Want a workout that’s more exciting than another treadmill session? Trying the best martial arts in London is a fun way to build strength, confidence, and practical skills while improving your overall fitness.
As your training progresses, make sure to bookmark our trusted sports medicine clinics so you can prevent injuries and recover safely.
I put together this guide to help you compare London’s top training spots. Find the class that matches your goals.
How much does martial arts cost in London?
Martial arts classes in London typically cost £80 to £180 per month for unlimited memberships, while single drop-in sessions usually range from £15 to £25 per class. Many gyms also offer free or discounted trial classes for new students.
| Membership Type | Average Cost (London) |
| Monthly Unlimited | £80 – £180 / month |
| Single Drop-In Class | £15 – £25 / class |
| Introductory / Trial Class | Free – £15 |
| Kids After-School Program | £60 – £120 / month |
How I Reviewed
Coaching Quality: I looked for qualified coaches who teach proper technique and put safety first. That helps students build strong skills while lowering the risk of injury.
Facilities & Equipment: I checked if each gym has clean training mats, good protective gear, and useful amenities like changing rooms. A well-equipped space makes training safer and more comfortable.
Class Schedule: I picked gyms with flexible class times across different martial arts. Morning, evening, and weekend sessions make it easier to stick with training.
Value for Money: I compared membership prices, free trial options, and sign-up costs. Clear pricing helps you choose a gym without worrying about surprise fees.
1. Fightzone London
Website: fightzonelondon.co.uk
Address: 16-22 Pritchards Road
Contact: 020-7729-3907 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday to Friday 7:00 AM–10:00 PM | Saturday 8:00 AM–2:30 PM | Sunday 9:30 AM–12:00 PM
Fightzone London makes combat training easier for busy schedules. They run over 150 weekly BJJ and MMA classes each week.
The East London spot has three big mat areas and a full-size ring, so members get plenty of room to train.
During my evening visit, I felt the friendly energy right away, and monthly women’s sparring sessions added real value for experienced fighters.
Their location near Broadway and Flower Markets is handy too.
Another perk is that new members can start with a 7-day trial. This makes it easy to check out the gym before signing up.
However, Muay Thai classes need your own gear, like 14oz gloves and shin guards. Women’s sparring also needs prior experience.
Customer Reviews
Best BJJ School in London
I’ve been to a few BJJ schools in London and this one is by far the best I have ever been to. They do not only cater BJJ, but other martial arts where the environment is equally pleasant to the BJJ classes I have attended. Great facilities, coaches/staff and classmates. This is the place to be for martial arts purposes or if you just want to get fit.
- Giovanni Mota | Google Reviews
Welcoming and Supportive Martial Arts Gym
One of the most welcoming martial arts gyms I have found in London. The way you’re taken care of by all the staff is incredible and has the community aspect of a small town gym with all the benefits of top level coaches you’d expect in London. I have trained martial arts in some capacity for most of my life and Can’t not rate this place more. If you’re a novice or world champion, you’d find a great home here for your training.
- Alan Prile | Google Reviews
2. London Fight Factory
Website: londonfightfactory.com
Address: 19 Ebenezer St.
Contact: 079-4457-4046 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday to Friday 6:30 AM–9:30 PM | Saturday 8:00 AM–3:00 PM
London Fight Factory gives beginners a comfy way to try combat sports in a friendly space.
Just minutes from Old Street station, the gym offers many fighting styles under one membership, with no joining fees. Also, drop-in sessions are available for visitors or anyone trying out a new routine.
From what I’ve seen, the coaches here focus on steady growth. Many members have praised them for helping them boost fitness, burn fat, and build core strength.
However, the gym closes one day each week, so it helps to plan around that. Fans of niche styles like Judo or Sambo may also find the twice-weekly slots a bit limited.
Customer Reviews
Comprehensive Gym with Great Facilities
This gym is truly comprehensive, offering a wide variety of martial arts disciplines. It’s exceptionally clean, with spotless restrooms and shower areas. The overall environment is welcoming and well-maintained, making it a fantastic place to train.
- Fabricio De Matos | Google Reviews
Fantastic Fitness Journey for Beginners
I’m new to martial arts and wanted to improve my fitness—it has been a fantastic journey so far! The staff are extremely welcoming, and the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it easy for beginners to feel comfortable. I highly recommend it to anyone thinking about starting out.
- nikki murphy | Google Reviews
3. Team Shark
Website: team-shark.webflow.io
Address: Wandle Recreation Centre, Mapleton Rd.
Contact: 44-077-8680-2051 | [email protected]
Hours: Daily 8:00 AM–11:00 PM
Team Shark offers a unique take on martial arts training by mixing rare styles like Muay Boran and Thai Krabbi Krabong weapons work with modern combat skills.
It’s also great that they have licensed coaches backed by the BMABA who build programmes for fitness goals and competition prep alike.
