Amy is a London-based freelance journalist and has been writing for the Time Out UK and London sites since January 2023. She mostly covers all of the big things happening outside of the capital, including nightlife, food, culture and sustainability.

Originally from the Brecon Beacons, she’s got to know all of London’s best green spaces and will spend weekends digging through charity shops, finding new coffee spots and looking for live music. 

Amy Houghton

Amy Houghton

Contributing writer

Articles (57)

5 non-naff ways to celebrate Father’s Day in London

5 non-naff ways to celebrate Father’s Day in London

It’s true – Dads can be hard people to please. But if you were planning on getting your old man a pair of socks or a bottle of whiskey for Father’s Day this year and calling it a day, let us stop you right there. Why not treat him to a proper day out, eh?  If you want to go beyond the cliche steakhouse or pub dinner (though they’re both perfectly good options), London is awash with other stuff that’ll bring a smile to your dad’s face, whether he’s a sports fiend, a gaming enthusiast, a comedy lover or a beer coneisseur.  Here’s our pick of some genuinely good, not-at-all naff things to do with your pops this Father’s Day (Sunday, June 15, in case you need reminding).  Still not found what you’re after? Try our guide to London’s unusual things to do. RECOMMENDED: Our full guide to celebrating Father’s Day in London.
The best places to visit in Greece for summer 2025

The best places to visit in Greece for summer 2025

Greece is, quite simply, king of the holidays. It’s a country full of sprawling cities, beautiful islands and some of the best beaches in the entire world, and the food? Don’t even get us started on the food. There’s a hell of a lot of islands, and our editors have been to a hell of a lot of them, but for the on-the-ground knowledge that only a local has, we’ve roped in our Greece expert Demetrios Ioannou, who grew up in Athens but has travelled all over the country. Whatever you’re looking for, here are the best places to visit in Greece.  Where should I go for my first time in Greece? We’re firm believers that everyone should go to Athens at least once in their lives. So if it’s your first time visiting the country, you should probably start there. But the good news is that in Greece, you can pretty much do it all. So don’t stay in Athens for a full week – spend a perfect weekend there before heading out on a ferry to Aegina, Poros, Hydra and more. If you’ve ticked off Athens already, consider Greece’s latest destination dupe, Paros, which is set to this year’s ‘new Santorini’ (just without the crowds).  📍 RECOMMENDED: Discover our ultimate guide to Greece Which is the best Greek island to visit? If we’re talking most popular, Santorini and Mykonos are always going to be top of the list. But Greece has more than 6,000 islands and islets, each with its own unique vibe and all worth visiting for entirely different reasons. Crete is Greece’s biggest island, in the south of th
The 40 best party songs ever made

The 40 best party songs ever made

What makes a good party song? Is it uplifting lyrics? Or maybe it's an uptempo production?Throughout the decades, they’ve come in all shapes, sizes and vibes. However, for a song to be a proper, hip-shaking party song, there are some rules: it’s gotta be a banger, and it’s gotta give you absolutely no choice but to get up and boogie.  No wonder then that this list includes everything from funk, soul and disco classics to ‘90s RnB tunes and 2025 chart-toppers. There’s a tonne of variety on here, so pass the aux cable over to us and we’ll have your party shaking in no time. Ready to throw some shapes? You’re in the right place – these are the best party songs of all time.  RECOMMENDED: 🎵 The best songs of 2025 so far 🕺 The best albums of 2025 so far 🎤 The best karaoke songs🍻 The best drinking songs🎶 The best ’80s songs🎊 The best pop songs This guide was recently updated by Georgia Evans, who covers Time Out’s music section. Entries are by Time Out Editors. For more about how we curate, have a look at our editorial guidelines.
The best rooftop gardens in London

