‘When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life’, a famous quote from Samuel Johnson, and very, very true. Because there is always something new happening in London, whether it be fashion, culture, the newest dining sensation or the latest hot spot. Not to mention the original ‘happenings’ that are famous in their own right!
In thecity, there is a constant air of anticipation and excitement which seems to draw people back to this pulsing metropolis over and over again. I have visited at least 40 times and lived in London for a spell, and I never get tired of it.
My top 5 reasons to visit London this summer are as follows (and are in no particular order):
1. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – Commences 7 June 2016 at the Palace Theatre Soho
In terms of theatre productions, this is one of the most highly anticipated ever. Whether you are a Harry Potter fan or not, you would have to be living in a parallel universe not to understand how much of a big deal this is! So if you can get tickets for this epic 2-part play, then do so. Following the adventures of a middle-aged Harry and his son Albus as he starts life at Hogwarts, this will be quite something and should be on your theatre list.
2. Notting Hill Carnival – 28 to 29 August 2016
An oldie but a goodie, this colourful carnival celebrates London’s Caribbean communities culture and traditions over two fabulously, fun days. Indulge in traditional food like jerk chicken and plantain, dance to live music including steel bands, reggae and salsa music and of course make sure you check out the colourful floats and costumes. Where else would you want to be but at this huge party? Unless of course, you get so enamoured you immediately book your one way ticket to the Caribbean….
3. Wimbledon – Commences 30 June 2016
The ultimate place to indulge in your strawberries and cream, this is the biggie of the tennis world. Not much to say other than if you love tennis, people watching and celebrity spotting then this is probably the place for you. There are ticket prices to suit everyone, and if you can scam a game at centre court then go for it! Tennis anyone?
4. A Brief History of Underwear and Other Exhibitions – V&A Museum
The V&A constantly hosts an illuminating and fascinating variety of exhibitions. This year the ‘Brief History of Underwear’ has caught my eye! Featuring over 200 examples of underwear design from the 18th-century to today, it includes exquisite pieces such as rare ‘home-made’ stays worn by working women in the 18th century through to current designer examples from Stella McCartney. This is just a taste of what’s on offer this year (lovers of Boticelli may wish to explore other options), but I highly recommend a visit to this gorgeous museum followed by afternoon tea at the in-house tea rooms – they are some of the prettiest in London!
5. Greenwich – Anytime!
This beautiful site, which once housed one of the most glamorous Tudor palaces, is a perennial favourite of mine and one I visit over and over again. There is so much history here and the buildings have been beautifully restored. Check out the Queen’s House, designed by Inigo Jones. Built in the 17th century, it is where Queen Anne resided, houses an amazing art collection and the staircase is incredible. Visit the Fisherman’s Hall where the murals on the walls and ceilings are breathtaking, as is the Chapel of St Peter and St Paul (both are free of charge). Plus this is where Greenwich Meantime happens, the Cutty Sark resides and there is much, much more to explore. Hop a clipper from the London Eye along the Thames, and you are there in not time. Pubs, restaurants or a picnic and you have a full day out. What are you waiting for?
As you can imagine this is just a taste of what’s on offer this summer in London. There are music festivals, the Henley Regatta and Ascot as well. But one cannot do everything (or can one?). The most important thing is to enjoy this great city anyway you can – after all nowhere else does pomp and ceremony quite like the Brits.
Talk again soon.
Andrea xx
