Where sport meets heritage at the Royal Ordnance Depot.
HISTORY IN ACTION
From Gunpowder to Game Point.
You are standing inside a marvel of Georgian engineering. Built in 1803 as a secure stronghold against the threat of Napoleonic invasion, the Royal Ordnance Depot was the backbone of the British Army’s supply chain.
The Canal Connection
Look outside. The Grand Union Canal flows right through the centre of the site. For over a century, barges floated directly into these walls to load small arms, uniforms, and gunpowder. Unit 10 was built to store the nation's defence; now, it houses the community's wellbeing.
The Mission: Active Occupation
Heritage buildings die without people. They need airflow, warmth, and movement to survive. By playing at The Court Yard, you are part of an "Active Occupation." Your court fees don't just pay for nets; they contribute to the maintenance, heating, and care required to keep this Grade II* listed giant standing for the next generation.
DID YOU KNOW? The Depot was originally chosen because it was the exact geographic centre of England—the furthest point from any shore, making it safe from French naval cannons!
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The Surface.
Phase 1: We are playing on the original industrial concrete floors with professional taped lines. It is fast, consistent, and raw. (Pro roll-out courts are coming in Phase 2!).
The Climate.
We are undercover, but we are honest: Unit 10 is 200 years old and the roof is tired. While we are sheltered, on very wet days you might see the odd drip or puddle in the walkways.
The Vision.
We are slowly transforming the industrial shell into a green sanctuary. We are fundraising to install biophilic design elements, living plants, and heating to create a space that feels closer to nature than a sports hall.
What's On?
MORE THAN JUST A COURT:
Unit 10 is a versatile space designed for every type of player.
Social & Wellbeing
For those who want to move, sweat, and smile.
PICKLEBOUND
A unique high-energy fusion of Rebounding (cardio), Circuits (strength), and Social Pickleball. Zero pressure, focus on mental health. (At The Court Yard)
EXPRESS SOCIAL
A 60-minute social blast for all abilities (beginners welcome!). We mix you in for fun games with different partners. (At The Court Yard & Parker)
BEGINNERS: COUCH TO COURT
Learn the rules, shots, and scoring in a relaxed environment. (Runs alongside Express Social)
SPORT & PERFORMANCE
For those who want to improve and compete.
COACHING
1-on-1 or small group sessions tailored to your specific needs. Perfect for fixing technique or learning tactics. (At The Court Yard)
DUPR MATCHPLAY
90 minutes of rated gameplay. We use a seeded rotation system to ensure close, competitive matches. Knowledge of scoring is essential. (At Parker)
CLUB MATCHPLAY
Fast-paced, structured match play similar to our competitive nights, but without the DUPR data entry. Fun but focused. (At Parker)
HIRE & JUNIORS
For private groups and the next generation.
COURT HIRE
Want the space to yourself? Hire Unit 10 for a private match, a family game, or a corporate team builder. (At The Court Yard)
JUNIORS (10+)
Get the kids off the screens. A 1-hour session focused on hand-eye coordination, teamwork, and fun. (At The Court Yard)
HIRE THE COURT YARD
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Looking for a venue with a difference? The Court Yard is available for private hire, corporate team building, and regular community use.
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Clubs & Classes: Perfect for groups that need space without the fuss. We are a popular winter base for Dog Training (Agility/Obedience), Martial Arts, and Fitness Bootcamps looking for a mud-free, gritty environment.
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Corporate Wellbeing: Get your team out of the office. We provide equipment, coaching, and a unique team-bonding experience.
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Private Parties: Hire the whole unit for you and your friends. Your music, your games, your space.
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Photo & Film: A unique industrial backdrop for creatives.
Meet The Team
RUN BY THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY.
Kate Vincent
Founder and Director
Kate is the driving force behind the club. As a qualified instructor, she leads the coaching programme and the vision for our venues.
Barry Dow
Director
Barry brings executive experience to our board, providing the strategic governance that allows West Northants Pickleball to grow sustainably.
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Gary Birch
Director
Gary works alongside the leadership team to ensure the CIC remains compliant, strategic, and focused on its long-term community goals.
Mark Meagrow
Pickleball Development Lead
Mark focuses on growing the sport and improving player pathways. He is a qualified instructor dedicated to helping you level up your game.
Maria Taylor
Welfare & Safeguarding Lead
Kate is the driving force behind the club. As a qualified instructor, she leads the coaching programme and the vision for our venues.
Andy Whitelock
Marketing & Fundraising Lead
Andy drives our community outreach and keeps the lights on through active fundraising. He is also a qualified instructor on court!
Sue Carter
Operations & Logistics Lead
The engine room of the club. Sue manages the vital logistics that keep our sessions running smoothly across both venues.
Hello,
I'm Biggie-Smalls,
You might think the humans run West Northants Pickleball, but let's be honest—I’m the big boss around here.
As a Great Dane, I am roughly the size of a small horse, which makes me perfectly built for overseeing club operations. Now that we finally have our own home, you will regularly see me wandering around The Court Yard, keeping a very close eye on your third-shot drops and making sure morale is at an all-time high.
My duties do not stop at the court doors, either. Because we are such a social club, whether the team is heading out for a post-match meal or organising a group walk, I am usually right there leading the pack.
If you spot me on patrol, please do come over and say hello! I might be the boss, but I am an absolute gentle giant. I happily accept payment in the form of head scratches—especially if you just lost a tight game and need a bit of emotional support!
Where are we?
The Court Yard,
Building 15, Unit 10
The Depot,
Weedon Bec,
Northampton,
NN7 4PS
What Three Words
///honey.seeing.delighted
Video Map
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