Food & Drink At Wimbledon

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prices, traditions & what to expect

One of the most iconic parts of attending the Wimbledon Championships is the food and drink experience. From strawberries and cream to Pimm’s in the sunshine, Wimbledon blends world-class tennis with classic British summer hospitality.

If you’re planning a visit to the grounds of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, this guide explains what food and drink is available, typical prices, whether you can bring your own items, and what makes Wimbledon’s culinary traditions so unique.

Strawberries & Cream – The Wimbledon Classic

No food is more associated with Wimbledon than strawberries and cream.

Each year, hundreds of thousands of portions are served during the tournament. The strawberries are traditionally British-grown and served with fresh cream — a simple yet iconic pairing that has become synonymous with The Championships.

For many visitors, enjoying strawberries and cream while watching tennis is part of the essential Wimbledon experience.

Pimm’s at Wimbledon

Another famous tradition is a glass of Pimm’s.

Pimm’s No.1 Cup — typically served with lemonade, mint, cucumber and fruit — has become the drink of choice on warm summer afternoons. It’s widely available across the grounds and especially popular during the first week of the tournament.

Champagne, wine, beer and soft drinks are also readily available throughout the venue.

What Food Is Available at Wimbledon?

Beyond the classics, there is a wide variety of food options catering to different tastes and budgets.

Typical Food Options Include:

Fresh sandwiches and wraps
Fish and chips
Burgers and hot food stalls
Salads and lighter options
Afternoon tea-style selections
Ice cream and desserts

Food outlets are located across the grounds, including near the show courts and outside the court areas.

There are also premium dining experiences available for hospitality and debenture ticket holders.

Wimbledon Food Prices – What to Expect

Prices at Wimbledon reflect the scale and prestige of the event.

While exact prices vary slightly year to year, visitors can generally expect:

Strawberries & cream: moderate pricing compared to London attractions
Pimm’s or beer: typical event-level pricing
Champagne: premium pricing
Main meals: higher than average high-street restaurants

Despite the event setting, many visitors find prices relatively reasonable compared to other major sporting events in London.

Budget-conscious attendees often mix purchased items with their own packed food (more on this below).

Can You Bring Food & Drink into Wimbledon?

Yes — and this is one of the reasons Wimbledon remains popular with families and regular visitors.

Spectators are allowed to bring:

A reasonable quantity of food for personal consumption
Refillable water bottles (subject to size limits)
Sealed non-alcoholic drinks

Alcohol is permitted in limited quantities (typically one bottle of wine or two cans of beer per person), but hard spirits are not allowed.

Picnics are common, particularly for those attending with a Grounds Pass and spending time on Henman Hill (officially known as Aorangi Terrace).

Always check official guidelines before travelling, as policies can be updated.

Dining Options by Ticket Type

Your food and drink experience may vary depending on your ticket.

Grounds Pass Visitors

Access to general food outlets
Picnic areas
Large outdoor screens

This is the most flexible and relaxed option.

Centre Court & No.1 Court Ticket Holders

Access to court-specific concessions
Champagne bars
Indoor and covered dining spaces

Queues can form during peak lunch hours, so planning ahead is wise.

Debenture & Hospitality Guests

Premium ticket holders enjoy:

Private lounges
Fine dining options
Table service in some areas
Exclusive bars

For many corporate guests, hospitality dining is a major part of the Wimbledon experience.

Best Time to Buy Food at Wimbledon

Peak times are:

12:00–2:00pm (lunch rush)
Late afternoon changeovers

To avoid queues:

Arrive early
Purchase during match play (when others are watching)
Consider eating slightly earlier or later than typical lunch hours

Many experienced attendees buy food before heading into show courts.

Vegetarian, Vegan & Dietary Options

Wimbledon offers:

Vegetarian dishes
Vegan alternatives
Gluten-free options

Staff are generally able to advise on allergens, though availability may vary by outlet.

Bringing your own food remains a useful option if you have strict dietary requirements.

Water & Staying Hydrated

Free water refill points are available across the grounds.

Bringing a reusable bottle is highly recommended, particularly during hot first-week matches.

Staying hydrated is essential, especially if you’re queueing early in the day.

Is Food & Drink Part of the Wimbledon Experience?

Absolutely.

For many spectators, Wimbledon is about:

Sitting in the sun with strawberries and cream
Sharing a jug of Pimm’s with friends
Enjoying champagne during finals weekend
Having a picnic while watching matches on the big screen

The relaxed yet refined dining atmosphere contributes to the unique character of The Championships.

What to Expect from Food & Drink at Wimbledon

Food and drink at Wimbledon combines tradition with variety. Whether you’re enjoying classic strawberries and cream, sipping Pimm’s, or opting for a full meal between matches, there’s something for every visitor.

Prices reflect the prestige of the event, but options exist for every budget — including bringing your own food.

Planning ahead, arriving early, and understanding what’s permitted will help you make the most of your day at one of the world’s most celebrated sporting events.