATM) can be found at Mains Loan Pharmacy right by the entrance. In summary, while DISC is on the western fringe of Dundee, it is surprisingly well served by basic amenities in every direction: shops and takeaways in Lochee (east), student eateries near the university (south-east), and big shops/hotels/culture in the city centre to the south-east (www.leisureandculturedundee.com) (www.thecourier.co.uk). Simply put, you can grab a sandwich or pint before or after an activity without straying far. And public transit or a short drive gets you to the city’s main restaurants and pubs whenever you need a larger selection.

What Makes This Venue Special

DISC may not have the classic “theatre vibe,” but it’s a special place in its own way. Its uniqueness stems from being a one-stop sports hub with national-level facilities right in Dundee. Very few city sports centres can boast a full-size water-based hockey pitch AND state-of-the-art indoor training areas – DISC can. Because of this, it has hosted sporting milestones. In 2016 Dundee saw European women’s hockey stars battle each other at DISC (secure.leisureandculturedundee.com), the first time in 20 years a Championship-level hockey event was in Dundee. Then again in 2019 DISC hosted the top European Indoor Clubs. These “club cup” tournaments brought teams from across Europe, including a few players from Ukraine, to this modest town (www.thecourier.co.uk). This kind of high-level competition is so rare for northern Scotland that it built a legacy: local hockey clubs and fans still talk about those events. On the city scene, DISC’s cultural significance is in sports for everyone. For an example of a smaller but meaningful moment, note that Roller Derby Dundee (a grassroots skater club) uses DISC’s hard-surfaced hall – a nod to the centre’s community reach (www.euansguide.com). The leisure trust even pointed out that DISC’s cyclestudio hosts evening classes with club-style lighting and sound that people line up for. Meanwhile, fans of disability sports remember the annual Discovery Games visits with bright medals at DISC – those Games “Discovery Games return in 2022” even after COVID disruptions (scottishdisabilitysport.com) (scottishdisabilitysport.com). Architecturally the building itself might not set pulses racing, but functionally it stands out. The large glass windows and white paneled exterior are understated, yet inside the feel is energetic – from bouncing basketballs in the hall to pounding techno in spin class. Also, because DISC opened in the mid-1980s (originally as part of a city-wide push for post-industrial recreation), its presence fizzled reshaping that part of Lochee Road. It connects with other sports sites (just next door is the Olympia pool/mini-velodrome site) to form Dundee’s sports quarter. Locals sometimes refer to all that (including DISC) as the “Sports Plaza.” From an athlete’s point of view, DISC’s specialness is the quality of training it offers close to home. One gymnastics coach noted that youth development squads use DISC for training, so you get an upgraded facility without travelling to Edinburgh or Aberdeen. The building keeps dancers, gym-goers and ball-players under one roof, which is rare – that synergy attracts dedicated people. In short, athletes love DISC for its equipment and versatility; audiences like it for its friendly, inclusive community vibe. It’s basically Dundee’s flagship sports venue. Many consider it a point of pride when Dundee “punches above its weight” by hosting something like a European champs. For the everyday visitor, people say the staff are energetic (“waiting to welcome you!”) and the centre feels well looked after (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). For anyone interested in local culture, DISC represents Dundee’s longstanding love of grassroots sport. It isn’t a flashy performance theatre, but it has seen hundreds of “personal record” moments and a few championship wins. That history and character is what makes the place special, beyond just the machines and pitches.

