How Do I Book a Padel Game?
How to Book a Padel Game
A simple guide to Playtomic, Padel Mates, and club booking systems
One of the things that can feel surprisingly intimidating about starting padel is not the game itself, but simply figuring out how to book a court or join a match.
Padel is famously social, but behind the scenes it runs on apps. Once you understand how they work, booking a game becomes quick, easy, and actually quite addictive.
Here is a simple guide to booking padel games using the most common systems in the UK and beyond.
The main ways padel games are booked
Most padel clubs use one of three systems.
Playtomic
Padel Mates
Or their own in house booking system
The experience is similar across all of them. You create a profile, choose a club, and either book a court or join an existing game.
Playtomic
The most widely used padel app
Playtomic is by far the most common padel booking app in the UK and Europe. Many London clubs use it and once you have an account you can see availability across multiple venues.
How it works
You download the app, create a profile, and select your location. You can then view clubs near you, see available courts, and either book a full court or join an open match.
If you book a court, you can invite friends directly through the app. If you join a match, you simply reserve your spot and turn up.
Why people like it
Playtomic makes it easy to find games beyond your usual group. It shows player levels, upcoming matches, and last minute availability which is perfect if you want to play more often.
Good to know
Popular slots get snapped up fast. Checking the app early in the morning or late evening often helps.
Padel Mates
More community focused and very social
Padel Mates is especially popular in Scandinavia and is growing fast in the UK. It feels slightly more social and community driven than Playtomic.
How it works
You create a profile, add your playing level, and follow clubs or players. You can book courts, join games, or even message other players to organise matches.
Why people like it
It is great if you want to meet new people and build a regular playing circle. The social side feels more front and centre.
Good to know
Not all UK clubs use Padel Mates yet, so availability depends on your location.
In house club booking systems
Used by some private or members clubs
Some padel clubs use their own booking systems through their website or members portal. This is common at private clubs or venues that run a lot of coached sessions and leagues.
How it works
You usually create an account directly with the club. You book courts or sessions through their website and pay either per session or through membership.
Why people like it
It can feel more personal and often comes with organised socials, leagues, and coaching.
Good to know
You may need to register with the club first or be invited to certain sessions.
Booking a game if you do not have four players
This is where padel really shines.
Most apps allow you to join an existing match rather than book a full court. You simply choose a game at your level, book your spot, and turn up. No awkward messages. No chasing people.
This is one of the reasons padel communities grow so quickly.
What level should you choose
If you are new, always choose beginner or low intermediate. Everyone does this and nobody expects perfection.
Padel levels are not about ego. They exist so games are fun and fair. Playing at the right level makes a huge difference to enjoyment.
You can always move up once you feel more confident.
A few tips to make booking easier
Be flexible with times. Early mornings and mid afternoons often have more availability.
Follow clubs on the app. This makes it easier to spot new sessions or cancellations.
Join social games. They are designed for exactly this reason.
Do not overthink it. Everyone was new once.
A final word from Padelhüd
Padel is one of the most welcoming sports out there, but the first booking can feel confusing. Once you have done it once, it becomes second nature.
Download the app. Book the game. Turn up. Everything else tends to fall into place on court and often afterwards over coffee or a drink.
That is where the real magic happens.
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