Stoke City FC has unveiled a step forward in its efforts to enhance its world-class sports and wellness offerings, with Speller Metcalfe appointing Buckingham Pools to Design & Build groundbreaking wet leisure facilities for the club. This exciting partnership marks the first phase of a larger project, set for completion in December 2025 at Stoke City’s Clayton Wood training ground. The initial phase will include a state-of-the-art pavilion for the first team, featuring unparalleled hydrotherapy and cryotherapy facilities, a fully equipped gymnasium, and advanced medical and rehabilitation areas. Designed with a commitment to sustainability and a low-carbon footprint, the pavilion will integrate seamlessly with the existing Clayton Wood campus, establishing a unified and modern training environment. This partnership further solidifies Buckingham Pools’ excellent reputation for delivering bespoke, high-quality pools combining cutting-edge innovation with functionality.

The new £12m development will feature four meticulously designed facilities by Buckingham Pools, each crafted to support elite-level rehabilitation, recovery, and relaxation. The main pool, measuring 12x4m will feature underwater treadmills, bicycles, and a camera system—an exclusive and advanced addition aimed at maximising player fitness and training. Adjacent to it, a hot pool (5.37×2.55m) will offer powerful massage jets, providing optimal post-training recovery. A cold pool, measuring 2.50×1.90m, will provide athletes with an essential recovery tool through contrast therapy. Finally, the design includes a sauna, rounding out the comprehensive wellness experience. Each of these facilities will be finished with commercial-grade materials, ensuring durability and longevity while meeting the rigorous demands of a professional sports environment.

Buckingham Pools has been working closely with Stoke City FC and AFL Architects throughout the current design process to bring this vision to life. This collaboration has been crucial in ensuring that every element aligns perfectly with the club’s vision and meets the specific needs of its elite athletes. The design process focuses on the seamless integration of advanced technological features, such as the underwater treadmill, which offers resistance and strength training, along with a range of other performance-enhancing capabilities.

The combined expertise of Buckingham Pools, Speller Metcalfe and AFL Architects is evident in the meticulous attention to detail and the overall concept, ensuring that the space will be not only functional but also a visually striking part of the club’s state-of-the-art training campus.
This exciting addition to Stoke City FC’s training facilities highlights the club’s unwavering commitment to player wellness, recovery, and peak performance. With Buckingham Pools at the forefront of designing the wet leisure spaces, the club is set to reveal a modern, sustainable, and world-leading facility that will enhance athletic performance and overall well-being.