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Wimbledon Traditions: Beyond Centre Court

Wimbledon Traditions: Beyond Centre Court

Each summer, more than half a million people pass through the gates of Wimbledon, not simply to watch tennis but to take part in a grand celebration of British pageantry. The tournament has been running since 1877 and it remains the only lawn tennis championship in the world. Ahead of the first matches this Monday, June 30, our editors explore some of the traditions that make this tournament stand out in the tennis calendar. 

Strawberries & Cream

Each year an astonishing 28,000 kilograms of strawberries and 7,000 litres of cream are served on-site during Wimbledon.  This traditional snack dates to the very first tournament in 1877 and has remained a firm favourite ever since. There’s something ritualistic and very British about it all – especially when paired with a glass (or jug) of Pimm’s.

STRAWBERRIES AND CREAM, EVERY TENNIS-GOER'S DREAM SNACK

Dress Codes and Drama

At Wimbledon, elegance isn’t optional – it is the dress code. Players are required to wear strictly all-white attire, a rule born from Victorian values when sweating was considered improper. The tradition has survived the centuries and is enforced with near-comical precision. Even Wimbledon’s darling, Roger Federer, was reprimanded in 2013 for wearing shoes with orange soles. 

The Queue

If you fail to get a ticket, fear not: for last-minute tickets join ‘The Queue'. Each day 7,000 show court tickets are available for those who join ‘The Queue’.  Early alarms are set, folding chairs deployed and the throngs rally amidst polite small talk. If anywhere can turn queueing into a civilised ritual, it’s Britain.

A Hill with A View

Whether you call it Henman Hill or Murray Mound, this grassy bank outside Court 1 is arguably the most atmospheric spot to watch matches. Perfect for those who are unable to secure tickets but want to be close to the action, fans gather en masse to picnic, pop champagne and “oooh” and “ahhh” in unison at the giant screens. No hushed tones or folded napkins here.

Grass Courts and Bird Patrol

Wimbledon remains the only Grand Slam still played on grass, staying loyal to the surface that defined the game’s early years. The turf makes for faster play and unpredictable bounces and is unforgiving to those who can’t adapt. Keeping those sacred courts pristine? Rufus the Hawk, who patrols the skies each morning to scare away pigeons before play begins. His daily flight is as essential as any pre-match warm-up.

PLAY ON GRASS COURTS IS FASTER AND MORE UNPREDICTABLE 

Where to Stay

In West London, opposite Kensington Palace, is The Milestone Hotel and Residences, an ideal choice for fans of historic accommodation and beautiful surroundings. Or, if you’d prefer to be closer to the city centre, stay at 1 Hotel Mayfair, minutes away from Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park and dozens of galleries.

If you’re planning on going to Wimbledon but still haven’t secured tickets, we provide ASMALLWORLD Members with discounted tickets which grant access to the Debenture Lounges on Centre Court and Court 1 for a truly unique experience - click here to find out more and secure your tickets.

ASMALLWORLD COLLECTION HOTELS SELECTED BY OUR EDITOR

Book the world's best hotels with extraordinary VIP benefits

The Milestone Hotel and Residences
The Milestone Hotel and Residences
London, United Kingdom
1 Hotel Mayfair
1 Hotel Mayfair
London, United Kingdom

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