About TRACC
TRACC – the Tain Royal Academy Community Complex – is a long-standing leisure and sports centre in Tain, Scotland, adjacent to the old Tain Royal Academy. It’s a multifunctional community hub (not a musical theatre) built in the 1970s and upgraded over time. Signature features include a 20×7m, four-lane *swimming pool* (the only pool in the area) (www.highlifehighland.com ) (www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk ), a large four-court *sports hall* for football, badminton, basketball and more (www.highlifehighland.com ), and a fully-equipped *fitness suite* with cardio machines, weights and training areas. There’s also a 60-seat *lecture theatre/auditorium* for talks or meetings (www.aliss.org ). By capacity it isn’t huge – the lecture hall seats up to 60 (www.aliss.org ) and the hall floor is open space able to host multiple courts – but it serves all ages. TRACC is run by Highland Council via High Life Highland, and for 50+ years it has been a “cornerstone” of the Easter Ross community (www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk ). Locals prize it for youth and adult sports, training classes and as a social meeting point.
Activities and Programming
TRACC is nearly always busy with fitness activities rather than concerts. It offers a comprehensive swim programme and sports schedule every week. For example, High Life Highland’s pool timetable includes toddler & parent sessions, child swim lessons (progressing from learners to swim school), adult classes and even private one-to-one coaching (www.highlifehighland.com ). Aquatic workouts (‘WaterWorks’ classes) and lane-swim slots fill the glass-fronted pool throughout the day. A “Teen Gym” programme encourages 12–15 year-olds with fun strength and cardio challenges (www.highlifehighland.com ). In the dry areas, there’s a full timetable of group classes – from high-energy Body Tone and-cycling to beginner-friendly Pilates, Yoga and the evidenced-based OTAGO balance class – covering mornings, evenings and weekends (www.highlifehighland.com ). Local clubs regularly use TRACC’s halls and pitch: for example junior football or badminton clubs book the sports hall courts, while senior teams use the floodlit all-weather pitch outside (artificial soccer field) for training. Community events also pop up at TRACC; in 2019 a charity rowing challenge drew 85 participants to “Row Loch Ness” on the indoor machines (www.highland.gov.uk ). Timed class passes and bookings are recommended: popular swim sessions and fitness classes can fill up, so book early online or at reception. There’s no box office – simply reserve a slot through High Life Highland or arrive and pay on the day if spaces remain.
Membership, Tickets and Booking
Access to TRACC is via membership or pay-as-you-go entry rather than traditional ticketing. Highland Council’s High Life scheme provides *unlimited access* membership (one monthly fee covering this and other Highland centres) (www.highland.gov.uk ). For example, when launched it was about £14.45 per month for an individual (around £20 for a family) (www.highland.gov.uk ) – current rates vary, so check with High Life Highland. Members simply show their card at reception each visit (www.highland.gov.uk ). Alternatively, casual users can pay for single-day admissions or individual activities at reception. Bookings for pool sessions, classes or hall hire are done through the High Life Highland website/app or by phone/at the desk. In-person booking is straightforward: just head to reception (no special box office). For popular classes and fitness programmes, membership holders often get priority, so buying a membership or signing up in advance is the best strategy. Generally, lessons (like children’s swimming or gym inductions) must be booked ahead; drop-in slots (family swims, general gym use) are available during opening hours subject to capacity.
Layout and Facilities
TRACC’s layout is functional and sports-focused. Visitors enter at reception (showing membership or paying on arrival) and can move between areas. To one side is the **swimming pool wing**: a 20m×7m pool with changing rooms and showers. Parents can watch lessons from benches by the poolside – there are no grandstands, so seating is informal along the wall. The **sports hall** is a spacious, multi-sport court area (floormarked for badminton, basketball, etc.) with high ceilings and floodlights. It has benches and mobile nets, but again no fixed tiered seating – spectators usually stand or sit on portable benches around the court (www.highlifehighland.com ). Above or adjacent is the **fitness suite** – an air-conditioned gym with treadmills, bikes, rowers and strength machines, plus a free-weights zone (learners must have an induction to use it). Down the hall is a **60-seat lecture theatre/auditorium** (tiered seating facing a stage) used for talks, community meetings and small events (www.aliss.org ). In addition there are classes studios and meeting rooms. Sufficient signage guides you to toilets, lockers and refreshments machines. Acoustics are normal gym ambience – echo in the big hall, faint music in fitness, and partial glass partition between pool and lobby. The centre is not open-air; everything (except the outdoor pitch) is under one roof, so weather won’t affect indoor activities.
