Editor’s note
Wimbledon season, the peak of the British summer. Pimm’s replaces pints. Strawberries taste at their best. Outdoor screens pop up in the most unexpected places. But not all viewing spots are made equal. Whether you want atmosphere, comfort or just somewhere to land for the final, we’ve mapped The B-Sides’ favourite spots to witness some stellar grass-court tennis.
Best for early rounds and mid-tournament slow afternoons. Just minutes from Victoria, this leafy courtyard suntrap screens the matches from deckchairs and picnic benches with all the charm. Think frozen, chocolate-covered strawberries from trüfrü (Weds/Thurs from 3pm), cold glasses of amie wine from their pop-up bar and solid salad bowls from atis if you’re in workwear. Bonus: MALIN+GOETZ is there too, just in case your SPF didn’t make it into the tote.
Strictly a finals-day play. On 13 July, Bluebird screens the Gentlemen’s Final on its iconic terrace with a ticketed event only. Starting from £90pp, fully redeemable on food and drink. Expect a themed Summer of Serves menu (Grand Slam Parfait, strawberries and cream, the works) and vibes that are more linen trousers and rosé than rowdy fandom. Book early.
Tucked just off Piccadilly, Ham Yard’s ‘Centre Court‑Yard’ returns for daily screenings from 11am, June 30 to July 13. Early rounds are relaxed - best enjoyed with the Wimbledon Afternoon Tea package, served picnic-style in a hamper. For finals weekend, bookings are £25 and include a prime table, a Wimbledon Spritz, and strawberries-and-cream ice cream.
Chelsea’s al fresco Wimbledon tradition returns July 11-13, screening the semis and finals on one of London’s biggest free outdoor screens. Bring your own picnic or dip into The Chelsea Grocer and Saturday’s Fine Food Market. Complimentary VIP seating opens for booking on July 1 - first come, first served and always in high demand. Deckchairs go fast and walk-ins fill up by 1pm, so plan ahead. Easy-going, family-friendly, and about as polished as free public screenings get.
Wimbledon in a secret garden? Yes please. Just off Sloane Square, 11 Cadogan Gardens transforms its private courtyard into the Sport & Sip Garden, a low-key al fresco space. Expect Champagne, strawberries, Pimm’s and some intimacy. Best for weekday early rounds or a long lunch with the match on in the background. Book a table to be safe.
Tucked just off the Common, this wood-beamed Wimbledon gem feels like the kind of pub you'd wish was your local. Think cask ales pulled properly, seasonal plates built for lingering lunches and matches screened across the indoor and outdoor seating spots. Dog-friendly, neighbourly and run by Landlord Andrew.