Alex Sims

It’s June, which means one of London’s finest months has arrived. The salad days of London summer indicate the start of the season of picnicking, pub gardens, park explorations and parties. And even if the weather might not quite be playing ball this week, there’s still plenty to look forward to as we begin a brand new month.  If you’re in the mood for an art-themed party, you’ve got plenty to pick from this week. For art, music and immersive gatherings, head along to Hackney Art Week, which brings together over 60 artists for exhibitions, markets, workshops, performances, immersive installations, street parties and even an art treasure hunt over its 10-day programme. Hit up the first Ralph Yard party of this year, which will feature music, food and 60-second portraits from cult artists. Or, take a look around this year’s Serpentine Pavilion, which this time around has been designed by Mexican architecture firm LANZA atelier and features a pleasingly named ‘crinkle-crankle’ wall. You can also spend some time snooping around verdant nooks and crannies that are usually closed off to the public at the London Open Gardens weekend, have a five-star meal at The Golden Tooth – the new venture from the folk behind Papi, and two-step to your favourite DJs at The Cause’s eighth birthday party. Or, head to one of London’s best bars or restaurants and take in one of these lesser-known London attractions. This is also a great time of year to explore London on a budget and without the cro

It’s the first weekend of June, which means one of London’s finest months is in full swing. The salad days of London summer indicate the start of the season of picnicking, pub gardens, park explorations and parties. And even if the weather might not quite be playing ball this week, there’s still plenty to look forward to as we begin a brand new month.  If you’re in the mood for an art-themed party, you’ve got plenty to pick from this weekend. For art, music and immersive gatherings, head along to Hackney Art Week, which brings together over 60 artists for exhibitions, markets, workshops, performances, immersive installations, street parties and even an art treasure hunt over its 10-day programme. Hit up the first Ralph Yard party of this year, which will feature music, food and 60-second portraits from cult artists. Or, take a look around this year’s Serpentine Pavilion, which this time around has been designed by Mexican architecture firm LANZA atelier and features a pleasingly named ‘crinkle-crankle’ wall. You can also spend some time snooping around verdant nooks and crannies that are usually closed off to the public at the London Open Gardens weekend, have a five-star meal at The Golden Tooth – the new venture from the folk behind Papi, and two-step to your favourite DJs at The Cause’s eighth birthday party. Or, head to one of London’s best bars or restaurants and take in one of these lesser-known London attractions. This is also a great time of year to explore London on

June in London is pretty much as good as it gets. It’s hot but not too hot. Festival season is in full swing. And there’s the blissful anticipation of months more gorgeous weather ahead, perfect for picnicking, spilling out onto pavements outside pubs, exploring parks, or partying all day long.  There’s plenty of fun in store during the early days of summer, including the second edition of Lido festival (featuring CMAT and Maribou State), the return of SXSW London, and blockbuster exhibitions on Anish Kapoor and Frida Kahlo.  Plus, the capital truly comes into its own this month: beer gardens are at their prime, the city parks are at their prettiest, the open-air theatre season gets going and eating alfresco is on the cards at some of London’s best restaurants. Plus, expect to see long queues in south west London as tennis fans line up to bag a place at the epic Wimbledon championships.  RECOMMENDED: Plan a great summer with our guide to London’s best music fests Get ahead of the pack and start planning your perfect July in London. 

Have you noticed that everyone seems to be doing Pilates right now? Well, there’s good reason. Developed by German trainer Joseph Pilates in the 1920s, the exercise regime is low-impact but does absolute wonders for your muscles (including your core) – and it’ll sort out a load of other issues form bad posture to balance, too. Celebs, dancers and elite athletes swear by it and now all sorts of new studios are popping up over the city. If you wanna get a bit more bendy, toned and powerful, look no further than one of these expert pilates classes. What’s more, it doesn’t matter whether they’re mat-based, inspired by ballet or take place on a reformer machine (they’re not as scary as they look, we promise), these fun and fancy studios won’t leave you bent out of shape. Here are the best pilates classes in London. Fancy testing that new-found flexibility? Try one of these yoga classes in London next.  London’s best pilates classes at a glance Best for barre: Paola’s Body Barre Best for beginners: Frame Best for traditionalists: Kinetic Pilates Best for a budget: The Refinery RECOMMENDED: The best sport and fitness in London

Need some respite from the “city that never sleeps”? We got you. While The Big Apple will eternally be in the spotlight, Upstate New York, blessed with the lakes, the Catskill Mountains, Hudson Valley and Niagara Falls, is a paradisiacal destination for some much-needed restoration, so check out our absolute favorite places to stay.    Upstate New York’s best hotels at a glance: 💎 Most luxurious: The Mirbeau Inn and Spa 👛 Best budget: The Heartwood by Vassar  🏊Best pool: The Lake House on Canandaigua 🧖🏽‍♀️ Best spa: The Gideon Putman Resort 🤩 Most iconic: The Otesaga Resort Hotel Which area is best to stay in Upstate New York? Much of Upstate New York is within comfortable driving distance of NYC: Woodstock will speak to your inner hippie, Kingston and Sleepy Hollow are the spots for history buffs, and hikers should head to Kerhonkson, Mohonk Preserve or Cold Spring. However, there’s a whole load more where that came from in our day trips guide. 📍 Discover our ultimate guide to the most romantic getaways in Upstate New York How we curate our hotel lists Our team of writers and travel experts review hotels all over the world—new openings, old classics and everything in between—to bring you fresh, honest recommendations, all year round. We have reviewed many of the hotels featured below, but we may not have stayed at every single one. Any we haven’t stayed in have been selected by experts based on their amenities, features, pricing and more. By the way, this article

