London is a great place to be whatever the time of year, but summer in London is definitely our favourite! The August bank holiday weekend is coming up and while we are sad that Notting Hill Carnival is not going ahead again this year, here are of our top five tips to make it a great long weekend.
Visit the West End
With London’s theatres opening up again, it’s a great time to go and see a musical or show in the West End. From the Lion King to Les Misérables, London has them all and we can’t think of a better way to spend an afternoon or evening!
Explore London's Parks
London has some amazing green spaces and some beautiful parks; Battersea Park and Hyde Park are our personal favourites! There is nothing better than a picnic in the park on a lovely sunny day, let’s cross our fingers for good weather this August bank holiday weekend!
Go for Afternoon Tea
Nothing is more British than an afternoon tea. A traditional afternoon tea is served on a three-tier cake stand with a plate of small sandwiches, a plate of small cakes and then the best bit, scones with clotted cream and jam! Traditional sandwich fillings include cucumber, ham and cheese and smoked salmon. Most London hotels offer an afternoon tea, use this website for inspiration on places to visit and don’t forget to book in advance! https://afternoontea.co.uk/uk/london/
Visit a Market
London has many fantastic markets, selling everything from food to clothes. The best of these includes Borough Market, Spitalfields, Portobello Road and Columbia Road (only on Sundays.) We recommend grabbing a coffee and strolling through these markets, taking in all the sights, and maybe finding a bargain
Museum of the Moon
The Museum of the Moon is an art installation by British artist, Luke Jerram and is essentially a huge replica of the moon. It will be displayed in St John the Baptist Church, Holland Road over the August bank holiday weekend as part of the Kensington and Chelsea Festival. It is free to visit, but make sure you book tickets in advance. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-museum-of-the-moon-comes-to-kensington-chelsea-festival-tickets-167348691441
Glossary
To grab a coffee (collocation) – to buy a coffee in a café
To stroll (v) – to take a slow walk
A bargain (n) – a product which is cheaper than usual
A replica (n) – a copy of something that is very similar