Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gyms in Kent
Explore Kent's thriving BJJ scene with 29 world-class academies. From traditional Gi training to competitive No-Gi, kids programs to women's classes—discover your perfect training partner in the Garden of England.
BJJ in Kent
Kent has established itself as one of England's premier destinations for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, boasting an impressive 29 world-class academies spread across the Garden of England. What truly sets Kent apart is the exceptional quality of instruction—with a perfect 5.0-star average rating across all facilities, practitioners here enjoy some of the highest-rated BJJ training in the country.
The BJJ landscape in Kent is remarkably diverse, featuring everything from traditional Gracie lineage schools to modern competition-focused academies. With 26 gyms offering Gi training and 18 providing No-Gi classes, the county caters to all grappling preferences. The concentration of gyms around major towns like Canterbury, Medway, Maidstone, and Ashford creates a vibrant, interconnected community where knowledge and techniques flow freely between academies.
Kent's BJJ community is known for its welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere. An impressive 24 out of 29 gyms offer dedicated kids programs, reflecting the county's commitment to nurturing the next generation of grapplers. The 7 gyms providing women's only sessions demonstrate a progressive approach to making BJJ accessible to everyone. Regular inter-gym seminars and open mats foster a collaborative rather than competitive spirit between academies.
Whether you're in historic Canterbury, coastal Thanet, or the bustling Medway towns, you're never far from world-class BJJ instruction in Kent. The county's excellent transport links and strategic location make it easy for practitioners to train at multiple gyms, with many students taking advantage of the diverse teaching styles available across the region.
All 29 BJJ Gyms in Kent
From beginner-friendly fundamentals to elite competition training—find your perfect gym
40 Licks Jiu-Jitsu Club
Community that loves grappling and improvement. BJJ Academy in Sevenoaks, Kent with inclusive and friendly environment. Mission to elevate jiu-jitsu through systemic instruction.
Alchemy Martial Arts Thanet
Alchemy Martial Arts is a welcoming and inclusive gym located centrally between Broadstairs and Margate in Thanet for individuals of all skill levels and all walks of life. We teach traditional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & No Gi, Muay Thai, MMA, and more. We believe that the practice of martial arts can be a powerful tool for personal growth and development.
Ascend Jiu Jitsu
Ascend Jiu Jitsu stands as a beacon for those seeking to immerse themselves in the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. With a philosophy deeply rooted in the core principles of martial arts, it offers more than just physical training; it's a journey of personal growth through jiu jitsu. Next level BJJ instruction in Ashford, Kent.
Ashford Vale Tudo - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
UKBJJA certified club offering BJJ, MMA and Self-Defence. Safe, welcoming environment led by professional black-belt instructors. Classes for all ages 4+ and abilities including beginners.
Bromley Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - TRICCS ACADEMY
TRICCS Academy with Patrick James, BJJ World Masters & European Champion. Classes in Dulwich, Beckenham and Peckham. BJJ for everyone regardless of size, age, strength or ability.
Carlson Gracie Ashford- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - MMA - Muay Thai - Boxing - Strength & Conditioning
At Carlson Gracie Ashford, we aim to offer the highest level of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training in a safe, positive and enjoyable atmosphere for adults and kids alike. We believe that instructors role is to guide and encourage the students, so that they may effectively pursue their own individual goals in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Checkmat Essex BJJ ( essex jiu jitsu )
State-of-the-art training facility under black belt instructor Spencer Hewitt, mentored by 9x World BJJ Champion Ricardo 'Ricardinho' Vieira. Part of the famous Checkmat academy led by Ricardo and Leozinho Vieira. Offers classes for both adults and children with private 1-2-1 training.
Combat Sports Academy
Established in 2009 Combat Sports Academy has become a leader in Martial Arts, with a proven track record of producing world class athletes, instructors and providing an excellent service and training experience to all. A full time gym offering a balanced and varied class schedule for all levels of ability and fitness for men, women, boys and girls.
