All England Club: Inside Wimbledon's Exclusive [AELTC]
The All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club members entrance at
Is it truly possible to buy your way into hallowed sporting ground? When it comes to the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC), also known as the All England Club, the answer is a resounding and unequivocal no. Nestled in the heart of Wimbledon, London, this prestigious institution, famed for hosting the Wimbledon Championships, stands as a bastion of exclusivity, its membership ranks fiercely guarded and its traditions deeply entrenched.Becoming a member of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club is akin to ascending a near-impossible peak. It's not merely about wealth or status; it's about a multifaceted evaluation that considers contributions to the sport, commitment to the club's values, and a network of connections within its existing membership. Numbers are strictly limited, and the application process is shrouded in a veil of tradition and scrutiny. While the exact cost of membership remains a closely guarded secret, it's understood that financial contributions alone won't unlock the gates to this exclusive enclave.
Category
Information
Official Name
The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club Limited (AELTC)
Also Known As
The All England Club, Wimbledon
Location
Church Road, Wimbledon, London, England
Founded
July 23, 1868 (as the All England Croquet Club)
Type
Private Members' Club
Main Activity
Organizing and hosting the annual Wimbledon Championships
Number of Full Members
Approximately 375
Honorary Members
Approximately 70 (past singles champions and contributors to the sport)
Temporary Members
Approximately 120
Grass Courts
18 Championships grass courts
Centre Court
Largest court, venue for marquee events of the Wimbledon Championships
Membership Requirements
Proposed, seconded, and supported by four existing full members, all providing written support.
Social Membership
Access to the community tennis center site in Raynes Park (adults and juniors), no booking or playing rights.
Adult Membership
Required to play tennis or attend exercise classes.
Formal Agreement
Formal agreement with The Lawn Tennis Association Limited, LTA Operations Limited, The All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club Limited and The All England Lawn Tennis Club (Championships) Limited. Setting out arrangements for the continuation of their relationship in respect of the championships for at least 40 years from 1.
Conversion to Company
On 1 August 2011 the club was converted into a company limited by guarantee under the name the all england lawn tennis & croquet club limited, activities of the club and of the championships can be conducted separately.
