Lords Cricket Ground Tour: A Fun-Filled Experience for All Ages
The Lords Cricket Ground tour was the number one must-do on our boys’ list when we planned our trip to London, and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
In fact, it became one of the highlights of our entire stay.
Whether you’re a cricket enthusiast or simply curious about one of the world’s most iconic sports venues, Lords offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
For any cricket lover, a visit to Lords Cricket Ground is akin to stepping into the sport’s most revered temple.
Widely regarded as the “Home of Cricket,” Lords is more than just a stadium; it’s a living museum that encapsulates cricket’s storied evolution and traditions.
A tour of Lords provides exclusive, behind-the-scenes access, immersing you in the legacy of cricket while giving you a glimpse into the venue that has witnessed countless historic moments.
Purchasing Tickets
We purchased our Lords Cricket Ground tour tickets online through their official website.
The booking process was straightforward, allowing us to select a convenient time slot.
We opted for an early afternoon tour, which fit perfectly into our day’s itinerary.
If you’re planning to visit during peak tourist seasons or on match days, we highly recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred time.
Boys hanging in the stands
Arriving at Lords
Upon arriving at the Grace Gate, we went through a quick security check and were warmly welcomed by the staff.
From there, we were directed to the MCC Museum, where the Lords Cricket Ground tour begins.
Unfortunately, we arrived with only a few minutes to spare, leaving little time to explore the museum before the tour started.
We’d highly recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early to fully appreciate the museum’s rich collection.
The MCC Museum
The MCC Museum is one of the oldest sporting museums in the world, dating back to 1864.
It’s a treasure trove of cricket memorabilia and a highlight of the tour, especially for those fascinated by the game’s history.
The museum houses over 400 years of cricket heritage, showcasing everything from the sport’s humble beginnings to its modern-day grandeur.
The star attraction here is undoubtedly the Ashes Urn. This tiny terracotta urn symbolises one of cricket’s greatest rivalries: the Ashes series between England and Australia.
Our guide, Will, regaled us with stories about the Ashes Urn, explaining its origins and significance in cricket lore.
Posing with the Ashes Urn in the MCC Museum
For example, did you know the legend of the Ashes began in 1882 after Australia defeated England at Lords, prompting a mock obituary for English cricket?
It’s moments like these that bring history to life.
Beyond the Ashes Urn, the museum’s collection includes historic bats, balls, and uniforms used by cricket legends.
From W.G. Grace’s bat to rare paintings and portraits, the exhibits offer a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and historical impact of cricket.
Meeting Our Tour Guide
Our guide, Will, was a fountain of knowledge, and his enthusiasm for Lords and its history was infectious.
He kept us entertained with trivia, anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes stories that added a personal touch to the tour.
His storytelling brought cricket history to life, making the experience engaging for both avid fans and casual visitors.
Highlights of our Lords Cricket Ground Tour
The tour itself is a well-organised journey through the key areas of Lords Cricket Ground.
Here are some of the highlights:
The Pavilion and the Long Room
As you step into the Pavilion, you are immediately struck by its grandeur.
Built in 1890, the Pavilion is a Grade II listed building and is a striking reminder of the Victorian era’s architectural elegance.
This iconic structure is reserved for MCC members during match days, making it one of the most exclusive areas in the world of cricket.
The first stop within the Pavilion is the Long Room, a place that oozes cricketing heritage.
Often described as the “most evocative room in world cricket,” the Long Room is where players walk through as they head to the pitch, greeted by a mix of applause, tension, and anticipation.
The room is lined with portraits of cricket’s most iconic figures, including greats like W.G. Grace, Don Bradman, and Sachin Tendulkar.
This sacred space serves as a direct connection between the past and present of the sport.
As you stand in the Long Room, you can imagine the pressure players feel walking through it on their way to the field.
You’ll also see where VIP guests, including royalty, dignitaries, and cricketing legends, sit to watch matches.
The Pavilion, built in 1890, is a Grade II listed building that exudes Victorian elegance.
Reserved for MCC members on match days, it’s one of the most exclusive spaces in cricket.
The full length honours board. Includes test hundreds and 5/10 wickets in an innings/match
The Long Room is the heart of the Pavilion, often described as the “most evocative room in world cricket.”
