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Wimbledon Guide: How to Plan Your Visit to The Championships
When is Wimbledon 2026?
The Wimbledon Championships takes place each summer in London with this year’s championship from 29 June 2026 to 12 July 2026.
Running for 14 days, the Men’s Final is held on the final Sunday of the tournament with the Women’s Final taking place the day before.
First week:
If your plans are flexible, the first week is often the best time to visit. There are more matches across more courts, and it’s easier to explore the grounds without focusing on just one ticket.
Second Week:
The second week brings bigger matches and a more focused schedule, but also larger crowds and higher demand.
Where is Wimbledon held?
The Championships take place at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in southwest London.
Address:
Church Rd, London SW19 5AE
Nearest Tube:
Southfields (District Line)
Official Website:
Southfields is the main route used during the tournament. From the station, it’s a well-managed 15-minute walk with stewards guiding the way. Wimbledon Station is another option, slightly further but often less crowded later in the day.
How do Wimbledon tickets work?
Wimbledon is one of the few major sporting events where you don’t always need to book far in advance.
How do Wimbledon advance ballot tickets work?
The advance ballot is the simplest way to secure tickets ahead of time without needing to queue on the day.
The ballot is a free public draw, usually opening in autumn before the following summer’s tournament, and is available to both UK and international visitors via the official Wimbledon website.
Entry doesn’t guarantee tickets, but if you’re successful, you’ll be offered reserved seats on Centre Court, No.1 Court, or No.2 Court for a specific date.
Ballot tickets are tied to:
- A set day and court
- A fixed price (based on the stage of the tournament)
- A named ticket holder (non-transferable)
The main advantage is certainty. You’ll have guaranteed entry, a reserved seat, and access to the full grounds, without needing to plan around the queue. your overall travel cost.ultiple platforms and giv
What is the Wimbledon queue?
A defining part of Wimbledon.
- You can queue for show court tickets or Grounds passes
- Many people arrive between 5am and 7am for the best chance at Centre Court
- You’ll be issued a queue card which secures your place
- Overnight queuing is allowed in a designated area with basic facilities
Tip:
If Centre Court isn’t essential, arriving later in the morning still gives you a strong chance of getting a Grounds pass.
What can you do without Centre Court tickets?
Henman Hill (Murray Mound)
A large outdoor screen shows Centre Court matches.
- Arrive before midday to find space
- Popular during major matches
- Ideal for a slower, more relaxed experience
Outer courts
Often the best way to watch tennis up close.
- You’re closer to the players
- Matches rotate frequently
- Early rounds offer the most variety
The grounds
There’s space to walk, pause, and reset between matches, which becomes part of the rhythm of the day.
Resale tickets
If you don’t have a show court ticket, you could still have the chance to get them once inside. Returned tickets are resold inside the grounds
- Prices are lower than original face value
- Queues form, but move steadily throughout the afternoon
What are the food and drink options?
There’s a wide range across the grounds.
- Strawberries and cream (a Wimbledon staple)
- Pimm’s and champagne
- Street food-style stalls and casual dining options
- Coffee and lighter snacks throughout
You’re also allowed to bring your own food and a limited amount of alcohol, which many visitors choose to do for convenience.How do I Pick which Soho Café to go to?
What should you bring to Wimbledon?
Packing well makes a noticeable difference.
- Reusable water bottle (refill stations available)
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Light waterproof layer (weather can change quickly)
- Comfortable shoes for walking and standing
- A picnic, if you prefer your own food
Bag policy:
- One bag per person (plus a small handbag)
- Maximum size: 40cm x 30cm x 30cm
How do you get to and from Wimbledon?
- Southfields Station (District Line): main route, 15-minute walk
- Wimbledon Station: District Line and National Rail, around 20–25 minutes on foot or short bus ride
Getting back
- Expect queues at both stations after play finishes
- Southfields is quicker but busier
- Wimbledon Station can feel calmer later in the evening
Tip: Staying slightly longer or leaving before the final matches end can reduce wait times.
Where is best to stay to attend Wimbledon?
Staying in central London means you can travel out to Wimbledon in under an hour, then return to a quieter space in the evening. Areas like the West End or Tottenham Court Road give you direct Underground access and options for dinner or evening plans after the matches.
Zedwell hotels are located in the centre, making it easy to step into the city during the day and return to a calm, simple space when you’re ready to rest.
