< Introducing London
Sporting London
Fans celebrating in the stands at Wembley Stadium.
London has an impressive variety of sports on offer, to be enjoyed both as a spectator and a player – here are some of the most popular. Enthusiastic young fans might enjoy a behind-the-scenes glimpse of their favourite sports stadium. Most of these, including Wembley (football), Twickenham (rugby) and Lord’s (cricket), organize regular tours.
Athletics
Most major track and field events are held at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre, but one of the most fun events of the year is the Virgin London Marathon, with a course from Blackheath to the Mall through central London. Runners will find tracks at Battersea Park Millennium Arena and Linford Christie Stadium. For more casual running, there’s a track in Regent’s Park.
Cricket
An integral part of an English summer, amateur cricket matches are played throughout London at the weekends. Among the more central are those in Regent’s Park and on Barnes Common. To watch first-class professional cricket, try Lord’s, home of the famous MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club) and Middlesex, or Surrey’s Kia Oval.
Football
Football is the UK’s most popular spectator sport. The season runs from Aug–May, and fans flock to cup finals and international games at Wembley Stadium. London’s top clubs are Arsenal, which is based at the Emirates Stadium, and Chelsea, based at Stamford Bridge. However, it is easier to come by tickets to see less high-profile teams, such as west London’s Queens Park Rangers, and Crystal Palace in south London.
Horse-riding
Stables are located near a number of London parks. Ross Nye and Hyde Park Stables are on Hyde Park’s doorstep. Stag Lodge Stables are just outside Richmond Park’s Robin Hood Gate, and Ridgway and Wimbledon Village Stables are both within easy reach of Richmond Park and Wimbledon Common.
Enjoying a riding lesson at Hyde Park Stables.
Ice-skating
London’s major permanent covered rinks are Queen’s Ice and Bowl, and Streatham Ice Arena. During winter months, outdoor temporary ice rinks crop up across the city. Popular ones are at Broadgate, Hampton Court, Hyde Park, the Natural History Museum, Somerset House and the Tower of London. All are floodlit, many run until 10pm.
Skating on the outdoor ice rink at the Natural History Museum.
Rowing
Of the regular races on the Thames, the highlight is the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race from Putney to Mortlake. Supporters line the river to watch the “eights” of these rival universities battle it out on the river in April. Rowing is also a fun family activity, and there are boats for hire on the Serpentine (Easter–Oct) and the lakes in Greenwich (Feb–Oct) and Regent’s parks (Apr–Sep).
Rugby
A 15-a-side sport, rugby union has certain similarities to American Football. International and major matches are played at Twickenham Stadium, the sport’s headquarters. London-based clubs include Harlequins, London Welsh, London Scottish and Rosslyn Park. Matches can be watched most Saturday afternoons (Sep–Apr).
Swimming
Although there are many pools in London, surprisingly few are geared towards children. For kid’s pools, try Brentford Fountain, Newham and Woolwich Waterfront Leisure Centres, which all have water slides. Finchley Lido Leisure Centre has indoor and outdoor pools and is popular with families. Chelsea Sports Centre, Oasis and Porchester Centre are not so family-friendly, but more central. For outdoor pools, try Oasis or the Parliament Hill or Serpentine lidos.
Tennis
There are quite a few municipal tennis courts around London, and these can usually be booked on the day. Bring your own tennis racket and balls. Good local courts include Holland Park and Battersea Park.When it comes to watching tennis, June–July brings the grass court AEGON Championships at Queens and, of course, Wimbledon, the home of the sport – a must for any tennis or strawberry enthusiast.
Water sports
Sailing, canoeing and kayaking courses and more are on offer for kids aged 8+ at Thames Young Mariners, Docklands Sailing and Watersports Centre, Surrey Docks Watersports Centre and Royal Victoria Dock Watersports Centre. For less complicated water sports, there is a children’s pond in Regent’s Park with mini pedal boats (over 5s).