London in summer is tough to beat. The first glimpse of sun transforms the capital from a drab, depressing grey to a palette of pastel hues worthy of a Wes Anderson film, and all that Vitamin D means that things like al fresco drinks and open-air cinema are back on the menu (for a couple of months, at least).
This June and July, you can add the Islander Festival to your summer to-do list. A series of events taking place at Goodluck Hope – a vibrant island destination by Ballymore set on the River Thames in east London (near Canning Town) that’s recently been voted the ‘Best New Place To Live’*, ‘Best Luxury Development’** and ‘Development Of The Year'*** – where there is a whole host of activities on offer set against a backdrop of panoramic views across to the O2, Canary Wharf and beyond. From Drag Bingo to Sunrise Yoga, there’s something for everyone, whatever floats your (river)boat. Here are just some of the highlights...
Trust us: you’ve never seen ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ like this. Walking Theatre Company will host a roaming performance of Shakespeare’s beguiling comedy, starting from Orchard Dry Dock. Tickets are £20 and include a welcome drink, and the performance is recommended for adults. Sun July 2, 4.30-6.30pm.
They say the early bird catches the worm, but at this class run by east London yoga and meditation studio HUM’s founder Oriana Shepherd, you’ll also come away feeling refreshed, zen, and ready for whatever the day will throw at you. The hour-long workshop takes place in the Lantern Room – the sky lounge and viewing platform on the 29th floor of Goodluck Hope’s Douglas Tower – where you’ll learn tips on improving both body and mind. Fri July 21 & 27, 7-8am
The sky-high Lantern Room will be undergoing a total transformation as much-loved Australian drag queen Sheila Simmonds brings her ‘Busy Lady’ drag bingo to east London. Expect an evening of music, comedy, live entertainment, and some bonza prizes. Wed July 19, 6.30-8.30pm. Tickets are £20, which includes a welcome drink and charitable donation to Opening Doors.
If you’ve never visited this corner of London, you’re in for a treat at the Islander Carnival on Saturday 22 July. The island’s restaurants, bars, retail shops, and cultural spaces will be opening their doors for an all-day celebration of the riverside community. Complete with live music, market stalls, and workshops for all ages, you won’t want to leave. Sat July 22, noon-9pm. Reserve your free tickets now.
Learn how to make one of the oldest alcoholic drinks in the world with a masterclass by award-winning mead producer Afon Mel. The Welsh specialist will be bringing its expertise to two one-and-a-half hour sessions at Taylors of Goodluck Hope – an independant artisanal food hall. And yes, the ticket price includes plenty of tastings… July 26-27, 6.30-8pm
*London Planning Awards 2022
**Whathouse Awards 2022
***British Homes Awards 2022
