Wimbledon isn’t just a tennis tournament, it’s an experience. The oldest and most prestigious in the sport, it’s brought history, drama, and elegance since 1877. Players dressed head-to-toe in crisp all-white, battling it out on perfectly manicured grass courts, with the Royal family watching from the Royal Box. The only Grand Slam on grass, it keeps every match fast and unpredictable.

But Wimbledon is more than just tennis. It’s about the 28,000 kg of strawberries and cream eaten each year, the tradition of “Breakfast at Wimbledon,” and the fact that you won’t see a single flashy ad around the courts because, yes, Wimbledon keeps it classy with no visible sponsorships. It’s where legends are made, rivalries heat up, and history is written, one ace at a time. 

Planning your Wimbledon visit? Stay in the heart of London with Imperial London Hotels, where authentic experiences and a comfortable retreat await perfectly placed for exploring the city before and after the Championships.

The Wimbledon Championships 2025 will take place from Monday, 30 June to Sunday, 13 July, attracting visitors from around the world. Matches begin early and can continue until 23:00, but history shows anything is possible, just think of the remarkable 11-hour, 5-minute match in 2010 when John Isner won over Nicolas Mahut.

Wimbledon offers more than just world-class tennis. Between matches, take time to explore Wimbledon Village, with its cosy cafes, charming shops, and leafy streets. If you are planning to attend, we have curated a list of activities to make your visit truly memorable.

Nearest Station: Wimbledon Station 

Distance: Approximately 10 minutes' walk to Zone 3.

If you want the true local feel, visit Wimbledon Village. It’s a perfect mix of old-school English charm with a mix of modern vibes. The high street has everything from independent boutiques to fancy shops, and loads of quirky bookstores (for our book lovers). If exploring unique bookshops is your thing, you’ll also love Bloomsbury’s bookshops, home to some of London's most renowned literary spots.

And we haven’t forgotten about the food lovers (which is basically everyone). Wimbledon Village has got options from around the world, be it Thai, Indian or Italian. If you're in the mood for authentic Indian flavours, the Poppadom Indian Kitchen at the Tavistock Hotel offers a delicious selection of classic and contemporary dishes in the heart of Bloomsbury.

Station: Southfields Underground Station

Distance: Approximately 15 minutes' walk (District Line)

The Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum is a must-see for tennis lovers and the simply curious. Get up close to the famous trophies and the fabrics of tennis fashions from the Victorian period. It’s fascinating to learn how the sport has evolved over the years with all the new technology.

f you love uncovering history through artifacts and exhibits, the British Museum near our President Hotel is another must-visit. Home to millions of historical treasures from around the world, it offers a deeper dive into how different cultures have shaped society—including the evolution of sports over time.

The nearest stations to Wimbledon Common are:

Wimbledon War Memorial (C) : 1 minute walk

High Street / Wimbledon Village (P) : 6 minutes walk 

Wimbledon Village / Ridgway (H) : 8 minutes walk 

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot, Wimbledon Common is the place to go. This vast, green space is perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic. With woodland trails to explore and ponds to sit by, it’s a great way to escape the tournament buzz. There’s also a golf course if you fancy a round. 

For those who love being close to nature even in the heart of the city, our Bedford Hotel offers the perfect stay near Russell Square Gardens and the charming, leafy streets of Bloomsbury. 

Best picnic spot: Near the Windmill Museum, which also offers a slice of local history.

Wimbledon’s pub scene truly comes alive during the Championships, offering a great mix of traditional British pubs and modern wine bars. Here are some of the top spots to check out:

Pubs on Wimbledon Common

📍 6 Crooked Billet, Wimbledon Common, London SW19 4RQ, UK

Traditional British pub with a homely, rustic feel

Dates back to 1831 – originally a bakery!

Serves craft beers & comforting British classics

A true hidden gem, Hand in Hand feels like stepping into a neighbour’s living room. Enjoy a cosy atmosphere, hearty pub food, and a warm welcome after a day at Wimbledon Common.

 

Bars on Wimbledon High Street

📍 70a High St, London SW19 5EE, UK

Authentic Sardinian wine bar & deli

Rich history dating back to 1890

Famous for quality cheeses & fine wines

This intimate Italian wine bar in Wimbledon Village brings a slice of Sardinia to London. Founded by Agostino Vallebona, his family was the first to introduce Sardinian bottarga and cheese to Borough Market. If you love fine wine, cosy vibes, and a taste of Italy, this is a must-visit.

📍 Royal National Hotel, London

Traditional pub experience with a modern twist

Live sports screenings indoors & outdoors

Craft beers, ales & classic British dishes

Wimbledon by day, Bloomsbury by night! Unwind at The London Pub inside the Royal National Hotel—great pints, classic British bites, and all the tennis action on big screens. The perfect post-match hangout!

The Wimbledon Farmers’ Market is worth a visit. Fresh produce, yummy street food, and cool handmade goods everywhere you look. Grab some fresh fruit, snack on local treats, and wander around with a cup of coffee. If you are in the area during Wimbledon, they throw in these pop-up craft fairs, so you can get some unique souvenirs while soaking up the tournament buzz. 