The best rooftop gardens in London

London looks its absolute best when it’s bathing under a blazing sun and bright blue sky. So, on the rare occassion that we’re blessed with such weather, it would be a waste not to head upwards and absorb gorgeous views of the capital in all its shining glory. The city is spoiled with dozens of rooftop bars ready to stand to attention come summertime. But if it’s just greenery, panoramic vistas and a fresh breeze you’re after, one of London’s rooftop gardens may just do the trick instead. Some of the city’s high-rise gardens stay fairly quiet and zen most of the year, while others are attached to buzzy restaurants or host DJs and live music during peak season. So, whether you want a peaceful stroll in the clouds or you’re after some sunny sky-high vibes, these are all of London’s best rooftop gardens. RECOMMENDED: The best outdoor spaces in London.
The 40 best things to do in the UK right now

The 40 best things to do in the UK right now

Thinking of heading to the UK? Great choice. England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales are packed with jaw-dropping sights, fun-filled nights out and endless cultural offerings for you to fill your calendar to the brim. The Time Out team has spent a hell of a lot of time travelling up and down the country, really getting to know the big sights and local legends – and by now, we like to think we know a thing or two about what is actually worth your precious time. And trust us: you won’t be disappointed. From Cornwall’s crashing surf to Scotland’s rugged peaks, to the buzz of Notting Hill Carnival and secret spots locals whisper about, there’s something for everyone here. These are the best things to do in the UK in 2025.  What are the best events in the UK throughout the year? Where do we begin? In April, join in infectious crowds at the Manchester or London marathons. Head to Somerset for Glastonbury in June (if you’re lucky enough to get tickets, that is), and go up north for all sorts of cultural happenings at the Manchester International Festival come July. In August, we’d recommend Brighton for Pride, London for Notting Hill Carnival and Edinburgh for the month-long Fringe arts festival. The Scottish capital is also a great place to celebrate New Year’s Eve with their Hogmanay street party to see out the year.  Where are the most scenic places to visit in the UK? If it’s dramatic landscapes you’re after, no trip to the UK is complete without spending time in the Scott
The best running routes in London – recommended by the pros

The best running routes in London – recommended by the pros

There’s something in the air right now. Everywhere you look in London – from the paths of Victoria Park to the pavements of Southbank – you’ll see people running. Sporting their hydration vest, sucking on gels and glancing at the Garmin watch on their wrist. But they’re not trying to catch the tube or escape a god-awful first date, they’re just… running. For fun.  Londoners have well and truly caught the running bug. But who can blame them? This city is blessed with all kinds of terrain to explore when you want to get the endorphins flowing. If you’re not in the mood for jogging down busy central streets, there are wild heaths, flat towpaths and beautiful canalside trails on your doorstep instead. With race season in full swing and the London Marathon just around the corner, Time Out asked some of the city’s keenest runners for their favourite running routes in the capital. These people have run miles and miles of the city, broken records and harnessed the power of running to build thriving communities. So they know their stuff.  There’s no gatekeeping here. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or just fancy a slow and steady 3k from time to time, these are some brilliant routes to try out next (and a few words of wisdom, in case you need the motivation). RECOMMENDED: 🏃 Your winning guide to the London Marathon 2025 📍 The best run clubs in London The best running routes in London Adele Roberts, DJ Photograph: Adele Roberts Where is the best place to run in London?  ‘The place
The 40 best summer songs of all time

The 40 best summer songs of all time

There’s no season more welcome than the start of summer. Brighter days, warmer temperatures and more time outdoors results in an uplifted mood and a general lust for life. It also helps when you have a stellar summer playlist – the kind that draws on golden classics and modern hits alike to really add a healthy dose of that feel-good feeling we all love. Here at Time Out, our team of writers and editors have you covered when it comes to the most essential summer anthems. From a Bill Withers staple to some Sabrina Carpenter sparkle, our playlist of the best summer songs captures all the fun, warmth and mood-lifting magic you want when it comes to soundtracking your summer months. RECOMMENDED: 🎤 The best karaoke songs ❤️ The best love songs🎉 The best party songs🕺 The best albums of 2025 so far
The 8 best team-building activities in London

The 8 best team-building activities in London

Work-dos are a hard art to master. How do you find something that strengthens your team spirit and that everyone in the office, across multiple generations, is actually going to find fun?  Stuck for ideas? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re after some healthy competition among co-workers or an activity that requires all your colleagues to work together, London has a load of classic and quirky ways for your team to let their hair down. So, take notes, we’ve rounded up the best of them. These are some of the top places in the city to go to build your office bonds.  RECOMMENDED: The best office party venues to hire in LondonThe top London venues for a private bash 
The best lidos and outdoor swimming pools in London