Chicago has everything a great city should—an abundance of museums with impressive collections, top-tier places to eat and drink, and lovely parks and gardens to break up the gleaming skyscrapers. But with so much to explore, you need a solid place to stay, and that’s precisely why we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the Windy City’s best hotels. From lesser-known boutiques to towering pillars of luxury hospitality, scroll on for our freshly-curated hotel roundup, including new reviews of The Peninsula and The Guesthouse. Which area is best to stay in Chicago? Lincoln Park and Wicker Park are two brilliant options if you want to be a step back from the bustle of the city, but this is Chicago after all, and the bustle is part of the fun. If you’re visiting for the first time, we’d recommend opting for somewhere central like River North or the Loop.  Chicago’s best hotels at a glance: 💎Most luxurious: The Peninsula Chicago 👛Best budget: Eurostar Magnifiscent Mile 🏊‍♀️Best swimming pool: Viceroy Chicago 🌃Best rooftop: The Gwen  🤩Most iconic: The Palmer House Hilton 📍 Discover our ultimate guide to the best spa hotels in Chicago How we curate our hotel lists Our team of writers and travel experts review hotels all over the world—new openings, old classics and everything in between—to bring you fresh, honest recommendations, all year round. We have reviewed many of the hotels featured below, but we may not have stayed at every single one. Any we haven’t stayed in have b

Miami does several things exceptionally well—vast powdery white beaches, exuberant nightlife, and art museums, to name a few—but with so much to cram in, a little rest and relaxation when you return to your hotel wouldn’t go amiss, now would it?  From ocean-view saunas and sleekly-designed steam rooms to hydrotherapy circuits and full-body algae wraps, below is Time Out’s refreshed roundup of the most impressive spa hotels in Miami, now including the stunning Andaz Miami Beach Resort & Spa, as well as the JW Marriott Turnberry Resort & Spa, the Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, and The Shelborne by Proper.  Which area is best to stay in Miami? If you’re after something pretty central (particularly as a first-timer to the city) opt for a stay in Downtown or Bricknell, but if topping up those Vitamin D levels is on the agenda, go for a hotel in South Beach, Mid-Beach or Bal Harbour.  Miami’s best spa hotels at a glance: 💎 Biggest splurge: Four Seasons at The Surf Club 👛 Most affordable: Hotel Victor South Beach 🏊 Best pool: JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa 💤 Best massage: Andaz Miami Beach Resort & Spa  🏋️‍♀️ Best fitness center: Gale Miami Hotel & Residences 📍 Discover our ultimate guide to the best hotels in Miami How we curate our hotel lists Our team of writers and travel experts review hotels all over the world—new openings, old classics and everything in between—to bring you fresh, honest recommendations, all year round. We have reviewed many of the hotels fe

As spring deepens into summer, a soporific, herbaceous scent starts to waft through the air and a purple hue brightens our fields and forests. It’s lavender’s time to bloom.  The deliciously fragrant purple flowers are at their peak between June and September, reaching their zenith in August, when the bees and bumblebees get to enjoy a pollen bonanza. Not only do they smell great, but at London’s glorious lavender fields, the mauve flowers create epic backdrops, perfect for a scenic picnic or your Instagram feed.  There are endless varieties, each with its own colour palette and distinct aroma, from pale lilac to deepest indigo. In London itself, Kennington Park, Kew Gardens and Vauxhall Park are top destinations for lavender-fanciers. Or make a day of it and head to whole farms dedicated to the fragrant blooms just outside the capital, in Kent, Surrey and Hertfordshire. Here are some of the best places to find beautiful fields of lavender in and around London this summer.  Best places to see lavender at a glance 📸 Best for photoshoots: Castle Farm 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for a family day out: Mayfield Lavender 🚇 Best for car-less Londoners: Vauxhall Park 💐 Best for picking-your-own: Hitchin Lavender  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do outdoors in London.

Easter is an underrated holiday. It doesn’t get anywhere near as much hype as Christmas, but is almost as good. Sure, you might not get sacks full of presents, but you still get an excuse to stuff your face with chocolate, tuck into a big roast dinner, and a whole four-day weekend to spend however you like. This year, this glorious double bank holiday lands between Good Friday on April 3 and Easter Monday on April 6. The only thing standing between you and a glorious four days of fun is figuring out how to fill all your extra time off. Don’t worry – as always, Time Out’s fun-loving editorial team have your back. There’s tons to do in the capital over Easter weekend, from checking out spring flowers and other kid-friendly activities to making the most of the spring sun (thankfully the weather isn’t lookimg too bad!) at one of London’s top rooftop bars and parks. You could also spend your time checking out a free art exhibition or, of course, treating yourself to a proper pub roast on Easter Sunday. The big weekend is still a way off, but rest assured we'll be keeping this page updated with all our top things to do in London this Easter, as they're announced. RECOMMENDED: Check out our eggcellent guide to Easter in London.

