A LONG STANDING TRADITION - THE QUEUE
28 March 2011
A longstanding tradition - 'The Queue' exhibition now open
The award-winning Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum is thrilled to announce the introduction of its latest exhibition, ‘The Queue.’ This new addition explores the traditions and history of the Wimbledon Queue and offers visitors an intriguing insight into the queueing experience.
Queueing has long been established as a particularly British trait, and nowhere is this more exemplary than in the Wimbledon Queue. In a typically ‘British’ fashion a ‘Code of Conduct’ applies to ‘The Queue,’ kept in check by the Honorary Stewards. The code includes a clear non-reservation policy where those queueing must be present in person and may not place equipment in lieu of themselves.
For well over a century, Wimbledon has attracted more spectators than it can accommodate. In 1927, over 22,000 spectators were present on the first Saturday – a new ground record of the time. Queues started outside the Grounds at 5 am and over 2,000 people were turned away.
Later, in 1991, Wimbledon experienced one of the wettest first weeks on record and the Sunday became a unique day in Wimbledon’s history with play taking place on Middle Sunday for the very first time. The queue stretched for 1.5 miles outside the Grounds and a carnival atmosphere ensued with a special programme and full catering facilities.
Today, the Association of Wimbledon Honorary Stewards is responsible for crowd management, acting as ‘hosts’ to the public. Organisation is key to the smooth running of the process and amongst the stewards’ duties are directing, advising and offering guidance to visitors inside and outside the Grounds.
Tennis enthusiasts will welcome the latest exhibition, which explores all aspects of ‘The Queue.’ With everything from ‘tips’ for potential queuers and a display of objects amassed from queueing over the years, the exhibition will conjure up ‘The Queue’ experience today and all that it entails.
Further Museum highlights include the ‘ghost’ of John McEnroe, the renowned Championship Trophies, the 200° Cinema and CentreCourt360, the new viewing experience in Centre Court. There are award-winning behind-the-scenes tours of the Grounds available for groups and individuals which take in some areas out-of-bounds during the tournament, contributing to the ultimate Museum experience.
For groups of 13 and under book online . You cannot book tours online for groups of more than 14 persons. For group bookings, please call 020 8946 6131. Please note all public tours are conducted in English only.
For up-to-date information visit the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum website or call 00 44 (0)209 946 6131.
