Postcard from Wimbledon

As the grass season draws to a close, the All Court Tennis Club is here to guide you far beyond the customary pleasures of strawberries and cream. While spectating world-class tennis is a given, the traditions and meticulous standards of SW19 offer an experience unlike any other in the sporting world.

The grass is never better in England than in June. Wimbledon has used 100 per cent Perennial Ryegrass since 2001, a choice made by the permanent ground staff to improve durability and strengthen "the sward" against the rigours of the modern game. Cut to a precise height of 8mm, the courts are the stage for the closing of the grass season before the tour transitions to the hard courts of the U.S. Open. In 2026, The Championships are scheduled to take place from Monday 29 June to Sunday 12 July.

Where to play

Membership at the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is one of the most exclusive honours in sport. While the club is primarily private, it does offer tours and a museum that provide a glimpse into its hallowed grounds.

Founded in 1868 as a croquet club, the rapid evolution of "lawn tennis" saw the club officially add the sport to its title in 1877. Today, the AELTC maintains 18 championship grass courts and 14 grass practice courts in Aorangi Park.

Membership is limited to 375 full members, with a rigorous application process requiring support from existing members. Beyond the right to play on the grass, members enjoy a clubhouse featuring a large restaurant, elegant social areas, and the iconic balcony overlooking the grounds. As Emma Raducanu noted, the attention to detail—from the bespoke carpets to the meticulously tended flowers—is truly outstanding.

Wimbledon traditions

Wimbledon is renowned for its long-standing club traditions, though it has recently embraced modern adjustments. While the strict "all-white" dress code remains for outer clothing, a significant change was introduced in 2023 allowing female players to wear solid, mid-to-dark coloured undershorts to reduce anxiety during menstruation.

The tournament is the site of some of history's most staggering feats, including the legendary 11-hour match between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut and the record-breaking title streaks of Roger Federer and Martina Navratilova.

Shop

While many visitors gravitate towards the official Ralph Lauren collection on-site, Wimbledon Village offers an array of upscale retail options:

High-End Fashion: Visit Matches Fashion for luxury designer finds.
Activewear: Sweaty Betty provides stylish options for those inspired by the action on court.
Lifestyle and Beauty: Explore Space NK for premium beauty or the Japanese Knife Company for expert-grade kitchenware.

Eat, drink and be merry

Wimbledon Village is a gastronomic hub, particularly famous for its excellent Thai cuisine and historic pubs.

Thai Tho: A village staple since the late 1980s, Thai Tho is a favourite of Maria Sharapova and Andy Murray. The interior is filled with carved Buddha statues and vibrant flowers, offering a far more personal experience than a standard chain.
Hemingways: The only locally owned independent cocktail bar in the village, Hemingways serves expert Old Fashioneds and Espresso Martinis alongside homemade pizzas.
The Ivy Café Wimbledon: Part of the famous British group, The Ivy Café offers sophisticated all-day dining and a beautiful garden terrace just a short walk from the AELTC.
The Dog & Fox: An iconic pub at the heart of the village. Whether you have a ticket or not, the Dog & Fox is the place to watch results roll in, especially from their Sipsmith Sipping Terrace.

Sleep

During the Championships, many locals rent out their homes to players and coaches, but the area also boasts several premier hotels.

Hotel du Vin (Cannizaro House): Set within 34 acres of Cannizaro Park, this historic 18th-century house offers an elegant retreat from the heat of the tournament. It was once the home of the Duke of Cannizzaro and maintains a sophisticated, tranquil atmosphere.
Warren House: Located in the exclusive Coombe Estate, Warren House is a Victorian Grade II listed building set within six acres of landscaped gardens, just an 11-minute drive from the courts.
The Rose & Crown: A charming 17th-century pub with 13 stylish, dog-friendly rooms. It is perfectly positioned for those wanting to be in the centre of the village action, with the common on its doorstep.