Summer is a great time to discover London’s beating cultural heart, make connections and get involved with an international ocean of culture, so why not dive in.
SHAKESPEARE
Brave the unpredictable summer weather for an unforgettable night under the stars at Shakespeare’s Globe at their Midnight Matinee (next up Macbeth on 22 July). If you’re looking for an alternative take on the old Bard why not try Shakespeare Burlesqued (14 July) at Senate House Library.
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PUNK
As we enter the world of Brexit, the radical movement of PUNK seems very relevant indeed. This year London celebrates 40 years of punk with institutions like Roundhouse, Museum of London and Design Museum all offering free events to get under the skin of the radical subculture. Our favourite activities include Jon Savage and Viv Albertine on Punk (14 July) and Pussy Riot: A Punk Prayer at the BFI (7 August) .
LITERARY HAVENS & ENTHRALLING EXHIBITIONS
- The mighty British Library is thriving this summer with events including the rather excellent Shakespeare in Ten Acts exhibition.
- Discover the amazing stories of East End Women (until 9 July) who have shaped the area for future generations or go on some interesting walks with Walking Women (11-17 July).
- Head to the Southbank Centre for an array of literary talent including politics meets poetry with Jeremy Corbyn and Ben Okri (15 July), comedy/gameshow Literary Death Match (25 July) and discover powerful stories from Britain’s Homeless at The Homeless Library (until 18 September).
FREE FESTIVALS
On Queen Mary’s doorstep are some amazing festivals including the free Roman Road Summer Festival (24 July ) or Walthamstow Garden Party (16-17 July) for some classy culture delivered by Barbican.
Under a 20 minutes away from Queen Mary London Bridge City Festival (Until 31 October) is stuffed with free film and sports screenings, theatre and music all summer.
OUTDOOR OASES
If you’ve not discovered the pleasures of London Fields Lido (pictured left) or the pop-up Beach East (until 4 September) at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park now’s the time to try them. Or if you fancy a little day trip why not hurtle down the Lea Valley on a ‘hot dog’ canoe or if you’re feeling really brave try the world’s highest slide at Arcelor Mittal Orbit (see main article image above).
