In the summertime, when the sun comes out, London is gloriously beautiful and packed with people enjoying its many attractions. There’s even a different, more joyful air about the city when the weather warms. In a month, the United Kingdom will say goodbye to spring and hello to short-sleeved shirts, al fresco picnics and plenty of outdoor fests and celebrations. If you’re visiting London this summer, here are a list of things to do while there:
Royal Ascot 2015 — June 16-20
There’s not much of an introduction needed to the world famous Royal Ascot, it’s known as one of the most popular events in the sporting world and on just about every local’s social calendar. Anyone who is anyone goes. Watch the finest pedigree horses battle through the most exhilarating races and make sure to place your bets wisely. With the Queen and royals in attendance, this event should be at the top of your list. Among the ticket choices is the option to reserve a Private Box. The box comes with a bar, wait staff and betting tote. And, you can be assured that you’ll have uninterrupted views of the track. To top it all off, guests can enjoy a fine dining experience in the Royal Enclosure. Before going, be sure to check out the enforced dress code.
Taste of London — June 17-21
Tickle your taste buds with the Taste of London event in Regents Park, the city’s biggest gourmand festival. From Michelin-starred restaurants to the latest culinary superstars, this is a foodie’s playground. This year, Ford teamed up with Taste of London to bring attendees the next generation of fine dining stars during a three-course tasting menu at a pop-up restaurant in Regent’s Park. During the AEG Taste Theatre guests can see world famous chefs perform live demonstrations and compete in the Chef’s Challenge. Attendees can also learn how to create the perfect cocktail with Aqua Kyoto or learn about insects being added to worldwide Michelin-star menus. Taste of London also has your beverages covered with Champagne, whisky and wine tastings going on throughout the week. Standard tickets are £16 (around USD $24), but we’re more excited about the Laurent-Perrier ticket with a Champagne Masterclass for £84 (around USD $130) per person.
Goodwood Festival of Speed — June 25-28
Taking place on the grounds of the Goodwood House in West Sussex, the Festival of Speed is pretty much guaranteed to be a thrilling event. This year's theme is Flatout and Fearless: Racing on the Edge, and with Top Formula cars and racing legends (Valentino Rossi) in attendance, this is a must for all those who want to start their summer with the sounds of revving, purring engines. There’s also the opportunity to take flight in one of the Helicopter Pleasure Flights (£45 or around USD $69) where you can look down at all the motor action taking place. If you can manage to drag yourself away from the race course, have a three-course meal in the Goodwood Hotel in the Richmond Arms. Tickets are still available for Friday and Sunday entry (Sunday sold out) and start at £87 (around USD $135) per person.
RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show — June 30 June to July 4
Britain’s largest flower show is set amongst the splendid setting of the famous Hampton Court Palace grounds. This high-end event is made for those who are obsessed and fascinated by all things flora and fauna. As it’s the shows 25th anniversary, this year’s Flower Show will probably be the best yet. New this year is the Feast Zone where flower-admirers can enjoy live music and sample home-grown, organic produce. If you have a green thumb or are looking to get one, head to one of the talks where world-famous designers give advice on gardening. The Hampton Court Palace also offers a number of dining venues, including the Allium Restaurant which boasts spectacular views over the palace and its gardens. You might even spot a deer in the age-old deer park! The first two days of the show are reserved for RHS members, but the event is open to the public July 2-5, with tickets starting at £29 (around USD $45) per person.
Kew the Music — July 16-20
Music and sunshine go hand-in-hand, and an outdoor festival set in the heart of Kew Gardens is a must on the London summer-social calendar. Kew the Music's lineup includes Paloma Faith, UB40, Caro Emerald, Theg Specials, Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra and more. Tickets start at £49 (around USD $79) per person, and VIP Hotel Ticket experiences starts at £199 (around USD $309) per person, with everything organized for you, including an overnight stay at a hotel, complimentary breakfast and access to reserved areas.
