The rainy day routine: Star gazing with glass of Pimms

So why not try a glass of Pimms?

Britain’s national summer drink — essentially a salad floating in a jar of Seven-Up with the addition of a mysterious syrup — is actually quite refreshing on a sunny day on the lawn.

But that doesn’t quite explain why punters were lining up for a chance to pay 7.50 pounds ($12.46) for the stuff.

You could always watch TV.

There’s a huge screen up on ‘Henman hill’, which shows British television’s Wimbledon coverage.

Serena Williams and Justine Henin-Hardenne were just warming up on Centre Court for their semi-final grudge match when the energetic ground staff rushed out to cover the grass with a tarp and stop play.

So fans were given a TV treat instead — a rerun of the acrimonious third set of their French Open semi-final, when Henin’s supporters jeered Williams to tears. Spotting the famous TV presenter helps others pass the time. From the brick walkway behind Centre Court, you can just about see through the tinted windows into the broadcast studios. ‘‘I’m sure that’s Boris!’’ called out one woman, spotting former champion Becker in the spotlight. ‘‘I can tell by the hair.’’

The more nostalgic can study the long history of the event. There are beautiful photos of champions from Wimbledon’s past 117 years. Remember Billie Jean King’s glasses? Was Andre Agassi better looking with hair? How on earth did those women in the 19th century manage to play tennis in long skirts, shoes, belts, straw hats and ties? There is always the gossip about the women.

Has Venus got her hunger back? Will Serena get revenge? And the most troubling question of all, which of the Russian teenage stars is the cutest, and how do you pronounce her name? But many local fans have the energy for just one activity – worrying about Tim.