The All England Lawn Tennis Club announced its ambition to undertake a programme of enhancements to one of sport’s famous viewing experiences, The Hill.
The planned developments are set to provide far greater accessible viewing opportunities and will transform wheelchair access to The Hill’s various tiers, including the Orchard and Pergola areas, situated at the top of The Hill. The plans will also deliver more seating through a number of new low retaining walls which will optimise visibility of the No.1 Court large screen by reducing the gradient of the existing tiers.
Level Playing Field has been pleased to be involved through the planning process and works are scheduled to commence following the conclusion of The Championships 2026. The new-look Hill will therefore be ready to welcome guests at The Championships 2027. This project forms part of the All England Club’s plans to mark the 150th anniversary of the first Championships in 1877.
Ruth Hopkins, General Manager & Head of Access at Level Playing Field, commented, “I am delighted that Level Playing Field has played an important role in working with the All England Club to enhance their world-famous Hill to be an inclusive and accessible space for everyone attending Wimbledon. These plans will deliver significant improvements for all guests but particularly for those with accessibility requirements.”
The spiritual home for many a tennis fan, The Hill is one of the most coveted and atmospheric areas at The Championships with an unrivalled view of the No.1 Court large screen showing live action from around the Grounds.
Deborah Jevans CBE, Chair of the All England Club, commented, “The redevelopment of our world-famous Hill, in time for The Championships 2027, will allow even more tennis fans to enjoy its unique atmosphere and vantage point. I am particularly pleased that these plans will increase the accessibility of The Hill for our guests using wheelchairs or who have additional accessibility requirements.
“It is an exciting opportunity as we look towards 2027 and the 150th anniversary of the first Championships.”
A consultation event for local residents to learn more about the plans and to offer their feedback will take place on Thursday 10 April before the planning application is submitted to the London Borough of Merton.