Wimbledon set to boost Henman Hill’s capacity by 20% as part of 150th anniversary celebrations

Wimbledon will boost the capacity of Henman Hill by 20 per cent in time for the tournament in 2027.

Extra space for spectators will be found by reducing the gradient of the grass bank’s existing tiers and adding retaining walls. A new pergola will be built to provide rain cover and sun shade for fans, while access will be improved for wheelchair users.

The revamp of the hill, officially called Aorangi Terrace, forms part of the All England Club’s plans to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the championships in two years’ time. If approved by the local council, the developments will begin after the 2026 tournament and be completed ahead of the 2027 event.

‘It is going to be an exciting project,’ said All England Club board member and four-time Wimbledon semi-finalist Tim Henman, after whom the hill earned its nickname.

‘It’s about enhancing this whole area. It has become extremely popular but accessibility is tricky for everyone. To soften the slope is part of the project. It is about utilising all the space.’

All England Club chair Deborah Jevans added: ‘The redevelopment of our world-famous Hill will allow even more tennis fans to enjoy its unique atmosphere and vantage point.’

The revamp of the hill, officially called Aorangi Terrace, forms part of the All England Club’s plans to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the championships in two years’ time 

All England Club chair Deborah Jevans (left), with Kate Middleton at Wimbledon in 2023