Best Boxing Gyms in London (Honest Reviews)

London has more boxing gyms than ever. From gritty old-school clubs to sleek boutique studios, the options can feel overwhelming.

We're a boxing gym ourselves (Honour & Glory, in Kidbrooke), so we won't pretend to be neutral. But we can offer an honest overview of what's out there and what different types of gym offer.

Types of Boxing Gyms in London

Before listing specific options, understanding the different gym types helps you know what you're looking for.

Traditional Boxing Clubs

These are the heritage gyms - places that have been producing fighters for decades. Think dusty floors, no-frills changing rooms, and coaches who've been in the sport their whole lives.

• Authentic boxing coaching
• Pathway to amateur/professional boxing
• Often affordable
• Strong community of serious boxers

• Can feel intimidating for beginners
• Facilities may be basic
• Less focus on recreational fitness boxing
• Sometimes rigid training structures

• Best for. People who want to learn real boxing, potentially compete, or train in an authentic environment.

Boutique Boxing Studios

The fitness industry boom brought boxing-branded boutique studios. These offer boxing-themed workouts in modern spaces with pumping music and high-energy classes.

• Modern, clean facilities
• Beginner-friendly atmosphere
• Convenient locations (often central)
• High-energy workouts
• Flexible booking systems

• Boxing technique often secondary to cardio
• Expensive per-class rates
• Less individual coaching attention
• Won't develop actual boxing skills
• Instructors may have limited boxing backgrounds

• Best for. People who want a fun, intense workout and don't care about learning proper boxing.

Independent Boxing Gyms

A growing category: gyms run by boxing professionals that balance real coaching with welcoming environments. Not tied to national chains, they often develop distinct cultures.

• Proper boxing instruction
• More welcoming than traditional clubs

• Often community-focused
• Reasonable pricing
• Flexible training options

• Quality varies by gym
• May have limited facilities
• Less name recognition

• Best for. Recreational boxers who want real skills in a supportive environment.

Notable Boxing Gyms Across London

Central London

KOBOX

Multiple locations across central London. The definition of boutique boxing - dark rooms, loud music, high-energy classes. The workout is intense and fun. The boxing instruction is minimal. You'll get fit but won't learn to box properly.

Good for: Quick workouts during lunch breaks, social exercise

Gymbox (various locations)

General gym with boxing classes included. Boxing offerings are decent for a mainstream gym. Some locations have dedicated boxing areas with bags and basic instruction.

Good for: People who want boxing as part of a broader gym membership

The Ring, Southwark

Traditional East London boxing club that's maintained authenticity while becoming more accessible. Serious coaching with a real boxing atmosphere. Less intimidating than some old-school clubs.

Good for: Learning proper boxing in a traditional setting

North London

Islington Boxing Club

Community boxing club with excellent youth programme. Produces quality amateur boxers while remaining welcoming to beginners. Proper coaching at reasonable rates.

Good for: All levels, particularly youth boxing

All Stars Boxing, Harlesden

Long-established club with serious boxing heritage. More focused on producing fighters than recreational boxing. Authentic experience if you can handle the intensity.

Good for: Aspiring competitive boxers

South London

Honour & Glory, Kidbrooke

That's us. We're based in Kidbrooke, Greenwich. We focus on proper boxing technique in a welcoming environment. Classes for adults and youth. We think we've found the right balance between serious coaching and accessible training - but we're biased. Come see for yourself.

Good for: All levels, particularly beginners wanting real boxing skills

Miguel's Boxing, Brixton

Legendary South London gym that's produced professional fighters. Serious boxing with a rich history. Atmosphere is intense - better suited to those committed to the sport.

Good for: Dedicated boxers, potential competitors

Peacock Gym, Canning Town

Historic gym associated with many professional fighters. Real boxing with serious coaching. The atmosphere is old-school - welcoming to those who match the intensity.

Good for: Aspiring competitive boxers

East London

York Hall

The spiritual home of British boxing. Not really a gym - it's where professional boxing happens. But there are gyms training around the venue, and understanding York Hall's significance matters to boxing in London.

Repton Boxing Club

Historic East End club with a serious reputation. Produced multiple champions. Traditional approach to coaching. Better for committed boxers than casual fitness.

Good for: Serious boxing development

East London Boxing Club

More accessible than some traditional clubs while maintaining proper coaching standards. Good balance of quality instruction and welcoming environment.

Good for: All levels in East London

West London

Dale Youth Boxing Club

Community club associated with the Grenfell community. Strong youth programme. Genuine community focus with quality coaching.

Good for: Local community members, youth boxing

All Stars Gym, Fulham

Don't confuse with Harlesden All Stars - different gym. Modern facility with boxing as part of broader fitness offerings. Good quality for a mixed gym.

Good for: Fitness boxing alongside other training

What to Consider When Choosing

Your Goals

If you want to learn proper boxing - technique, defence, potentially sparring - choose a gym with qualified coaches and real boxing focus. Boutique studios won't serve this goal.

If you just want an intense workout and don't care about boxing skills, boutique options are fine.

Your Level

Complete beginners often do better in gyms specifically welcoming to newcomers. Traditional clubs can be intimidating if everyone else is experienced.

Location and Schedule

The best gym is one you'll actually attend. Consider travel time, class schedules, and whether you'll realistically make it there regularly.

Budget

London boxing costs vary enormously:

• Traditional clubs: often £40-80/month for unlimited access
• Independent gyms: typically £60-120/month
• Boutique studios: often £20-30+ per class, or expensive memberships

Expensive doesn't mean better. Some £50/month clubs offer superior coaching to £200/month boutique options.

Try Before Committing

Any decent gym offers trial sessions. Take advantage. The atmosphere, coaching style, and community fit matter as much as facilities.

Questions to Ask

Before joining any gym, ask:

• What qualifications do coaches hold?
• What's a typical session like?
• What's the ratio of fitness-focused vs technique-focused training?
• Are there pathways for those interested in sparring or competing?
• What's the community like?

The answers tell you what you're really getting.

Why We're Different at H&G

We're obviously invested in you choosing us. Here's what we think makes Honour & Glory worth considering:

• Proper coaching. Our instructors have boxing backgrounds and qualifications. You'll learn real technique, not just punch-and-burn circuits.
• Welcoming environment. We cater to complete beginners while still offering development for experienced boxers. You won't feel intimidated or out of place.
• South East London location. If you're in Greenwich, Kidbrooke, Blackheath, or surrounding areas, we're more convenient than trekking to central London.
• Fair pricing. We're competitive with independent gyms and far cheaper than boutique studios.
• Community focus. We're building something beyond just a gym - a place where people support each other and stick around for years.

Making Your Choice

London has options for every type of boxer. The "best" gym depends entirely on what you want.

Want authentic boxing training in South East London? Come try us at Honour & Glory.

Want something near your central London office? Check out the options in your area.

Want pure cardio with boxing moves? The boutique studios have you covered.

Whatever you choose, just start. The best gym is one you actually attend regularly.