April is an underrated month if you ask us. Winter is finally over and everyone starts to emerge from hibernation, ready to properly commit to socialising again. The sun has put in a few appearances, London’s parks and gardens are in full bloom and the city feels alive with all the possibilities of summer, but without all the sunburn and sweltering, sleepless nights.  Easter weekend is on the horizon, meaning a double bank holiday jam-packed with fun, from family-friendly days out to club nights galore.  There’s also a handful of spring music festivals, some cracking art exhibitions and theatre (including the first open-air shows of the year) and plenty more amazing things going on around the city, including the London Marathon and the Boat Race.  Check out our roundup of the best stuff happening throughout the month, and start planning an amazing spring now. RECOMMENDED: Find more inspiration with our roundup of the best things to do this week

The Irish really know how to celebrate, so when it comes to St Patrick’s Day in London, the city’s Celtic community has no problem showing us how it’s done. With an estimated 170,000 expats from the Emerald Isle living in the city, and many more Londoners with Irish heritage, the celebration of Ireland’s patron saint is always one big welcoming bash, involving plenty of dancing, hearty traditional dishes, a huge parade and as many pints of Guinness and drams of whiskey as you can handle. The Mayor of London’s annual St Patrick’s Day Festival celebration will take place on Sunday, March 15 – two days before the official holiday – and, as usual, thousands of revellers are expected to watch the parade wend its way from Hyde Park Corner to Trafalgar Square for a giant free party with Irish music, food and performances from 12noon to 6pm. If you don’t fancy braving the crowds of central London for the main event in the capital, there are still plenty of St Patrick’s Day parties and events to check out. We’ll be rounding up the best of them below as they get announced, so you’ve got plenty of time to get planning for a very green week. RECOMMENDED🍻 The best Irish pubs and bars in London☘️ Our ultimate guide to the St Patrick’s Day parade and festival🌱 The best London events in March

While you shouldn’t wait for just one day a year to shower your mum with love and appreciation, you’ll definitely be in the doghouse if you forget to make her feel special on Mother’s Day (Sunday March 15 2026). Keep yourself in her good books and (as well as a little present and card) treat your ma to a wholesome day out at one of London’s top mum-friendly events. There are loads of lovely afternoon teas across the city this time of year that’ll put a smile of her face. Or you could take her on a stroll around some of London’s prettiest shops, take in some culture at one of the best current art exhibitions or sit back and watch a fab new theatre production. Personally, I like to take my mum to a cosy restaurant for a fancy meal – a tasty Sunday lunch hasn’t failed me yet. Check out our top picks for the best events to take the most important woman in your life this Mother’s Day 2026. RECOMMENDED: the full guide to Mother’s Day in London 

What is it? A painstakingly accurate recreation of the original Globe Theatre, built in 1997. Built in 1599 and destroyed by fire in 1613, the original Globe Theatre was at the heart of London’s seedy entertainment district in William Shakespeare’s time. Here, productions were put on by the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, who included in their company old Bill himself. Although the theatre was rebuilt after the fire, it was eventually torn down in 1644, and as London’s entertainment centre moved west, this stretch of South Bank between Blackfriars and London Bridge was all but forgotten for generations. Fast forward to 1997, when, following a decades-long campaign run by the late American actor Sam Wanamaker, the Globe was recreated near its original site. They used as much historical detail as could be found when designing the building in order to provide an authentic, Shakespearean experience with plays presented as close as possible to the kind of setting and conditions The Bard would have written for. Compared to the seventeenth century version of the theatre, the modern day Shakespeare’s Globe only holds about half the capacity, but theatre-goers can still get a rich feel for what it was like to be a ‘groundling’ (the standing rabble at the front of the stage) in the circular, open-air theatre. The Globe Exhibition and Tour is open all year round and explores the life and work of Shakespeare and theatre in his time. Why go? Step into the shoes of an Elizabethan Londoner in this

What is it? It’s been over a decade now since the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, but Londoner’s are still reaping the benefits of the £8.77 billion investment in the form of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The immaculate park was first opened to the public in summer 2013, a year after the Games, their paths and waterways enhanced by the new Timber Lodge Café. Next came the Zaha Hadid-designed Aquatics Centre, which is open for public swimming and diving sessions, followed by the VeloPark, home to road, track, BMX and mountain biking, and the southern section of the park. The latter comprises all the remaining parkland, including children's play areas, four walking trails and a couple of dozen public artworks. To the north, the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre has two superfast hockey pitches and ten tennis courts (four indoor, six outdoor) – you can just turn up and play, although it might be advisable to book ahead. The retooled Olympic Stadium (renamed the London Stadium) opened most recently, and now plays host to West Ham as well as various athletics championships and big concerts. But the Olympic Park isn’t finished yet. Work is ongoing around its fringes on a crop of new cultural destinations, housing and other bits and bobs.  Why go?  To take in the greenery and look at all the fancy Olympics buildings in London’s newest postcode, E20 (playfully shared with the fictional Walford of ‘EastEnders’ fame).  Don’t miss:  The park is fringed by pretty canals lined wi

