The Oval: Historic Cricket Ground and Sporting Landmark in London
Historic cricket ground in London, home to Surrey CCC and the birthplace of the Ashes rivalry, set against iconic Victorian gas holders.
The Oval, located in Kennington, London, is a world-renowned cricket ground and the home of Surrey County Cricket Club since 1845. Famous for hosting England's first Test match in 1880 and the birthplace of the Ashes series, this iconic stadium blends rich sporting history with distinctive Victorian architecture and the unique backdrop of historic gas holders. Beyond cricket, The Oval has hosted football, rugby, and even served as a prisoner of war camp during WWII.
A brief summary to The Oval
- Kennington Oval, London, SE11 5SS, GB
- +442039460100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during an international cricket match to experience world-class sport in a historic setting.
- Explore the pavilion and gas holders for a glimpse of Victorian architecture and industrial heritage.
- Check for guided tours offered by Surrey County Cricket Club to learn about The Oval’s rich history.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Kennington to appreciate the local urban and cultural environment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground Northern Line to Oval Station, approximately a 10-minute walk to the ground. Trains run frequently with fares starting around £2.50 using contactless payment.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes serve Kennington Oval, including routes 3, 36, 59, and 133. Buses run every 10-15 minutes with a journey time of 15-25 minutes from central London. Use an Oyster card or contactless for fares.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to The Oval typically takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £10-£20. Drop-off points are available near the main entrance.
-
Walking
From nearby Vauxhall or Kennington stations, walking to The Oval takes about 20-30 minutes over mostly flat urban terrain, suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair accessible.
The Oval location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Oval
Origins and Early Sporting Heritage
The Oval stands on land that was once part of Kennington Common, a site used for cricket matches since the early 18th century, as well as public executions. Originally a cabbage patch and market garden owned by the Duchy of Cornwall, the area was leased in 1845 to create a dedicated cricket ground. Turf brought from Tooting Common was laid to form the playing surface, and Surrey County Cricket Club was founded that same year. The ground’s distinctive oval shape dates back to the late 18th century when an oval road was first established around the site.Cricket Milestones and The Ashes Legacy
The Oval is famed for hosting the first Test match in England in 1880, where legendary cricketer W.G. Grace scored England’s first Test century. Two years later, the venue witnessed the birth of the Ashes rivalry following a dramatic match between England and Australia in 1882. The Oval has since been a regular venue for international cricket, including One Day Internationals and prestigious tournaments like the ICC Champions Trophy and the World Test Championship Final. It remains the largest cricket ground in Great Britain by playing area.Architectural Features and Iconic Surroundings
The current Victorian pavilion, designed by Thomas Muirhead and completed in the late 19th century, is a prominent feature of The Oval, showcasing period sash windows and restored heritage elements. The stadium is famously overlooked by historic Victorian gas holders built in 1847, once the largest gasholder structures worldwide and now Grade II listed. These gasometers have become symbolic fixtures, often mentioned by commentators and forming a unique backdrop to matches.Multi-Sport Venue and Wartime History
Beyond cricket, The Oval hosted the first FA Cup Final in 1872 and early international rugby matches, including England vs. Scotland and England vs. Wales. During World War II, the ground was requisitioned and intended as a prisoner of war camp, suffering bomb damage before resuming cricket in 1946. This wartime chapter adds a profound layer to The Oval’s historical narrative.Modern Usage and Cultural Significance
Today, The Oval continues as the home of Surrey County Cricket Club, boasting a vibrant membership and hosting international fixtures annually. It is also a popular venue for conferences and events, blending its historic charm with modern facilities. The ground’s rich sporting legacy, architectural character, and cultural resonance make it a must-visit landmark in London’s sporting landscape.Community and Environmental Context
Situated in the London Borough of Lambeth, The Oval is embedded within a dynamic urban environment. The club and ground have navigated development challenges sensitively, balancing expansion with local community interests. The surrounding area features a mix of residential neighborhoods and green spaces, contributing to the venue’s accessibility and atmosphere.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vauxhall Bridge
0.9 km
Vauxhall Bridge: Historic iron origins meet modern steel, linking London’s south and north banks with art and engineering heritage.
Southbank House
1.0 km
Historic terracotta landmark in Lambeth, blending Victorian pottery heritage with modern creative workspaces.
Statue of George V
1.9 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
South Bank Lion
1.9 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
1.9 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
Westminster Hall
2.0 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
Big Ben
2.0 km
Discover the iconic Elizabeth Tower and its famous bell, Big Ben, a timeless symbol of London's heritage and British culture.
Boadicea and Her Daughters
2.0 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Boudica, the fierce Celtic queen, standing proudly on her chariot beside Westminster Bridge in the heart of London.
Parliament Square Garden
2.0 km
Where Westminster's political heart meets a tranquil green sanctuary beneath the shadow of Big Ben.
Bridge St
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant heart of London at Bridge Street, where history meets modernity in a lively cultural hub.
Sir Winston Churchill statue
2.1 km
Explore the Sir Winston Churchill statue in Parliament Square, a symbol of resilience and leadership in the heart of London’s historic landscape.
Mahatma Gandhi statue
2.1 km
Visit the Mahatma Gandhi statue in Parliament Square, a symbol of peace and non-violence nestled among London's historic landmarks.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
2.1 km
Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
2.1 km
London's premier riverside gateway to Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster's iconic landmarks.