Dartford BJJ
Over 40 years training and teaching experience in variety of martial art disciplines. Offers tuition in Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Erik Paulson's Combat Submission Wrestling, MMA, Muay Thai, Kali and JKD. Friendly, relaxed, family focused academy.
Dragonzlair Gym Ashford
Part of Dragonz Lair gym network offering MMA and martial arts training
Dragonzlair Gym Medway
Dragonz Lair Medway location offering MMA and martial arts
Dragonzlair Gym Sittingbourne
Dragonz Lair Sittingbourne branch
Dragonzlair gym thanet
Dragonz Lair Thanet location
Elite Submission Grappling
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy offering world-class training under Jed Hue, a BJJ Black Belt and one of Europe's very best No-Gi Submission Grappling Competitors. Focused on reality-based fighting systems with emphasis on effective ground fighting.
Fighting Lions Martial Arts Centre
Premier Martial Arts Facility committed to teaching effective martial arts in safe, supportive environment. Fully qualified, certified, insured instructors passionate about total body workout with high-level training for all ages and abilities.
Folkestone Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Premier Grappling, Wrestling and MMA in Folkestone. Expert coaching across BJJ, wrestling, and MMA. Instructors bring years of experience offering high-level training in a supportive, approachable environment. Focus on technique, strategy, and progression with personalised attention.
Folkestone JiuJitsu Team
Jiu Jitsu team based in Folkestone
GF Team Brazilian Jiu Jitsu West Wickham
Full-time facility, home of GF Team South East. Offers BJJ, MMA, Thai Boxing with unlimited classes. Supportive environment for all ages and skill levels with ex-professional fighters as coaches.
Gracie Barra Tunbridge Wells
Gracie Barra is one of the largest and most trusted names in martial arts today, renowned for extensive network and commitment to excellence. Dedicated to helping students progress in their Jiu-Jitsu journey according to individual abilities with personalised development and structured curriculum.
Infinity Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Established in 2009, experienced BJJ instructors led by Shane Burr who received his black belt in 2016 from Carlson Gracie team. Welcoming and friendly academy developing people from complete beginners to black belt instructors.
Kent Grapple
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Club based in Sittingbourne, formerly known as Swale BJJ. Established in February 2018, offering a family-friendly atmosphere where everyone is embraced. All levels welcomed from beginners to advanced practitioners.
Kent Grapple - Rochester
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Club based in Sittingbourne, formerly known as Swale BJJ. Established in February 2018, offering a family-friendly atmosphere where everyone is embraced. All levels welcomed from beginners to advanced practitioners.
Kent combat academy
Top-notch MMA coaching and state-of-the-art facilities in Ashford. Experienced trainers specializing in Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Wrestling. Ages 6-12 children's classes, 11-16 teens, 13+ adults.
Lamude BJJ | Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Essex
Full-time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy offering premium facilities in West Horndon, Essex. Under 2nd-degree black belt Luc Lamude with 20+ years experience. Roger Gracie lineage in friendly welcoming environment.
Lightning freestyle martial arts
Established in Kent in 2004, specializing in freestyle kickboxing and MMA. Instructors have many years experience and competed at national level. High level training while making exercise fun for kids and adults. Improve flexibility, strength, self confidence, and cardiovascular fitness.
Masons Fight, Strength and Fitness
VN Team and Checkmat affiliated facility offering BJJ, MMA, Thai/K1, Women's Kickboxing, Kids classes. Sam Mason personal training with Lukasz Przybylski BJJ instruction.
Rochester BJJ
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu dojo in Rochester
Shackleton BJJ
Premier destination for Nogi Brazilian jiu-jitsu in Dartford. Located at Oakview Trading Estate, offering ultimate submission grappling experience for all skill levels. Dedicated nogi BJJ haven with expert coaching in submission grappling techniques.
Silverbacks BJJ & MMA
Leading martial arts gym in Canterbury, Kent, offering expert training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (Gi & NoGi), Wrestling, MMA and Muay Thai. We have two locations: Canterbury (BJJ HQ) and Aylesham (MMA HQ). Our vision is, and always will be to grow the arts of Jiu Jitsu and MMA in Kent.
