Twickenham Says Goodbye: Busen Martial Arts to Leave King Street After 42 Years

A Local Legacy Comes to a Close

After more than four decades on King Street, Busen Martial Arts, a well-loved fixture in the Twickenham community, is packing up and preparing to relocate. For many, this marks the end of an era — not just for martial arts enthusiasts, but for anyone who’s walked past those familiar doors and admired the history housed within them. Busen’s presence in Twickenham spans generations. Since opening its doors in 1982, the gym has trained thousands of locals, from school kids to adults seeking self-discipline, confidence, and physical fitness. But why the move now?

Rising Costs and Changing Times

Like many local businesses struggling with today’s economic climate, the team at Busen Martial Arts is facing growing financial pressures. Increasing rent and running costs in London’s competitive property market have made it difficult to continue operating in the central Twickenham location they’ve called home for so long. The decision to leave wasn’t made lightly. In fact, for founder and sensei Bill Overton — who has guided generations of karate students over the years — this building has always been more than just a gym. It’s been a second home, a training ground, and a cornerstone of community values. Yet, reality has a way of nudging even the most resilient among us to adapt.

“It’s Not Just About Kicks and Punches”

Ask any long-time student or parent, and they’ll likely tell you that Busen offers far more than martial arts lessons. Under Sensei Overton’s guidance, young people have gained not only physical skills but also a sense of discipline, respect, and self-esteem. This dojo has helped countless kids build confidence while teaching them the importance of perseverance and personal growth. Some have gone on to compete nationally and internationally, while others simply found a space where they could belong. One local, Emma, who trained at Busen as a teen and now sends her own children there, shared: “It instilled in me a mindset that carried over to school, work — everything. I’ll always be grateful, and I know I’m not alone in that.”

What’s Next for Busen Martial Arts?

Though this chapter is ending, the story of Busen Martial Arts is far from over. The club will be relocating to a new venue on Nelson Road later this summer – a temporary home for now, but a fresh start nonetheless. The new space will allow classes to continue without interruption, ensuring students stay on track with their training and personal development. The team is hopeful about the move. While the King Street dojo holds years of memories, the new space offers opportunities to evolve and grow, maybe even reaching more people in different ways.

What Will Stay the Same?

In short — the spirit. -

The teaching philosophy that emphasizes character development as much as technique.

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The close-knit, family-style community.

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Longstanding instructors who know students by name and story.

Busen’s essence isn’t tied to one building. It lives in the attitude and culture that students carry with them every time they step onto the mat.

Community Reflections

The news of the move has stirred emotions across Twickenham. For many residents, this decision hits close to home. The gym has stood through weddings, births, and farewells — quietly consistent in a rapidly changing world. Local residents have taken to social media to share memories and express their support. Parents, former students, and even passersby are reflecting on what the dojo has meant to them. It’s a poignant reminder of how physical places can plant emotional roots.

Why This Move Matters

In a broader sense, Busen’s move marks a shift many towns are going through. As rents rise and independent spaces struggle to compete, long-time local businesses face tough choices. The flavor and soul of our high streets are changing — and fast. Twickenham, with its own unique charm, has always balanced the old with the new. The departure of Busen from King Street is a moment to pause and consider what we value in our communities. Are we making enough space for institutions that prioritize growth, values, and real-world skills? Do we support places that serve deeper purposes beyond transactions?

The Road Ahead

As Busen prepares for its move, there’s a sense of resilience among the team. Change may be inevitable, but what matters most is how we meet it. In the months ahead, the dojo plans to continue its full schedule of classes, welcoming both long-time students and newcomers alike. Whether you're a child looking to build self-confidence, a teen finding your voice, or an adult seeking focus and fitness — the doors will stay open, even if they stand somewhere new.

Want to Get Involved?

Even if you’ve never tried martial arts before, now might be a perfect time to check it out. Newcomers often find more than they expect — a physical discipline that supports mental strength, emotional balance, and meaningful relationships. And in today's fast-paced digital world, those things are more valuable than ever. Busen Martial Arts continues to offer: -

Group karate classes for children and adults

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One-to-one training

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Traditional values taught in a modern context

You’ll find no flashy gimmicks here — just honest training with passionate instructors who care about your journey, both on and off the mat.

Final Thoughts

As Twickenham prepares to say farewell to one of its longest-standing fitness communities, there’s both sadness and hope in the atmosphere. While it’s the end of Busen’s King Street residency, it’s also a new beginning. Because no matter where the mats are rolled out, what truly defines Busen Martial Arts is the people — those teaching, learning, and growing together. If you've ever trained there, you'll understand. And if you haven’t yet — maybe this is your moment to join something special. Here’s to the next 42 years.