Accessibility, Entry and Security
TRACC is designed to be broadly accessible and family-friendly. The pool area has *fully accessible changing rooms* and a mechanical hoist to help non-ambulatory visitors get in and out of the water (www.highlifehighland.com ). Wheelchair users can enter the building via ramped access or level doors, and there are designated disabled parking spaces near the front (the centre has its own free car park). All visitors check in at reception; membership cardholders “must present their cards” each visit (www.highland.gov.uk ). Staff are on-site as lifeguards, instructors and receptionists, so general security is low-key (no bag searches or metal detectors). Inside, families will find baby-changing tables and accessible toilets by the pool. As a rule for hygiene and safety, appropriate attire is required: swimwear in the pool, trainers for gym/core areas, and non-marking shoes in the sports hall. Photography or video of other patrons (especially children) is discouraged unless explicitly permitted for class recordings. The centre has CCTV in common areas (for safety) and first-aiders on duty during public hours. Emergency exits are well-marked, and during busy periods staff may limit numbers, so always give yourself extra minutes to sign in. For comfort, note that TRACC can be warm (if the pool heating is on) or brightly lit; lockers (usually coin-operated) are available to secure belongings, but consider bringing a lock in busy times.
Food, Drink and Amenities
Unlike some larger leisure complexes, TRACC has **no full café or restaurant on site**. Outside food is generally discouraged (to keep the centre clean) but you may bring non-alcoholic drinks and light snacks (there are vending machines for drinks and snacks near reception). There are chilled water fountains in the lobby/gym area. The changing rooms have showers, hair-dryers and lockers. If you need something like swim goggles or a t-shirt, there’s no shop in the building – come prepared with your own gear and cash/card. Free-of-charge Wi-Fi is not advertised (phone coverage indoors may be patchy), so plan calls or entertainment accordingly. A large noticeboard near reception displays timetables and the latest community news. In short, expect a straightforward sports-hall and pool atmosphere – bring a refillable water bottle and any sports-support items you need.”
Getting There and Parking
TRACC is located at **Tain Royal Academy, Hartfield Road, Tain IV19 1DX** (www.aliss.org ), on the eastern edge of Tain (the postcode helps GPS). The centre has its own customer car park at no charge – just park and use the lane to the entrance. Disabled bays are provided closest to the main door. If travelling by bus, Stagecoach Bluebird’s services (routes 25/25A and occasional X25) link Tain to Inverness, Alness, Dornoch and beyond; they stop on Tain’s High Street about 5 minutes’ walk away (bustimes.org ). By rail, the **Tain railway station** (ScotRail, station code TAI) is on Station Road (IV19 1JA), roughly 0.7km (about a 10-minute walk) south of TRACC (www.scotrail.co.uk ). Upon exiting the station, head northwest along Scotsburn Road and then a short stretch on Hartfield Road to reach the complex. For taxi or rideshare, local Tain taxi firms operate from town centre ranks – just ask any driver to take you to “Tain Royal Academy Complex (TRACC)”. If you’re cycling, there are bike racks by the entrance. Peak traffic is uncommon (Tain is small), but during busy swim class times or after evening events, the car park can fill; if it does, street parking on Scotsburn or Craighill Street (nearby neighbourhood roads) is free and safe. Always allow a little extra time to find a spot on summer weekends.
Inside TRACC
On entering, you’ll find reception and a seating zone for waiting. The overall atmosphere is relaxed, with families, students and seniors all mixing. You do **not** need tickets – just swipe in or pay on the spot. There is no cloakroom service, so leave unneeded coats on the rack or in lockers. Must-have items: if heading to the pool, bring your own swim kit, towel and waterproof bag. For the gym or classes, wear sportswear (no shoes on pool deck). Restrooms are by each zone (pool and gym), and there are baby-changing facilities in the ladies’ rooms. A common feature is that TRACC can be warm and humid near the pool; the gym and halls are well-ventilated and lit with fluorescent lights. The centre is usually busiest early morning and after school; if you want a quiet session, midday off-peak times are best. When you leave the pool, make sure to rinse off before exiting (there are showers & footbaths) to keep the deck clean. There is unlimited free tap water – bring a bottle. After your workout, dispose of rubbish in bins or take it with you. No snacks or hot drinks are sold inside, so some visitors go next door or up the road to one of Tain’s cafes or pubs for a post-workout bite. Remember, it’s a communal space, so help elderly or less-able patrons on lifts or around slippery spots. Staff are friendly and can assist with locker coins or any queries."
