I’ve started having tennis lessons. Admittedly, this is largely because my boyfriend is really good and I don’t fancy losing all the time, or at least, if I lose, I want to do so with dignity. Anyway, this means that I’ve been on the search for tennis coaches. My goodness lessons can be expensive, but just one look at Wimbledon and you know it’s the right decision.
From parks to hotels, coaches are popping up everywhere to help us start serving up centre court realness. These are the best tennis courts in London for those wanting to take their hobby to the next level.
The Hurlingham Club
It’s tough to get into this club, as it has a rumoured waiting list of 15 years (and counts The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as members). The Fulham club opened in 1869 and as well as tennis courts has outdoor pools, four indoor squash courts and a fitness centre.
There’s a strict dress code – players must be dressed in tennis whites with each item at least 80% white (who calculates this?), so enter at your peril. The club can recommend some good coaches or you can bring your own.
WHERE: RANELAGH GARDENS, SW6 3PR
WEBSITE: WWW.HURLINGHAMCLUB.ORG.UK
Queen’s Club
Now that the pros have taken over Wimbledon, you can try out your serve at Queen’s instead, where they were all hanging out a few weeks before.
It’s tricky to get in. The club is membership only and entry is dependent on you being proposed and seconded by two existing members. So unless you know some people or are willing to harass members at the gates, you won’t get in. Once you’re in though, you’ll want to be there every day perfecting your volley.
WHERE: PALLISER ROAD, WEST KENSINGTON, W14 9EQ
WEBSITE: WWW.QUEENSCLUB.CO.UK
The Hurlingham Club
Queen’s Club
