When somebody mentions Wimbledon, it would be fair to assume that the first thing that comes to mind is the tennis tournament! Though the annual sporting event is without doubt the thing that has put this district of South West London on the map for the rest of the world, anybody who has ever been lucky enough to visit the area will be able to tell you that it offer so much more than what Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have shown you over the years! It is a location that boasts a lot of London short stay apartments, and it deserves much more non-tennis related attention that it currently enjoys.
Here are some tourist tips for how to make the most of visiting or staying in Wimbledon while you’re in London.
Wimbledon Common
Wimbledon Common sprawls across 1100 acres, which makes it the largest tract of heathland in all of London. It is the perfect green space for a relaxed stroll, a bike ride, a jog or a picnic with friends who want to find some peace and nature in the middle of the nation’s capital. If you look closely, you might even see a famous Womble!
Wimbledon Windmill
Right in the heart of Wimbledon Common is the iconic windmill. It has been open as a museum since it was restored in 1975, and it makes for a really fascinating and unique afternoon spent learning about some of the old crafts and industries of the area. And you absolutely must make a stop at the tea rooms next door for some traditional British treats!
Wat Buddhapadipa
This is the first Thai Buddist temple that was ever built in the United Kingdom, inaugurated by the King and Queen of Thailand in 1966. It is located just east of the Common, and when visiting you will be welcomed by the resident monks and nuns. We do ask that you are respectful on your visit and pay close attention to the expected etiquette!
New Wimbledon Theatre
No matter what time of the year you find yourself in the borough, there will always be something exciting and entertaining to watch at the New Wimbledon Theatre. This Edwardian venue opened in 1910 and to this day it hosts a number of big productions and shows from musicals to plays to concerts to standup comedians. It’s a great way to spend an evening in the district.
AFC Wimbledon
If you are visiting from abroad and want to sample some of the classic British culture, then why not make a trip to the local football stadium to take in an AFC Wimbledon match? The team has recently just moved back to its rightful location within the heart of Wimbledon, and they seem to be going from strength to strength. A trip to AFC Wimbledon will help to show you that it isn’t just tennis that this area of London is known for!
