Background

Lord's Cricket Ground: The Historic Home of Cricket in London

Experience the iconic 'Home of Cricket' in London, where over 200 years of sporting history and tradition come alive at Lord's Cricket Ground.

4.7

Lord's Cricket Ground, located on St John's Wood Road in London, is the iconic 'Home of Cricket' and one of the oldest and most prestigious cricket venues in the world. Established in 1814 by Thomas Lord, it is the third ground of its name and serves as the headquarters of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). Renowned for its blend of Victorian architecture and modern design, Lord's has hosted historic matches including multiple World Cup finals and legendary performances by cricket greats.

A brief summary to Lord's Cricket Ground

  • St John's Wood Rd, London, NW8 8QN, GB
  • +442076168500
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 4 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 6 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-5 pm
  • Friday 6 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the MCC Museum to explore cricket memorabilia and learn about the sport’s history.
  • Attend a Test match or one-day international to experience the ground’s vibrant atmosphere.
  • Explore the iconic Long Room inside the Pavilion, a must-see for cricket enthusiasts.
  • Check match schedules in advance, as the ground is busiest during international fixtures.
  • Use nearby St John's Wood Tube station for easy access to the ground.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Tube

    Take the London Underground Jubilee Line to St John's Wood station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the ground. Services run frequently with fares around £2.50-£5.00 depending on ticket type.

  • Bus

    Bus routes 13, 46, and 139 serve stops near Lord's Cricket Ground on St John's Wood Road. Travel times vary from 20-40 minutes from central London. Contactless payment is accepted.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    Taxis and rideshares can drop you directly at the venue entrance. Travel time from central London is typically 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect fares from £15 upwards.

  • Walking

    If staying nearby, walking to Lord's offers a pleasant experience through St John's Wood neighborhood. Walking times range from 15-30 minutes depending on your starting point; terrain is flat and accessible.

Lord's Cricket Ground location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

Unlock the Best of Lord's Cricket Ground

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Lord's Cricket Ground

Founding and Evolution of Lord's Cricket Ground

Lord's Cricket Ground was founded in 1814 by Thomas Lord, a Yorkshireman and professional bowler who understood the need for a dedicated cricket venue. It is the third ground established by Lord, following earlier sites at Dorset Square (1787) and a middle ground near Regent's Canal (1811). The current location in St John's Wood has been home to the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) for over two centuries, cementing its status as the spiritual and administrative heart of cricket worldwide.

Architectural Heritage and Iconic Features

The ground is a unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture. The Victorian-style Pavilion, designed by Thomas Verity and completed in 1890, is the oldest structure on site and houses the famous Long Room, a 93-foot-long corridor through which players enter the pitch. The Grand Stand, designed by Nicholas Grimshaw and opened in 1998, provides modern seating for thousands of spectators. These structures reflect Lord's ability to preserve tradition while embracing modernity.

Cricketing Legacy and Historic Moments

Lord's has been the stage for some of cricket's most memorable moments. It hosted the first three Men's Cricket World Cup finals (1975, 1979, 1983) and more recent finals in 1999 and 2019, as well as Women's World Cup finals in 1993 and 2017. Legendary players like Don Bradman, who scored 254 runs in the 1930 Ashes series, and Ian Botham, whose 1981 Ashes performance is legendary, have graced its pitch. The ground is also the site where the Ashes urn was presented to MCC in 1928.

Role in Cricket Governance and Culture

As the home of MCC, Lord's has played a pivotal role in shaping cricket's laws and traditions. MCC laid down the original Laws of Cricket in 1788, and the club remains the custodian of these laws globally. The ground also served as the headquarters of the International Cricket Council (ICC) until 2005. The atmosphere at Lord's reflects cricket’s English heritage, with MCC members often seen in traditional blazers and the iconic Grace Gates commemorating the great cricketer W.G. Grace.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors to Lord's experience a blend of history, sport, and culture. The manicured pitch, oak-paneled interiors, and the buzz of match days create an atmosphere steeped in tradition. The ground accommodates thousands of spectators with modern amenities while preserving its historic charm. Beyond matches, the MCC Museum offers insights into cricket’s rich history, displaying memorabilia that spans centuries.

Lord's in the Modern Era

Today, Lord's continues to evolve, hosting international matches, county games, and cultural events. It remains a symbol of cricket’s enduring appeal and a pilgrimage site for fans worldwide. Despite the rise of ultra-modern stadiums globally, Lord's holds a unique place as a cathedral of cricket, where history and innovation coexist seamlessly.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Lord's Cricket Ground

Popular Hotels near Lord's Cricket Ground

Select Currency