Wimbledon is internationally renowned for one of the world’s most iconic tennis tournaments which takes place every summer. But with a history that dating back to medieval times, this leafy Southwest London suburb offers so much more to be explored.
In addition to the Village’s charming high street brimming with shops and restaurants, Wimbledon has over a thousand acres of woodland and green space, quaint pubs, two theatres, fascinating museums and a number of top-class schools.
On the local property market, Mark Beim, Founder of Wimbledon Homes comments, “Despite the economic downturn, the Wimbledon property market is holding its own. We have sold a number of properties recently and have a number of properties under offer going forward.”
Still within commutable distance to central London, Wimbledon Village offers the best of both worlds – the charm of community living combined with the proximity to central London.
We’ve picked five of our favourite things about Wimbledon and the Village, perfect for anyone looking to explore this charming corner of the capital.
1. Wander around Wimbledon Village’s Farmers Market
Every weekend, the local community comes together for the Wimbledon Farmer’s Market on Saturday and the Village Farmers Market on Sunday. A variety of stallholders sell an impressive range of fresh produce, from fruit and veg, to pies, fresh fish, cakes, baked artisan bread, fruit, juices and more.
Driven by a sustainable ethos, the market’s stalls change depending on what is in season.
The Wimbledon Village farmers market takes place at Wimbledon Village every Sunday 10am-3pm Wimbledon Village High Street, SW19 5AX.
2. Visit one of Wimbledon’s many parks
Spoilt for green space, Wimbledon is home to several beautiful, landscaped parks, which offer a haven away from the bustle of the city streets.
Next to the famous expanse of open space that is Wimbledon Commons is Cannizaro Park, an example of one of the fine gardens which surrounded London mansions in the nineteenth-century, which features a series of ornamental landscaped gardens with ponds, sculptures and rare plants.
In the north is Wimbledon Park, which has tennis courts, a boating lake, a cafe and two playgrounds, making it the perfect spot for a family day out at the weekend.
Alternatively, head to Wimbledon’s famous common, which covers an area of 1,140 acres of heathlands and woodlands with its networks of weaving pathways and cycle routes to explore.
3. Soak up the past at the Wimbledon Windmill
First built in 1817 on Wimbledon Common, the Wimbledon Windmill has been open as a museum since it was restored in 1975.
Learn all about how the mill worked, exploring the original features of the landmark including the chance for kids to try and make their own flour using the saddle stone, mortar, hand quern and grain.
Pop into the shop, which has books and souvenirs, and pay a visit to the tearooms next door.
4. Watch a show at New Wimbledon Theatre or Polka Theatre
A landmark for the area, New Wimbledon Theatre has stood on the Broadway since its opening in 1910.
Today, the venue hosts an array of entertainment options, from live music to stand-up comedians, from touring plays and musicals fresh from London’s West End to tribute bands.
For children, the Polka Theatre organises performances for children up to 13 years at its 300-capactiy main auditorium, as well as productions for babies, toddlers and smaller children in the 70-seat studio.
5. Get your tennis fix
For those eager to learn more about the historic Championships, take a tour of the All-England Lawn Tennis Club. The tour includes visits to centre court, the winning stage for a plethora of icons in the game.
You’ll also get to glimpse the private facilities of the Millennium Building which is reserved for high-profile players, the press room and trophy room. Plus, a newer feature worth discovering is the virtual reality room which transports you to centre court and numerous screens show interviews with past champions.
With so much to do, no wonder Wimbledon Village continues to be such a popular place to live. Speaking about opportunities to find a home in Wimbledon, Mark says, “Even with our recent successes, the number of viewings have slowed but on the flip side there are still a large number of buyers waiting to find the right house in the Village.”
Looking to buy or sell a home in Wimbledon?
Get in touch with the Wimbledon Homes team:
T: 0208 947 7171
E: enquiries@wimbledonhomes.com