What is it?  A glorious botanical garden with 250 years (and counting) of history, spread over an impressive 300 acres. More than just a pretty plot, the Royal Botanic Gardens are paving the way for the future with not one, but two national bases for research into botanical studies. While you’re strolling through the Victorian Palm House or seeking out the luscious flora (including the giant, stinking Titan Arum in the Princess of Wales Conservatory), scientists are working away in offices and laboratories behind the scenes.  They weren’t always sprawling, starting out a little more humbly in the backyard of what was once the royal palace – favoured most by George III. There’s loads to see here, whether you like green stuff or not. Why not take a trip to the Treetop Walkway? At 18 metres high, this trek through the leaves offers fab views of the grounds. Or, stroll down to the Chinese Pagoda, which was built in 1762 and towers over the southern end of the Gardens. Given the exceptional upkeep and wide variety of fauna, you’re sure to be inspired. And if the plants aren’t doing the trick, try seeking out the sculptures, which feature Henry Moore’s ‘Reclining Mother and Child’ in a stunning setting that changes with the light of each season. In fact, the art alone could take up your entire visit – see the Eduardo Paolozzi sculpture ‘A Maximis Ad Minima’ and visit the Marianne North Gallery and the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art, all included in the main entry price.

What is it?  Before Alexandra Palace was a gig venue – programming some of the biggest artists around in a more intimate setting than the likes of the O2 – it was known as the ‘Peoples Palace’, and for good reason. Technically, it’s because it was built in response to the Crystal Palace being relocated south of the river, in order to give north Londoners something to be proud of too, but it also fits that Alexandra Palace has welcomed and entertained everyone who’s stepped through its threshold over its long 165-year history. The place itself looks out over north London from a height. Its altitude rewards casual walkers with spectacular views, and its commanding location and 190-odd acres of leafy parkland mean it's often mistaken for a magnificent palace of regal importance. In reality, it's an offbeat arts/entertainment centre that's making a renewed bid to pull in Londoners for nights out, after decades in the doldrums. In 2018, it re-opened the massive theatre space that had been out of action for decades, giving it a makeover that left its most picturesquely crumbling bits intact. In the years since, it's offered a mix of touring large-scale plays, seated gigs, and kids’ shows. The adjoining East Court is back in action too, offering an airy conservatory-like space where theatregoers can drink, mingle and take tea. These additions join the venue's existing indoor ice-skating rink, expo hall and a vast gig space where you can catch big names and the odd clubbing event. Th

What is it?  Opening in 2007, The O2 gave a second life to the ill-fated Millenium Dome that arrived in London at the turn of the millenium. Since being transformed into the a multi-entertainment centre, it’s seen people flock in their thousands to see one giant superstar after the next grace its stage. Everyone from Barbara Streisand, Prince and Madonna to Kendrick Lamar, Rosalia and Megan Thee Stallion have packed the house.  Still, The O2's sprawling 20,000-seat arena isn't the only thing to recommend. The smaller, less attention-grabbing Indigo2 is a good place to catch soulful crooners and the centre also houses an 11-screen cinema, outlet shops, restaurants, a Hollywood Bowl, an indoor skydiving centre and the immersive theatre experience Mamma Mia The Party.  Why go?  For music, cinema, shopping and plenty more in between.  Don’t miss:  If you’ve ever wondered what London looks like from 53 metres above North Greenwich, the arena’s Up at The O2 experience can give you an insight. The experience AAA lets you walk on the roof of the Arena, attached to a harness of course. You’ll be led up by a guide where you can breathe in the fresh air, take a selfie or two and discover some facts about London’s landmarks before heading back down. Time Out tip:  This place is huge. Do a little bit of research before heading over to find out the best way to get the entrance that’ll place you closest to the bit you’re looking for in this massive complex. Discover our guide to the very be

What is it?  One of London’s most famous Tudor haunts. To cut a long story short, Hampton Court Palace was originally built by Henry VIII’s Lord Chancellor, Cardinal Wolsey, as a showy country retreat to host state visits. Unfortunately, he did such a grand job of out-blinging the king, that Henry pretty much seized Hampton Court Palace from Wolsey as compensation when the Pope wouldn’t let him divorce his wife Catherine of Aragon so he could shack up with Anne Boleyn. Thus history was made. Hampton Court Palace has long been remembered as the Tudors’ stomping ground and some of the wondrous sixteenth-century quarters that still stand proud remain the best bits to visit. Like the kitchens, which once housed the factory-sized production team that fed around 600 people in court twice daily. Or sniff out the spice rooms and cellars, where the king stashed his goodies, including French wine, local game and Italian olives. For those wanting to delve deeper, see if you can track down and tack onto one of the free talks or tours, which run at regular intervals. Or, for a little more excitement, have a look for the resident LARPers, who act out ‘encounters with the past’ (including meeting Henry VIII’s courtiers) in full costume in various places around the palace. The history of this place isn’t solely devoted to the Tudors, of course. The building’s royal allegiance extended to King James, too, who invited none other than Shakespeare himself to host a series of Christmas plays at t

