As we head towards the middle weekend of Wimbledon Championships, the world is celebrating in SW19. Whilst the draw to the area might be the action-packed tennis tournament, there’s so much more to see and do in this idyllic London suburb this sunny weekend. Forget the obvious stops, we’ve got a true insider’s guide to the secret hotspots and local favourites in Wimbledon.
First Stop, Wimbledon Station
Wimbledon truly comes alive during the tennis season. Shop fronts transform with colourful window displays, restaurants serve up themed menus and there’s an electric buzz in the air as excitement for the tournament builds.
If you really want to soak up the local atmosphere and get a true taste of Wimbledon during this lively season, head past Southfields station and get off at Wimbledon instead. This way, you won’t miss any of the action. Follow The Alexandra pub’s handy guide and make sure you visit The Loft where you can catch screenings of both the tennis and World Cup.
There. Don't go to Southfields station (it's boring), come to Wimbledon & either walk or get a black cab to the tennis. 15 minutes, here's this year's map. pic.twitter.com/aJpXEzv8Hx
— The Alexandra (@TheAlexSW19) July 1, 2018
A Bite To Eat
For an idyllic lunch spot, head to Maison St Cassien and sit outdoors to watch the world go by – they do the tastiest fresh salads here. Or for dinner, try tennis players’ local haunt, Thai Tho. With its beautiful tennis display created from flowers and greenery, you won’t miss it.
Craving something sweet? Head round the corner to Sugarpova – a branded sweet shop founded by tennis star Maria Sharapova.
If it’s a relaxing afternoon you’re in need of after the hustle and bustle of tennis queues, visit Hotel Du Vin’s Cannizaro House. Unwind with a glass of Lanson champagne in their stunning glass orangery.
Bars And Pubs
Wimbledon is lucky to be home to many great bars and pubs. For soaking in sunshine, head to The Rose and Crown beer garden to watch live tennis screenings with a great choice of food and drink, including Pimm’s and Aperol Spritz. In the evening, you’ll find live music at their party marquee.
At the Dog and Fox, there’s live screenings across six TVs and projectors as well as six bars to keep your glasses topped up. In the evening, the dining area transforms into a stage where a different band will play every night over The Championships.
Don’t forget to try the town’s beloved Wimbledon Brewery Beer, available at all Young’s pubs in the area. Over the tennis fortnight, they’ll be launching their pale ale – a deliciously refreshing summer drink.
If you’re in town centre, try new kid on the block, 601 Queen’s Rd. A bar with a beautiful rooftop terrace offering crafty beers and cleverly concocted cocktails.
The Big Screen
No tickets to Wimbledon? Not a problem. Join the crowd at The Piazza for a live screening on Love Wimbledon’s Big Screen. With no costs or queue, all you have to do is pull up a deck chair and enjoy the atmosphere.
Merchandise
This year, the AELTC have opened up their first pop-up shop in Wimbledon Village. Gear up with official merchandise from t-shirts, hats and towels, to tennis balls and rackets.
Picking up some bigger balls for my #Wimbledon #tennis party tomorrow eve #WimbledonVillage pic.twitter.com/P6nwxPyFfR
— Lady Wimbledon (@ladywimbledon) June 20, 2018
