Where to watch Wimbledon in Manchester this year

Wimbledon is underway and the British players are putting on a show.  After an epic match from Heather Watson in the ladies, Andy Murray and James Ward are the last Brits left and they’re out on court tomorrow (4 July). Keep reading to discover the best spots to cheer them on in the city.

It’s the highlight of the tennis calendar, especially for British tennis fans, the oldest tennis tournament in the world and the most prestigious; it’s hard not to get caught up in the excitement and tradition.

With players dressed all in white, immaculate line judges, ball boys and girls sporting Ralph Lauren, clips of BBC presenters supping Pimm’s (albeit Clare Balding instead of John Inverdale this year) and masses of strawberries produced for the occasion, there’s something special about Wimbledon. It’s had a place in my life for as long as I can remember, it was always on the TV at home, and I was lucky to get Court 1 tickets about 15 years ago.

British tennis players have put on a much better show in recent years. From the nail biting frustration of Tim Henman serving one too many double faults, to Greg Rusedski’s big hitting serve, and Andy Murray’s emotional loss in the final to Federer in 2012, followed by an even more emotional win against Djokovic in 2013, Wimbledon fever is harder than ever to resist.

Even if you’re not a tennis fan, it’s hard to escape the Wimbledon buzz. Bars and restaurants offer themed afternoon teas and special offers on Pimm’s, fans huddle round TV screens all over town, especially during a Murray match, and in recent years Spinningfields has been THE Manchester destination to watch a match on your lunch break or after work.

But this year the big screen and deckchairs are in storage whilst Spinningfields undergoes further development. It should be back in 2017 with a fully redeveloped lawns area; till then Manchester will have to find somewhere else to watch the tennis.

So I’ve saved you some time and and put together a handy guide to all things Wimbledon in Manchester 2015.

I’ll update it throughout the championships with any more information I uncover – no doubt excitement will increase proportionately with Murray’s progress through the tournament – so keep checking back, or better still, like Becci’s Blog on Facebook or follow me on Twitter, to stay on top of your game.

[last updated 4 July 2015]

 

Outdoor screens

 

Media City

Media City is home to one of the few outdoor screens in Manchester this year. The piazza has been transformed in to a tennis court and arena so you can enjoy a full Wimbledon experience. Watch the matches on the big screen from the comfort of a deckchair, with a cocktail from The Shack pop-up bar in one hand, and your Union Flag in the other.

 

The Metropolitan, Didsbury

Coverage has started on the big outdoor screen at The Met; perfect for keeping up with the action on your lunch break or after work. Also hosting a special party for the Ladies’ Final. Expect grass courts, Pimm’s and Stella.

   

Bars

This list doesn’t include the sports bars. Design my Night have already covered that here.      

Black Dog Ballroom

Decent sized screens, plus free strawberries and cream for every Murray match!

 

Dukes 92

All matches shown inside on the large screens and plenty of space to enjoy the sunshine by the canal.

 

Tib Street Tavern

Showing the game and serving up Pimm’s for £9.95 a jug.

 

47 King Street West

The bar has announced on Twitter that they will be serving special Wimbledon themed afternoon tea. Enjoy the experience with strawberries, Pimm’s, champagne and the tournament showing in the bar. Cream / Afternoon tea is served each day from 12.00 – 4.30 or you can enjoy strawberries and a glass of fizz after a meal.

 

Other venues

 

Trafford Centre

Showing the matches on the big screen in the food court, so you don’t have to miss out, even when you’re shopping

   

Wimbledon themed events

 

1847

Vegetarian / vegan restaurant with a Wimbledon Afternoon Tea. Bookings via their events page and afternoon tea is served from 12.00 to 6.00 each day of the tournament.

 

Rosylee Restaurant

Wimbledon specials in the form of Bubbly Cream Tea and jugs of Pimm’s. The sign says matches are being shown in The Fitgerald, also on Stevenson Square, but I don’t know for sure.

 

Harvey Nichols

Indulge in the luxury of Wimbledon from the comfort of your own armchair, with the Wimbledon hamper from Harvey Nicks. It’s not cheap at £80.00, but will get you through the Murray anxiety a treat. There are a few cheeky cocktail recipes on their website too if you’re looking to update your tipple with a tennis twist.

As for me, well I was lucky enough to win tickets for the first day at Wimbledon, thanks to The Metropolitan. Check out my highlights post here.

Murray may have a tough draw this year, but like one Twitter fan said, to be the best, you have to beat the best. Fingers crossed. #WimbledonAwaits!

 

1 Comment On This Topic
  1. Carol Johnson
    7 years ago

    Well no one should miss any Wimbledon with all that information well done.

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