Hyde Real Tennis Court
Real Tennis is the oldest of all the racquet sports and dates back many hundreds of years.
Started originally as a form of handball, the game was developed by French monks in the 12th Century. Over time, the game developed and saw many changes such as the introduction of racquets. Popularity in the sport grew and by the early part of the 19th Century, there were many hundreds of courts throughout Europe.
Towards the end of the 19th Century, some courts fell into disuse as the game was superseded by the recently devised game of Lawn Tennis. However, the last 20 years has seen a resurgence in the sport and some new and old courts like the Hyde are being rebuilt or redeveloped.
Who Can Play?
The game of Real Tennis appeals to a wide variety of people regardless of ability, age, fitness or experience. If you have ever played any kind of racquet sport then you will be guaranteed to see many similarities in the game of Real Tennis.
Court History
Built originally in 1884, The Hyde Real Tennis Court has had a colourful history and has undergone numerous changes during the last 120 years.
With thanks mainly to the Lottery Sport Foundation and private donations, the Court has been renovated to its former glory and is now probably one of the finest examples of a Real Tennis Court in the world.
How Can I Book a Court?
The court is available to anyone and everyone. You don't have to be a member or a regular player. To book, simply drop in at the Court or telephone and reserve your playing time.
How Can I Become a Member?
The Hyde Real Tennis Club operates a membership based on an annual subscription. Membership includes booking privileges and savings on court fees. Members are also eligible to play in club matches and tournaments and received news on social events too.
For details and an application form, please ask at the Court.
How Can I Improve My Game?
For players who wish to develop their game or newcomers wishing to start from scratch, there are lessons available from the club professionals.
For more details and to book, please contact the professionals at the Court on 01308 420777.
Opening Times
The Court is open daily from 9.00am.
A Gift to Charity
The Hyde Real Tennis Court is owned by Bridport & West Dorset Sports Trust Ltd whose aim is to provide a range of sporting and leisure activities on a non-profit making basis.
As a registered charity the Trust is always looking to raise funds through donations to re-invest back into its facilities to ensure their upkeep.
Should you wish to make a donation, please contact the professional at the Court on 01308 420777 or forward any cheques made payable to 'The Hyde Real Tennis Court'. All donations will be acknowledged and of course as the recipient is a registered charity, gifts can be made under the gift aid scheme.
The Hyde Real Tennis Court, Walditch, Bridport, Dorset DT6 4LB. Telephone: 01308 420777