What is it?  Seven books, eight films, a play, and a soon-to-be-released TV series down the line, the world has lost none of its appetite for all things Harry Potter-related, which is why people just keep on coming to Warner Bros’ special exhibition, ‘The Making of Harry Potter.’  Just north of Watford, you’ll find the very warehouses and movie studios that played an integral part in the making of the Harry Potter film franchise. When the crew weren’t at real locations, they were creatively mocking up most of the scenes here in Leavesden. And they’re still standing strong. Given the sheer volume and Potter nerds, Warner Bros decided to leave everything where it was and expand the studios, so other films could still be produced here without interruption. It truly is a magical place. The props, sets and costumes have been lovingly maintained for what has become a permanent exhibition of the memorabilia. Wander through the workshops, storerooms and life-sized sets that were used for the series. Fans will be in heaven here. Step into some of the most iconic locations from the movies: the Great Hall at Hogwarts, Diagon Alley and, of course, Platform 9¾ with the gleaming Hogwarts Express steam train. General cinephiles will also appreciate learning more about behind-the-scenes trickery: the special effects, animatronics and methods by which more outlandish characters were brought to life.  You can also get your chops around a flagon of butterbeer (don’t worry, as fans know, it’s ki

What is it?  Founded in 1759, when the British Museum first opened its doors it was the first national museum in the world to allow the public in for free. The museum still doesn’t cost a penny to enter (only the special exhibitions require a paid ticket), and it’s stuck to its promise of allowing any ‘studious and curious persons’ in to look at its collection of strange objects collected from all over the globe. When it first came on the scene, centuries before television (and TikTok), the museum offerend a chance for anyone to stand in front of specimens and antiquities and connect with other cultures, ancient and contemporary. The first exhibits consisted of the collection of physician and naturalist Sir Hans Sloane – ancient coins and medals, books and natural remains – and through the centuries since, it has become home to the most significant finds made by British explorers at home and abroad.  In recent years there have been campaigns by other nations who want some of their historic treasures returned. However, the British Museum remains one of the world’s most popular attractions, with six million visitors a year. And although many of its priceless artefacts are protected by glass cases, the museum is anything but a hushed old resting place. Nowadays, you enter the landmark through the magnificent glass-roofed Great Court full of the buzz of students, tourists and Londoners. The British Museum is a working organisation carrying out research and conservation and that’s

What is it?  Massive jewels, life-sized animal sculptures and grisly torture devices. The Tower of London really does have something for everyone, no matter how sadistic your interests are. Because despite the exhausting crowds and long climbs up stairways, the Tower remains one of Britain's finest historical attractions. After all, who wouldn’t want a close-up with the crown of Queen Victoria or the prodigious codpiece of King Henry VIII? This eleventh-century fortress boasts an impressive 900 years of history. Within its walls and beyond the empty moats are interactive displays revealing the extravagant and at times controversial lifestyles of the British monarchs, as well as the torturous deaths of traitors. Glimpse those Crown Jewels (but expect queues of ginormous proportions), or if jewellery’s not your bag, head on over to the White Tower where you’ll find a collection of shiny torture tools. Known as the Royal Armouries, this ancient Norman keep contains swords, suits of armour for both humans and horses, poleaxes, halberds, morning stars (spiky maces) and other means for separating limbs from torsos. There's also a redisplay of the Line of Kings – an original exhibition dating back to the 1680s – which includes wooden horses carved by the prolific sculptor Grinling Gibbons, Henry VIII's armour and a scale model of tilting knights. For the little ones, there are swordsmanship games, coin-minting activities and even a child-sized longbow. Why go?  Get up close to 900 y

What is it? The curly-wurly red scaffolding tower lords it over the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park from its position right alongside the Olympic Stadium. Designed by the artist Anish Kapoor and structural engineer Cecil Balmond, it stands 114.5m (376ft) tall – with lifts (and a 455-step staircase) up to two platforms from which look out on  The Shard, St Paul’s and the Wembley arches. There are also two of Kapoor's entertaining distorting mirrors inside and some newly installed digital telescopes so that you can get closer to the views. Since 2017 it’s also been home to the world’s longest tunnel slide. Welsh adventure brand Zip World recently took over operations of the site, investing £2.6 million in the tower and working with local planning authorities to open a ‘first-of-its-kind adventure’.  Why go? Built to mark the London 2012 Olympics, the Orbit is the UK’s largest public sculpture. It was projected to see around 350,000 visitors per year but since opening has only had 1.2 million.  Discover our guide to the very best things to do in London.

Brilliant news for bookworms: Fleet Street’s literature festival is returning for 2026. The Fleet Street Quarter Festival of Words will be exploring how words shape our world all while celebrating its heritage as the home of London’s printing press. The first line from Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities is serving as the opening gambit for this year’s festival: ‘It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness.’ The full line-up of speakers for 2026 is yet to be revealed, but the programme will span 30 events which explore the age of ‘wisdom and foolishness’.   Full line-up and ticket information to be announced in March

Back for its sixteenth edition, the Cinema Made In Italy festival will be celebrating the best new Italian cinema and filmmakers at BFI Southbank. Over five days, it’ll host screenings 10 of the best contemporary Italian films, including biopics, period drama, historical epics, noir thrillers and documentaries. Much of the programme will be receiving its first screening in the UK and some screenings will feature talks from the directors and cast members. This year look out for renowned opera director Damiano Michieletto’s Primavera, which is based on the life of Italian composer Vivaldi; Ludovica Rampoldi’s A Brief Affair, a dark and twisted romance; Alessio Rigo de Righi and Matteo Zoppis’ new Euro-western Heads or Tails and Francesco Sossai’s The Last One for the Road, an endearing dramady that follows a pair of drunkyards trying to relive their glory days. 

