With the 2018 Wimbledon championships now in full swing, it’s time to don our straw hats, pop open the bubbly and of course, indulge in the undisputed champion of Wimbledon food: strawberries and cream. For those of us unfortunately not lucky enough to journey to South London and witness the iconic tennis tournament for ourselves, The Sybarite is here to help. We’ve selected the best outdoor screens and viewing events happening around London, so you can be sure you won’t miss a single serve.
Kings Cross
For some of the best views of the tournament without the centre court seat price tag, the big screen in Kings Cross sits on the banks of Regents Canal, and will be showing the main BBC coverage until the men’s final on 15th July. Arguably better than Murray Mound itself, the screening in Granary Square provides free deckchairs to the first 50 visitors, and there will be opportunities to indulge in delicious street food and plenty of prosecco to cool down in this week’s scorching weather. For those looking to bring their own strawberries and cream, there is more than enough space for a picnic and even some small fountains to dip your toes into.
London Bridge
One of the most popular Wimbledon screenings in the city is the amphitheatre-style pop-up in London Bridge, nestled within the city and directly underneath City Hall. This year’s exceptionally hot weather and it’s central location may make this screening particularly busy though – so be sure to get down early on finals day. Despite the crowds, this free screening has great seating and is the perfect lunch spot for London city workers.
Tobacco Dock
Tobacco Dock will also be celebrating by screening the championships up on its rooftop bar Skylight, where you can enjoy the London heat and panoramic views of the city. A bar themed around a British lawn club, visitors can play croquet or petanque in between sets; a truly British experience. Offering free entry and a variety of food and drink options, Skylight is the perfect place to spend an easygoing summer afternoon in the sun.
Bluebird
If you’re looking for a slightly more intimate experience, Bluebird restaurant and bar in Chelsea will be showing the whole of Wimbledon in its courtyard. Its huge screen will play the entire tournament to guests who can enjoy glasses of champagne, jugs of Pimms and Bluebird’s all day cafe menu, including a barbeque. Visitors can also upgrade to a special 3 course set menu to celebrate finals day, which can be viewed on their website.
Wimbledon Piazza
If you’re wanting to get even closer to the action, the piazza in Wimbledon is as close as you can get for free, and is guaranteed to have one of the most lively and patriotic atmospheres of the city. The Piazza has been decked out with AstroTurf, deckchairs and festive food stalls to make sure that everyone watching feels like they’re getting the real deal.
