Business Details
Cambridge Real Tennis Club | Historic Courts & Expert Coaching
Cambridge University Tennis Club stands as a distinguished institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the historic game of real tennis. Established in 1866 with two of the finest courts in the country, our club combines tradition with modern excellence through state-of-the-art facilities including a newly developed court, club room, and professional amenities. Our team of seasoned professionals - Senior Professional Kees Ludekens, Peter Paterson, and Mark Hobbs - bring decades of collective experience, offering expert coaching from beginner to advanced levels with personalized DVD analysis.We maintain rigorous court standards through daily professional oversight while fostering a welcoming environment for 100+ members across all age groups and skill levels. The club actively supports competitive play through organized leagues, tournaments, and university Varsity matches, complemented by our Giraffe Club's student development programs. With a rich heritage documented in our museum-quality Honours Board and continuous investment in facility upgrades, we remain at the forefront of real tennis development while maintaining our status as a premier sporting institution in Cambridge.
Services
Real Tennis Instruction
Court Hire
Membership Programs
Tournament Hosting
Player Development
Highlights and features
- Three professional instructors with combined 75+ years of real tennis expertise
- Two of the UK's finest courts with continuous operation since 1866
- Inclusive membership welcoming 100+ players across all age groups
- Host to prestigious university Varsity matches and national tournaments
- Comprehensive player development from beginner lessons to championship training
What people say
World-class courts
Expert professionals
Vibrant tournaments
Historic atmosphere
Inclusive community
Services
Real Tennis Instruction
Professional one-to-one instruction from internationally recognised coaches with decades of experience. Tailored programs develop technical skills from introductory lessons to advanced match strategies. Video analysis included for technique improvement. Equipment hire and restringing services available on-site.
Tournament Hosting
Premier venue for national and university-level competitions including Varsity matches and IRPTA National League fixtures. Full event support with professional marking, livestream capabilities, and hospitality facilities. Hosted prestigious events like the Graduate Cup and Champagne Leagues.
Membership Programs
Inclusive membership options for all ages and abilities with special rates for students and joint memberships. Benefits include court access, league participation, and social events. Giraffe Club specifically supports student development and international competition preparation.
Court Hire
Access to two historic courts built in 1866 and 1890, both recently upgraded with modern amenities. Courts available for practice sessions, private lessons, and competitive matches. Lighting system enables evening play throughout the year.
Player Development
Structured programs for juniors and adults including taster sessions, summer camps, and handicap-based coaching. Specialised training produces nationally competitive players with multiple alumni achieving international success in university and professional circuits.
People
Kees Ludekens
Senior Professional
Head professional with 25+ years experience developing players from beginner to international level. Instrumental in CURTC's facility upgrades and tournament hosting program. Recognised expert in real tennis instruction methodology.
Peter Paterson
Professional
Experienced coach specialising in technical development and competitive strategy. Organiser of the Cambridge Leagues and key figure in maintaining court standards. Provides expert racquet restringing services.
Mark Hobbs
Professional
Recent addition to the professional team with focus on junior development programs. Active tournament player and livestream production coordinator for major matches including National League finals.
Questions
What real tennis experience levels does CURTC cater for?
We welcome players of all abilities from complete beginners through to international competitors. Our professional team provides tailored instruction for every skill level.
Can visitors access court facilities?
Yes, visitors are welcome. Temporary memberships provide full access to courts, professional coaching, and social facilities during your stay in Cambridge.
Are court hire rates different for groups?
Group bookings receive preferential rates. Special packages available for schools, university teams, and corporate events with professional instruction included.
How does CURTC support junior players?
Our Giraffe Club specifically funds junior development with subsidised lessons, equipment loans, and tournament travel support. Youth membership includes summer coaching programs.
What tournament opportunities exist for members?
Members compete in 12+ annual events including the Cambridge Leagues, East Anglia Cup, and National League Division 9. CURTC hosts three major tournaments yearly with international participation.
How are court maintenance standards ensured?
Daily professional oversight maintains optimal playing conditions. Regular upgrades include weekly ball re-covering, racquet maintenance, and structural preservation of historic court features.
Videos