Travelling to the Netherlands? If you’re hoping to hop on a ferry to Rotterdam, your journey has just got a bit more plush. P&O Ferries, which runs a North Sea route between Hull and the Dutch port city, has just installed fancy new sleeper lounges on board to make the overnight journey a little bit more comfortable. While a variety of cabins have always been available on the route, the new Sleep Lounge will give passengers who don’t necessarily want to splash out on a private cabin, but don’t want to rough it in a makeshift sleep spot either, another more comfortable option. Available on crossings from July 13, the new lounge will pack in 36 recliner seats, giving space for people to rest and catch some z’s over the 12-hour-long crossing, which leaves Hull at around 8pm.    Image: P&O FerriesP&O Sleeper Lounge   It means that if you don’t want to fork out for a cabin, passengers can still get a night’s kip on the crossing and arrive bright-eyed and raring to go when they get to Rotterdam the following morning. Passengers who book the new business class flight-style reclining seats will also get a complimentary blanket and a locker. Plus, they’ll also have access to the ferry’s bar, restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment.  Fares for foot passengers on the ferry start from £47 per person one way for off-peak travel between October and December, and a chair in the Sleep Lounge costs an additional £25. Those travelling by car can book from £121 for one car, one passenge

If you see anyone wheeling through London on their bike stark naked this month, don’t be alarmed. This weekend the annual World Naked Bike Ride will be returning to the capital, filling the city with cyclists wearing nothing but their birthday suits.  The event has been happening in London since 2004 and you can get a little taste of what to expect visually here. Despite appearances, there are some serious principles behind it, namely to protest against the global dependency on oil, curb car culture, promote real rights for cyclists and celebrate body freedom. Last year, around 1,200 cyclists took off their kit to ride through London in the nude. The nude riders will head into town from various starting points, merging into one group from Westminster Bridge onwards.  Here’s what to expect for the World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR) 2026, if you’re looking to take part (or stay well clear).  When is the World Naked Bike Ride happening in London?  The 2026 edition of the World Naked Bike Ride is happening on Sunday June 14. Increased traffic, events, road closures, diversions, protests and the annual Trooping the Colour have made the usual Saturday date increasingly tricky in recent years, so the event’s organisers have agreed to trade places with WNBR Brighton, which will now be taking place on June 13. As well as shifting to Sunday, start times for WNBR London 2026 are also moving half an hour earlier than in previous years. Start times vary depending on where you choose to start fr

In some good news, one of London’s only dedicated queer bookshops has opened a second location. The Common Press, initially opened in Shoreditch back in 2021, exclusively sells literature by and for queer people or people of colour. Although not the first spot for catering for LGBTQ+ readers (Bloomsbury’s Gay’s The Word has been selling books for queer readers since 1979), The Common Press’s main draw was its dedicated events space for LGBTQ+ people and people of colour.  Opened as part of Glass House, a multidisciplinary venue, the bookshop offers a curated selection of books written by LGBTQ+ authors, Black & POC writers, transgender creatives and other marginalised voices, but also became a space for people to socialise thanks to its cafe and bar, which offered a cosy and inclusive community place for events, meetings or just a space to relax and hang out.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Common Press (@thecommonpress) However, in 2023, the shop faced an uncertain future when its investors were no longer able to support the project. It set up a crowdfunder in order to operate independently, and although the shop survived, it was forced to shut its bar and cafe.  Since then, the bookshop has been searching for a way to create this space again, and its second site looks to be the solution. Just like the original, the new location in Dalston is Black queer and trans run. It also has a cafe, a bar, and an events space, meaning it will

Some lucky office workers will be aware of ‘Summer Fridays’, where employees are allowed to shave off a few hours from the end of the working week and clock off early on Fridays during the summer months to take advantage of the longer days (or, just spend more time outside the pub with a pint in hand).  Well, London institution, the National Gallery, is doing its own version of a special summer timetable. But, instead of shortening its opening hours, it’s extending them, so there’s even more time to take in its oil paintings of stiff-backed royals, hilarious political caricatures, and portraits of musicians, scientists, artists, philanthropists and celebrities.  From Friday July 3 to Monday August 31, the free-to-visit gallery will launch National Gallery Summertime, staying open until 7pm daily, with late opening until 9pm on Fridays. Alongside the extended hours, there’ll also be evening creative workshops hosted in the Roden Centre for Creative Learning (RCCL), including life drawing and still life classes, and the gallery’s Take One Picture exhibition will also remain on view throughout the summer. Zurbarán exhibition © The National Gallery, LondonZurbarán exhibition at The National Gallery, London It’s not just the galleries that will be staying open later. The building’s shops, bars, restaurants and exhibitions will also adhere to the new seasonal hours, so visitors can really make an evening of it. Plus, it will mean an extra chance to check out the gallery’s blockbu