Parliament Sq
2.1 km
Where Britain's democratic institutions converge, history breathes, and voices are heard.
Unmissable attractions to see
The ACE Programme Charity
0.1 km
Historic cricket ground and premier London venue blending sporting heritage with modern event excellence.
Kennington Park
0.4 km
Historic Kennington Park, South London’s first public park, blends rich political heritage with vibrant community green space and Victorian charm.
Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens
0.6 km
Historic London park on the site of the famed 18th-century Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, blending cultural heritage with modern green space.
St George Wharf
0.9 km
Experience vibrant riverside living in London’s iconic St George Wharf, blending modern architecture, stunning Thames views, and unbeatable connectivity.
Van Gogh House London
1.0 km
Discover the historic London home of Vincent van Gogh, now a vibrant arts centre celebrating his legacy through exhibitions, residencies, and tours.
Tamesis Dock
1.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Tamesis Dock, a floating bar on the Thames, offering drinks, food, and live music with stunning river views.
Tate Britain
1.2 km
Discover 500 years of British art at Tate Britain, home to Turner’s masterpieces and iconic works from the Pre-Raphaelites to contemporary artists.
Garden Museum
1.3 km
Medieval church celebrating British gardens, from royal estates to allotments, with seasonal café.
Lambeth Bridge
1.3 km
A vibrant red steel arch bridge blending historic ferry roots, elegant design, and London legends across the Thames.
Lambeth Palace
1.4 km
Explore the rich history and serene gardens of Lambeth Palace, the iconic residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury in London.
St Saviours Church
1.4 km
Discover the soaring Gothic spire and rich Victorian heritage of St Saviour's Church, a timeless landmark in the heart of Pimlico, London.
London Bicycle Tour Company
1.4 km
Explore London's landmarks and hidden streets on two wheels with expert local guides and quality bikes.
Imperial War Museum
1.4 km
Explore six floors of powerful exhibits revealing the human stories behind modern warfare at London’s Imperial War Museum.
Tally Ho ~ London Bike Tours, Taxi Tours & Pub Tours
1.4 km
Explore London’s iconic sights and hidden treasures on classic British bicycles with expert guides and lively pub stops.
Archbishop's Park
1.5 km
Historic green space in central London with sports, playgrounds, gardens, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Brunswick House
0.8 km
Experience inventive British cuisine in a stunning Georgian mansion adorned with chandeliers and antiques, blending history and modern dining in Vauxhall.
Sapori
1.5 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Osteria dell'Angolo
1.6 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Ma La Sichuan
1.8 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
1.9 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
OKAN South Bank
2.0 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Troia Southbank
2.1 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Colosseo Restaurant
2.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Caxton Grill
2.1 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
The Pem
2.1 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
2.1 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
2.3 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
The Archduke
2.4 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ping Pong Southbank
2.4 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Southbank Centre Food Market
2.4 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Unique Maps Co.
1.1 km
Discover rare vintage maps and bespoke cartographic art crafted with passion in London’s Unique Maps Co. workshop.
The Giftree London
1.6 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Browns of London
1.9 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
2.0 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Westminster Abbey Shop
2.0 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Houses of Parliament Shop
2.1 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
2.2 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
2.3 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Cardinal Place
2.3 km
Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Cardinal Place, London’s vibrant commercial hub near Victoria Station.
Brixton Village
2.4 km
London's most diverse market where over 100 independent traders from 50+ nations create culinary and cultural magic.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
2.4 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
2.5 km
Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.
Cool Britannia
2.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Buckingham Palace Shop
2.6 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
The Queen's Shop
2.6 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Morpeth Arms
1.1 km
Historic Thameside pub with cask ales, hearty fare, haunted cellars, and MI6 views— a Westminster gem blending Victorian ghosts and modern cheer.
Primo Bar, London
1.9 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
2.1 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
2.1 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
All Bar One Waterloo
2.1 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
2.1 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Blue Boar Pub
2.1 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Westminster Arms
2.1 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
The Landor
2.2 km
A lively Clapham pub with a heated beer garden, great sports atmosphere, and a menu full of crowd-pleasing favorites.
All Bar One Victoria
2.2 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
2.2 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Le Champagne Bar
2.2 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Two Chairmen
2.2 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Adam & Eve
2.3 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
2.3 km
Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fire Nightclub
0.6 km
Vauxhall's railway arch behemoth: all-night house marathons, go-go dancers, and dawn-defying beats in London's gay club epicenter.
Lightbox London
0.6 km
Dive into dazzling LED realms at Vauxhall's electrifying nightclub, where lights, beats, and all-night energy create unforgettable weekend escapes.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
0.7 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
Union
0.7 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Corsica Studios
1.6 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.0 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
2.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Phonox
2.2 km
Phonox: Brixton’s cutting-edge nightclub where underground electronic beats meet a vibrant, spacious dancefloor and top-tier sound.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
2.4 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Infernos Nightclub
2.8 km
Clapham’s legendary two-floor nightclub where wild nights, iconic music, and unforgettable parties come alive until dawn.
Heaven
2.8 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
TSQ Club
2.8 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Proud Late
2.9 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
The Scotch of St James
3.1 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly