About The Budokwai
The Budokwai is located at G K House, 4 Gilston Rd, London SW10 9SL, England, United Kingdom. Founded in 1918 by Gunji Koizumi, known as the 'Father of British Judo', the club has a long-standing legacy in the development of martial arts in the UK.
It operates from two dedicated dojos at GK House, 4 Gilston Rd, offering structured training in Kodokan Judo based on the British Judo Association (BJA) syllabus. Classes are available for all levels, from beginner to advanced, and are open to adults and children from 6 months old.
Complete beginners must obtain a BJA licence before starting. Judo instruction is led by Chief Instructor Peter Blewett, 7th Dan, who has held the role since 1986, alongside Senior Instructor Ray Stevens, also 7th Dan.
The club promotes traditional judo values, focusing on balance, posture, movement, and discipline through structured kyu and dan grading pathways. While judo is central, The Budokwai also hosts Shotokan Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Aikido, Hontai Yoshin Ryu Ju-Jitsu, Yoga, and Pilates.
Changing rooms are available on-site to support training needs. All classes are booked online via the Mindbody app, and the weekly schedule runs Monday to Sunday with sessions from 9am daily, closing at 9pm Monday to Friday, 6:30pm on Saturday, and 1:30pm on Sunday.
See the club website for the latest timetable and joining details.
FAQs
What should I expect at my first session at The Budokwai?
New students can expect a structured session based on Kodokan Judo and the British Judo Association syllabus. Beginners are encouraged to arrive early, wear comfortable clothing, and be ready to learn fundamental movements and etiquette. A BJA licence is required to join.
Does The Budokwai offer beginner-friendly judo classes?
Yes, The Budokwai offers judo classes for complete beginners. Sessions follow the British Judo Association syllabus and are suitable for adults. Beginners are required to obtain a BJA licence before starting.
What should a new student bring to their first class?
New students should bring comfortable training clothes and a water bottle. Once ready to commit, a judogi is required. All participants must have a valid British Judo Association licence, which can be obtained online.
Contact Information
Phone
Website