About Us

The Fitness Mill, Stroud

The Fitness Mill is more than just a gym — it’s part of a building that has been creating strength for over 400 years.

Located within Griffin’s Mill in Thrupp, our space has a long and evolving history. First recorded in 1599, the mill was originally part of Stroud’s world-famous woollen industry, before adapting through the centuries into a saw mill, a manufacturing hub, and later a cabinet-making workshop.

During the Second World War, the site even contributed to the war effort, with local craftsmen producing wooden components for military gliders linked to nearby RAF Aston Down.

Like the building itself, our gym has evolved over time.

Our Story

Fitness at Griffin’s Mill began in the early 1980s with Stroud Gym & Fitness Centre, owned by the Smit family — at a time when gyms were still a new concept.

As fitness trends grew, the gym developed into Studio 23, before becoming Griffin Mill Aerobics & Fitness Centre, establishing itself as a key part of the local fitness community.

In 1992, the Darby family took over the business, bringing new energy, investment, and a long-term vision for what the gym could become.

That vision led to the creation of The Fitness Mill — a name that reflects both the building’s industrial heritage and its modern purpose.

Rooted in Stroud

We are proud to be deeply rooted in the culture of Stroud.

This has always been a place built on people — hard work, independence, and community — and that same spirit runs through everything we do.

We are a community-led gym, not a corporate chain.

We welcome all types of exercisers — from complete beginners to experienced athletes — and we pride ourselves on creating an environment that is:

• Supportive, not intimidating

• Inclusive, not exclusive

• Real, not corporate

A place where everyone feels comfortable training — without judgement.

What We Stand For

For centuries, this building produced cloth, timber, and craftsmanship.

Today, it produces something different:

Stronger, fitter, healthier people.

We’ve kept the character of the mill — the space, the structure, the atmosphere — and built a training environment that supports everyone, including:

• General fitness training

• Strength & conditioning

• Functional fitness

• Performance development

Whether you’re starting your fitness journey or training as a professional or competitive athlete, The Fitness Mill provides the facilities, environment, and support to help you progress.

Our Philosophy

This building has never stood still.

It has adapted. Evolved. Reinvented itself.

That’s exactly what we believe training should be.

Progress isn’t about where you start — it’s about how you adapt and improve over time.

Today

Now expanded across multiple units within Griffin’s Mill, including previously derelict spaces that have been brought back to life, The Fitness Mill continues to grow while staying true to its roots.

We’re proud of our history — but we’re even more focused on what we help people achieve every day.

The Fitness Mill

Built on history. Rooted in community. Driven by progress.