Wimbledon's Strawberries And Cream: The Other Grass Court Champion

Every summer, the world of tennis tunes in to the impossibly pristine grass courts of The Championships, Wimbledon. But while the tennis is the star attraction, there’s another tradition that’s equally iconic - strawberries and cream. As much a part of Wimbledon as the white dress code or Centre Court drama, this classic treat has become a symbol of the summer season and the true Wimbledon experience.

So why are there strawberries at Wimbledon?

The story goes back to the late 1800s, when strawberries were already considered a fashionable treat among the British elite. Pair them with cream, add a sunny day in SW19, and you’ve got the makings of a glorious tradition. The first official serving of strawberries and cream at Wimbledon is believed to date back to 1877 - the very year the tournament began.

Since then, it has been a celebrated staple. Their popularity isn’t just about nostalgia - strawberries are in peak season during the tournament, which runs late June to early July. It’s this perfect timing, along with a sense of occasion, that’s helped cement their place in Wimbledon lore.

Guests enjoying our Official Wimbledon hospitality don’t miss out either. From our stylish lounges to private suites, strawberries and cream are often featured on the menus, whether that’s a traditional serving or a unique and contemporary twist - always served with a touch of elegance (and usually a glass of Pimm’s or fizz close by!)

Where do these famous strawberries actually come from?

Hugh Lowe Farms, tucked away in Kent (aka. the Garden of England) have been the official supplier of Wimbledon strawberries for nearly 30 years. They grow the Malling Centenary variety, known for its sweetness, perfect size, and vibrant red hue. It’s no small job either - they supply around 1.8 million strawberries each year, freshly picked and delivered daily during The Championships…no pressure on that crop!

Wimbledon is their biggest occasion of the year. And yes, that means some of the strawberries served court side or in our hospitality suites were still growing in the morning - you cannot get fresher than that!

 

What makes them so good?

There’s something special about eating a strawberry in the sunshine while watching world-class tennis. But even without the setting, the Wimbledon strawberries really do stand out.
Firstly, they’re British-grown - and more specifically, grown with care by a family-run farm that knows their stuff. The Malling Centenary strawberries are picked for their ripeness, appearance, and most importantly, their taste. They’re uniform, juicy, and naturally sweet - no sugar required (though cream is always welcome, and it is the tradition after all).

This dedication to quality mirrors what we offer across our luxury Wimbledon experiences. Whether it’s freshly-prepared dishes by our top Michelin star chefs (including the likes of Michel Roux and daughter Emily Roux, Marcus Wareing and Tom Sellers) or premium drinks on hand, high-quality ingredients and attention to detail are what elevate the experience, making a day at the tennis even more special and memorable - and strawberries and cream are no exception.

Our VIP Wimbledon hospitality experiences

In our hospitality spaces, the strawberries and cream aren’t just a snack - they’re a staple and a moment. Whether they take centre stage on a beautifully presented plate brought to your table or a carefully crafted edition to the classic pairing, guests get more than just tradition - they get a taste of Wimbledon done right.

And while the classic court side offering is still a hit with general spectators, our Official Wimbledon VIP hospitality packages offer a premium way to enjoy this beloved treat - paired with perfectly chilled Champagne, served in elegant surroundings, and savoured in between matches. So, whether you’re here for the aces or the atmosphere, strawberries and cream will be part of what makes Wimbledon truly special. They’re not just food - they’re a taste of tradition, British summer, and the unforgettable Wimbledon experience!

Discover our Wimbledon experiences here.