Visitor Tips and Information

**Accessibility & Entry:** DISC is designed for inclusivity. Arriving by car? Use the accessible parking spots (no booking needed) and take the wide ramp at the rear of the building (www.accessable.co.uk) (www.euansguide.com). The main entrance has automatic double doors. Wheelchair users are welcome – the route from the car park to the front door is mostly ramped and accessible (www.accessable.co.uk). Inside, the main reception desk has a lowered section for self-advocates or wheelchair users (www.accessable.co.uk). Hearing assistance devices are available on request from staff. **What to Bring:** Dress in comfortable sports clothing and non-marking indoor trainers. If you plan to use the gym or court shoes, remember to avoid muddy or scuffed footwear. Bring a water bottle – there may be water fountains, but it’s safest to carry your own. For the whirlpool and sauna areas (if going to the adjacent pool), bring swimwear and towels. A small (lockable) bag is fine – DISC has lockers (found just inside the entrance) for your belongings (www.accessable.co.uk). You’ll need a £1 coin or key for coin-operated lockers, so carry change. Towels, shampoo and soap can be bought cheaply from the front desk. Because it’s primarily a sports centre, don’t expect a coat check beyond these lockers. **Membership and Fees:** If you plan repeated visits, consider a Leisure & Culture Dundee or Active Dundee membership (available from the website or reception); these can save money if you come often. Otherwise, you can just “pay as you go” on entry (e.g., a standard day pass for the gym/hall on weekdays is modest, around a few pounds; concession rates are lower). Family and youth passes exist too. If you have any membership card (LeisureActive, Culture... etc.), remember to bring it each visit. Popular classes or holiday camps must be booked online in advance to guarantee a place (www.leisureandculturedundee.com) – so don’t just show up on a Monday expecting to slip into the next fitness class without signing up. **Check the timetable:** Always double-check the schedule before going. The DISC website and noticeboards list all happening that day. DISC does periodic maintenance closures in holidays: for example, it closed for two weeks (4th–18th July 2023) to replace equipment systems (www.thecourier.co.uk). The centre tries to announce such closures well in advance, but it’s wise to call or check news (social media or council site) before travelling during summer break or late December. The daily hours are 7.30am–10.00pm Mon–Fri, 7.30am–6.00pm Sat, and 7.30am–9.00pm Sun (www.activedundee.com). **Common rules:** DISC has a normal sports centre dress code: no jeans or open-toed shoes in the gym/sports hall. Clean trainers only, please. Shirts/tops are expected (gym equipment is generally not used shirtless except at user’s discretion). No glass bottles, and alcohol is, of course, not allowed on site. Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is banned inside and on the immediate grounds. People often overlook it, but wipe down equipment after use (towels are usually provided). The centre can search bags if needed, especially during big events, so don’t bring large valuables. For safety, kids under 8 must have a supervising adult with them if they are using any facility (gyms usually do not allow very young children in the workout area). In general the atmosphere is casual, but muddy or wet footwear outside can make floors slippery – watch your step inside if it’s raining. **What to Expect:** Staff and instructors are friendly and expect everyone to just get on with the session. You won’t see a red carpet or usher; treat DISC like a university sports hall – participants train hard, but the staff will politely answer questions (you may find them at the cycle studio before a spin class, or at the gym desk during gym hours). If you’re coming for a class, arrive 5–10 minutes early to check in, stretch, and set up any pedals. The main foyer has benches – if you need to tie shoelaces or have a quick snack, it’s OK to use those for a minute. Fire exits (green running-man signs) are at multiple points around the building – touring parties often show newcomers the route in case of emergency. **Connectivity and Phones:** DISC does not widely advertise free WiFi, so bring a data plan if you need the internet. Mobile signal inside is usually good (there are no underground sections or thick vaults). You may keep your phone in your pocket or locker. Sports photography by spectators is generally fine (lots of hockey parents take snaps), but always get permission if you plan to post pictures of other people. The indoor cycle classes encourage music, so many attendees wear headphones; others will have their phone docked on the bike’s tablet holder. Watch out for pinch points – finger injuries can happen in turning machines or folding gym equipment. **Age and Access:** There is no strict “age limit” for general admission, but under-16s usually need to be supervised in the fitness areas. Teenagers aged 12–15 can use the gym only if they have done a gym induction or have a parent/guardian present – something the staff will ask. Children’s sports classes (like kids’ dance or gymnastics) are age-appropriate. Double-check if bringing a child: for example, family gym time may not be offered, so plan to send kids to a class instead of letting them roam the gym floor. Footwear for children is important: either indoor shoes or bare feet if the class requires it. **Insider tip:** For extra motivation, note that DISC’s indoor cycle studio lets you drop in on video workouts when classes end (www.leisureandculturedundee.com) – so you can pretend you have a virtual instructor if the schedule has a gap. Also, find out about “LeisureActive” cards: they offer small discounts on swims and gym sessions. Lastly, don’t forget to try the big glass-fronted foyer – it offers a nice view of the 3G pitch when the sun is setting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the admission fees and pricing tiers at DISC?

