A tennis fan's experience with Wimbledon's iconic strawberries and cream has sparked a social media debate after he shared his disappointment with the serving. Lawrence Newport posted a photograph on X showing a cardboard container with a shallow layer of cream and what appeared to be seven strawberries, captioning it: "Strawberries and cream at Wimbledon. Not quite as imagined."
Social Media Reactions
Many users responded with their own complaints. One person claimed they received a separate pot of cream on day one, suggesting Newport had poured the cream incorrectly, but he insisted: "It comes like this!" Another user shared a similar photo of their purchase, showing slightly more strawberries but still a thin cream layer. Comments included: "You've literally posted an almost identical photo of disappointment" and "It still looks bleak but would be much improved if the box were half the size."
Some defended the dish, pointing out that "it is literally strawberries and cream." Newport retorted: "Good point. When I next order fish and chips with tartare sauce, I'll expect a flake of fish, three chips, and tartare sauce just randomly tumbled around it." Others speculated he may have eaten some strawberries before taking the photo.
Cost and Expectations
A portion of strawberries and cream at Wimbledon in 2026 costs £2.85, a 15p increase from the previous year. According to Popcorn Shed, customers are guaranteed at least ten Grade 1 British strawberries. Newport's photo showed only seven, but three may have been hidden or consumed earlier. Many fans considered the price reasonable, telling Newport not to expect extravagance for under £3.
Tradition and History
Strawberries and cream have been linked to Wimbledon since the championships began in July 1877, coinciding with the peak of the British strawberry season. Historian Robert McNicol suggested the treat may have started informally with spectators bringing their own strawberries. Today, the berries are supplied by Hugh Lowe Farms in Kent, harvested each morning and delivered by 9am, then inspected, hulled, and served fresh on the same day.
