Must-see events in London this summer
As international travel looks increasingly likely to be off the cards until around early autumn, now is the time to book events in London to make the most of your summer.
From sporting classics and cultural highlights, to things that (as lockdown allows) will just be an excuse to hang out with friends you’ve not seen in months, we’ve got our top picks of London events for you this summer.
1. Wimbledon (28 June – 11 July 2021)
If you’re doing Summer in London, then Wimbledon has to be top of your to-do list. A classic British event that is as much a joy for eating strawberries and cream lounging on the hill, as it is for the tennis action itself. Grab your tickets here.
📸: @wimbledon
2. RA Summer Exhibition (22 Sept 21 – 2 Jan 22)
When lockdown first hit a year ago many of us used our spare time to get creative. This annual Royal Academy event showcases a huge diversity in art, both in technique and subject, offering a Smörgåsbord of inspiration. It’s the perfect day out to spark debate over a glass of something bubbly in the bar afterwards, comparing the art in the gallery to your homemade creations.
3. Secret Cinema (opens July)
Forget sitting in an overly air conditioned room as someone incessantly kicks the back of your seat… Secret Cinema is a cinematic experience done right. Out in the crisp British summer air under a starlit sky, snuggled under a blanket with your mates by your side, watching classic films in cool venues.
4. Kaleidoscope Festival 2021 (24 July)
Dancing around your garden isn’t quite the same as raving it up at a festival, which is why you’ll be excited that many festivals are starting to go ahead this year, post full lockdown easing and with Covid-safe measures in place. We particularly like Kaleidoscope Festival, set high above the London sky-line in Alexandra Palace this is an event that welcomes all ages with incredible live music, family entertainment and delicious food from local traders.
5. Katherine Ryan (27 May)
Boy, do we miss live comedy. What we wouldn’t give for Katherine Ryan to make us laugh in only a way she knows how. Well, thank goodness, now we can. Her next live date is in London at the O2 Forum Kentish Town.
6. Van Gogh Alive show (June 4 – Sept 26)
“The most visited multi-sensory experience in the world.” With a line like that, who are you if you haven’t been to this immersive experience? Setting up shop in Kensington Gardens, this is a great family-friendly experience. “At Van Gogh Alive you don’t just look at his paintings, you step inside them and feel their power.”
7. All About Dogs (3 & 4 July)
Boundless energy and never-ending hugs from our furry palls has help lots of us to deal with lockdown. So why not reward them with a day trip out to a fun show at Blenheim Palace. You can look forward to shows, have-a-go activities for you and your dog, expert advice and the Village Green with food and drink and entertainment. Grab your tickets here.