Three Sports to Attend in And Around London

    By
    Jonathan Thomas
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    Like all major cities around the world, there is no shortage of sporting venues in London. The city has seven teams in the Premier League in football, there are two major international cricket stadiums and England’s rugby home is in the capital.

    Here is a look at three sports you may not have thought about visiting while in London.

    Greyhound Racing – Throughout the year 

    London has often been the home of greyhound racing in the UK, as the English Derby was held at White City between 1927-1984, while Wimbledon then staged the competition between 1985-2016. Towcester, 70 miles north of London, is set to host the latest renewal where King Memphis is the 14/1 favourite in the odds on greyhound racing.

    For those looking to see some greyhound racing while in London, Crayford Stadium is just 20 mins on a train from central London. They host some major competitions across the year, including the Golden Jacket, Gold Collar and now champion Hurdle, which moved there in 2023.

    Greyhound racing has taken place at Crayford since 1986. Many of the best greyhounds in history have raced at the track and with some of the highest prize money in the country, it is likely to continue to attract the best runners in the sport.

    Darts – December/January

    The PDC World Darts Championship is the pinnacle of the sport of darts. If you have had the chance to see the tournament on television before, you will have noticed how the sport has now transformed from a pub game to a sport that can sell out huge indoor arenas.

    This event starts in December and runs through to the new year in early January. It features the best players from around the world, including from Australia, Japan and the USA. The latest renewal was won by Luke Humphries, who capped off an excellent season, by winning four straight major events.

    If it is an electric atmosphere you are looking for, you won’t find much better than the PDC World Darts Championship at the Alexandra Palace in North London. Spectators are encouraged to come in fancy dress, and it is as much about having a great night out as it is about the action on the oche.

    Snooker – January

    There are three Triple Crown events in snooker: the UK Championship, Masters and World Championship. The second of those three tournaments takes place in London at the Alexandra Palace. The latest edition was won by Ronnie O’Sullivan, the biggest name in the sport. He prevailed in the event for the eighth time, becoming the oldest winner in history.

    The Masters is an invitational tournament involving the top 16 players in the world. Given the quality on display, there are no bad games. From the opening round of the event, you will see two of the best players competing on the green baize.

    If snooker is a sport that is new to you, you can purchase a headset at the venue that broadcasts commentary on the game you are watching. The pundits will explain what is happening on the table and add some context to the match-up.

    Enjoy your visit to a sporting event next time you are in London and as always, check the venue’s official website for information on how to purchase tickets.