With Wimbledon on the horizon, now’s the perfect time to dust off the rackets and head to the courts. Here are our favourite spots to play tennis
Words Sabrina Nunez
Don’t just watch the pros this summer, take advantage of the many courts across the city suited to improve your game or encourage a bit of friendly competition. We’ve found venues with hard surfaces, indoor and outdoor options and opportunities for training, no matter your age or skill level. Many offer tennis-based fitness classes and the ability to train children and adults. Others belong to fitness centres with other classes and sports available. Regardless, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to embrace your desire to play tennis.
KENSINGTON MEMORIAL PARK
A great spot to take the family, Kensington Memorial Park nestled in a quiet neighbourhood near Ladbroke Grove has three tennis courts next to a playground and is surrounded by beautiful trees and flowers. The facilities also boast a football pitch, garden and a cricket pitch.
WESTWAY SPORTS AND FITNESS CENTRE
With two outdoor synthetic clay courts and seven indoor acrylic courts, the Westway Sports and Fitness Centre is suitable for matches year round. Coaching and training sessions are available at the facilities, as well drills to improve fitness and durability and cardio tennis to up your game.
HACKNEY TENNIS
With 24 courts across six park and garden sites, you’re sure to find the right spot for a match. Locations to play tennis include Clissold Park, Hackney Downs, London Fields, Millfields, Spring Hill and Aske Gardens. An LTA-backed performance centre, Hackney Tennis helps juniors work towards their professional aspirations. Who knows, you could spot the next Andy Murray?
WIMBLEDON PARK
If you dream of playing at Wimbledon but aren’t quite there yet, Wimbledon Park has 20 courts next to the world famous All-England Club. While we can’t guarantee you’ll be playing alongside Roger Federer anytime soon, you can at least tell your mates you’ve played at Wimbledon.
BATTERSEA PARK MILLENNIUM ARENA
Nestled along the River Thames, the tennis courts at Battersea Park are perfect for lovers of the sport. The site hosts tournaments and has added two tennis-based fitness courses: Cardio Tennis and Tennis Xpress if you’re looking to get in a different type of workout while still improving your practice.
SOUTHWARK PARK
These four courts in London Bridge are free to use and sit on the same grounds as a lake, football pitch and children’s playground. These are perfect for focusing on your game as they are completely blocked off by trees on one side. A beautiful location for serious players.
QUEEN’S PARK
Six tennis courts in Kilburn allow for professional and amateur playing in the middle of Queen’s Park. Stop by the cafe for a post-match refreshment, or walk around the grounds to cool down and enjoy the woodland area. Fresh air and a scenic venue will definitely encourage you to get out and play tennis more regularly.
GREENWICH PARK TENNIS CENTRE
Situated next to the rose garden, the six tennis courts at this facility are suitable for all ages with junior and adult coaching available to help players build and improve technique. There’s also a terrace area by the rose garden to sit by while you contemplate playing another match.
CANADA WATER TENNIS
This South East centre has floodlit outdoor and mini indoor courts with a wide range of options. Adults can attend cardio tennis classes that call for performing drills to music. There are also lessons for beginners, improvers and intermediate levels in a group or privately with up to four players. Children can participate in a holiday camp or mini junior programme.
HARBOUR CLUB CHELSEA
The newly opened Harbour Club Chelsea has a range of amenities for members including spa treatments, a restaurant/bar for members and swimming pools. There are 12 indoor courts and three padel courts, a sport that combines tennis and squash. Children can benefit from the two junior courts and participation in annual tennis championships open to all ages. The club also hosts tennis events, weekly club sessions and competitive box leagues.