Daily and membership passes cover access to the gym and most fitness classes. Adult membership (Active Dundee) is about £20–£30/month, youth and concession rates are lower. Pay-as-you-go gym entry is a few pounds per session. Hiring the sports hall for clubs costs around £62/hour (standard rate) (www.activedundee.com); concession/community groups pay less. Holiday camps (e.g. soccer camp) are typically ~£15/day or £70/week (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). No door sales for spectator events – most public sports games are free to watch.

How do I book a class or camp at DISC?

All activities (gyms, classes, camps) can be booked online via the Active Dundee website or App. You create an account, choose DISC, and pick your session. Always book popular classes (spin, yoga, kids camps) early to secure a spot (www.leisureandculturedundee.com). You can also call the centre or drop in and ask reception staff to book on the spot (if not full). Day passes and memberships are also set up through the same portal. Walk-ins may be accepted in gym sessions if space allows, but classes generally require pre-booking.

What is the seating plan or best place to watch an event at DISC?

DISC’s sports hall has no fixed seats. Spectators stand or sit on portable benches around the edges. For the best view, position yourself along the side lines of the court/centre circle. Near the scorer’s table end provides good visibility for hockey. Since layouts change, try to arrive early and find a spot at the side you prefer. Wheelchair users can stay at floor level. In studio classes (dance or spinning), stand or sit behind the last bike/station for a clear sightline. Note: the venue is designed for sports, so expect a more informal setup than an auditorium.

Is parking available at Dundee International Sports Centre, and is it free?

Yes – DISC offers a large free car park at the rear (off Mains Loan). There is no charge, and no permit needed; just park and come in. For drivers with disabilities, three Blue Badge bays are provided close to the entrance (www.accessable.co.uk) (www.euansguide.com). Overflow parking is also available beside the outdoor pitches. Early visitors will have no trouble finding a space even during evenings or weekends. The lot is open air but well-lit. The only time parking is disrupted has been during complete closures (e.g. mid-July maintenance) (www.thecourier.co.uk).

Which buses or public transport serve DISC?

Multiple Dundee bus routes stop near DISC’s entrance on Mains Loan. Xplore Dundee’s 23C (Woodside Circular) serves “Clepington Road at Mains Loan” about every 30 minutes (www.xploredundee.com). Stagecoach routes 10, 20, 21 and 21A from the city centre also stop within a short walk (these run via Lochee Road). If you arrive at Lochee Road, simply walk west up Church Road/Mains Loan for a 5-minute walk. The Dundee-to-Broughty Ferry buses (e.g. Xplore 73) also pass nearby. No train station is close by (Dundee Station is ~2 miles away); taxis or buses from that station can drop you at Lochee Road or Mains Loan stop.

Are DISCs facilities wheelchair accessible?

Yes, DISC is wheelchair-accessible throughout. There are ramps and an automatic main door for step-free entry. The route from the parking to the main reception is accessible (www.accessable.co.uk). Inside, the reception desk has a lower section, and all corridors to the gym, studios and hall are step-free. Accessible toilet facilities (with grab bars) are available near reception (www.accessable.co.uk). One changing room shower is also fully step-free. Staff at reception can guide you to these facilities. Generally, wheelchair users can navigate the building with ease (some minor ramps might need a helper).

What are the changing room and shower facilities like?

