Wimbledon, the highlight of the British tennis calendar, often carries a reputation for high costs, with a pint of lager nearing a tenner and champagne bottles reaching £110. However, fans can still enjoy the Championships without breaking the bank. From celebrity spotting to securing a Centre Court seat for just £15, here are seven free and cheap must-dos for the 2026 tournament.
Head Down to the Practice Courts
Even if you miss the big names on the show courts, the practice courts offer a glimpse of your favourite players in action. Fans can queue to watch familiar faces preparing for their campaigns, as seen on Monday morning when players warmed up for matches later that day or on Tuesday.
Try Your Luck at the Ticket Resale Kiosk
If you didn't secure a Centre Court spot, don't lose hope. The resale queue in Parkside allows grounds pass holders to purchase returned tickets for just £15 for Centre Court or £10 for Court One and Court Two. Returns are typically processed in the early evening, and you have 10 minutes to claim a ticket. Proceeds go to charities via the Wimbledon Foundation.
Grab Free Refills on Your Water
Stay hydrated without spending a fortune. An Evian reusable bottle costs £5 at bars around the grounds and entitles you to free refills all day at stations dotted throughout the venue. It doubles as a souvenir.
Get a Slice of History at the Museum
Entry to the Wimbledon Museum is free for all ticket-holders during the Championships. Open from 10am to 10pm (or 30 seconds after play ends) throughout the fortnight, it showcases over a century of tennis history with artifacts from the sport's early days.
Try to Win a Dream Holiday
Emirates hosts an activation where fans can win a trip to the Maldives, along with spot prizes like branded hats and photo opportunities with airline cabin crew. Participants pull a pin from a location board for a chance to win.
Find Your AI-Powered Likeness
IBM's AI fan experience for 2026 lets you get your photo taken and assigned a persona, such as 'the connoisseur'. A wall of photos displays images taken earlier in the day. IBM also introduces key moments to help fans follow matches and understand turning points.
Indulge in Some Celeb-Spotting
Before entering the grounds, head to Gate 13 where VIPs and members enter. Famous faces often stop for photos and chats. On Monday, singer Katherine Jenkins, former England footballer Graeme Le Saux, and Sir Cliff Richard were spotted, with more expected on day two.
