For a number of months I’ve found myself visiting a unique little gem in the heart of Pudsey and I’ve been meaning to feature it on my blog. As usual time runs away these days but here it is finally.

The hot-spot I am talking about is the brilliant Pudsey Wellbeing Centre.

This place has been an absolute godsend during my time on Maternity Leave. I meet my friend here every week for a drink with the babies. It gets us out of the house and enables us to meet in a social setting without having to worry about cost. This is exactly what every new mum on Stat Mat pay needs!

So let me tell you about this wonderful place.

Located in the market town of Pudsey, West Yorkshire. Pudsey Wellbeing Charity run this community social space. It is found just behind the leisure centre, right next to Robin Lane doctors and very close to Pudsey bus station. This is centrally located, easy to find and perfect for anyone who doesn’t know the area well. There is even parking available at Pudsey Leisure centre giving easy access.

Also known as the Open Door, this centre is entirely free. That means you can grab a hot drink without the expensive price tag. If you’re lucky – You might even get some biscuits too! Of course donations are accepted and although not widely requested they are what will ultimately keep this place going strong.

Being a community social space, I believe it is run entirely by volunteers. How amazing is that! So as you can imagine, everyone is friendly and actively involved in the community.

That means that besides the hot drinks available and occasional cheeky toasted teacake, there is also a bundle of activities on offer. These range from free social gatherings to activities with a small fee such as Spanish classes, knitting, bridge, yoga, meditation and gardening to name but a few!

There is a selection of toys for the kids and even a baby group that takes place every Monday afternoon with a meeting space for Bosom Buddies breastfeeding support every Monday morning too – What a great venue for this!

The centre is nicely decorated with local artwork and lots of tables. Comfy sofas are available which are perfect for breastfeeding. I frequent the corner with my hot chocolate, teacake and pram not in the way for once!

Brand new to the centre, it looks like they’ve just started a couple of new features. Firstly a little food pantry helping others with free short dated products so they don’t go to waste. What a cute idea!

And my latest favourite, a free library with brand new books on loan! Courtesy of Truman Bookshop in Farsley.

I cannot wait to revisit this place in summer where I will be able to enjoy the outside space they have with friendly people and no judgement or pressure to make a purchase of some overpriced drink I don’t want! I love to meet new people too and this is definitely the space for it.

This has definitely become my favourite local hangout and if I ever moved house I would definitely miss this place! It’s something I believe every community should have. I see many locals gathering here to meet new people, friends and probably, if anything, just to simply get out of the house. Covid lockdowns taught us a lot and if I took one thing from it – Make the most of activities and social meeting spots – You never know when they could disappear!

Please pop down to Pudsey Wellbeing Charity Open Door and show your support with a donation if you are able to. Let’s keep beautiful places like this open for everyone.

I’ll be nestled in the corner with my baby and snacks so if you see me around, please stop and say hi!

Xx Sophie

Opening times as of March 2024:

Mon & Wed – 10am-4pm

Tues & Thurs – 10am-1pm

Friday – 10am-12.20pm