Nearby Amenities
Tain’s town centre is only a few minutes’ drive or a 15-minute walk from TRACC, and offers amenities for any visit. For food before or after your visit, local cafes and pubs line the High Street and Davidson’s Lane – for example, the St Duthus Hotel & Restaurant (Tower Street) has a well-regarded bar menu, and small cafés/restaurants serve sandwiches, soup, chips or pizza. There’s a Co-op (grocery) near the golf course entrance for quick snacks or drinks to go. Along High Street you’ll find pubs and takeaways; for a sit-down meal, consider booking at one of the B&Bs or guesthouses that offer dinner (book early in summer). The nearest large supermarket (Tesco) is 3km away by car if you need sport drinks or snacks. If you’re coming from farther afield, the closest hotels/inns include the historic St Duthus (0.3 miles) and a few B&Bs on Mini-Estate and Church Street (all within walking distance). The Duchess Anne High School (3 miles away) also has a small hotel and bar. After late sessions, be aware public transport tails off – the last Stagecoach bus usually leaves Tain town centre around 21:00–22:00. Taxis remain available and will drop you at our gate. (Hint : Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes ahead of your class time or appointment. This gives time to park, check in and get changed. Also, since TRACC joined the nationwide High Life membership scheme, you can combine a trip here with use of other Highland facilities on the same pass.)
What Makes This Venue Special
TRACC is not just another sports centre – it’s a beloved local institution. News stories often call it “priceless” and note that it’s the *area’s only community pool* (www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk ). Longtime residents recall learning to swim or first gym “pumping iron” here. In summer 2025, over 350 rallying locals packed a public meeting to demand its retention (www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk ), demonstrating that TRACC truly is the “cornerstone” of Tain’s community (www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk ) (www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk ). Even Olympic swimmer Hannah Miley (a Ross-shire native) weighed in, saying a “simple community pool” like this “pretty much changed the course of my life” (www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk ). Its distinctive mix – part school gym, part public leisure centre – has shaped generations. Architecturally it’s plain 1970s block design, but inside are stories and traditions. The fitness suite opening in 2006 (120 ton of new kit (www.highland.gov.uk )) was a big milestone, and local groups host anything from charity swimathons to badminton tournaments here. Artists, musicians or theatrical acts rarely headline at TRACC, but the centre has been the backdrop for school concerts, gala meetings and festive dinners. For sport and fitness fans, its comprehensive facilities and friendly vibe keep people coming back. Whether you’re training for the Highland games or teaching your toddler to swim, TRACC’s long history and everyman character – backed by ongoing community support – make it a special place in Tain. (www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk ) (www.highland.gov.uk )
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** The centre prides itself on being inclusive – the pool area has a hoist and ramp access (www.highlifehighland.com ). Wheelchair users should tell reception on arrival so staff can assist. Note that while the pool and main entrance are wheelchair-friendly, the sports hall and gym may have one or two steps at thresholds (ask if unsure). Accessible parking spots are nearest the door. Anyone needing assistance (e.g. a guide dog) will find staff happy to help. Space in changing rooms can be limited during peak times, so arrive a bit early. **What to Bring:** Pack your own towel, swim costume, goggles and water bottle. Gym-goers need trainers and a lock for the locker (it often takes a £1 coin). Signage does forbid street shoes on the pool deck. Most visitors find it handy to wear flip-flops at poolside to keep feet dry between pool and shower. **Age Rules:** Kids can use the pool at any supervised family or lessons times. In the fitness suite, users normally must be 16+ (14–15 year-olds can join with a special induction and parental consent – a programme set up in 2006 (www.highland.gov.uk )). Always supervise young children: little ones should stay in the shallow end and ideally bring arm-floats if not confident swimmers. **Etiquette:** The centre’s policy is relaxed but polite. Clean up after yourself in changing rooms; a compost-style waste bin is behind the pool desk for disposables. Silence your phone or stick to the lobby – cell service drops out by the pool. No glassware is brought near the water. Cameras are allowed in lobbies, but avoid filming other swimmers for privacy. **Common Mistakes:** Don’t forget your membership card or membership profile on the booking app, as entry must be scanned (www.highland.gov.uk ). Check which programme you’re signed up for – some classes of similar names meet in different studios. It’s wise to arrive at least 5 minutes before a booked class so you can store belongings and find the right room. If you have long hair, bring a swim cap for the pool (some sessions require it). Finally, if you suffer from asthma or heart conditions, notify a staff member before swimming for safety. With this pre-trip prep, your visit will be smooth, safe and most of all fun. Remember: TRACC welcomes everyone – come as you are and enjoy a bit of the local spirit!
