The Pavilion in Cricket: History and Function
The pavilion is the central hub of a cricket ground — housing dressing rooms, seating for members, and administrative functions. Learn the history of cricket pavilions and their place in the game's culture.
What Is the Pavilion?
The pavilion is the main building at a traditional cricket ground, typically positioned behind the bowler's end. It houses the players' dressing rooms, umpires' rooms, club administration offices, and often a members' seating area with a direct view of the pitch. The pavilion is considered the spiritual heart of many historic cricket venues.
The Lord's Pavilion
The Lord's Cricket Ground pavilion in London is the most famous in cricket. Completed in 1890, it is a Grade II listed building and is iconic as the 'Home of Cricket'. The Long Room inside the pavilion is one of the sport's most treasured spaces — players walk through it to reach the field, and members watch from inside.
Cultural Significance
In cricket's cultural tradition, the pavilion represents the game's conservative, heritage-driven side. The image of a batter walking back to the pavilion — dismissed, head down — is one of cricket's most enduring pictures. Pavilions at Test venues like the Oval, Edgbaston, and the MCG each carry their own history and character.
Frequently asked questions
Can the public enter the cricket pavilion?
Generally no. Pavilions are restricted to players, officials, and in some cases members. The Lord's pavilion is open to members and authorised guests only. Some grounds offer guided tours that include the pavilion.
Where do players change if not in the pavilion?
At modern multi-purpose stadiums without a traditional pavilion, players use dedicated dressing room facilities built into the main stand or beneath the seating area.