Purpose: Despite the health benefits of physical activity (PA), participation rates Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) adults in the United Kingdom (UK) are low in comparison to the general population. This study aimed to explore the social-ecological factors related to PA participation among BAME immigrants. Design/methodology/approach: Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 12 purposively selected adults from the BAME populace residing in one postcode district of a city in southern England. Findings: The three main themes that developed from this study demonstrated that the barriers to PA participation among BAME were perceived to exist at intrapersonal, and environmental (social and physical) levels. Research limitations/implications: Understanding these unique social-ecological factors may assist in intervention development. Originality/value: Prominent barriers included intrapersonal factors such as deportation fear and cultural beliefs; and environmental factors such as the cost of accessing PA facilities. Length of residency appeared to be related to increased PA.