FOCUS Favourites July 2018
Summer is here and the Season is in full swing. Long days short nights make us wanting to stay out and about, meet friends and enjoy all that the British summer has to offer.
Wimbledon Screens
2nd - 15th July
If you can’t get tickets to Centre Court, or don’t want to queue, there are several places where you can see all the live tennis action on the big screen. (each location is linked to its website)
Broadgate Circle, Liverpool Street
One New Change roof terrace, St. Paul's Cathedral
Canada Square, Canary Wharf
Granary Square, King's Cross
Cardinal Place roof garden, Victoria
New Street Square, Chancery Lane
festival: Streatlife at Alexandra Palace
28th - 29th July
FREE Street Food & Craft Beer festival featuring over 30 of London’s top street food vendors, craft beer bars, cocktails, Pimms and all sorts of tasty treats.
The festival takes place at Alexandra Palace, one of London’s most iconic events venues, surrounded by an 196 acre park with stunning panoramic views of the capital.
7th July
Art Night, in south London, is a night of art, experience and culture. It is free and curated by the Hayward Gallery and Art Night Open. It takes place from 6pm to 6am and offers installations, musical performances, murals and various performances. Art Night takes place in three location of close proximity so one can leisurely stroll from one to the next to keep the intrigue high!
theatre: The Importance of Being Earnest
20th July - 20th October
If you’ve heard of Oscar Wilde you’ll know that his most famous play is The Importance of Being Earnest. This year at the Vaudeville Theatre in Charing Cross, one can expect a performance of comedy, laughter and fun. This timeless play has been adapted into a movie and now a play. Make sure you get your tickets as this play is one to not be missed.
20th - 22nd July
The Sadler's Well presents the National Traditional Orchestra for the first time ever outside of China. The mystical production tells the story about Chinese monks and their pilgrimage to India. The performance combines exotic instruments, dances and music to involve the audience in an all inclusive trip to China. One can enjoy the musical dances and traditional Chinese music as well as take a journey through historical China.
music: Henley Festival
11th - 15th July
A festival in black tie!
Watch Grace Jones, Rita Ora or Nile Rodgers, together with emerging stars.
Taking place next to the river, it gives a perfect setting for enjoying live pop, opera, comedy. A not-for-profit event, a proportion of the ticket price goes to charity: this year, the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust and the Teenage Wilderness Trust benefit.
children: Circus Sampler Somerset House
28th - 29th July
This events celebrates the history of the circus in a fun and free weekend at Somerset House. Various acts will be performed on different stages such as: hoola hoop acrobat, hip hop dance, tight-wire and juggling. Not only will there be acts but also provided are food and drink stalls to indulge in!
sport: Müller Anniversary Games
21st - 22nd July
This mid-July the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park will be hosting the annual Muller Anniversary Games. Throughout the weekend some of the greatest athletes will gather to take part in a variety of athletic events. In recent years athletes such as Usain Bolt and Sir Mo Farah have taken part. In order to secure your place make sure to book your tickets upwards from £15.00.
book in advance: The State Rooms Buckingham Palace
21st July - 30th September
Every Londoner knows that summer officially begins when the Queen decides to open her doors to Buckingham Palace for 10 weeks. One can explore the various State Rooms as well as experience the world renowned art and furniture. Children and family are welcome with audio guides and interactive activities to keep the little ones occupied. Book your tickets in advance as they sell out quick to gain insight on the Queen’s home life!
hidden gems: Highgate Cemetery
July
Not only is Highgate one of the most sought after residential areas, it is also the resting place of many politically acclimated people. The Highgate Cemetery is a highlight of a trip up North. The East-Cemetery is the resting place of Karl Marx. In July the cemetery offers late admission up until 8:30 PM so one can enjoy the evening glow whilst enjoying a tour.
not to be missed : Hampton Court Palace Flower Show
3rd - 8th July
Located in Surrey, Hampton Court Palace is a renowned palace known for accommodating to everyone. The flower show will be returning again this year. Throughout the show one can see world-class gardens, experience exhibits from garden designers and splurge on lots of tasty foods. Visitors are able to walk through the gardens and experience the magic first hand. Make sure to book ahead so you don’t miss out!
restaurant: Scarlett Green, Soho
Scarlett Green, a branch of the famous Australian restaurants Daisy Green has just launched in Soho. It is located in the vibrant heart of London and draws upon its famous Australian roots. Whilst offering brunch every day of the week, the restaurant also delights with its lunch and evening menu. The food brings together the healthy Australian lifestyle as well as modern food trends. The atmosphere is laid back, modern and elegant, offering cocktails as well as a not to miss Australian wine list. Coming in as a must try are the Halloumi fries, served with pomegranate sauce, this bold flavour mix is not to be missed.
day trip: Exeter
Exeter, also known as the Cote Azur of England is located in the South West. Head on a 2 hour train from Paddington and you’ll arrive right in the heart of the town. Known for its Gothic Cathedral as a religious centre during the 11th Century, this is a great place to begin. Surrounding the Cathedral you have a myriad of different restaurants and places to sit, eat and basque in its glory. Continue your tour onto Exeter’s shopping district and enjoy the little boutiques and feel of a small town. Walk down to the Quay and enjoy lunch by the water. Lots of unique shops fill either side of the bridge and in summer the area is filled with people, laughter and fun. Lastly, if you manage to make it on a sunny day, take the 10 minute train down to Exmouth and lay on the beach, walk down the promenade and enjoy a nice beach in England!