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) ; concession/community groups pay less. Holiday camps (e.g. soccer camp) are typically ~£15/day or £70/week . 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 . 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 . 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) .
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 . 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 . 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 . 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 . 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 , 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 . 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 . 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.