It’s here that players walk through on their way to the pitch, greeted by a mix of applause and anticipation.
The walls are adorned with portraits of cricketing greats, from W.G. Grace to Sachin Tendulkar, creating a tangible connection between the sport’s past and present.
The Dressing Rooms and Honours Boards
Entering the dressing rooms was a surreal experience.
These spaces have hosted cricket’s biggest legends, from Don Bradman to Ben Stokes.
We sat where cricketing legends sat and prepared for battle on the world’s most prestigious stage.
The famous Honours Board
Both the home and away dressing rooms offer a player’s-eye view of the pitch—a perspective that few are lucky enough to experience and what a view.
Sadly you can’t have to many people on the terraces/balconies as they are quite small and we’ll have to wait your turn.
But standing on the balcony and taking photos is an absolute must
The Honours Boards are a highlight within the dressing rooms.
These iconic wooden boards list the names of players who have scored centuries or taken five-wicket hauls in Test matches at Lords.
Our boys loved posing for photos in front of these boards, imagining their own names on them someday.
The Famous Bathroom
It might sound odd, but the Pavilion’s bathroom is worth a mention.
Its old-fashioned charm, complete with vintage tiles and fixtures, added an unexpected touch of elegance.
It’s not on the official tour itinerary, but if you get a chance, take a peek.
Sitting in the Stands
Sitting in the stands offered a fantastic view of the ground.
Although visitors aren’t allowed on the pitch itself, being so close to the action was exhilarating.
Over looking Lords and dreaming…
Will shared fascinating stories about the stadium’s features, including the iconic “Father Time” weathervane, which has graced the ground since 1926.
The J.P. Morgan Media Centre
This ultra-modern building looks more like a space ship but somehow it works somehow Lords has managed to blend history with innovation.
Built in 1999 and designed by the award-winning firm Future Systems, the Media Centre was the first all-aluminium, semi-monocoque building in the world.
The J.P. Morgan Media Centre
Its unique design overlooks the ground, offering a spectacular view of the entire pitch.
The Media Centre serves as the centre for international journalists and broadcasters covering matches at Lords.
From this vantage point, reporters have witnessed some of cricket’s most nail-biting moments, from World Cup finals to thrilling Test matches.
The sleek, futuristic design of the Media Centre is a marvel in itself and is a testament to how Lords continues to evolve while maintaining its historic charm.
Father time and famous Lords weather vane
The Lords Shop and Additional Experiences
The tour concludes at the Lords Shop, where you can pick up a wide range of souvenirs.
From replica shirts to signed memorabilia, there’s something for every cricket fan.
We bought a keyring and a fridge magnet to remember our visit.
Planning Your Visit
- Booking: Tours are available year-round and can be booked online via the official Lords website. It’s best to book early, especially during the cricket season.
- Prices: Tickets cost approximately £31.95 for adults, with discounts for children, families, and seniors.
- Duration: The tour lasts about 100 minutes.
- Tour Times: Tours run multiple times daily, but schedules may vary. Check the website for up-to-date information.
Mum and the boys on the Balcony
Final Thoughts: A Journey Through Cricket’s Soul
A Lords Cricket Ground tour is more than just a visit to a sports venue; it’s a journey through cricket’s rich heritage.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious, the stories, sights, and experiences will leave a lasting impression.
From standing in the Long Room to admiring the Ashes Urn, every moment is steeped in history and tradition.
Sawyer and Lukas picking the places they will sit when they play at Lords… one day
Our boys absolutely loved their Lords Cricket Ground tour, and so did we.
It’s a must-visit for cricket enthusiasts and a great family-friendly activity in London.
We can’t recommend it enough!
Disclosure: This post might contain affiliate links. This means I might receive a small commission if you click and purchase something. Clicking on these links will not cost you anything, however it helps me to keep my website running. For more information click on our disclosure policy.
Meet the family
We are a family of 4 living in New Zealand. I’m a teacher (great profession for traveling) and my wife Connie is a section administrator. We are also proud parents of two travel-loving boys.
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Hi, I've been fortunate enough to have travelled for over 25 years. My parents gave me the travel bug when I was 10 years old by taking my sister and I to the USA and Mexico for two months. I've travelled by myself, with mates, with my wife and now as a family of four. My goal is to inspire our families to get out and see the world.
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