After weathering endless dreary months of rain and dark nights, Londoners are always glad when spring arrives. Afternoons in the park, early evening drinks by the river, vibrant festivals – the Big Smoke sure knows how to do summer. But with British weather being what it is, there’s no guarantee that the sun will last. That’s why it’s important to make the most of each sunny day. Luckily, London has plenty to offer.
Depending on when you visit, there’s a variety of activities and events. Classic London highlights include the Notting Hill carnival. Running over the August Bank Holiday weekend, the carnival has been going since 1965. It is a colourful celebration of London’s Caribbean population, many of whom have lived around Notting Hill since the 1950s. The carnival attracts up to two million people making it the second largest street carnival in the world after Rio de Janeiro. In recent years there has been some isolated gang related violence, but don’t let this put you off what is definitely one of London’s best summer events. Other parts of London are catching on to the carnival theme. Earls Court Festival is worth a look. Taking place over two weeks in July, it’s a great way to experience some real community spirit in what some people see as a soulless city.
For something slightly more laid back, head to the Chelsea Flower Show. This garden show is held annually over five days in May by the Royal Horticultural Society in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in Chelsea. It is the UK’s most famous green-fingered event, and is a big part of the social season in London.
Then of course there are the two bastions of Britishness – Wimbledon and the Proms. Whether you prefer the sound of a symphony or the music of tennis balls plonking onto turf, you should try and get to one of these events for a classic London experience. The 2008 Proms run between the 18th July and 13th September - so you don’t have to be part of the hardcore crew who queue up for days to get tickets to the Last Night. Wimbledon this year is happening from the 23rd June to the 6th July.
There’s plenty to keep music fans entertained. The most popular events include Get Loaded in the Park when revellers descend on Clapham Common over the August Bank holiday weekend to enjoy live acts from many genres. Dance enthusiasts should check out South West Four, a club event on Clapham Common that’s part of the Metro Weekender live music festival in August. It attracts world renowned DJs like Paul Van Dyk, Pete Tong and Sasha. With events such as the Lovebox Weekender, 02 Wireless Festival and Hyde Park Calling, the possibilities are endless – all you have to do is hope for sunny weather (or take wellington boots!)
