The Pioneer, the UK's Oldest Indoor Skatepark
The Pioneer, the UK's Oldest Indoor Skatepark
The Pioneer Club
A safehaven Since 1941
A community youth centre, skatepark and live grassroots music venue in St. Albans.
We’re one of a kind. The Pioneer Club is a youth and community centre based in St Albans, Hertfordshire, combining a live music venue and the oldest indoor skatepark in the UK to create a community hub like no other!
Originally founded in 1941 for evacuees from London to St Albans during World War Two, The Pioneer Club remains a safe haven in the community with a focus on youth culture across skate, music, dance and the arts.
THE Original SKATEPARK
The Pioneer Club is widely known for housing the UK’s oldest indoor skatepark, we host quarterly skate jams, over-30s nights, beginner evenings and regular sessions open to the public. Every weekend, our team of skate coaches also provide a helping hand at our Sunday Skate School, including professional Death skateboarder, Charlie Spelzini.
Built by skateboarders, including the now-retired professional skateboarder, Rodney Clarke, our indoor venue has developed over the years into both a permanent skatepark and key fixture in the community.
Open for after-school sessions, weekend socials, or just individual skating, our skatepark is a buzz of activity. Book your slot now.
Iconic Music Venue
Step into a venue steeped with history, providing a platform for some of the biggest names in British Rock. Motörhead were regular visitors, The Zombies are our friends, and Enter Shikari grew up here and still contribute to the Pioneer Community...
Today? Expect to see ground-breaking local bands mixing with the big names. A place where Rudimental can hang out with our house DJs, where club nights like our famous Common People Event pack the dancefloor and indie bands, folk fusion and jazz combos put their skills to the test. Our sound system is state-of-the-art, and welcomes a wide variety of acts and sounds.
Check out What's On and discover your new favourite band and sign up for our Newsletter to stay up-to-date with events and ways to get involved!
Youth Programmes
At The Pioneer Club, we’re all about supporting young people in the St Albans community. Working alongside local organisations, our programmes help young individuals grow their confidence and resilience, build their own communities and, above all, have fun!
Check out our Charity page for current programmes such as our 'Step Forward' programme for those struggling with school, and how you can get involved with our various youth programs. We're here to create a positive and inclusive environment for everyone!
