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A few days before Wimbledon captures the sporting world’s attention, another grass-court event unfolds in a considerably more relaxed setting. Set within the grounds of Stoke Park in Buckinghamshire, The Boodles has become one of the most distinctive fixtures of the British summer season, combining world-class tennis with hospitality, fine dining, and the atmosphere of an elegant garden party.
Taking place from 23 to 27 June 2026, The Boodles offers something increasingly rare in modern sport: the opportunity to watch some of the world’s leading players preparing for a Grand Slam in an environment that feels intimate, sociable, and unhurried. For guests who appreciate summer entertaining as much as elite competition, it remains one of the most enjoyable events in the lead-up to Wimbledon.
A Different Kind of Tennis Week
Unlike the ATP Tour events that precede Wimbledon, The Boodles is an exhibition tournament. The absence of ranking points allows players to focus on fine-tuning their grass-court game without the pressure of a competitive draw, creating a noticeably different atmosphere both on and off the court.
Since its debut in 2002, the event has attracted many of the sport’s most recognisable names. Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Alexander Zverev, and Juan Martín del Potro have all appeared over the years, helping establish The Boodles as one of the most respected Wimbledon warm-up events on the calendar.
The format also gives spectators a closer view of the players than would typically be possible during a major tournament. Practice sessions, player appearances, and informal interactions contribute to an experience that feels more personal than many larger tennis events.
The 2026 Edition At A Glance
The 2026 edition will once again take place across five days at Stoke Park, with gates opening late morning and play commencing during the afternoon.
Among the players announced for 2026 are Andrey Rublev, Hubert Hurkacz, Arthur Fils, Sebastian Korda, Flavio Cobolli, and Jakub Menšík, representing a mix of established contenders and rising talent ahead of Wimbledon.
While the player list may evolve as Wimbledon approaches, The Boodles has built its reputation on attracting some of the strongest grass-court competitors in the game, making it an appealing opportunity to see players before the intensity of SW19 begins.
The Appeal of Stoke Park
Part of The Boodles’ enduring appeal lies in its setting. Located less than an hour from central London, Stoke Park provides a striking backdrop for summer tennis.
The historic estate extends across more than 300 acres of landscaped parkland, lakes, and gardens. The grounds create a sense of space rarely associated with major sporting events, allowing guests to move easily between hospitality areas, courtside seating, and outdoor terraces.
The experience feels closer to attending a private country-house gathering than a conventional sporting tournament. Guests arrive through tree-lined grounds, spend time on open lawns between matches, and enjoy long summer afternoons away from the crowds typically associated with Wimbledon.
Courtside Hospitality Done Properly
For many guests, hospitality sits at the centre of the experience.
The Players Enclosure remains one of the most sought-after options, offering a champagne reception on arrival, a gourmet lunch, premium courtside seating, afternoon tea, and opportunities to hear directly from players during exclusive appearances and interviews. The atmosphere strikes a balance between sophistication and ease, with guests moving comfortably between the dining spaces and the tennis throughout the day.
The Legends Enclosure offers a similarly polished experience while incorporating appearances from former players and personalities connected to the sport. It appeals particularly to guests who enjoy the stories, history, and personalities that surround professional tennis.
Both hospitality experiences reflect the event’s wider character. The focus remains firmly on comfort, quality, and enjoyment rather than formality.
A Typical Day At The Boodles
A day at The Boodles unfolds at a gentler pace than many major sporting events.
Guests typically begin with a champagne reception before settling into lunch. As play gets underway during the afternoon, spectators move between hospitality spaces and courtside seating, watching exhibition matches featuring players preparing for Wimbledon.
The format encourages conversation and socialising throughout the day. Matches are competitive enough to showcase elite talent while remaining relaxed enough to allow the personalities of the players to emerge.
Afternoon tea often becomes a highlight in its own right, particularly when enjoyed on the terrace overlooking the grounds as the final matches of the day draw to a close.
Extending The Experience
The Boodles is easily incorporated into a broader summer itinerary.
Many visitors choose to stay in London, combining the event with a few days in Mayfair, Belgravia, or Knightsbridge. Hotels such as Claridge’s, The Connaught, The Berkeley, and The Peninsula London provide convenient bases before Wimbledon begins.
Others opt for a countryside stay. Coworth Park near Ascot offers a contemporary country-house experience with extensive grounds and equestrian facilities, while Cliveden House combines historic grandeur with one of the most celebrated hotel settings in the Thames Valley.
Dining can become part of the occasion as well. Guests travelling through Bray may choose tables at The Fat Duck or The Waterside Inn, while Windsor offers a range of elegant options overlooking the historic town and castle precincts.
A Coveted Place in the Summer Calendar
The British summer season offers no shortage of prestigious events, yet The Boodles occupies a distinctive position among them.
Its scale allows guests to enjoy exceptional tennis without the logistical demands of larger tournaments. The hospitality is thoughtfully delivered, the setting remains one of the most attractive in the country, and the timing creates an unmistakable sense of anticipation ahead of Wimbledon.
For those who enjoy grass-court tennis accompanied by champagne, conversation, and long afternoons in a country-estate setting, The Boodles continues to be one of the most rewarding invitations of the season.
