Wimbledon’s ‘The Queue’ Becomes Iconic Ticket‑Buying Tradition

At the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, fans spend up to two days camping in the organised "The Queue" to secure tickets for Wimbledon matches. The practice, dating back to 1922, is considered one of the world’s most civilised and well‑run queues, with participants bringing food, drinks and even sleeping gear while waiting for their turn. Tickets are primarily allocated through an annual spring lottery, though a limited number can be bought at selected tennis clubs. Organisers maintain the queue’s exclusivity despite calls to increase online sales, emphasizing its unique status as a separate attraction from the tournament itself.

Queue participants report a convivial atmosphere, sharing snacks, reading, playing cards and even applying makeup while they wait. The event has also embraced technology, offering a Twitter account and a satisfaction survey for those who obtain tickets. For many, the experience of standing in line is as valued as watching the matches, making "The Queue" a distinctive cultural feature of the Wimbledon championships.