Discover Wimbledon: More Than Just Tennis
Wimbledon is synonymous with tennis, yet this London suburb offers much more. Just six miles from central London, it's easily reached by public transport and offers a variety of attractions, from leafy residential streets and historic Wimbledon Village to expansive green spaces.
For more travel inspiration, check out our guide to the top things to do in Wimbledon. Also, see our recommendations on where to stay in Wimbledon.
1. The Championships: Wimbledon's Premier Tennis Event
Wimbledon's prestigious tennis tournament began in 1877 to fund a lawn roller for the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC). Today, it's the only major still played on grass, attracting fans worldwide for two weeks every summer.
Address: The All England Lawn Tennis Club (Championships) Ltd, Church Road, Wimbledon, London
Official site: www.wimbledon.com
2. Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum
The Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum offers interactive exhibits, a VR experience, and a glimpse into the sport's history. Don't miss the collection of memorabilia dating back to 1555.
Address: The All England Lawn Tennis Club (Championships) Ltd, Church Road, Wimbledon, London
Official site: www.wimbledon.com/en_GB/museum_and_tours/index.html
3. All England Lawn Tennis Club Tours
Join a Blue Badge guide for a 1.5-hour tour of the AELTC, including Centre Court and the Media Centre. Tours include museum admission; book online to secure your spot.
Address: The All England Lawn Tennis Club (Championships) Ltd, Church Road, Wimbledon, London
4. Wimbledon and Putney Commons
Spanning 1,100 acres, Wimbledon and Putney Commons offer walking and cycling trails, horse riding, and a public golf course. Look out for the Wombles, characters from a British TV show.
Address: The Ranger's Office, Manor Cottage, Windmill Road, Wimbledon Common, London
Official site: www.wpcc.org.uk
5. Wimbledon Windmill Museum
Visit the historic Wimbledon Windmill Museum to learn about milling and enjoy panoramic views. The museum also has a gift shop and nearby tearooms.
Address: Windmill Road, Wimbledon Common, Wimbledon, London
Official site: www.wimbledonwindmill.org.uk
6. Shop in Wimbledon Village
Wimbledon Village offers a quaint shopping experience with boutique shops and the popular Wimbledon Farmers Market on Saturdays.
7. Tour Historic Southside House
Southside House, a Dutch Baroque mansion, is now a museum featuring artifacts like Anne Boleyn's dressing case. Enjoy the gardens and join a guided tour or cultural event.
Address: 3-4 Woodhayes Road, Wimbledon, London
Official site: www.southsidehouse.com
8. Wat Buddhapadipa Temple
Explore the serene Wat Buddhapadipa Temple, the first Thai Buddhist temple in Britain, set on four acres with a lake and orchard.
Address: 14 Calonne Road, Wimbledon, London
Official site: www.watbuddhapadipa.org
9. Cannizaro Park
Cannizaro Park, with its manicured gardens and wildflower trails, is a peaceful retreat. It hosts events and guided nature tours.
Address: Westside Common, Wimbledon, London
Official site: www.cannizaropark.com
10. The Kenneth Ritchie Wimbledon Library
The Kenneth Ritchie Wimbledon Library, part of the Lawn Tennis Museum, is a treasure trove for tennis history enthusiasts.
Address: The All England Lawn Tennis Club (Championships) Ltd, Church Road, Wimbledon, London
Official site: www.wimbledon.com/en_GB/atoz/library_research_enquiries.html
11. Polka Theatre for Kids
Polka Theatre offers a variety of children's plays, workshops, and a café with a playground.
Address: 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London
Official site: www.polkatheatre.com
12. Museum of Wimbledon
The Museum of Wimbledon, open on weekends, showcases the area's history with art, maps, and archaeological finds.
Address: 22 Ridgway, Wimbledon, London
Official site: www.wimbledonmuseum.org.uk
Where to Stay in Wimbledon for Sightseeing
For a comfortable stay, consider these accommodations in Wimbledon:
Luxury Hotels:
- The Rose and Crown offers a boutique B&B experience with a cozy lounge and full English breakfast.
- Hotel du Vin Wimbledon
- The Dog & Fox
Mid-Range Hotels:
- The Antoinette Hotel Wimbledon provides comfortable rooms and an excellent breakfast.
- Marple Cottage Guest House
- Travelodge - Raynes Park offers quality accommodations with free parking.
Budget Hotels:
- The Holiday Inn Express London-Wimbledon-South features modern décor and free breakfast.
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Explore beyond Wimbledon with day trips to Greenwich, Kew Gardens, Canterbury, Dover, and Brighton. For more England vacation ideas, consider Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Liverpool, and Manchester.