Summer in London means two things: Wimbledon and football. From Centre Court showdowns to World Cup drama, there are plenty of places across Central London where you can catch the action while making a day of it.
Whether you’re looking for a free outdoor screening, a lively sports bar, an afternoon tea with strawberries and cream, or somewhere to watch the match with a cocktail in hand, here are some of the best spots to soak up the sporting atmosphere this summer.
W1mbledon In Hanover Square
For the first time, Hanover Square is transforming into “W1mbledon” with a free public screening of the Championships in the heart of Mayfair.
Running throughout the tournament, visitors can watch matches from deckchairs, beanbags and picnic benches while enjoying the summer atmosphere of one of the West End’s most beautiful garden squares.
There will also be tennis-inspired activities including table tennis and swing ball, making it a fun option for families as well as tennis fans.
Food and drink options include strawberries and cream, soft-serve ice cream from Mandarin Oriental Mayfair and a pop-up bar from Market Halls serving frozen cocktails, drinks and snacks throughout the tournament.
When: 29 June – 12 July, daily from 11am–9pm
Where: Hanover Square, W1
Market Halls Oxford Street
If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere for the World Cup, Market Halls has all the ingredients for a great match day.
With nine kitchens, a fully stocked bar and a giant screen showing the games, it’s one of Oxford Street’s go-to destinations for football fans. Whether you’re arriving for kick-off or making a day of it with friends, there’s plenty of food, drinks and atmosphere under one roof.
BOOM Battle Bar
For fans who like their football with a side of games and cocktails, BOOM Battle Bar will be screening major World Cup fixtures throughout the tournament.
Expect a lively atmosphere, food, drinks and plenty of opportunities to keep the celebrations going long after the final whistle.
Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus
Hard Rock Cafe is celebrating the World Cup with screenings, watch parties and special menus throughout the tournament.
Fans can catch key fixtures at the Piccadilly Circus venue while enjoying the restaurant’s limited-edition football-inspired menu, created in collaboration with football legend Lionel Messi. Expect burgers, sharing plates and plenty of match-day atmosphere in one of London’s most iconic entertainment districts.
The Cinema At Selfridges
For a more unique viewing experience, The Cinema at Selfridges is screening England matches on the big screen.
Watch the action from plush cinema seating with immersive sound while enjoying popcorn and match-day snacks. It’s a slightly different way to experience the tournament and one of the more memorable football screenings in Central London.
Match Point Afternoon Tea At RAILS Restaurant
For those looking to celebrate Wimbledon with a quintessentially British tradition, RAILS Restaurant has launched a limited-edition Match Point Afternoon Tea.
Served throughout the Championships, the menu includes finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, strawberries and cream, and a selection of tennis-inspired sweet treats including a Pimm’s macaron designed to resemble a tennis ball.
Guests can also upgrade with a glass of English sparkling wine or Champagne for an extra touch of summer indulgence.
When: 29 June – 12 July
Where: RAILS Restaurant, King’s Cross
Price: From £42.50 per person
Azzurra’s Wimbledon Spritz Menu
Just a short journey from the West End, Chelsea seafood restaurant Azzurra is marking Wimbledon season with a limited-edition menu inspired by the Italian Riviera.
Available from late June through July, the collection features a range of tennis-themed cocktails and alcohol-free serves alongside a special dessert combining Amalfi lemon, ricotta and white chocolate.
Ideal for a long lunch or post-match drinks, it’s a stylish alternative for those wanting to celebrate Wimbledon away from the crowds.
Available: 27 June – 29 July
Where: Azzurra, 127–128 Sloane Street
A Summer Of Sport In Central London
Whether you’re cheering from a deckchair in Hanover Square, watching England on the big screen somewhere on Oxford Street, or settling in for an afternoon of tennis with strawberries and cream, Central London is serving up plenty of ways to enjoy the biggest sporting moments of the summer.
The only question left is: tennis whites or football shirt?
My Soho Times Lifestyle Team
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