Summer in Wimbledon: 7 Things to Do That Aren’t Tennis-Related
Beautiful summer sunset on Wimbledon Common.
Let’s be honest: for two weeks in July, the world thinks Wimbledon is just one giant grass court populated by people in white shorts and the occasional celebrity hiding behind oversized sunglasses. But as someone who has lived and worked here as a bespoke jeweller since 2003, I can tell you there is so much more to our leafy corner of SW19 than just the sound of a small ball hitting a racket.
Whether the ballot wasn’t kind to you this year, you’re "tennised out," or you simply need a break from the crowds at Henman Hill, Wimbledon is a summer playground. It’s time to look past the baseline and see what else our gorgeous village and town have to offer. Grab a glass of cold glass of Pimms, and let’s explore.
Golf clubs and balls on summer grass. Photo Credit: Pexels
1. Channel Your Inner Pro (The Golf Edition)
If you fancy swinging a golf club rather than a tennis racket, you are spoilt for choice here.
1.a. Tee Off on the Common
WIMBLEDON COMMON GOLF CLUB, 19 Camp Rd, London SW19 4UWWimbledon Common Golf Club is your quintessential local go-to for golf. Let’s be clear: it might not be the most "exclusive" club on the planet, but it is wonderfully convenient and delightfully unpretentious. You don’t need a fancy handicap certificate to play here, just a bit of experience and a solid understanding of the rules. Visitors are welcome for a very reasonable £30–£40, provided you book online five days in advance.
Just a heads-up for the Sunday strollers: they close at 2:00 pm, so get your round in early before the afternoon walkers take over the fairways.
1b. Family Feuds at Mini Golf
ADVENTURE GOLF IN WIMBLEDON PARK, Wimbledon Park Rd, London SW19 7HRFor those of us whose golf style is more "family chaos" than "pro-circuit," head straight to the Adventure Golf in Wimbledon Park. If you’ve seen some grumpy Google reviews from years gone by, please ignore them—the course has recently been completely redone and it’s looking fabulous. It’s a brilliant mix of easy wins and genuinely challenging holes that will keep all ages entertained. It’s incredibly affordable and a fantastic way to spend an hour stumbling through 18 holes of fun.
It’s my favourite way to settle family debates; loser buys the ice creams!
1c. High-Tech Greens at Caddi Club
CADDI CLUB, Top Floor, Wimbledon Quarter, 4 Queen's Rd, London SW19 8YEBecause this is England and the heavens will inevitably open at some point, you need a Plan B. Enter Caddi Club. Located right next to the station, this is a state-of-the-art virtual golf experience that feels very "New York loft" meets "The Open." You can play on the most iconic courses in the world using their high-tech simulators while staying perfectly dry. Plus, there’s a sports bar on-site, which makes it far more appealing than trekking through a muddy field in the rain. It’s sleek, it’s modern, and it’s the perfect spot for an indoor session.
The best South American food and bar in Wimbledon: Liqui-Liqui
2. Get Tropical at Liqui-Liqui Restaurant
LIQUI-LIQUI, 4-6 Merton High St, London SW19 1DNWhen the London heat starts feeling a bit more "humidity" and a bit less "Riviera," I head straight to my favourite restaurant, Liqui-Liqui. If you haven't been, you are seriously missing out.
It’s a slice of Venezuela right in the heart of South Wimbledon. Between the vibrant décor, the Latin beats, and Erika’s legendary hospitality, you’ll forget you’re a stone's throw from the Northern Line. I personally can’t resist their “Cepillado Pullao” cocktail—it’s like a holiday in a glass. On a personal note, their arepas are my absolute weakness; there is something about that authentic South American soul food that just makes the world feel right again.
Sit outside, soak up the sun, and let the Latin vibes wash over you. Who needs a flight to Caracas when you’ve got Erika, the owner, to chat to?