What does TRACC stand for?
TRACC stands for Tain Royal Academy Community Complex . It’s the official name of the town’s sports and leisure centre attached to Tain Royal Academy. Locals simply call it “TRACC” or the “community centre,” and it includes facilities like a swimming pool, gym, sports hall and more (www.aliss.org ).
How much does it cost to use TRACC?
TRACC operates on a membership basis as part of Highland Council’s High Life scheme. Members get unlimited access (for example, an individual membership was about £14.45/month and family £19.99 back in 2006 (www.highland.gov.uk )). Non-members can pay on-the-spot (drop-in fees) for sessions or classes. Costs and payment methods can change over time, so it’s best to check the High Life Highland website or call reception for the latest prices.
What are the opening hours of TRACC?
TRACC is open seven days a week (except on some holidays). Typical hours are roughly: www.highlifehighland.com ). www.highlifehighland.com ). www.highlifehighland.com ). Because hours can vary (especially around Christmas or special events), always confirm via the official site or phone before you go.
Is there parking available at TRACC?
Yes – TRACC has its own free on-site car park for visitors. There are several parking bays right outside the main entrance. Disabled parking spaces are provided close to the building. If that lot fills, additional free street parking is usually available on nearby roads (like Scotsburn Road). Always lock your car when using leisure facilities.
How do I get to TRACC by public transport?
You have a couple of options. The train : Get off at Tain railway station (Station Road, Tain IV19 1JA (www.scotrail.co.uk )); from there it’s a 10 minute walk north along Academy (Scotsburn) Road to Hartfield Road. The bus : Stagecoach North Scotland routes 25/25A run through Tain (connecting Inverness, Alness, Dornoch, etc.). These stop on the High Street, about 0.3–0.5 miles from TRACC (bustimes.org ). Check local timetables (Stagecoach Bluebird) for specific times. You can also take any local bus to the town centre and walk up Scotsburn Road.
What are the main facilities and their sizes?
Key TRACC facilities include: a 20 m × 7 m, four-lane indoor swimming pool (www.highlifehighland.com ); a large indoor sports hall (divided into four courts for basketball, badminton, etc.) (www.highlifehighland.com ); a fully equipped fitness suite (gym); and a lecture/auditorium room seating up to 60 guests (www.aliss.org ). There’s also a floodlit outdoor all-weather pitch next to the building. The changing rooms and shower blocks serve both pool (wet side) and gym/hall (dry side).
Can I bring my child to the gym, or are there age restrictions?
Yes, but there are rules. The gym introduced special access for 14-15 year-olds after an induction course (formerly it was 16+ only) (www.highland.gov.uk ). Children under 14 generally cannot use the fixed gym equipment. Swimmers of any age can use the pool (different sessions for children/families vs. adults). If a teen or child will be alone, note that anyone under 16 should use the women’s/multi-use changing area for privacy, and under-8s must be accompanied in the pool (always check lifeguard rules). All kids under 16 on the gym floor require adult supervision or a qualified induction.
Are the facilities wheelchair-accessible?
Yes, TRACC makes efforts to be inclusive. The main entrance is ramped, and the swimming pool has specially adapted changing rooms and a hoist to help wheelchair users enter the water (www.highlifehighland.com ). The pool deck and one set of changing rooms are level with most pool activities. Other areas (gym, hall) have only minor thresholds. Accessible toilets are available. If you have mobility needs, inform reception when you arrive so staff can assist with any access or walking aid required.
Is there food or drink available at TRACC?
TRACC itself does *not* have a full cafeteria or canteen. There are vending machines selling snacks and cold drinks near reception, and water fountains to fill bottles. You won’t find hot meals there, so many visitors eat in town before/after their visit. For example, several cafés, pubs and takeaways are a short walk away in Tain’s centre. You may bring your own non-alcoholic drinks or snacks, but be mindful of keeping areas clean and dry (no glass). Also, everyone must shower before re-entering the pool for hygiene.
Where can I sit to watch someone at TRACC?
Spectating areas are informal. At the pool, parents and friends stand or sit on benches along the side of the pool deck. At the sports hall and gym, there aren’t dedicated stands – often people use the perimeter benches or small seating in the lobby. For the 60-seat lecture theatre, there are fixed rows of seats facing the stage (www.aliss.org ). No VIP or reserved seating exists: it’s all general admission. If you’re accompanying a child, try to arrive a few minutes early to find a good vantage point. Note that the pool deck stays behind a barrier (you can watch from outside tiles, not in the water area).
