Things to Do in Wimbledon, London
One of the most popular things to do in Wimbledon, London is to visit the lawn tennis and croquet club. It was founded in the mid 1800s and has been host to many of the world’s most prestigious lawn tennis tournaments. Visitors can take a tour of the grounds, observe matches, or even play a game of lawn tennis or croquet themselves.
Other popular activities in Wimbledon, London include shopping at one of the many high-end retailers, enjoying afternoon tea at a traditional English café, or taking a stroll through one of the many parks and gardens. No matter what your interests are, there is sure to be something to do in Wimbledon, London that will suit your fancy.
History of Wimbledon
Wimbledon has been lived in since the Iron Age, when the hill fort on Common is thought to have been built. It was not recorded in the Domesday Book in 1086, when it was still a part of the Mortlake manor. The hamlet of Wimbledon grew alongside a stable rural community that coexisted with aristocracy and wealthy merchants from the metropolis.
Thomas Cromwell settled here in 1536 with his wife Elizabeth after his disgrace as Chief Minister to Henry VIII, and acquired Wimbledon Manor for them. The manor house sat adjacent to the Championships grounds. New buildings were built in most years from 1800 onwards. The Centre Court roof was built in the 19th century.
Much damage was caused to buildings around Wimbledon during World War II with bombs damaging several schools, Wimbledon station, St Mary’s Church and the Town Hall. An anti-aircraft battery was installed on Wimbledon Common, and anti-aircraft guns operated from the common until 1944. From the mid-19th century up until 1974 the town was part of the Merton Rural District before it became an Urban District. In 1965, Greater London was created, and the urban district was absorbed into the London Borough of Merton as Wimbledon.
The Wimbledon Tennis Championship
The Wimbledon Championships are one of the most famous tennis tournaments in the world. Held annually in London, it is the oldest and most prestigious tennis event. Wimbledon is played on grass tennis courts, and thus is one of the few major tournaments that have not switched to harder surfaces. The tournament attracts the top players in the world, and is considered by many to be the most important event in tennis. Wimbledon, London also has a rich history, dating back to 1877 when it was first held at All England Club. As such, it is one of the most iconic events in all sport. Every year, thousands of fans flock to London to watch the best tennis players in the world compete for the prestigious Wimbledon title.
The Championships are sometimes referred to as being held in “SW19.” This is the first part of a Wimbledon postal address, similar to a zip code in the United States. In 1857, London postcodes began to be used, with Wimbledon falling within the South West London region known as SW – for South West London. Over time, the “19” in SW19 became associated with the tournament.
Wimbledon Common
The Common, which is administered by the City of London Corporation, covers an area of 1,140 acres (460 hectares). It is adjacent to Richmond Park and Putney Heath. Wimbledon Common is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and it forms part of the larger London Wildlife Trust Reserve. The Common is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, including several rare species.
In addition to its natural beauty, Wimbledon Common also has a long history. It was once used as a hunting ground for the royal family, and later served as a military camp during the English Civil War. Today, the Common is a popular recreation spot for Londoners and visitors alike.
Wimbledon Park
One of the largest parks in London, covering an area of nearly 600 acres, and it includes a lake, several gardens, and a golf course. The park was originally created as a deer park in the 12th century, and it was later acquired by the City of London in the 15th century. In the 19th century, the park underwent a redesign, and several new features were added. Today, Wimbledon Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and it hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
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