DISC has multiple changing rooms with showers. The main changing areas are opposite reception (15m from the entrance) and at the sports hall end (www.accessable.co.uk) (www.accessable.co.uk). All feature individual shower cubicles with warm water, although most have a small step up into the shower (solia note). However, one changing room at reception has a fully step-free shower unit (www.accessable.co.uk), which is easier for those with mobility needs. Lockers and benches are provided. Separate male and female facilities are available, each including toilets. Towels and lockers keys can be bought at reception. One tip: bring flip-flops or shower shoes since the floor can get wet.

Is there food or drink on site at DISC?

DISC itself has only a small kiosk and water cooler setup – you’ll mainly need to bring your own snacks or use drink vending machines (if available) in the foyer. There is no full-service cafeteria. In practice, many visitors eat beforehand or after leaving. Nearby Lochee Road has plenty of takeaways and cafés (sandwich shops, an Indian restaurant, etc.) within a few minutes’ walk. Also, there are cafés and fast-food chains in the city centre 5–10 minutes’ drive away. Don’t forget to bring a refillable water bottle – drinking fountains or bottled water are the norm. No outside alcohol is allowed on premises, and food is generally eaten in the cafe area or lobby to keep the sports halls clean.

What should I wear and bring for my session?

Dress in standard sports attire: non-marking gym shoes (trainers) and exercise clothes (t-shirt, shorts/leggings) are needed for the gym and courts. Cleats or rugby boots are OK on the outdoor pitches. Don’t wear jeans or street shoes indoors – it will be flagged by staff. Bring a towel if you plan to shower or if you’ll work up a sweat. Lockers (for which you’ll need a coin or key) are provided for personal items (www.accessable.co.uk). Also pack any sport-specific gear (swimsuit for adjacent pool, shin pads for football, etc.) ahead of time. Water bottle is a must for hydration. If you forget something minor, reception sells small items (water, snacks, basic toiletries). Lastly, bring any membership card or ID needed – if using a youth concession, you may need proof of age or student status.

Are cameras or phones allowed inside DISC?

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in public areas (like taking team photos after a match), but filming during classes or games should be done respectfully. Always avoid filming other people without their consent. Phones may be used quietly for music (especially in the cycle studio or treadmill areas) or for photos, but remember to hydrate and keep safety in mind (don’t text while on equipment). There are no official dress restrictions on phones – just use them discreetly. The simpler rule: treat the space as you would a normal gym – snapping a photo at the wall mirror is fine, but no flash photography during sports events. If in doubt, ask a staff member.

What happens during holiday closures or maintenance at DISC?

From time to time, DISC will close for essential maintenance or upgrades (usually during school holiday lulls). For example, it was closed for two weeks in early July 2023 for system upgrades (www.thecourier.co.uk). During such closures all areas (gym, hall, pitches) will be off-limits, but usually bookings are re-routed to alternative Dundee facilities. If you plan a visit in late summer or around year-end, check the Leisure & Culture Dundee website or call ahead to confirm there’s no scheduled shutdown. They aim to announce any closures well in advance. If closed, staff will often offer to reroute your membership benefits (for instance, guests could be directed to other LACD centres like Harris Academy Sports Centre for the same period).

Is there free Wi-Fi or good phone reception at DISC?

DISC does not prominently advertise a free Wi-Fi network, so visitors should assume there is none. However, mobile phone reception in the building is generally good (weaker in some corner offices but fine in the main hall and foyer). If you need connectivity (to check schedules, stream music, etc.), plan to use your mobile data. Many people just use their smartphones on the songs or workout videos in the cycle studio or music in classes. In short: don’t rely on Wi-Fi; rely on your cellular plan.

Are young children allowed to use the gym or sports hall?

Children are welcome but must follow rules. Under-12s are not allowed to use the weight gym areas (for safety) and must be supervised. Many children (age 8–12) attend junior classes (like kids’ dance or gymnastics) with an instructor. Teenagers (13–15) can use the gym only if a parent signs them in or if they have done an induction. Unsupervised kids in open spaces isn’t permitted. If you’re bringing kids who just want to run around, make sure they’re in age-based sessions or supervised; otherwise staff may ask guardians to accompany them. The bottom line: DISC is family-friendly but expects adults to watch younger children and keep the sports areas safe for everyone.