After eight years serving bowls of fiery noodle soups, steaming curry laksa and crunchy Malaysian fried chicken, beloved London restaurant Shambal Shiok has shut up shop. Founder Mandy Yin said that she ‘cannot continue personally carrying the financial risk or injecting funds to keep the business afloat’.  Sambal Shiok began life as a humble street food stall, before Yin opened her brick-and-mortar restaurant on Holloway Road in 2018. Its flavoursome soups, salads, chicken and signature nyonya curry laksa became a firm favourite on the London food scene, and earned a five-star review from Time Out. However, like many eateries in the capital at the moment, Shambal Shiok has struggled to operate under the cost-of-living crisis and an increasingly unviable business environment. In a statement on Instagram, Yin wrote: ‘Since 2013, Sambal Shiok has been my heart, my pride and my life’s work. I built my food business on a bootstrap – from street food, to pop-up restaurant, to bricks-and-mortar - because I believed that the flavours of Malaysia, made from scratch, deserved a place in London. But ultimately, it is my name and my family’s security on the line. Photograph: Alex Lambertsambal shiok ‘I cannot continue personally carrying the financial risk or injecting funds to keep the business afloat. Relentless cost increases, staffing pressures and the weight of operational responsibility have taken a deep toll on my mental health and personal life. ‘Since Covid, trading has becom

After three years, the Ukrainian bistro Mriya, run and staffed by refugees, is due to close its doors. Mriya, or ‘dream’ as it translates in English, opened on Chelsea’s Brompton Road in August 2022 – just six months after Russia launched a invasion of the country. Its mission was to provide culinary and emotional sustenance for homesick Ukrainians, as well as to keep the struggles of the conflict in Ukraine on the agenda.  ‘Mriya was created at a time when millions of Ukrainians were displaced by war. More than a restaurant, it became a meeting place for the Ukrainian community in London – a space where people gathered to share food, culture, music, conversation, and a sense of home, while the local community learned more about Ukrainian cuisine and wines,’ said Mriya in a statement.  Created by Olga Tsybytovska and her celebrity chef husband Yurii Kovryzhenko, the restaurant was entirely staffed by Ukrainian refugees, including lawyers, business owners, teachers and students. ‘For many on the team, Mriya was not only a workplace but also a source of stability, friendship, and a sense of belonging during an uncertain time,’ the statement continues. https://www.instagram.com/p/DYFT23cDG_R/?img_index=1 As well as serving traditional dishes like chicken Kyiv, borscht, herring pâté, fermented vegetables and oxtail, as well as serving a formidable collection of vodkas, the restaurant itself is decorated with paintings by Ukrainian artists, and full of salvaged furniture. It held

May is one of the finest months in London for many reasons – the parks are full of colourful spring blooms and the possibilities of summer are on the horizon, but even more notably, there are not one, but two bank holidays to enjoy. And if you’ve looked at your weather app lately, you’ll have noticed that the late May Bank Holiday taking place this weekend (Saturday May 23 to Monday May 25) is shaping up to be a very sunny one indeed. Throughout this week, it’s become clear that London is set for seriously toasty weather over the coming days. The Met Office reckons that temperatures in the capital could reach as high as 33C over the bank holiday. That’s not just hot. That’s a potential heatwave. But just how hot will it be, and could we even be in store for a pre-summer heatwave? Here’s what the weather gurus at the Met Office have forecast for the long weekend. It’s looking like we’ll all get a solid dose of vitamin D, so make sure to pack the sunscreen if you’re heading outside.  RECOMMENDED: ☀️ The best free things to do in London on the late May bank holiday weekend.⛔️ The full list of tube and travel disruption to know about this weekend. Late May Bank Holiday 2026 weather forecast (May 23-25 2026) Here’s what the Met Office reckons is on the cards for London over the late May bank holiday weekend: Saturday May 23 At the time of writing, the Met Office says that Saturday, May 4, will be warm with a few clouds for the majority of the day with highs of 29C in the early ev

Sea Containers, the glamorous five-star Thames-side hotel on the South Bank, has already cemented itself as a go-to cocktails spot in London thanks to its bar Lyaness, manned by Mr Lyan, aka Ryan Chetiyawardana, who is widely considered one of the best mixologists in the world.  But, while Sea Containers’ cocktail bar has made waves with its experimental menus and use of weird and wonderful ingredients (the current menu contains cocktails made with ‘tree caramel’ and ‘micro-organisms’) and has become the only London venue to achieve an esteemed three-pin rating from The Pinnacle Guide, over the corridor, the hotel’s ground-floor restaurant has never achieved the same notoriety. But could that be about to change?  The Sea Containers Restaurant has just announced a new partnership with famously foul-mouthed chef Gordon Ramsay, launching Gordon Ramsay at Sea Containers from autumn this year. Few details have been announced about the collaboration, but we do know that it will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner inspired by its riverside setting. It will also have a riverside terrace for alfresco dining.  Andy Wenlock, CEO of Gordon Ramsay Restaurants Global, has said that the new restaurant will capture ‘the vibrancy of the South Bank while upholding the standards of quality, atmosphere and hospitality that define our restaurants globally’. Until then, the restaurant will be open as usual if you want to enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the South Bank along with dinner. Did you he

