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London, Wimbledon is BACK. But if you can't get your hands on a pair of tickets for that little ol' tennis tournament, grab a racket and head to these spots to get in on some court action across the city.
Leaders Garden
Leaders Garden is roughly a five-minute jaunt from Putney Bridge tube station and has great courts for those who want to serve until sunset. You have the option to book half an hour, one hour or up to two-hour sessions at their courts with a pay-as-you-go membership. To play off-peak (before 5pm) during the week it costs £6 when booking online and £7 offline. If you are feeling ridiculously sporting, jump on a rowing boat afterwards from one of Putney's many riverside rowing clubs and row your way along the river to the next tennis spot. Leaders Garden, Embankment, SW15 1LW.
Southwark Park
Southwark Park offers tennis courts surrounded by extensive wide-open spaces, so it feels very Wimbledon. But you can use these courts for absolutely nada and play until your heart's content. Take time to relish your tennis victory with a cool-down stroll around the park's private gardens and lake, Pimm's in hand. Southwark Park, Gomm Rd, SE16 2EH.
Victoria Park
For aspiring Andy Murrays in Hackney, Victoria Park should be your chosen court. It's been an established centre for tennis over the past 15 years, offering both individual and group coaching for all levels of talent. For adults, the court hire costs £6 per hour, while 18-and-under rates are £3 per hour, including equipment. London Park Tennis Courts, E9 5DY.
Regent's Park
For all you north London servers, Regent's Park is the best location for a tennis knock-about. From 8am to 8pm you can practise your skills by rocking up with a player card and paying £10 off-peak and £12 peak. Alternatively, if you are committed to taking tennis to another level, memberships are available. Chester Rd, NW1 4NR
South Park
South Park's tennis courts are exactly what you'd expect of south-west London. Thanks to a recent refurbishment, the courts are separated into pairs with spectator benches and lush rose beds nestled between them. Advance booking via Fulham Borough Council is necessary – and you can either pay as you play (£7) or take out an annual membership for £40. South Park Tennis Courts, Fulham, SW6 3EB.
Lincoln's Inn Fields
The courts at Lincoln's Inn Fields offer an oasis of grounds in an area where space is at a premium. Due to the influx of tennis fanatics in the City, you may have to wait a bit before you can get your grunt on. Court hire costs £11.65. 44 Lincoln's Inn Fields, WC2A 2ES.
Catch all the Wimbledon action at one of these screenings in London.