The best lidos and outdoor swimming pools in London

In the sweltering city heat, few things are more inviting than the prospect of plunging into one of London's finest al fresco swimming pools. And everyone knows it. The capital has well and truly caught the open-air bathing bug over the last few years. Even in the depths of winter, you’ll spot a brave bunch – wetsuits and all – diving head first into the immensely cold waters of London lidos. But that also means that on the hottest days of the year, you’ll need to book well in advance if you want to secure a poolside spot. The good news is that there’s a bounty of places for getting your outdoor swim fix in the city. That’s not to mention all the wild swimming spots a little further afield. Heated or unheated, regimented lanes or wide open water, serious fitness or chilled family fun – these are all of London’s best lidos and outdoor swimming pools for whatever floats your boat. RECOMMENDED:🏊 The best swimming pools in London.🌡️ The best saunas in London. 💦 The best waterparks in London
I rode the fastest train in Africa – and found Morocco’s most underrated city

I rode the fastest train in Africa – and found Morocco’s most underrated city

Morocco is a place where ancient ruins neighbour glistening new skyscrapers, and where souks, unchanged for decades, live a stone’s throw from world-leading cultural centres. It’s also a place where one day you’re chugging through rural mountain villages, the next you’re hopping on a double decker bullet train – the first and only high-speed train in Africa and one of the fastest in the world, in fact.  Since launching in 2018, that speed shuttle (named Al Boraq) has opened up Morocco in a whole new way. It connects six Moroccan cities, including Casablaca, Marrakech and Fez, but with just three days in the country, we used it to explore two places that tend to fly a little more under the radar – Tangier and Rabat.  Tangier: where the ocean meets the sea With the wild Atlantic ocean to one side and the warm Mediterranean sea to the other, Tangier is thought of as Europe’s ‘gateway into Africa’ – we flew there in just over two hours from London, but you can also get an hour-long ferry from Marbella. We stay in the swish but very conveniently located Hilton Tanger City Centre, but our introduction to Tangier begins further out, on the outskirts of the city.  Photograph: Amy Houghton for Time Out We spend the next morning a half hour drive from the centre at Cape Spartel, the northwesternmost point of Africa. The headland, topped by the oldest lighthouse in Morocco, overlooks the exact point that the Mediterranean and the Atlantic meet. Spread with pine trees and roamed by wil
The 50 best karaoke songs ever made

The 50 best karaoke songs ever made

Whether you’ve got the voice of an angel or you’re totally tone deaf, karaoke unites us all. But heed our warning: choosing the right song is crucial (aka, don’t opt for that Whitney Houston tune if you haven’t the range. And if you don't have good enough flow, steer clear of rapping. Kapeesh?) So we thought we’d help out a little bit. In our list of the best karaoke songs ever, we’ve got everyone from Adele to Toto, and from Frank Sinatra to Ricky Martin. There's even recent singalongs from Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan. Something for everyone. So down that shot, grab that mic and take to the stage. Your audience awaits you. Here are the best karaoke songs ever.  RECOMMENDED:❤️ The best love songs☀️ The best summer songs🎉 The best party songs🕺 The best albums of 2025 so far  
The 14 best restaurants in Cardiff for 2025

The 14 best restaurants in Cardiff for 2025

Cardiff is arguably one of the best-kept foodie secrets in the UK. While it might get overlooked in favour of some more famous destinations, all that means is there’s more scrumptious food on offer for those who are wise enough to buck trends and head to the Welsh capital.  Many of the UK’s most innovative chefs have set up shop here, including the likes of Pembrokeshire’s Tom Simmons, and restaurants across the city have inventive, artistic dishes flying out of their kitchens – but don’t get us wrong, Cardiff also knows a thing or two about classic, hearty, comforting food too. Be you after a posh, Michelin-starred spot for a special occasion or just a trusty, locally-recommended spot for a day of sightseeing, here is our handpicked roundup of the city’s best restaurants. RECOMMENDED:🎨 The best things to do in Cardiff🏩 The best Airbnbs in Cardiff🌉 The best things to do in Wales☀️ The best things to do in the UK This guide was recently updated by Sophie Williams, a writer based in Cardiff. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Listings and reviews (70)