Italian restaurant chain Spaghetti House has been a familiar sight in London for decades, but after 70 years of serving pizza and pasta in the capital, the restaurant group will be shutting its doors in an ‘increasingly challenging environment’.  Spaghetti House opened its first site on Goodge Street way back in 1955, and was one of the first spots to introduce Londoners to traditional Italian food. Founders Simone Lavarini and Lorenzo Fraquelli hoped to bring an authentic-style trattoria to the city where diners could indulge in home-cooked pasta, washed down with a digestif, and went on to open sites in Mayfair, Fitzrovia, Marble Arch, Carnaby Street, Oxford Street, Kensington High Street and Cranbourn Street.  As of this week, restaurant company Lavval Restaurants Ltd announced that it has entered administration and has ceased trading, with all of its restaurants due to shut their doors. According to reports, the company had already shut its sites in Mayfair, Goodge Street and Fitzrovia before corporate restructuring firm Begbies Traynor was brought in to help close down the business and the remaining restaurants.  Photograph: Alena Veasey / Shutterstock.comSpaghetti House, London In a statement on its website, Spaghetti House says: ‘Over the past few years, we have done everything in our power to navigate an increasingly challenging environment. A combination of sustained cost increases, the lasting effects of COVID-19, Brexit, and ongoing global instability, has fundam

If you’ve ever run the Hackney Half Marathon, you’ll know that despite the fact you’re exerting yourself for 13.1 miles – risking chafing, blisters and sheer exhaustion along the way – somehow it still manages to be a fun, spirited, life-affirming party, thanks to the atmosphere around the course. This Sunday (May 17), everyone from DJs and bands to drumming troupes and choirs will be lining the route, providing upbeat and motivating tunes. But, more importantly, the Hackney streets will be swelling with crowds of spectators armed with signs, sweets and rousing cheers to spur everyone on until the end. Even after you’ve finished the race, which stretches from Hackney Marches to Hackney Downs and curves round to Victoria Park, before ending back at the Race Village at the Marshes again, you’ll find that the good vibes continue. Whether you’re riding high on endorphins or nursing post-race blisters, there are plenty of afterparties, freebies and perks for the determined folk wearing their medals round their necks. Here are the best freebies and treats to look out for – just don’t wear yourself out running round town to bag ’em all. You’ve earned a nice sit down!HACKNEY MARATHON GUIDE📍 The Hackney Half: route and best places to watch.⏱️ Start times and waves.⛔️ Road closures. The best Hackney Half 2026 freebies and perks 1. Craft beer at LARDO What you get: Join a party on LARDO’s terrace after the Hackney Half. There’ll be a Sandwich & Spritz menu available in collaboration wi

If you’ve ever strolled down Queen’s Walk, the Thames-side promenade that stretches from London City Pier to Tower Bridge, you’ll be familiar with the big bulbous, armadillo-style building, 110 Queen’s Walk, which looks out across the river next to Potter’s Field.  Once called a ‘glass gonad’ by former PM Boris Johnson, up until 2021 it was London’s City Hall, and you’d have found the 10-story building buzzing with busy Greater London Authority staff. For the last five years, it’s sat empty, and its famous glass windows have been removed, leaving behind a metal shell.  Originally built in 2002, new plans for the site’s next iteration have been in the works since 2023, and it’s been confirmed that the building will be turned into a new ‘destination for both Londoners and visitors to London Bridge City’, according to the project’s official website. Gensler architects, one of the groups behind the project, has released conceptual drawings of what the building is due to look like, with the old glass shell removed and replaced with rounded terraces and balconies covered in green plants. Update on 110 The Queen’s Walk. With the façade removal nearly complete, preparations are underway for the structural modifications to the building frame. The project aims to preserve the iconic architectural elements while adapting the existing floor plates. pic.twitter.com/a2JzOdOiB1 — ORSA (@ORSA_UK) November 7, 2025 Under plans from its landlord, St Martins Property Investment, the build

Playlists you can change when the mood strikes you, free glasses of strong punch, and no curfew for when you have to leave the dance floor; there’s much to love about house parties in theory, but there’s also a lot to worry about. Namely, will I lose my rental deposit if someone pours red wine over the newly laid cream carpet? Will I start a huge rift with the neighbours? And who is going to stick around for the big clean-up the next day?  To get into the house party spirit without all the hassle, Little Door & Co came up with a solution. They started styling venues as London flats and throwing parties that felt like being in someone’s home, but with fun added extras. Each of the company’s locations across London is dressed up like a homely apartment, but with pool tables, giant games, expertly-made cocktails and professional DJs.  Photograph: Little Neon Door Now, it’s opening a brand new venue, which is set to be its biggest yet, as well as its first in east London. The Little Neon Door will be an iconic industrial-style flat on Old Street, filled with neon accessories. It’s the sixth venue from the group, following Little Yellow Door (Notting Hill), Little Blue Door (Fulham), Little Orange Door (Clapham), Little Scarlet Door (Soho) and Little Violet Door (Carnaby).  This new iteration will be split across two levels with five immersive rooms to explore. ‘The Sitting Room’ is for sipping cocktails on comfy sofas, the ‘Living Room and Kitchen’ is where you’ll find the DJs,