The Top 11 London Tennis Clubs for All Types of Players

Whether you're a seasoned player looking for a new club or a beginner looking for somewhere welcoming to play regularly, finding a tennis club that's the right fit for you can sometimes be a challenge, especially with so many London tennis clubs to choose from!

To make things easier for you, we've picked our top 11 London tennis clubs to help you make an informed decision about which club will be the best fit for your level of experience and your needs.

Our Favourite North London Tennis Clubs

North London has its fair share of quality tennis clubs, ranging from small local clubs to larger establishments with multiple courts and facilities. Here are our top picks:

1) Queens Club, West Kensington

 

Queens Club, located in West Kensington, is an esteemed tennis club renowned for its rich history and prestigious atmosphere.

The club has 28 outdoor courts with grass, clay, and hard surfaces, plus indoor facilities for year-round play. It's also a lively social hub and has hosted many championships.

Notable players like Fred Perry and Andy Murray have played here, showing its importance in the tennis world.

Membership cost: £15,000

2) Holland Park Lawn Tennis Club, North Kensington 

Holland Park Lawn Tennis Club, North Kensington

Holland Park Lawn Tennis Club offers impressive facilities with 8 well-maintained courts: 5 artificial grass courts for all-year play and 3 real grass courts suitable for all skill levels.

The clubhouse, part of the historic Holland estate, is located at 1 Addison Road. It features a lounge, bar, terrace, and a large lawn area, ideal for social events, BBQs, and outdoor activities.

With 850 proud members, the club often has a waitlist of 12-18 months for new memberships. To join, you must be proposed and seconded by two members who have been at the club for at least a year.

Membership cost: £650

3) Golden Lane Tennis Courts, City of London

Golden Lane Tennis Courts, City of London

Situated alongside the unique Barbican Estate, the Golden Lane tennis courts stand as one of Europe's most distinctive residential features.

These premium hard courts are accessible to the public through online booking. With apartment balconies overlooking the courts, it's a good idea to bring your best game.

These courts are a great option for beginners looking to try out tennis without committing to a prestigious club.

Membership cost: From £55 per month

Our Favourite South London Tennis Clubs

South London is renowned for its green spaces, and many of its tennis clubs take full advantage of the beautiful surroundings. Here are our top picks:

4) Regents Park Tennis Club, York Bridge

Regents Park Tennis Club offers 12 well-maintained tennis courts (8 of which are floodlit for extended playing time), ensuring excellent playing conditions throughout the season.

Players have access to a modern clubhouse with changing facilities and a café. These courts are open to anyone on a pay-and-play basis, which is ideal for beginners just looking to test out the sport.

They also offer extensive sports coaching programmes to help you hone your skills if you want to get serious.

Membership cost: Pay-as-you-go format

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5) All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club, Wimbledon

Renowned for hosting the prestigious Wimbledon Grand Slam and one of the most famous tennis courts of all time, the All England Club symbolises excellence and tradition. 

The club currently features 18 championship grass courts, 20 grass practice courts, and 8 American clay courts, reflecting its dedication to the sport.

The AECTC is planning to expand, adding 38 new grass courts and an 8,000-seat stadium. This will triple the club's size and boost Wimbledon's spectator capacity from 42,000 to 50,000.

Membership offers the privilege of joining a distinguished circle, including Tim Henman, Andy Murray, Roger Federer, Maria Sharapova, and John McEnroe. 

However, with membership capped at 565 and a waiting list of over 1,000, the selection process is rigorous, and four existing members must support it.

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6) The Hurlingham Club, Fulham

Located on 42 acres of landscaped grounds by the River Thames in Fulham, The Hurlingham Club offers a unique experience for its select members. 

It features a croquet pitch, tennis lawn, swimming pool, botanical gardens, and a Georgian clubhouse.

It's reportedly a favourite for royal children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, who attend lessons there in the summer. Andy Murray, a three-time grand slam singles champion, is also among the exclusive club members.

To join, applicants need proposals from two current full members. The club once had a 30-year waiting list, which has now been reduced to 15-20 years.

Membership cost: Around £1400

7) Roehampton Club, Wandsworth

Roehampton Club boasts an impressive array of facilities, including 25 tennis courts with grass, clay, and synthetic surfaces, catering to all playing preferences.

Members enjoy access to a well-equipped clubhouse, indoor courts, and a variety of coaching programmes tailored for all skill levels.

Membership is exclusive, requiring proposals from current members, ensuring a vibrant yet select community of tennis enthusiasts.

Membership cost: From £1,020

8) The Parsons Green Sports & Social Club, Fulham 

The Parsons Green Sports & Social Club features an array of facilities, including 6 outdoor tennis courts, all with floodlight lighting solutions for evening play.