Popular BJJ Areas in Kent
Kent's BJJ scene is concentrated around several key areas, each with its own character and community. From the university town of Canterbury to the coastal gyms of Thanet, every corner of the county offers exceptional training opportunities.
Canterbury & East Kent
The historic cathedral city and surrounding areas host some of Kent's most established BJJ academies. The university population brings a youthful energy to training, while the close-knit local community ensures year-round consistency. Gyms here often blend traditional technique with modern competition strategies.
Thanet & Coastal Kent
The coastal towns of Margate, Ramsgate, and Broadstairs have seen explosive growth in BJJ, with multiple high-quality academies opening in recent years. Alchemy Martial Arts Thanet leads the way with 91 five-star reviews, offering comprehensive Gi, No-Gi, and MMA programs in a state-of-the-art facility.
Medway Towns
Rochester, Chatham, and Gillingham form Kent's largest urban area and home to a thriving BJJ community. The concentration of gyms here creates healthy competition and drives innovation in teaching methods. Strong links to London academies mean visiting black belts and seminars are common.
Maidstone & Central Kent
Kent's county town serves as a hub for the surrounding villages and towns. Gyms here benefit from excellent transport links, drawing students from across the region. The mix of town-based and village academies offers diverse training environments—from dedicated martial arts facilities to community-focused clubs.
Sevenoaks & West Kent
The affluent western reaches of Kent towards the London border feature premium facilities with exceptional instruction. 40 Licks Jiu-Jitsu Club in Sevenoaks exemplifies the area's quality, with 55 five-star reviews and programs for all ages. Close proximity to London means these gyms attract top-tier instructors.
BJJ Pricing in Kent
BJJ training in Kent offers excellent value, with monthly memberships typically ranging from £60-120 depending on location, facilities, and program access. The county's competitive market means gyms often include extras like strength & conditioning, open mats, and workshops in their standard memberships.
Budget Friendly
Budget-conscious practitioners can find quality training from £60-80 per month at community-focused gyms. These often include 2-3 classes per week and are perfect for beginners or those training recreationally. Many village-based academies fall into this category while still maintaining excellent instruction standards.
Mid Range
Mid-range memberships (£80-100/month) are the sweet spot in Kent, offering unlimited training at well-equipped facilities. Most county gyms fall into this category, providing full Gi and No-Gi programs, kids classes, and regular open mats. Expect modern facilities, experienced instructors, and a strong community atmosphere.
Premium
Premium memberships (£100-120/month) typically feature state-of-the-art facilities in prime locations, with extensive class schedules covering BJJ, No-Gi, MMA, wrestling, and conditioning. These gyms often host visiting black belts, run competition teams, and offer additional services like personal training or sports massage.
Pricing Advice
When comparing prices, look beyond the monthly fee. Consider class frequency, schedule flexibility, and what's included. Many Kent gyms offer family discounts (important given 24 gyms have kids programs), student rates, and pay-as-you-go options. Most academies provide free trial classes—take advantage of these to find your best fit. Remember that the most expensive gym isn't always the best match for your goals.
Note: Prices are approximate and based on standard monthly unlimited memberships. Most gyms offer multiple membership tiers, family packages, and student discounts. Contact gyms directly for current pricing and promotional offers.
Getting Started with BJJ in Kent
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu welcomes everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or athletic background. Kent's exceptionally high-rated gyms (5.0 average!) pride themselves on creating supportive environments where beginners thrive. Here's everything you need to know to start your BJJ journey in the Garden of England.
What to Expect
- A warm welcome from instructors and students—Kent's BJJ community is known for its friendly atmosphere
- Fundamentals-focused instruction breaking down basic positions, escapes, and submissions step-by-step
- Partner drilling with fellow beginners and helpful upper belts who remember what it's like to start
- Live rolling (sparring) is optional for beginners—most gyms introduce this gradually as you gain confidence
- Post-class questions encouraged—Kent instructors are passionate about helping new students progress
What to Bring
- Comfortable athletic wear for your first class (t-shirt and shorts or joggers—avoid clothing with zips or pockets)
- Water bottle—you'll be surprised how thirsty grappling makes you!
