All England Tennis Club, Wimbledon
Home to the world's oldest and arguably the most prestigious Tennis tournaments; The All England Tennis Club in Wimbledon, London is one of the most legendary places in the world. The club was founded on 23rd July 1868 as the All England Croquet Club. Located in the posh Wimbledon district of southwest London, The All-England Club, as it is more commonly known, has been the venue of the Championships since 1877.
Centre Court | Photo: Tania Seth
Wimbledon Stadium Architecture is spread out over a large area of sprawling greens. The club houses 19 grass courts in addition to 3 Continental clay courts, one American clay court, five indoor courts and 5 red shale courts.
Spectators at the Aorangi Terrace | Photo: Tania Seth
The celebrated Centre Court is the main court at the club; a dream destination for all Tennis players around the world. Centre Court is located next to the Aorangi Terrace; an area in the club where people with can watch tennis matches live on a huge television screen. The terrace is also the spot where people gather for picnics during the championships. The longest length for which Centre Court is used regularly is during the two weeks of the Wimbledon Championship. The Royal Box at Centre Court hosts distinguished spectators such as members of the Royal Family and other eminent personalities. Another highlight of the Centre Court and at the club is the retractable roof, which was installed at the court in 2009 to enable matches even during rain. An almost 10-minute long procedure, the opening/closing of the roof is a truly an enthralling sight.
Centre Court's Retractable Roof | Photo: Tania Seth
The club also houses the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, the largest tennis museum in the world that displays items and artifacts depicting the history of Lawn Tennis and Wimbledon memorabilia collected over the years. Retail outlets at the club sell a variety of Wimbledon products like clothing, souvenirs, gift items, jewellery, rackets, tennis shoes, balls and other accessories. Different shops and kiosks operate during the Championships in addition to the Museum Shop, which is open throughout the year, seven days of a week. Guided tours at the Club are operated throughout the year.
The coveted Wimbledon Championships in London will be held from June 24 to July 7 this year.
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