After a day at Wimbledon, return to Bloomsbury—your London home base—and unwind at City Sleeper At Royal National, just moments from Camden Lock Market. Savour global street food, browse indie stalls, and soak in London’s vibrant market scene beyond the courts!

Feeling a bit artsy? Catch a show at the New Wimbledon Theatre. They’ve got everything from musicals to gripping dramas, something to  keep you entertained.

If you’re more into art, swing by the Wimbledon Art Studios. It’s a bit of a hidden gem where local artists showcase their work. If you time it right during their open studio events, you can walk around, meet the artists, and see some incredible pieces up close.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting during the Championships, keep an eye out for special Wimbledon-themed performances and art exhibits. Like last year the Wimbledon Art Fair showcased over 150 artists, offering a vibrant mix of original and affordable art. 

After immersing yourself in art and theatre, unwind with a cocktail at The Library Bar at The Morton Hotel. Just a short journey back to Bloomsbury, this intimate and stylish bar is the perfect spot to sip a drink, reflect on your cultural discoveries, and soak in the elegant ambiance.

From fine dining to global cuisine, Wimbledon offers something for every foodie. While popular chains like The Ivy Café and Sticks‘n’Sushi are great choices, independent local restaurants bring unique flavors and character to the area.

📍 33 High St, London SW19 5BY, United Kingdom

Authentic Italian cuisine in a contemporary setting

Name inspired by the Italian toast "Cent'anni" – "May you live a hundred years!"

Generous portions packed with flavour

A must-visit for lovers of hearty Italian food, Cent Anni delivers delicious seafood risotto, crispy calamari, and perfectly cooked prawns. Ideal for a long, leisurely lunch. 

Craving a more pizza-focused Italian experience? Head back to Bloomsbury and visit Blooms Coffee & Pizza and pair your slice with a good glass of red wine and soak up the sunshine this summer. 

📍 75-77 Ridgeway, Wimbledon, London SW19 4ST, UK

Opened in 1999, serving refined international dishes

Fresh seafood, tender meats, and indulgent desserts

Slightly on the expensive side but absolutely worth it

Here, we enjoyed seared rare tuna, baked salmon with lemon butter, and a classic British apple & plum crumble for dessert. If you’re looking for quality and elegance, Light House won’t disappoint.

📍 86 High St, Wimbledon, London SW19 5EG, UK

All-day breakfast & dining in a coSy setting

Mediterranean-inspired brunch favorites

Famous for their Biscoff latte & Marmalade Martini

For a laid-back brunch in Wimbledon Village, Megan’s is a must. Try the Za’atar hummus to share, pair it with one of their open kebabs, and sip on a Marmalade Martini—yes, it’s as good as it sounds! 

Raise a glass to a day well played at Wimbledon with a refreshing cocktail at Atrium Bar & Restaurant. 

Conveniently located near Wimbledon station, Centre Court Shopping Centre offers everything from high-street fashion to quirky local stores. Take a break with a coffee at the food court or grab a quick bite before heading back to the action.

And of course, the big one! No trip to Wimbledon is complete without soaking up the legendary tennis tournament. Whether you score Centre Court tickets or hang out on Murray Mound (aka Henman Hill), the energy is electric.

Unlike most major sporting events, Wimbledon allows you to buy premium tickets on the day—yes, really! But there’s a catch: you’ll need to join "The Queue."

Every day, a limited number of Show Court tickets and Grounds passes are available for purchase.

Some dedicated fans camp overnight to secure a prime spot. For Grounds passes, arriving early in the morning increases your chances of getting in.

Entry is first-come, first-served, and availability is based on capacity—you may only get in as others leave.

Get There Early – Arrive before 6 AM if you're serious about getting Centre Court tickets. Grounds passes may still be available later, but expect long lines.

Bring Essentials – A portable chair, snacks, water, and an umbrella (for rain or sun) can make the wait more comfortable.

Know the Dress Code – While there’s no strict dress code for Wimbledon spectators, smart attire is recommended.

Try a Classic Wimbledon Treat – You can’t leave without indulging in strawberries and cream! 

Watch the matches at a London sports bar – Can’t make it to the grounds? Woolf & Whistle in Bloomsbury streams live sports, offering comfortable seating, great drinks, and a menu inspired by Virginia Woolf, featuring British classics and light bites.

 A stylish twin room at City Sleeper Hotel—a perfect base for attending the Wimbledon Championships

Serve up the perfect London stay with Imperial London Hotels—make Bloomsbury your home court, with our centrally located hotels offering easy access to Wimbledon and the best of the city during the Championships.   

Our Hotels Proximity to Wimbledon

All our hotels are located in Bloomsbury, London. Close to many transport options like Euston Station, Kings Cross St., Pancras, Russell Square and Holborn providing seamless access to Wimbledon via public transport. 

 Wimbledon Station entrance with its Underground and National Rail signs—a key transport hub for visitors heading to the Wimbledon Championships.

London Underground: Take the Northern Line southbound from Euston to South Wimbledon Station. Trains run every 5 minutes and take about 35 minutes.

Thameslink Services: Direct trains operate from London St Pancras International to Wimbledon every 30 minutes, with a journey time of around 42 minutes.

Travel tips: Avoid peak hours and purchase an Oyster card or contactless ticket for smoother journeys.