What should I bring/not bring to TRACC?
Bring the essentials for your activity. For swimming, pack swimwear, towel, goggles and flip-flops. For gym or classes, bring sportswear, trainers, and a water bottle. You should have a padlock or £1 coin for lockers. Leave valuables at home; use lockers for phones/purses. Do *not* bring glass bottles or alcohol (strictly prohibited). Cameras or video of other users is not allowed for privacy. Also, avoid heavy outdoor boots or muddy shoes inside (clean off shoes at the door). TRACC has showers, so you don’t need pre- or post-shower toiletry except a small shower bag; soap and shower gel are provided in changing rooms. Lastly, remember your membership card or registration confirmation – staff need to sight it to let you in.
Does TRACC have lockers and changing rooms?
Yes. Separate changing rooms for men and women flank the pool (wet-side) and gym (dry-side). All changing areas have showers and toilets. There are free and coin-operated lockers – typically small (to secure wallets, keys, phone). Unfortunately, towel rental is not offered, so bring your own. For hygiene, TRACC asks that you wear a swimming cap in the pool if you have long hair. After swimming, use the provided foot baths and shower off. Slippers or flip-flops between pool and shower help keep floors dry.
Are there age or fitness restrictions for pool and classes?
Pool sessions are generally open to all ages during family swim times. Children under about 8 must have an adult in the water with them if they’re not strong swimmers. There’s no minimum age to enter (even babies can attend parent-toddler swim lessons). For the gym, the rule is 16+ (with special inductions for 14–15 year-olds) (www.highland.gov.uk ). Fitness classes vary – some like gentle aqua or Pilates attract older adults, while dance/cardio classes often require ages 12+ (very young children aren’t allowed in adult fitness classes for safety). The centre welcomes all abilities, but people with health issues should consult their doctor or inform staff before strenuous activities. Lifeguards are on duty during all pool sessions for safety.
Is TRACC involved in any community or school programs?
Yes. TRACC is integrated with Tain Royal Academy (the local high school), so school PE classes often take place in the halls, pool and gym. After school, local clubs use the facilities under community bookings. TRACC also hosts Swim Scotland instructor courses, local sports league matches and charity fundraisers. It is common for townsfolk to use TRACC for everything from holiday kids’ camps (summer sports weeks) to senior day programs. For specifics, check the bulletin board or enquiry desk – they’ll know about any upcoming community events or special programs at TRACC.
Are there any COVID-19 or health policies at TRACC?
As of 2023 there are no special COVID-19 restrictions in place at TRACC beyond normal cleanliness. Staff encourage hand-sanitising and cleaning equipment after use. If you feel unwell (cold, flu, stomach bug), it’s best to stay home and avoid group classes. TRACC follows standard Highland Council health guidelines: showers must be taken before pool entry, and appropriate swim caps worn. If local health advice changes (flu season, etc.), signage will be posted at reception. Otherwise, just use your usual hygiene and cover coughs to keep the environment safe. Lifeguards monitor pool safety as always, and the centre is cleaned thoroughly each night.
What happens if TRACC closes (for holidays or maintenance)?
TRACC is closed on major holidays (Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, etc.) and may have reduced hours on some public holidays. Check the posted schedule for holiday hours. For maintenance closures or instructor training days, notices are put up in advance and on the High Life Highland website. If TRACC does close temporarily, nearby Highland Council pools (e.g. Invergordon or Dingwall Leisure Centre) may offer makeup sessions. A 2025 council report even looked at keeping TRACC open until a replacement is built – so far it remains operating despite scheduled plans for a new campus sports facility down the road. In short: don’t rely on TRACC being open every day of the year; if you arrive outside advertised hours, the doors will be locked and staff won’t allow entry.
What nearby facilities complement a visit to TRACC?
Tain town centre (0.5–1 mile away) has shops and services to round out your trip. If you need sports goods or swimwear, a local sports or outdoor store might be in town. After a workout, you can walk to The Old Bank Café for coffee or St Duthus Hotel for a pub meal (both under half a mile from TRACC). Drugstores and petrol stations in Tain carry basic essentials like sunscreen or lost-and-found items. If you’re coming from farther afield, you can stay at Tain accommodation (e.g. St Duthus Hotel B&B) and walk to TRACC. Basically, plan for errands in town at the same time as your TRACC visit, as the centre itself sells only drinks/snacks.
