Established in 1877 Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club boasts a rich history. Initially known as the Dublin Lawn Tennis Club it adopted its current name to avoid confusion. Ten men formed the club. They leased grounds in Upper Pembroke Street near Fitzwilliam Square. Membership cost a mere 3 pounds annually. The early years saw plenty of member misdemeanors. One member was even censured for allowing ladies to play in heels. Another incident involved members flooding the courts at Christmas transforming them into a skating rink.
The club outgrew its initial location. In 1880 it moved to Wilton Place purchasing a house and building courts. This remained its home for 92 years. Interestingly the Irish championships continued at Fitzwilliam Square until 1903. That year the championships moved to Wilton Place. In 1902 a pavilion with a distinct Swedish summer house feel was built replacing the original house. Mr Metz a London based importer of Scandinavian houses oversaw its construction.
Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club continued to thrive. However its Wilton Place location eventually proved too small. In 1969 members voted to relocate. They chose Appian Way a ten minute walk from Wilton Place. The new complex took two years to build becoming one of Europe’s finest sports complexes. Today Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club remains a prestigious institution. It offers a wide array of facilities from tennis and squash courts to a swimming pool gym and padel courts. The club continues its legacy as a vibrant hub for sports enthusiasts and social gatherings. It remains a testament to its enduring spirit and commitment to excellence.