There are few events that capture the spirit of a British summer quite like Wimbledon. From the immaculate grass courts and all-white dress code to strawberries and cream enjoyed in the sunshine, The Championships have become one of London's most anticipated annual traditions.Taking place from Monday 29th June to Sunday 12th July 2026, Wimbledon draws tennis enthusiasts and summer visitors from around the world, bringing a vibrant energy to the capital. Whether you have secured tickets to Centre Court, are planning to join the famous queue, or simply wish to soak up the atmosphere, there is no better time to experience London.Why Wimbledon Is One of the Best Times to Visit LondonWimbledon arrives just as the city comes into its own for summer. Parks and gardens are in full bloom, al fresco dining is in full swing, and London's social calendar is filled with cultural events, outdoor performances and seasonal celebrations.The tournament itself offers something for everyone. Alongside world-class tennis, visitors can enjoy a uniquely British occasion steeped in history and tradition. From sipping Pimm's in the sunshine to watching nail-biting rallies on Henman Hill, Wimbledon is as much about the atmosphere as it is the sport.For those staying in central London, the tournament also provides the perfect excuse to explore some of the capital's most iconic neighbourhoods, from Kensington and Mayfair to Bloomsbury and Westminster.Staying in London During WimbledonThere is no better time to experience London than during Wimbledon. As The Championships return from 29th June to 12th July 2026, the city comes alive with summer energy, from elegant garden squares and bustling terraces to cultural landmarks and sporting celebrations.The London properties of Red Carnation Hotel Collection provide an ideal base from which to experience The Championships while enjoying the very best of the capital. Each hotel offers its own distinctive character, exceptional hospitality and convenient access to Wimbledon, allowing guests to combine world-class tennis with an unforgettable London stay.Located opposite Kensington Palace and Gardens, The Milestone Hotel & Residences places guests at the heart of one of London's most prestigious neighbourhoods. Nearby Hyde Park, Knightsbridge and the Royal Albert Hall offer plenty to explore between matches.Just moments from Buckingham Palace, The Rubens at the Palace and Hotel 41 enjoy one of the capital's most iconic addresses. Perfect for those wishing to combine Wimbledon with royal London, guests are within easy reach of Westminster, St James's Park and the West End.In the elegant heart of Mayfair, The Chesterfield Mayfair offers a quintessentially British experience surrounded by luxury boutiques, renowned restaurants and the leafy beauty of Green Park.For those seeking culture and literary heritage, The Montague on the Gardens overlooks tranquil private gardens in Bloomsbury and is just a short stroll from The British Museum, Covent Garden and London's celebrated theatre district.Meanwhile, tucked away on a quiet residential street in Knightsbridge, The Egerton House Hotel provides an intimate retreat close to Harrods, Hyde Park and some of London's finest museums. Call our dedicated reservations team on +44 (0) 808 196 8893 and begin planning your perfect Wimbledon escape.Wimbledon Afternoon Tea at The Montague on the GardensWhat's more quintessentially British than Wimbledon? Afternoon Tea, of course.For those looking to embrace the traditions of the season, The Montague on the Gardens is serving a special Wimbledon Afternoon Tea from Monday 29th June to Sunday 12th July 2026.Inspired by one of Britain's most cherished summer occasions, the experience features a selection of finely cut finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves, and an array of handcrafted pastries. To complete the celebration, each guest is welcomed with a glass of Champagne.Priced at £70 per person, this limited-edition Afternoon Tea offers a delightful way to mark the tournament, whether you're heading to Centre Court, watching the action from the city, or simply seeking a quintessentially British summer experience.Served in the elegant surroundings of The Montague on the Gardens in Bloomsbury, it captures the charm, tradition and celebratory spirit that have made Wimbledon a highlight of the British social calendar for generations.Getting to Wimbledon from Central LondonOne of the many advantages of staying in central London during The Championships is how easy it is to reach the tournament grounds.Visitors can travel from central London to Wimbledon Station via the District Line or National Rail services from London Waterloo. From Wimbledon Station, regular shuttle buses and taxis provide convenient connections to the All England Lawn Tennis Club.Journey times from central London typically range from 30 to 45 minutes, making it easy to combine a day at Wimbledon with dining, shopping and sightseeing across the capital.For guests staying with Red Carnation Hotels, concierge teams are on hand to assist with directions, transportation arrangements and recommendations for making the most of your Wimbledon experience.From Ashford Castle to Centre Court: PaulaPastry at WimbledonAdding to the excitement of Wimbledon, Red Carnation Hotels' Global Director of Chocolate & Pâtisserie, Paula Stakelum, has partnered with Champagne Lanson for a third consecutive year to create an exclusive hospitality experience at the 2026 Championships.Usually based at our Ashford Castle property in Ireland, where guests can enjoy her signature PaulaPastry at the Drawing Room Experience, Paula is renowned for her exceptional craftsmanship and innovative approach to pâtisserie. For Wimbledon, she has created a collection of bespoke pastries inspired by the traditions and flavours that make The Championships so iconic.Guests in the Lanson hospitality suite will enjoy elegant afternoon tea creations, including a tennis court-inspired strawberry and cream pastry and Paula's spectacular Valrhona chocolate sphere, filled with rich caramel and crunchy cocoa nibs, and finished with hand-crafted chocolate tennis balls. Celebrating the timeless pairing of strawberries and cream, each creation has been carefully designed to complement the freshness and finesse of Lanson Champagne while capturing the spirit of one of Britain's most beloved sporting occasions.Make a Summer of ItWhether you are attending The Championships, enjoying a Wimbledon-inspired Afternoon Tea, or simply embracing the atmosphere that sweeps across the city each summer, Wimbledon provides the perfect reason to visit London.With exceptional hospitality, distinctive locations and memorable experiences across the collection, Red Carnation Hotels invites you to discover the best of London during one of the most exciting moments of the British summer season.Our dedicated reservations team can tailor your perfect Wimbledon experience. Call +44 (0) 808 196 8893 to start planning.
