Known for its rich history and traditions, London is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and offers countless hours of family fun. This vibrant, multicultural metropolis provides a truly unique holiday experience and visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to planning a sightseeing tour. Those looking to experience the country’s rich sporting history and take in one of the world’s most famous sports events should definitely make time to witness the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships.
The world’s oldest tennis tournament, these championships have been hosted by the All England Club since 1877. Taking place between late June and early July each year, the championship’s main two events are the ladies and men’s singles finals. Known for its green lawn courts, Royal patronage, rich tradition, illustrious history and the famous dish of strawberries and cream, the Wimbledon championships are very much a part of the country’s cultural heritage.
The only tennis Grand Slam to be played on grass, the championships were first held in a venue off Worple Road in Wimbledon. As the popularity of this event began to grow the venue was moved to its current location on Church Road where it was inaugurated by King George V in 1922. During the years several changes have been made to the venue including the addition of a retractable roof over the famous centre court stadium. 
2011 saw the All England Club celebrate the 125th Wimbledon Championships and featured the immergence of two new champions; Serbian, Novak Djokovic won the men’s title, while Petra Kvitova of the Czech Republic won the women’s finals. The men’s singles’ championships have been won the most by W.C. Renshaw of Britain and P. Sampras of the United States who have each won the event seven times, while M. Navratilova holds the record for the ladies’ singles championships having won it nine times.
Other tennis legends of Wimbledon both past and present include Fred Perry, Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe and Roger Federer in the men’s category and Margaret Court / Smith, Billie Jean King, Chris Evert, Martina Navratilova, Steffi Graf and the Williams sisters.
Those heading to the city in order to witness the championships and looking to stay in a luxury hotel London can choose The Halkin London. Located in the Belgravia area, this luxurious London boutique hotel is within easy reach of some of the city’s main shopping, dining and entertainment venues.