Strawberries and cream, served in elegant cups and enjoyed under the British sun, have become as iconic as the tennis itself at Wimbledon. But how did this charming tradition begin—and why does it continue to be such a celebrated part of the world’s most prestigious tennis event? Let’s explore the roots of this delicious ritual.
The Beginning: A Taste of History
The Wimbledon Championships date back to 1877, and records show that strawberries and cream were served at the very first tournament. Some historians believe the tradition may have originated even earlier, during the reign of Queen Victoria (1837–1901), when strawberries became a fashionable summer dessert at high-society gatherings, often paired with fresh cream.
The pairing gained quick popularity not just for its taste, but for its symbolism. Strawberries were considered both seasonal and luxurious, while tennis was emerging as a leisure sport of the elite. Together, they became a perfect match—both literally and culturally—at the courtside.
Why Only Strawberries and Cream?
There are a few explanations for this question:
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Seasonal Simplicity
Wimbledon takes place during early July, which coincides with the peak strawberry season in Britain. Strawberries are fresh, abundant, and exceptionally sweet during this time of the year.
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Elegantly Easy
Strawberries are exceptionally easy to prepare and serve, making them ideal for large crowds, especially suitable for a summer sport.
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Visual Appeal
The vibrant red of strawberries paired with pristine white cream mirrors the tournament’s aesthetic—green grass courts, crisp white attire, and timeless elegance.
A Culinary Tradition
During each Wimbledon season, over 190,000 portions of strawberries and cream are consumed, adding up to nearly 2 million strawberries and 7,000 litres of fresh cream!
All strawberries are handpicked from Hugh Lowe Farms in Kent, typically harvested just before serving to ensure peak freshness. Only the best make the cut, meeting Wimbledon’s strict quality standards.
The strawberries are always of the Elsanta variety, with exactly 12 berries per portion, served with chilled double cream in compostable cups. This tradition is so revered, there’s no room for extras—no sauces, no frills—just strawberries and cream, perfected.
Strawberries and cream at Wimbledon aren’t just a treat—they’re a celebration of time, place, and tradition. A cherished symbol of British summertime, this iconic dessert offers spectators a chance to savour something truly unique.
While the game delivers speed and intensity, this simple indulgence brings a moment of calm and elegance, allowing fans to connect more deeply with the Wimbledon experience. So the next time you’re watching a thrilling five-setter, don’t forget to take a scoop in the stands and enjoy a taste of Wimbledon history.