- Small towel for wiping down mats (showing respect for training partners)
- Most gyms provide loaner gis for beginners, but ask when booking your trial
- An open mind and willingness to be a beginner—everyone starts somewhere!
Choosing Your Gym
- Visit multiple gyms—with 29 to choose from in Kent, try 3-5 before committing
- Check the schedule works with your lifestyle—consistency is key to progression
- Consider location carefully—a gym 10 minutes away beats a 'better' gym 45 minutes away
- Watch a class before taking your trial—observe teaching style, gym culture, and cleanliness
- Ask about beginner programs—26 gyms offer Gi training and most have structured fundamentals courses
- Look for gyms with kids programs (24 in Kent!) if you have a family—training together creates special bonds
Cost Information
Expect to invest £60-120 monthly for unlimited training, with most Kent gyms around £80-100. Factor in a gi (uniform) if you choose Gi BJJ (£50-120 for a beginner gi). Many academies sell gis at cost to new students. No-Gi training requires less initial investment—just rash guard and shorts (£40-70 total). Remember this is an investment in your health, confidence, and a skill for life.
With Kent's perfect 5.0-star average gym rating and 29 world-class academies to choose from, you couldn't ask for a better place to begin your BJJ journey. The Garden of England has cultivated an exceptional martial arts community—from the cobbled streets of Canterbury to the coastal cliffs of Thanet, your perfect training home awaits. Take that first class. Your future self will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about BJJ in Kent
How many BJJ gyms are in Kent?
Kent has 29 BJJ and martial arts gyms, making it one of England's premier destinations for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. These academies are spread across the county from Canterbury to Medway, Thanet to Sevenoaks, ensuring you're never far from world-class instruction.
Do Kent gyms welcome complete beginners?
Absolutely! With a perfect 5.0-star average rating, Kent's gyms are renowned for their welcoming, beginner-friendly atmospheres. Most academies run dedicated fundamentals classes, offer free trial sessions, and pair new students with helpful training partners. The exceptionally high ratings reflect how well these gyms support newcomers.
What types of BJJ training are available in Kent?
Kent offers comprehensive BJJ training with 26 gyms providing traditional Gi classes, 18 offering No-Gi grappling, 24 running kids programs, and 7 with women's only sessions. Many academies also offer MMA, wrestling, judo, and Muay Thai, creating well-rounded martial artists.
How much does BJJ cost in Kent?
Monthly BJJ memberships in Kent typically range from £60-120, with most gyms charging £80-100 for unlimited training. This excellent value often includes access to multiple classes (Gi, No-Gi, open mats), experienced instruction, and quality facilities. Many gyms offer family discounts, student rates, and flexible membership options.
Which areas of Kent have the most BJJ gyms?
The Medway Towns (Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham) have the highest concentration with 8 gyms, followed by Maidstone & Central Kent (7 gyms), Canterbury & East Kent (6 gyms), Thanet & Coastal areas (5 gyms), and Sevenoaks & West Kent (3 gyms). Every major town and many villages have quality BJJ training available.
Are there kids BJJ classes in Kent?
Yes! An impressive 24 out of 29 gyms in Kent offer dedicated children's BJJ programs. This strong emphasis on youth development makes Kent an ideal county for families interested in martial arts. Programs typically cater to ages 4-16 with age-appropriate curriculum and experienced youth instructors.
Do I need to be fit before starting BJJ?
Not at all! BJJ will get you fit—you don't need to be fit to start. Kent's highly-rated instructors excel at scaling techniques and intensity to each student's current fitness level. You'll build strength, cardio, and flexibility naturally through consistent training. Many students start BJJ specifically to improve their fitness.
What's the best way to choose a BJJ gym in Kent?
Take advantage of free trial classes at multiple gyms (most Kent academies offer these). Consider location, schedule, teaching style, and gym culture. With 29 excellent options averaging 5.0 stars, you're spoiled for choice—visit 3-5 gyms, trust your instincts, and choose where you feel most comfortable. The 'best' gym is the one you'll actually attend consistently.
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