The club also offers a modern clubhouse with a bar and dining area and changing facilities. You'll also find a snooker room, bowling green, and croquet lawn if you want to branch out your sporting prowess.

Members can enjoy a vibrant social atmosphere, participate in various sports, and access coaching sessions tailored for both beginners and experienced players.

Membership cost: £711

9) Harbour Club, Chelsea

The Harbour Club in Chelsea boasts state-of-the-art tennis facilities, including 12 indoor and outdoor courts. Established in 1992, the club offers premium fitness amenities, a luxurious spa, and a vibrant social atmosphere.

Membership provides access to diverse coaching programmes and exclusive events. 

Potential members are typically assessed during a thorough application process to maintain the club's prestigious community. 

Membership cost: £325 per month

10) Campden Hill Lawn Tennis Club, Kensington

Campden Hill Lawn Tennis Club is a historic venue featuring 12 well-maintained indoor and outdoor courts and a welcoming clubhouse. Established in 1884, it has a rich tennis heritage and hosts local competitions and events.

Membership is open to all ages and skill levels, with options for social and competitive play, although the waitlist usually sits around 3-5 years.

Prospective members need to be proposed by an existing member to join, fostering a friendly and inclusive community.

Membership cost: £565

11) The Gardens Tennis Club, Southfields

The Gardens Tennis Club offers multiple outdoor courts, all lit for evening play, ensuring accessibility throughout the year. They also offer competitive tennis leagues for serious players.

Members benefit from a welcoming clubhouse with changing facilities and a social area for events. The club caters to all levels, providing coaching programmes for beginners and competitive players alike.

Membership is inclusive, with a focus on community engagement and participation. 

Membership cost: From £300

What to Look for In London Tennis Clubs for Beginners

When searching for a tennis club in London, beginner players should prioritise several key factors to ensure a supportive and enjoyable experience.

  1. Look for clubs that offer accessible coaching programmes specifically tailored for newcomers. These programmes should provide instruction on the fundamentals of tennis, helping players develop their skills in a structured environment.
  2. Availability of social play opportunities is crucial; clubs that facilitate casual matches or social events can enhance the learning experience and promote a welcoming atmosphere.
  3. Quality and variety of facilities. Clubs with multiple court surfaces (such as clay, grass, and hard courts) can provide a well-rounded experience, allowing beginners to try different types of play.
  4. Choose a club that offers flexible membership options, preferably with a pay-as-you-go model, which can reduce financial commitment while players assess their interest in the sport.
  5. Seeking recommendations from current members can provide insight into the club's community and culture, ensuring a positive and engaging environment for budding tennis enthusiasts.

Can You Train on Public Tennis Courts?

Yes, you can train on public tennis courts. Many cities offer public courts that can be reserved for practice, and this is a great way for players of all skill levels to hone their skills without the constraints of private club membership.

Training on public courts allows players to work on various aspects of their game, including serving, rallies, and match play.

However, it's essential to check the specific regulations of the courts in your area, as some may require a fee for booking, have specific operating hours, or impose time limits during peak use times.

Public tennis courts may not have a professional-standard maintenance procedure, especially if they're free community courts. Ensure that any court you train on has a properly set up net and an intact court surface free from cracks and dips.

Final Thoughts: Find the Perfect Tennis Courts to Hone Your Game

Finding the perfect tennis court is essential for honing your game effectively. A suitable court provides the ideal environment to practise techniques and strategies while developing your skills.

Whether you choose a private club or a public facility, access to quality courts can enhance your training experience. With a variety of surfaces and settings available, you can engage in extensive practice sessions, ensuring you progress in your game and gain confidence on the court.

The Edwards Sports blog is filled with helpful tennis advice and information to help you learn everything you need to know about this prestigious sport.

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FAQs

How Many Tennis Clubs Are There in London?

London boasts over 300 tennis clubs featuring a variety of facilities and membership options. This diverse range allows players of all skill levels to find a suitable club, whether for casual play or competitive training.

What Area of London is Famous for Tennis?

Wimbledon, located in South West London, is renowned for its prestigious tennis tournament, the Wimbledon Championships. This iconic area is home to the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, a significant landmark in the tennis world.

How to Find People to Play Tennis With in London?

To find people to play tennis with in London, join local clubs, use social media groups, or visit community centres. Websites and apps dedicated to connecting players can also help you arrange matches with others in your area.

Can Anyone Play at Wimbledon?

Yes, anyone can play at Wimbledon during the summer months when the courts are open to the public for pay and play. However, access is limited, and it's advisable to book in advance, as spaces can fill up quickly.