2-941-417 - Historic England Archive/Heritage Images

Jesmond Dene Real Tennis Club, Matthew Bank, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, 2010. A selection of racquets for real tennis hanging on a wall outside the court at Jesmond Dene Real Tennis Club, Newcastle upon Tyne. The tennis court was built for Sir Andrew Noble in 1894 and has been used by Jesmond Dene Real Tennis Club since its formation in 1932. Real tennis differs from the later lawn tennis in several ways, including arrangements for spectators, the construction of the tennis balls, and the style and material of the racquets. Often made from hickory or ash with tight strings, the racquets are asymmetrical and are also relatively heavy.