About
Overlooking the picturesque cricket ground. It is available for hire for weddings, corporate events, and private parties. The venue can accommodate up to 150 guests, providing a unique and memorable setting for any occasion. The grounds surrounding the pavilion offer ample space for outdoor activities and marquees can be set up to cater for larger events.
Broadhalfpenny Down holds a special place in the history of cricket and is often referred to as the “Cradle of Cricket. ” It was here that the legendary 18th Century Hambledon Club played, and their innovations and codification of the laws of cricket transformed the sport into the national and international phenomenon it is today. The ground has witnessed 250 years of First Class cricket, including some special matches held in 2022 to commemorate this milestone. These matches featured former England and Hampshire cricketers and raised funds for the charity that now preserves the ground.
The ground is not only home to Brigands Cricket Club, who play matches between April and September, but also hosts league games for Hambledon Cricket Club's Third and Fourth teams. Visiting teams and spectators from all over are warmly welcomed, eager to experience the unique atmosphere and historical significance of Broadhalfpenny Down.
Preserving the ground and widening access to play on it are the goals of the Broadhalfpenny Down Preservation Trust, a charity dedicated to maintaining and educating the public about the history of the ground. The Trust offers engraved granite stone plaques to be added to the monument erected in 1908 as a tribute to The Hambledon Club's contribution to cricket. Patrons of the Trust include notable figures such as Allan Donald, David Gower OBE, and The Rt Hon Sir John Major KG CH.
In addition to being a cricket venue, Broadhalfpenny Down also serves as an idyllic location for private events. Its rural setting in the Hampshire countryside provides a sense of tranquilly, while its proximity to London makes it easily accessible. The stunning pavilion, with its panoramic views and balcony, offers an impressive backdrop for weddings, corporate events, and private parties. Whether indoors or outdoors, Broadhalfpenny Down offers a unique and nostalgic atmosphere that will make any special event truly memorable.