The very cool Tooting Bec Lido
3. Take the Plunge: Swimming Spots in Wimbledon
WIMBLEDON LEISURE CENTRE, Wimbledon Recreation Centre, Wimbledon Leisure Centre, 29 Latimer Rd, London SW19 1EWSometimes you just need to submerge yourself to survive a SW19 summer. Wimbledon Leisure Centre is a classic choice with a fantastic big pool. They have slots for everyone, from the "over 60s" crowd (who are surprisingly competitive swimmers, let me tell you) to family fun sessions with enough floats and noodles to build a raft. Just make sure you book, as it gets packed faster than a Centre Court final.
TOOTING BEC LIDO, Tooting Bec Rd, London SW16 1RUIf you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, hop over to Tooting Bec Lido. It’s iconic, Art Deco, and happens to be the biggest pool in the UK.
Fun fact for the film buffs: Brad Pitt’s "pool" boxing scene in Snatch was filmed right here. It’s huge and undeniably cool—in every sense of the word.
Sunshine means playtime on the Common.
4. The Art of the Wimbledon Common Picnic
WIMBLEDON COMMON, Windmill Rd, Wimbledon Common, London SW19 5NRYou haven't truly experienced a Wimbledon summer until you’ve spent an afternoon horizontally on Wimbledon Common. It is the ultimate spot to unwind, but your choice of supplies says a lot about you. If you’re feeling particularly "Village" and want to treat yourself to the posh life, head to Bayley & Sage. Their deli selection is enough to make a food critic weep with joy—think artisanal cheeses and olives that cost more than my first car.
If you’re keeping it a bit more low-key (or "real"), there’s a handy new Sainsbury’s where the old Barclays bank used to be. Grab a blanket, find a shady spot under an oak tree, and watch the world go by.
Just watch out for the Wombles; they’re notoriously picky about litter.
The pub life with deck chairs.
5. Pub Life: The Crooked Billet & Hand in Hand Pubs
The Pubs: 6 Crooked Billet, London SW19 4RQThere is a specific patch of grass between the Crooked Billet and the Hand in Hand that I consider the spiritual heart of a Wimbledon summer. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a pint (or three) of lager. Both pubs are wonderfully dog-friendly, so expect to see plenty of pampered pooches lounging in the sun. They provide deck chairs, that honestly, are the best chairs to spend a few hours lounging around in.
There is a lovely, laid-back "village green" atmosphere here that you just don't find in central London. It’s the place to kick back, unwind, and indulge in some world-class people-watching.
Horseback riding in the Village.
6. Saddle Up at Village Stables
WIMBLEDON VILLAGE STABLES, 24, a/b, High St, London SW19 5DXFor a bit of "country life" without leaving the postcode, you must visit Wimbledon Village Stables. These guys have been a cornerstone of our community for decades and do a massive amount of charity work, which I love. Even if you aren't a member, you can book lessons or go on escorted rides through the Common and Richmond Park.
There is something incredibly therapeutic about seeing the world from horseback; it forces you to slow down and appreciate the greenery. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or you’ve never touched a stirrup in your life, the team there is incredibly welcoming. It’s the most stylish way to traverse the Common.
7. Learn to Sail in Wimbledon Park
WIMBLEDON PARK, Wimbledon Park Rd, London SW19 7HRFinally, if you want to get your hair wet without actually diving in, head to the Wimbledon Park Watersports Centre. The lake is a hidden gem for anyone wanting to learn to sail. They offer fantastic holiday group courses and private tuition that will have you feeling like a sea captain in no time. While they focus more on structured learning and courses rather than just "rocking up and renting a kayak," it’s a brilliant way to spend a Saturday morning. There is something so serene about being out on the water with the park spread out around you. It’s the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the High Street and a great way to tire out the kids (or yourself).
The pond, view from Southside Street side.
And there you have it—Wimbledon in all its non-tennis glory! Living here for over twenty years has taught me that while the championships are a wonderful burst of energy, the soul of this place lies in the quiet corners, the local pubs, and the creative community that thrives year-round. I hope this gives you some inspiration to explore SW19 through a different lens this summer.
Whether you’re hitting a golf ball, riding a horse, or just enjoying a cold drink at the Billet, there is a certain magic to this time of year that transcends the sport.
Wimbledon based jeweller with 20 years experience. I envision and hand create future heirlooms.
