5 unmissable things to do, see and experience around the UK this August (and beyond)

Late summer is festival time, with stacked music line-ups taking over parks, comedians putting their best foot forward at the Fringe, hundreds of hot air balloons taking to the Bristol skies and foodies congregating to share the best eats and drinks across the UK. Pack some sensible shoes, your SPF and a picnic blanket: it’s time for the best of the British summer.

Festivals not really your thing? Don’t worry. There’s plenty more to do, see and experience across the UK. Read on to find out how to get your hands on Amex Reserved Tickets® for the National Theatre’s The Story starring Letitia Wright and other rewards from American Express. 

By using your Amex® Gold Card for everyday purchases, you bank a point for every pound you spend. In the Amex app, you can put points towards purchases including gig tickets, subscriptions, hotels, you name it. Alternatively, you can visit the website to convert your points into flights and upgrades, or even select a gift from the hundreds of retailers listed in the Rewards Catalogue. Sure to make this seasonal hit-list that little happier. Just call it the Gold Standard of summers.

1. Edinburgh Fringe Festival (August 1-31)
The Edinburgh Fringe festival returns for 2026, playing host to some of the best comedians in the UK, both established and up and coming. It’s good to plan ahead by buying tickets for acts you know you can’t wait to see, especially at established venues like the Pleasance and the Assembly, but a walk around the city with open eyes and ears can be just as valuable when it comes to discovering your new favourite act. Better still, Amex® Cardmembers can make the most of four airport lounge passes annually, meaning you can enjoy all the luxury of the lounge before you fly to Edinburgh, including dinner and drinks.

2. All Points East (August 21-30)
At All Points East – east London’s two week-long music and arts extravaganza from 21-30 August in Victoria Park – Amex® Cardmembers get loads of perks, from dedicated Cardmember entry lanes into the festival to an onsite spend offer. Stop by the Amex Experience for games, competitions and more, and pick up your Amex Waterbottle from Amex Kiosks sitewide. You can also play the Amex More Machine for a change to win prizes. All this plus loads of acts performing everything from indie rock and punk to hip-hop, afrobeats and R&B. Sign us up.

3. The Story at the National Theatre (August 27-October 24)
If you’re more air-conned theatre than sweaty festival crowd, we’ve got you sorted. Head to the National Theatre to catch The Story, Tracey Scott Wilson’s seminal newsroom thriller that follows four journalists as they race to get the scoop on the murder of a white teacher in a black neighbourhood. The star-studded cast includes Black Panther’s Letitia Wright, Hostage's Ashley Thomas and Orange is the New Black’s Lorraine Toussaint. And even better, Amex® Cardmembers can get their hands on Amex Reserved Tickets® for the run – meaning they unlock access to a specially set aside allotment of tickets. Oh, and naturally they can earn American Express Membership Rewards® points if they buy with their Gold Card, too.

4. Forwards Bristol (August 29-31)
From one music festival to another, this time on the other side of the country, Forwards Bristol brings the world’s best music to Bristol’s iconic Downs. Staging an eclectic lineup which ranges from dance to R&B via rock – actually reflecting how most of us listen to music now – catch Marabou State, Self Esteem, Little Simz, Tems, Dijon, Oklou and more over the course of this West Country weekend.

5. Hampton Court Palace Food Festival (August 29-31)
Hungry? You’ve come to the right place. Hit up Hampton Court Palace – former home of banquet-lover Henry VIII, no less – this August Bank Holiday weekend for its annual food festival. Showcasing the best of British produce, restaurants, farmers and more, the Hampton Court Palace Food Festival is perfect for the gluttonous Tudor king inside all of us. Watch live demos, load up on endless samples, and try freshly made street food, all in the grounds of this stunning historical landmark. 

To learn more about the Gold Card, search 'Amex Gold'

Terms and Conditions

*American Express® Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Card.

Representative 85.8% APR variable.

Annual Fee applies after the first year. Terms apply. 18+. Subject to status. Rates may vary.

Amex Reserved Tickets® may be purchased by American Express® Cardmembers for select events and select seats, during a specified period. Subject to availability.