Six of the Best UK Sporting Events to Visit in 2024
The United Kingdom is an island of sports lovers. From the English Premier League to Scotland’s best golf venues, including Royal Troon and St Andrews, a lot is going on for natives and visitors alike. Sports fans from the United States and North America jet into London each year to enjoy the most impressive fixtures. Wimbledon is particularly popular with tennis fans who want to soak up the unique atmosphere of Grand Slam tennis in London. The British Grand Prix caters to tourists with a need for speed.
What is your favorite sporting event in England and the UK, and have you ever considered visiting? Watching a Premier League title decider live on television is something special, but it can’t compete with being in the stands and enjoying the game with fellow soccer fanatics. If you prefer thoroughbred horse racing, you’ll likely have the Cheltenham Festival or Grand National on your sporting bucket list. These favorites are more accessible than ever.
Imagine standing at the side of the green of the 18th hole in The Open Championship and watching Rory McIlroy sink a put to regain the famous prize. That would be special. Watching at home and betting on results at sportsbooks in California is great, but wouldn’t you rather do it at the venue? Betting is legal in the UK, so anyone over 18 years old can predict results and gamble.Â
Using your sports knowledge to target a profit and cover your travel costs is an ideal scenario for fans.
We’ve got you covered
There are countless must-see professional sports events in the United Kingdom, far more than you could pack into one vacation. Unless you have the luxury of a bottomless pit of cash, it’s important to plan. You want to make the most of your visit to England by planning and visiting the sports venues and events you love the most. How do you whittle down the field to a select few? We aim to help with this insightful article.
On this page, our travel writers and sports fans highlight the best UK sports events worth visiting this year. You can arrive in the UK and push to tick them off on a sports vacation or pick your favorites to see while on business in London. Our team aimed for a good mix of sports and cities to ensure there’s something for everyone, from soccer lovers to golf fans.
By the end of this page, you’ll have a strong understanding of the jewels in the British sporting crown. Imagine the interesting stories you’ll have to share with fans at your local sports bar back home after returning from a two-week tour of the British Isles. Let’s not waste another second and jump into the thick of our article on the biggest sporting events to visit in the UK this year.
Wimbledon
Widely regarded as the most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, The Championships, Wimbledon, captivates audiences with its storied history and tradition.
Held annually at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in Wimbledon, London, this Grand Slam event showcases the sport’s finest talents as they vie for glory on the pristine grass courts.
From the thrilling matches on Centre Court to the timeless elegance of the All England Club, Wimbledon embodies the essence of tennis excellence. It remains a symbol of British sporting heritage.
Grand National
The Grand National stands as one of the most iconic horse racing events on the global stage, attracting millions of viewers and punters alike.
Hosted at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool, the Grand National steeplechase challenges both horse and rider with its grueling course and formidable obstacles, including the infamous Becher’s Brook and The Chair.
With a history dating back to 1839, the Grand National has become synonymous with drama and excitement. Spectators eagerly await the spectacle of the world’s greatest steeplechase.
Boat Race
The Boat Race between the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge is a quintessential British sporting tradition that dates back to 1829.
Held annually on the River Thames in London, this historic rowing race pits the two esteemed universities against each other in a battle for supremacy on the water. The Boat Race captivates audiences with its intense competition, strategic maneuvering, and unwavering camaraderie, showcasing the timeless appeal of collegiate athletics and the enduring rivalry between two academic institutions.
FA Cup Final
As the oldest football competition in the world, the FA Cup holds a special place in the hearts of football fans across the United Kingdom.
The FA Cup Final, held at Wembley Stadium in London, serves as the culmination of this prestigious tournament, bringing together the top clubs from across the country in a quest for silverware and glory.
With its rich history, dramatic upsets, and iconic moments, the FA Cup Final exemplifies the magic of knockout football and the unyielding passion of the British footballing tradition.
Six Nations Championship
The Six Nations Championship is one of the most revered rugby union tournaments in the world. It showcases the fierce rivalry between England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France, and Italy.
This annual competition, which spans six weeks from February to March, sees the best teams in Europe battle it out for supremacy on the rugby field, culminating in the crowning of the Six Nations champions.
From the raucous atmosphere of Twickenham Stadium to the historic grounds of Murrayfield and the Millennium Stadium, the Six Nations captivates audiences with its blend of skill, passion, and physicality.
British Grand Prix
Formula 1 racing enthusiasts flock to the Silverstone Circuit in Northamptonshire each year for the British Grand Prix, one of the oldest and most prestigious races on the F1 calendar.
Dating back to 1950, this adrenaline-fueled event attracts top drivers, teams, and fans from around the world as they compete for glory on one of the sport’s most challenging circuits.
With its high-speed thrills, strategic battles, and emotional support from the British crowds, the British Grand Prix embodies the excitement and glamour of elite motorsport.
