Free HM Armed Forces Veteran Memberships
Manchester City Council is introducing a brand new free membership for all Manchester HM Armed Forces veterans.
Supporting our Veterans
Manchester is proud to honour its His Majesty’s Armed Forces community. As part of our commitment under the Armed Forces Covenant – recognising the service, sacrifice and contribution of those who have served – the city introduced a brand new free membership for all Manchester HM Armed Forces veterans.
What is the offer?
From 1 April, all eligible veterans living in Manchester can enjoy free access to 11 council operated leisure centres, including:
- Gym access
- Swim access
- Group exercise and fitness classes
- Health suite access
This initiative supports veterans’ health and wellbeing, helps reduce social isolation, and strengthens the bond between the city and its HM Armed Forces community, reflecting our shared commitment to ensure veterans face no disadvantage in accessing essential public services.
Participating leisure centres
- Arcadia Leisure Centre
- Abraham Moss Leisure Centre
- Belle Vue Sports Village (no swim)
- Broadway Baths
- East Manchester Leisure Centre
- Hough End Leisure Centre
- Manchester Aquatics Centre
- Moss Side Leisure Centre
- North City Family & Fitness Centre
- Whalley Range Sports Centre (no swim)
- Wythenshawe Forum
Who can register?
All current and new Manchester His Majesty’s Armed Forces veterans.
How to join
Simply visit your nearest Manchester council operated leisure centre from 1 April. A member of the team will guide you through the quick registration process.
Please bring proof of eligibility when you attend. For example, your MOD Service Number or Veteran’s ID Card.
Why Manchester is offering this
The Armed Forces Covenant is a pledge of mutual support between the city and those who serve or have served. Manchester City Council and partners recognise the importance of supporting transition into civilian life, strengthening community connections, and celebrating the invaluable contribution of veterans to both the city and the nation.
Providing free access to high quality fitness and wellbeing facilities is one way we continue to uphold this commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can take out the Membership?
All current and new Manchester His Majesty’s Armed Forces veterans.
Which Manchester postcodes qualify for membership?
- M1
- M2
- M3 (apart from Blackfriars, Salford)
- M4
- M8
- M9
- M11
- M12
- M13
- M14
- M15 (excl. areas in Old Trafford)
- M16 (excl. areas in Old Trafford)
- M18
- M19
- M20
- M21
- M22
- M23
- M40
- M60
What is the length of time of the membership?
12 months
Which leisure centres will the membership be available in?
- Arcadia Leisure Centre
- Abraham Moss Leisure Centre
- Belle Vue Sports Village (no swim available here)
- East Manchester Leisure Centre
- Hough End Leisure Centre
- Manchester Aquatics Centre
- Moss Side Leisure Centre
- North City Family & Fitness Centre
- Whalley Range Sports Centre (no swim available here)
All the leisure centres listed above are operated by GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited). Membership at any one of these facilities grants users the flexibility to access and utilize all their listed centres.
- Broadway Baths
- Wythenshawe Forum
If you choose to register for a membership at Broadway Baths or Wythenshawe Forum, please note that your access will be limited exclusively to the centre where you enrolled.
What is the process for enrolling in this membership?
Registration must be completed in person at the centre. Please bring proof of eligibility when you attend – Ministry of Defence Service Number or a Veteran’s ID Card.
When can I enrol?
From the 1st April 2026.
What is included as part of the membership?
- Gym access
- Public swimming sessions
- Group exercise and fitness classes
- Health suite access
For detailed scheduling information relevant to this membership, please request full details during registration at the centre.
Do I need to have a gym induction?
Yes, an induction is required before using the gym. This can be booked in centre when signing up to the membership.
Are lockers available at the centres for storing belongings?
Lockers are provided at the centres. Some require a £1 coin or a locker token to operate, while others necessitate a padlock, which can be purchased at reception or brought from home. Please confirm the available option during registration.
Is drinking water available?
Water fountains are accessible at all centres, and individuals are advised to bring reusable water bottles.
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