Wimbledon Etiquette: A Guide for Spectators

Good Wimbledon etiquette means helping players concentrate and allowing the people around you to enjoy the tennis. Stay quiet during points, move only at appropriate breaks and avoid blocking other spectators' views.

You do not need to know every Wimbledon tradition before attending. Most of the etiquette comes down to being attentive to the match, considerate of other spectators and following the stewards' instructions.

Etiquette is different from Wimbledon's formal admission rules. For bags, prohibited items, alcohol, photography restrictions and ticket requirements, see our Wimbledon spectator rules guide.

Wimbledon Etiquette at a Glance

When Should I Clap or Cheer?

You can support your favourite player and applaud good tennis. The important distinction is between reacting after a point and making noise while the point is still being played.

Wait until the point has definitely ended before cheering. As the next point begins, settle down and avoid shouting while a player is preparing to serve.

Support does not need to become hostility towards the opponent. Applauding a good shot from either player is entirely in keeping with Wimbledon etiquette.

Can I Talk During a Match?

Keep conversation to a minimum while points are being played.

Longer discussions are better saved for changes of ends, breaks between games or between matches. Even quiet conversation can be distracting when the surrounding crowd is silent.

When Can I Leave or Return to My Seat?

Enter and leave the stands at an appropriate break in play and follow the stewards' instructions.

Do not assume that every pause between points is an opportunity to move. Stewards may hold spectators at the entrance until a change of ends or another suitable moment.

Before getting up, gather your belongings so you can move along the row quickly without unnecessarily delaying other spectators.

If you have an urgent medical or accessibility need, ask a steward for assistance.

How Should I Use My Phone or Camera?

Put your phone on silent before taking your seat and disable the camera flash and other audible alerts.

Keep your phone or camera below other spectators' sightlines. Holding a device above your head can block the view for several rows behind you.

Avoid making calls, playing audio through your phone's speaker or watching videos while sitting in the stands.

For the formal rules on photography, filming and camera equipment, see our Wimbledon spectator rules guide.

Respect Other Spectators' Seats and Views

Use the seat shown on your ticket in reserved areas. An empty neighbouring seat may belong to someone who has temporarily left, so do not assume it is available.

Keep bags, coats and other belongings within your own space and leave gangways clear.

Be aware of the view behind you. Standing unnecessarily, leaning forward for long periods or wearing particularly large headwear can make it difficult for other spectators to see.

If another spectator politely points out a problem, adjust where practical. Ask a steward to help with a genuine seating dispute rather than arguing during play.

Can I Save Seats on an Unreserved Court?

Do not assume that placing a bag or other item on an unreserved seat gives you the right to hold it indefinitely.

When seating is limited, be considerate of other spectators and follow any instructions from court stewards.

If somebody appears to have stepped away briefly, ask before moving their belongings or taking the seat.

Eating and Drinking in the Stands

If you have a snack in your seat, choose something that is easy to manage and does not disturb the people around you.

Open noisy packaging during a break, keep drinks secure and take your rubbish with you when you leave.

Save larger meals or picnics for areas away from the court stands.

For the formal food and drink restrictions, see our spectator rules guide. For places to eat around the Grounds, see our Wimbledon food and drink guide.

What Should I Wear?

There is no special etiquette requirement to dress formally simply because you are attending Wimbledon.

Choose comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather and be considerate of anything that could obstruct another spectator's view.

For specific advice for debenture ticket holders and restaurants, see our Wimbledon debenture dress code guide.

How Can I Help Children Understand Wimbledon Etiquette?

Keep it simple: stay quiet while the ball is in play, clap afterwards and ask before getting up from the seat.

Plan toilet, snack and movement breaks rather than expecting younger spectators to sit quietly for an entire long match.

For the wider practicalities of a family visit, see our guide to taking children to Wimbledon.

Does the Wimbledon Queue Have Its Own Etiquette?

Yes, but the Queue also has its own formal Code of Conduct and procedures.

Be considerate of the people around you, respect the established order and follow the instructions of Wimbledon staff.

For the detailed Queue rules, camping arrangements and temporary absence procedures, see our Wimbledon Queue and camping guide.

What if I Am Unsure What to Do?

Ask a steward. It is better to check when you can move, where you should sit or how to get assistance than to guess.

Wimbledon etiquette should not make a first visit intimidating. Pay attention to the tennis, be considerate of the people around you and follow the guidance of the stewards.

Feel Part of the Wimbledon Crowd

From the hush before a serve to the applause after a long rally, Wimbledon's atmosphere is part of its appeal. A debenture ticket gives you a reserved Centre Court or No.1 Court seat to enjoy it.

Browse Wimbledon 2027 tickets and find an available court and date for your visit.

Browse Wimbledon Debenture Tickets

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