Where to go in London this August for new knowledge and impressions
This August, London is serving up a feast of cultural events that will sizzle your summer. The city is bursting at the seams with an array of vibrant, exciting, and diverse activities – be it the sounds of soulful jazz, the taste of international beers, or the visual treat of public artworks. So, mark your calendars and join us as we delve into the many flavours that the city has to offer.
1 August
Historical Highlights Tours
Experience the illustrious past of Somerset House with the Historical Highlights Tours. The newly upgraded experience takes you through its varied history as a royal palace and its role in Britain’s naval history. Discover hidden areas and learn about fascinating individuals who have graced this architectural gem.
Tickets and details at somersethouse.org.uk.
1 – 5 August
Great British Beer Festival
Raise a toast to summer at The Great British Beer Festival. With over 900 real ales, ciders, and international beers on offer, it’s a paradise for beverage enthusiasts. Organised by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), the festival combines fun, food, and frolic in London’s heart.
Tickets and details at visit gbbf.org.uk.
1 – 22 August
Summer Screens
Enjoy classic movies and your favourite sporting events at Summer Screens, Canary Wharf.
Tickets and details at canarywharf.com.
1-31 August
London Unseen: Heritage Tours and Trails
This event invites locals and tourists alike to see the city from a different perspective, celebrating the many incredible histories of London as told by communities, practitioners, artists, and activists. This season of free trails, tours, and events shines a light on various facets of London’s history, from tales of Indian seafarers in WWI and Black History in Elephant & Castle to LGBTQI+ stories in North London and legends of nature in Barham Park. It’s an opportunity to walk a mile in someone else’s shoes and gain a fresh appreciation for this diverse city.
Reserve a spot at www.london.gov.uk.
This event is free to attend.
Summer Season at Shakespeare’s Globe
Summer in London isn’t complete without a visit to Shakespeare’s Globe. This open-air theatre offers a rare chance to experience Shakespearean performances as they were intended to be seen. This season includes iconic works such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Comedy of Errors, and As You Like It. The raucous audience atmosphere of olden days is encouraged, particularly at The Midnight Matinees. Bonus events include Shakespeare Walks, live Ask-An-Actor sessions, study days, live cinema broadcasts, and more.
Tickets and details at www.shakespearesglobe.com.
The Spaces In-Between
Taking place at The Outernet, this interactive art installation created by immersive experience studio Pixel Artworks with visual light artist Rupert Newman offers a soothing break in the heart of the city. Open on weekdays and Saturdays, The Spaces In-Between reacts to body movements with an ever-changing display across the largest digital canvas in the world. The installation comprises three individual artworks: ‘Tessellations’ and ‘Transcendence’, which will transport visitors through a digital natural world, and ‘A Step Beyond’ which shows geometric shapes.
Reserve a spot at www.outernetglobal.com.
This event is free to attend.
2 – 27 August
Exhibition: On Big and Small Battles
Discover two unique artistic explorations of human existence at the Curious Kudu Gallery. The joint exhibition showcases oil paintings by artists Margarita Godgelf and Jess de Zilva.
Reserve a ticket at www.artrabbit.com.
This event is free to attend.
5 August
LatinoLife In The Park
Join the musical fiesta at LatinoLife In The Park. Featuring Lucy Calcines and Alvarez Funk’s high-energy Afro-Cuban extravaganza, you’ll be swaying to Latin beats all day long. Experience the Reggaeton Explosion sets and enjoy the best homegrown urban Latin talent.
Tickets and details at www.skiddle.com.
Black-Owned Hackney Night Market
Savour the best of black-owned street food at the Hackney’s Black-Owned Night Market. Browse artisan-made skincare, clothing, and gifts while sipping on rum punch and craft beers.
Reserve a spot at www.eventbrite.co.uk.
This event is free to attend.
Wild Food Walks – Foraging in London
Join Kenneth Greenway on Wild Food Walks and discover edible plants hidden in plain sight. Organised by Made In Hackney, these walks aim to promote plant-based diets while helping to fight hunger in the community.
Tickets and details at madeinhackney.org.
5 – 23 August
The Roundhouse Comedy Festival
Get ready for laughter with some of the biggest names in comedy at Camden’s Roundhouse. Headliners include Katherine Ryan, Dylan Moran, Nish Kumar and James Acaster.
Tickets and details at www.roundhouse.org.uk.
27 – 28 August
Notting Hill Carnival
Witness Europe’s largest street festival, the Notting Hill Carnival. Be captivated by the parade of colourful floats, join the alfresco dancing and savour Caribbean food from countless stalls.
Reserve a ticket at www.thelondonnottinghillcarnival.com.
This event is free to attend.
With all these events and more, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in London’s rich and varied culture this August. So, why not step out and explore all that the city has to offer?
