Lord's Cricket Ground: The Home of Cricket in London
Discover Lord's Cricket Ground, the historic and iconic home of cricket in London, where tradition and world-class sport unite.
A Legacy Founded by Thomas Lord
Lord's Cricket Ground owes its existence to Thomas Lord, a Yorkshire-born cricketer and entrepreneur who established the first Lord's ground in 1787 at Dorset Fields, Marylebone. After relocating twice due to urban development and rising rents, the current site in St John's Wood was established in 1814 when Lord famously moved the turf from the previous grounds. This third and final location has since become the permanent home of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), which has played a pivotal role in shaping the laws and spirit of cricket worldwide.Architectural Heritage and Iconic Features
The ground is celebrated for its blend of historic and modern architecture. The Victorian-style Pavilion, designed by Thomas Verity and completed in 1890, remains the oldest structure on site and houses the famous Long Room—an elegant 93-foot corridor through which players walk to the pitch, embodying cricket tradition. The Grand Stand, a modern addition opened in 1998 by Prince Philip, accommodates thousands of spectators with contemporary facilities. Lord's distinctive slope, a subtle gradient across the field, adds a unique challenge to play and is a defining characteristic of the venue.Cricketing Milestones and Historic Matches
Lord's has witnessed some of cricket's most legendary moments. It hosted the presentation of the Ashes urn to MCC in 1928, Don Bradman's remarkable 254 runs in the 1930 Ashes, and numerous World Cup finals for both men and women. The ground is also home to the annual Eton versus Harrow match, a fixture dating back to 1805. Middlesex County Cricket Club adopted Lord's as their home ground in 1877, further cementing its status as a hub for English cricket.The Cultural and Sporting Significance
Beyond its role as a cricket venue, Lord's serves as the headquarters for the England and Wales Cricket Board and the MCC, making it a central institution in cricket governance and culture. The ground's atmosphere combines tradition, prestige, and the excitement of world-class cricket. It is a pilgrimage site for cricket fans, offering a connection to the sport’s rich history and its ongoing evolution.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
Visitors to Lord's can explore the Lord's Museum, which showcases cricket memorabilia and the evolution of the game. The surrounding St John's Wood area adds to the experience with its leafy streets and proximity to Regent's Park. The venue offers a range of seating options, hospitality, and a chance to witness live cricket in a setting steeped in heritage and sporting excellence.Enduring Symbol of Cricket's Spirit
Lord's Cricket Ground stands as a testament to cricket's enduring appeal and tradition. From its founding by Thomas Lord to its role in hosting historic matches and nurturing cricket culture, it remains the quintessential cricket ground. Its unique features, architectural beauty, and the stories etched into its turf continue to inspire players and fans alike, preserving the spirit of the gentleman's game for future generations.Local tips
- Book tickets in advance for major matches to secure the best seats, especially during international Test matches and World Cup events.
- Visit the Lord's Museum to explore the rich history and memorabilia of cricket, including the famous Ashes urn.
- Experience the iconic Long Room inside the Pavilion, a must-see for cricket fans appreciating the sport’s traditions.
- Plan your visit to coincide with the annual Eton versus Harrow match for a unique glimpse into cricket’s historic fixtures.
- Arrive early to enjoy the atmospheric surroundings of St John's Wood and take in views of Regent’s Park nearby.
A brief summary to Lord's Cricket Ground
- St John's Wood Rd, London, NW8 8QN, GB
- +442076168500
- Visit website
- 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
Getting There
-
London Underground
Take the Jubilee Line to St John's Wood station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk from Lord's Cricket Ground. The station is well-serviced with frequent trains, and the route is accessible for most travelers. No additional fare is required beyond standard London Underground pricing.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes, including routes 13, 46, and 189, stop near Lord's Cricket Ground along St John's Wood Road. Bus travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes depending on starting location and traffic. Buses accept contactless payment or Oyster cards.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at the ground’s entrance on St John's Wood Road. Travel time from central London typically ranges from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Costs vary but expect approximately £10-£20.
-
Walking
If staying nearby in St John's Wood or Regent's Park, walking to Lord's is pleasant and takes 15-30 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is mostly flat and accessible, with well-maintained pavements.
