The British summer is almost upon us, which can only mean one thing - grass court season is coming! Tennis fans across the country are counting down the days until they can watch the likes of Jack Draper, Katie Boulter and Novak Djokovic battle it out on the lawn at Wimbledon.
While the Wimbledon Championships remain the crown jewel of the SW19 social calendar, securing a seat on Centre Court is no easy feat. Much like Glastonbury, ballot tickets sell out like hotcakes months in advance, leaving thousands of fans wondering how to get their courtside fix.
How much are Wimbledon final tickets?
Prices for the Men's Singles Final on Centre Court can range dramatically, ranging from £240-315 in the ballot. However, they often start from around £8,495 per person for debenture tickets, and go up to £17,990 or more through some tour operators. For the Ladies' Singles Final, prices for Centre Court seats can start from approximately £2,495 for debenture tickets, potentially reaching £5,800 or higher through other avenues.
When does Wimbledon 2026 start?
The Wimbledon Championships 2026 will officially kick off on Monday 29 June. The prestigious tournament runs for two weeks, concluding with the Ladies' Singles Final on Saturday 11 July, and the Gentlemen's Singles Final on Sunday 12 July. The first week will see the opening rounds of both men's and ladies' singles, with play typically starting on the outside courts at 11am and on the show courts (Centre Court and Court No. 1) slightly later in the afternoon.
Here's a guide to some of the best alternative tennis tournaments that offer unique experiences and thrilling matches. From Boodles Tennis to Queen's, take your pick…
Queen's Club (HSBC Championships)
Exciting one for tennis fans this year! The HSBC Championships, one of the most popular and longest-running grass court tennis events, is bringing back women's tennis to the venue after over 50 years. This marks the first women's event at the iconic London venue since 1973, when Olga Morozova claimed the singles title. Adding to the excitement, British number one Katie Boulter and former US Open champion Emma Raducanu will make their debuts, with tennis fans eagerly anticipating their performances on the famed grass courts.
© GettyFounded in 1889, the tournament takes place each June at The Queen's Club in West Kensington, attracting the world's top players. Since 1979, it has been a proving ground for future Wimbledon champions, with legends like John McEnroe, Lleyton Hewitt, Carlos Alcaraz, and most recently, Tommy Paul, lifting the trophy. For those enjoying the event in The President's Room, gentlemen must wear suits with ties or blazers with ties, while women should opt for a day dress or trouser suit. In all other areas, smart casual attire is encouraged, though ripped jeans and sports trainers are not permitted.
London, 6-21 June, lta.org.uk
Lexus Ilkley Open
© GettyThe Ilkley Trophy, held in the picturesque town of Ilkley, West Yorkshire, is another popular grass-court tournament on the ATP Challenger and ITF Women's Circuit. The event attracts a mix of up-and-coming talent and established players looking to fine-tune their game before Wimbledon. The tournament's scenic location and friendly atmosphere make it a delightful experience for tennis fans.
Bradford, 7-14 June, lta.org.uk
Lexus Nottingham Open
© GettyThe Nottingham Open is another important grass-court tournament in the lead-up to Wimbledon. Featuring both ATP and WTA events, this tournament is held at the Nottingham Tennis Centre. It offers a mix of top-level tennis and a family-friendly environment, making it a great option for fans looking to enjoy a day out.
Nottingham, 13-21 June, lta.org.uk
The Boodles Tennis Challenge
Dubbed as one of the "must attend" summer social gatherings of the year, the Boodles Tennis - which launched in 2002 - is a five-day tennis exhibition that takes place at Stoke Park in Buckinghamshire, a mere 35 minutes from London. A day out here is memorable, blending world-class tennis with a relaxed, garden party atmosphere. Not only that, it attracts top players looking to fine-tune their game ahead of Wimbledon. Past legends include Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray.
With hospitality and breathtaking surroundings, The Boodles offers a unique way to enjoy elite tennis up close. The Boodles follows a 'Smart Casual' dress code, but are kindly asked to refrain from wearing jeans on the day. The tournament encourages attendees to dress as they would for a stylish summer garden party - sophisticated, chic, and perfect for a day of world-class tennis in stunning surroundings.
Stoke Park, 23-27 June, theboodles.com
Giorgio Armani Tennis Classic
© GettyThe Giorgio Armani Tennis Classic, founded in 1869, is held at the prestigious Hurlingham Club, set against the striking Georgian Club House. It's also the place where Prince George has had private tennis lessons. Here, tennis fans can enjoy an afternoon of world-class tennis from premium grandstand seats, with VIP hospitality.
This six-day event is another lead-up tournament to Wimbledon, and allows spectators to see some of the best names in tennis today including Cameron Norrie, Holger Rune, Alexander Zverev and Frances Tiafoe. The dress code is simply and appropriately just "summer chic".
London, 23-27 June, giorgioarmanitennisclassic.com
Eastbourne International
© GettyThe Eastbourne International, held in the coastal town of Eastbourne, is a combined ATP and WTA event. The tournament's seaside location offers a charming backdrop, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a favourite among both players and fans.
Eastbourne, 20-27 June, lta.org.uk
