A Spectator’s Guide to Wimbledon

History of Wimbledon

The first tournament was held at Wimbledon’s tennis grounds in 1877, so it’s fair to say they know a thing or two about running a tennis event! 

There have only ever been two cancellations of the Wimbledon championships, once for World War 2 and once for the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Wimbledon has a rich tradition of being a classy, well-mannered event that prides itself on respect and dignity.

When is Wimbledon Played?

The main draw event at Wimbledon is usually played in two weeks between the end of June and the beginning of July. The exact dates can vary year to year depending on the scheduling of the rest of the ATP calendar. 

The qualifying event for Wimbledon takes place a week before the main event and is not on site. Qualifying occurs at the Bank of England, approximately 3.5 miles/6 km away from Wimbledon.

Is There a Dress Code?

As far as players are concerned, Wimbledon has a strict dress code. Players must wear all white at all times during their matches. 

However, spectators, have a much easier time of it. There is no official dress code for Wimbledon, but there are a few forbidden items of clothing, which include: 

• No Torn Jeans
• No Running Vests
• No Dirty Sneakers
• No Sports Shorts.

Prominent Champions

There have been a number of prominent champions at Wimbledon that have graced the hallowed grass courts over the years. Here are the players that have won the most singles titles at Wimbledon: 

• Martina Navratilova: 9 Wins
• Roger Federer: 8 Wins
• Serena Williams: 7 Wins
• Pete Sampras: 7 Wins
• Steffi Graf: 7 Wins
• Novak Djokovic: 7 Wins

If you’re curious about how much money these top players receive, check out our article on Wimbledon prize money through the years.

Getting into Wimbledon

The All England Club at Wimbledon is on Church Road, Wimbledon, London, SW19 5AE. 

If you are planning your visit to Wimbledon and have never been before, check out this helpful guide from their official website:

Planning Your Day.

There are a couple of different ways to get into Wimbledon. Unlike many other sporting events where you can buy tickets on the open market, Wimbledon is quite different. 

To get the first pick of tickets to the show courts (Centre Court, Court 1, and Court 2), you must enter the ballot. These are run by the LTA and operate out of local tennis clubs. This is a bit of a luck-of-the-draw situation as you never know what tickets your club will get allocated! 

However, you can always queue if the ballot is not for you!

The Famous Queue

The queue at Wimbledon is a unique experience that sees thousands of tennis fans attempt to see their favorite players at the most prestigious tennis tournament in the world. 

When you get to the entrance to the queue at Wimbledon (situated across the road from the All England Club itself), you’ll be assigned a number and be able to find a place in the snaking queue of people. 

Then, you’ll slowly start seeing the queue move as the gates to the club open, and if any show court tickets are available, they will be offered to spectators in the queue on a first come first served basis. 

Most people try to get into the queue as early as they can, around 5 or 6 am, but some dedicated fans actually camp out overnight! Gates for Wimbledon open at 10 am, and play starts on the outside courts at 11:30 am. Play goes on on the inside courts until 11 pm.

When You’re Inside

When you get inside the grounds of Wimbledon, you’ll be greeted with white and purple flowers, beautiful scenery, and bustling crowds! There is so much to see and do at Wimbledon, but the overall feel of the place is pristine and classy.

Aorangi Practice Courts

One of the first places you should visit if you are going to Wimbledon is the Aorangi practice courts. This is where the players get the chance to sharpen their skills and you can watch them up close. 

There are so many courts available to look at, and you can almost put out your hand and touch the players, you’re that close!

Outdoor Courts

One of the unique things about Wimbledon is that you can see world-class tennis throughout the entire fortnight without needing a ticket to a show court! 

The outside courts vary in capacity, but all offer fantastic tennis viewing experiences. You can sit on the stands at Court 3, court 12, or Court 18. Or simply sit courtside with the player’s teams and many other lucky spectators on any of the other outside courts. 

If you want to see top-quality singles action throughout your visit, you will probably be best off going at the start of the tournament. Doubles, juniors, and wheelchair tennis tend to take place in the later stages of the tournament.

Show Courts

If you are lucky enough to get a ticket to a show court at Wimbledon, you’re in for a treat. Play starts at 1 pm daily on the show courts, and you will be treated to at least two matches in your session. 

Centre Court, Court 1, and Court 2 are all fantastic viewing experiences for tennis, and both Centre Court and Court 1 now have a roof. This means that being on one of these courts you’ll be able to watch tennis throughout the evening, even if the heavens open!

Henman Hill/Murray Mound

One of the most iconic places to sit and watch tennis at Wimbledon is Henman Hill, or as some like to call it, Murray Mound. This hill sits behind Court 1 and allows spectators to watch the big screen showing the most popular matches of the day. 

This is a great place to enjoy some strawberries and cream, Pimms, and a bit of sunshine.

What if it Rains?

This is the biggest concern for anyone visiting Wimbledon. Unfortunately, the weather in London can be a bit temperamental! Rain and Wimbledon go hand in hand, but because of the climate, it doesn’t often last long. 

If it does rain, there are plenty of places to take cover, and play will be suspended on all outside courts. Then, the roofs on both Centre Court and Court 1 will be put in place so play can continue on these courts.

Food and Drink – Summer Dining at Its Best

There are plenty of choices at the food court at Wimbledon, so no matter what you fancy, you’ll be well catered for. There are plenty of stands, kiosks, and private dining areas for VIPs and debenture ticket holders too.

So whether you want a full dining experience or just a punnet of strawberries and cream, you’re well covered at Wimbledon.

Shops – The Best of Retail Therapy

The Wimbledon shop gives you the chance to pick up souvenirs and take a bit of the Wimbledon magic home with you. There are towels, memorabilia, mugs, apparel, and much much more that you can purchase. 

You can also buy an official program for your particular day of visiting, so you’ll be able to see all the latest stories, order of play and draw information. This is also available on the Wimbledon App, and there is free wifi throughout the grounds so you’ll be able to keep up to date with the latest Wimbledon news.

The Championships, Wimbledon: History & Tradition

Overall, Wimbledon is one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world, and definitely the most highly regarded tennis tournament out there. It is the only grand slam to be played on grass and is rich in history and tradition. If you ever get the chance to go, it is an unbelievable experience that you should savor! 

We hope this spectator’s guide to Wimbledon helps you understand more about this prestigious tournament and gives you an idea of what to expect.