I​ntro to Traveling to Wimbledon

A beginners guide to the world-famous tennis tournament, Wimbledon.

The Wimbledon Championships are an iconic staple of summertime in London. There's no better way to get into the spirit of the season than attending the matches in person. Wimbledon is one of the most famous tennis tournaments worldwide, and the traditions that go along with it are just as authentic as the match itself.

If you are new to the world of tennis, or a lifelong fan who's finally getting to chance to watch the matches live, get ready for a royal experience of a lifetime. Here's a guide to things you need to know to have a successful experience at Wimbledon, from getting tickets, to what to wear, and beyond the match itself.

Wimbledon is the most famous tennis tournament in the world. Of the 4 Grand Slam tennis tournaments worldwide, this is the only match still played traditionally on grass. Winning a match at Wimbledon is the most prestigious achievement a tennis player could accomplish, and it's where Wimbledon truly makes you a legend.

There are a few different ways to get tickets to Wimbledon. Traditionally, the main way for UK residents to get tickets is through the public ballot. Residents can apply for a ticket that is drawn out of a lottery at random and ranges from 40-240 pounds. However, it's overly subscribed and the chance is getting chosen arent high. If you are chosen, you will receive a notification by February.

If you aren’t a UK resident, there is a separate ballot, but tickets are extremely limited.

Besides the traditional ballot, there are other ways to get Wimbledon tickets. Debentures, which are 5-year season seats, are often resold at a higher cost, Ticketmaster, or wait in line (preferably overnight) at the infamous Queue.

The final way to get tickets, which is more convenient, is to go through a travel agent or tour company. There are multiple companies that do group tours to Wimbledon, which typically include hotel arrangements and transportation packages as well. If you’ve got the extra money, this option can save a lot of time and hassle in the long run.

Unless you are a player, official, or in the members or hospitality areas, there is no enforced dress code at Wimbledon. Casual/smart dress is most common, but be mindful of UK weather. It's smart to dress for all occasions, so be sure to pack a raincoat, sweater, and sunglasses. Keep in mind there is limited shade, so pack extra sunscreen to wear on sunny days.

Strawberries and cream are one of the most traditional and authentic pieces for a complete and successful Wimbledon experience. This tasty treat is a must-try while at Wimbledon, however, there are other food and drink options as well. There are various cafes, bars, and intimate sit-down restaurants as well, depending on your personal preference. Be sure to swing by the Champagne bar at least once during the match; it's a great place to hide out from the rain.

Wimbledon is an experience all in itself, and the city of London turns into a Tennis lover's dream. During your time at Wimbledon, be sure to get the full experience beyond the tennis matches and strawberries and cream, and take part in activities such as:

Explore Wimbledon Village: The Wimbledon Village sits right on the edge of where the city meets the country. There is a wide range of bars, cafes, shops, and unique architecture, making it one of the most popular spots to visit during the tournament.

Wander through Cannizaro Park: Cannizaro Park is a perfect place to escape the large crowds and excitement of the tournament, and enjoy some relaxation and peace in the city. It's an exotic oasis with foliage from flora and Azaleas, an ideal place to explore in the summertime.

Walk around Wimbledon Common: Wimbledon Common is as old as the match itself. The grounds house over 1,100 acres of countryside paths, brooks, ponds, and an 1800s windmill to mark the scene.

Tour Stamford Bridge: For football fans, the infamous Chelsea Football Club is right around the corner, and offers daily tours to take you behind the scenes. Spend a few extra days in London and experience a match as well; tennis isn't the only sport you can see in the area.

Wimbledon attracts a lot of people and can be extremely overwhelming at first, and it's easy to make mistakes. Keep these tips in mind for a more successful and stress-free experience.

Stay in South London: Staying in South London puts you nearby or within walking distance from Wimbledon. The tube is located nearby as well and can be reached from anywhere in the city on the District Line.

Book Accommodation Early: Hotels fill up extremely fast for the 2 weeks of summer during Wimbledon. Make reservations as early as possible, but keep rentals in mind as well, as many locals rent out their houses for guest convenience.

Wear sunscreen: While the weather in the UK is typically gray, the sun is still powerful. Sunscreen is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful rays, in addition to a comfortable trip.

Be Prepared to Wait: Lines are inevitable at Wimbledon, do your best to arrive early everywhere you go, even for transportation. Traffic is often horrendous and very congested, while the easiest mode of transport is the tube, it's also extremely crowded. Be sure to allow for extra time.

We hope you have enjoyed this guide to traveling to Wimbledon, and that it gave you an idea of what to expect at this exciting royal experience. Let us know if you have any more questions!