Beginners can also use loaner gear, so starting out doesn’t mean buying everything right away.
It’s also notable that the academy supports recovery through special taping methods from an in-house kinesiology expert.
I’m just iffy about their lack of clear pricing. You’ll need to reach out to the team directly for costs.
Other patrons I spoke with also mentioned that they had difficulty finding the gym’s exact location in the centre. It’s best to call them before visiting.
Customer Reviews
Great Sense of Community Here
I highly recommend joining Team Shark!
From the moment you step in, you feel a great sense of community—there’s no place for ego or a macho attitude. The coaches create an environment of respect for martial arts through discipline, and well-structured classes.
If you’re looking for a club where you can improve your fitness, challenge yourself, and be part of a welcoming team, this is the place to be!
- Francesca Pantaleo | Google Reviews
Highly Recommended Martial Arts Academy
Amazing Martial Arts academy!! All coaches are very knowledgeable and experienced, and everyone is very friendly which makes the classes so great!! Would definitely recommend to anyone who wants to start Muay Thai or is already experienced
- Dimitrios Irodotou | Google Reviews
4. Avalon Mixed Martial Arts Academy
Website: mmagymlondon.com
Address: 2nd Floor Cypress House, 2 Coburg Road
Contact: 44-079-7685-5259 | Office: 44-020-3638-4045 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday 4:30 PM–10:00 PM | Tuesday to Wednesday 6:30 PM–10:00 PM | Thursday 5:30 PM–10:00 PM | Friday 6:00 PM–9:30 PM | Saturday 9:30 AM–3:30 PM | Sunday 9:30 AM–3:30 AM
Avalon Mixed Martial Arts Academy combines science-based training with real self-defence. Impressively, Head Instructor Dr Mark Phillips brings almost 40 years of experience to the training here.
Under Dr Mark’s guidance, the academy blends Wing Chun with modern ground styles and San Da kickboxing, including throws and leg catches.
For beginners, the no-sparring approach gives a comfy way to build confidence before moving into harder training.
New members can also enjoy savings on training packages, while premium options add full gym access.
Something worth noting is the starter membership limit, which allows just one session a week.
Also be aware that as you progress, you’ll need your own gear, like headgear and gloves, for regular practice.
Customer Reviews
Knowledgeable Staff and Great Facilities
An incredible and knowledgeable staff body; they are welcoming and supportive, making sure everyone participate anyone can participate in the class regardless of ability. The facilities are good and the on-site parking is very handy! The other participants are kind and considerate, keen to help each other out with explanations and extra practice. A brilliant place for anyone interested in studying martial arts!
- Sela Arnsberg | Google Reviews
Great Wing Chun Training Classes
I have been attending Wing Chun classes for more than a half year now and even after many classes I learn so much every time. The classes are good mix of practising and learning about the ideas behind the movements and forms. I would highly recommend for those who want to learn self defence or interested in martial arts in general. The staff are great and helpful, you will get a lot of attention and help to improve. For a very reasonable price you can get access to all of the classes and the gym.
- Miklós Vincze | Google Reviews
5. Xen-Do Martial Arts
Website: xen-do.com/locations/baker-street/
Address: Basement 73 Baker Street
Contact: 020-7487-3807 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday to Thursday 9:30 AM–8:30 PM | Friday to Sunday 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Xen-Do Martial Arts mixes old-style karate, western boxing, and high-energy kicking in a safe, fitness-focused space.
Founder Dai Master Rafael Nieto leads the academy. He’s a multiple-time British and World Champion, and his experience shapes the training throughout the dojo.
His approachable teaching style helps beginners feel at ease as they build new skills.
Adding to the comfort is that well-thought-out space. The air-conditioned venue also has modern changing rooms and showers, which are handy after the usually energetic sessions.
A bonus is that new members can try a free trial class or grab first-month deals on select plans before joining.
That said, teens need a parent or guardian at their first class. It’s also worth noting that missed sessions without notice can also lead to lost class credits.
Customer Reviews
Enjoying the Challenge with Xen-Do
Having achieved black belt in a couple of martial arts I am thoroughly enjoying starting again with Xen-Do. I have had to improve my fitness levels, flexibility and coordination by going to the next gear and really enjoy the challenge. What impressed me the most was how welcoming everyone is, particularly to a newcomer. Looking forward to my journey to black belt again. Gordon B.
- Gordon Brodie | Google Reviews
Lovely Community and Amazing Sensei
My son has been coming to Xen Do Mayfair for a year now. His Sensei Nathan is amazing, he is not only teaching him martial arts, how to protect himself but also teaches him to be a better person! We really enjoy coming here and feel like home.
We met today a new Sensei Paul and he was super!
People working here are really lovely and caring, and have built a little community. Feel blessed that we are part of it! Thank you to you all xx
- Toma Pintveryte | Google Reviews