Camden Market

Camden Market

What is it?  Technically several adjoining markets, this sprawl of stalls stretching from Camden Town tube to the Regent’s Canal is London’s fourth most popular visitor attraction. In its recent heyday, around 250,000 people came here every week to shop, sample street food and soak up the distinctive, still-grungy atmosphere. Camden Lock Market is an arts-and-crafts haven while the Stables Market is a trendy spot for everything from quirky furniture to fetish clothing. Nearby Buck Street Market on Camden High Street has had a shipping container revamp. As you saunter through the different markets, don’t be surprised to see grungy teenagers and old punks on the street corners. Camden feels more mainstream than it did in the ‘90s, but it’s still one of London’s most rock ‘n’ roll neighbourhoods. Why go?  To get lost in a one-of-a-kind maze of art, garms, antiques, accessories, books and endless street food.  Don’t miss The Cheese Bar – London’s only fully fromage focused restaurant – for all manner of gooey, cheese-based delights in a classy, low lit space in Stables Market.  Ticket info  No tickets needed.  When to visit  Camden Markets are open everyday of the week from 10am until late.  Time Out tip If you find the lunch queues and options a bit too much in the main Camden Lock Market, cross the road to Buck Street Market where you’ll find food that is just as great and are more likely to find a free spot to sit.  RECOMMENDED: London’s best markets
Fortnum & Mason

Fortnum & Mason

What is it?  In business for over 300 years, Fortnum & Mason is as historic as it is inspiring. A sweeping spiral staircase soars through the four-storey building, while light floods down from a central glass dome. The iconic eau de nil blue and gold colour scheme with flashes of rose pink abounds on both the store design and the packaging of the fabulous ground-floor treats, such as chocolates, biscuits, teas and preserves. A food hall in the basement has a good range of fresh produce; Fortnum’s Bees honey comes from beehives on top of the building. There are various eateries, including an ice-cream parlour. The famous hampers start from £60 – though they rise to a whopping £6,000 for the most luxurious. A sweeping spiral staircase soars through the four-storey building, while light floods down from a central glass dome. The iconic F&M eau de nil blue and gold colour scheme with flashes of rose pink abounds on both the store design and the packaging of the fabulous ground-floor treats, including chocolates, biscuits, teas and preserves. What does it sell?  A food hall in the basement has a good range of fresh produce; Fortnum’s Bees honey comes from beehives on top of the building. There are various eateries, including an ice-cream parlour. The famous hampers start from £60 – though they rise to a whopping £6,000 for the most luxurious. The first floor is for homewares: china- and glassware as well as finishing touches such as silver scoops for stilton, F&M coloured linen
Browns

Browns

What is it?  Since launching in 1970, Browns has played an instrumental role in the careers of some of the world’s biggest fashion titans. Founder Joan Burstein (the ‘fairy godmother of fashion’) is credited with discovering John Galliano after stumbling across his graduate collection and later on, stocking the work of (at that time) a little known designer named Alexander McQueen.  Mrs B, as she was known, also introduced the likes of Comme des Garçons, Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein to the British fashion scene. More than 50 years later, Browns continues to champion young and emerging designers. After being acquired by fashion website FarFetch in 2015, Browns moved its flagship store on South Molton Street to a Grade II-listed eighteenth century building on Mayfair’s Brook Street in 2021.  What does it sell?  There are more than 100 established and next-gen designers jostling for attention at Browns, from Chloé and Dries Van Noten to Balenciaga and Christian Dior. The first floor hosts a carefully curated collection of apparel, shoes, bags, fine jewellery, accessories and homewear and the Yellow Room is where the most  luxury of luxurious brands reside. More high-fashion pieces are on display in the Focus Room on the ground floor.  Opening times Tuesday to Saturday 10.30am-6.30pm. Closed Sunday and Monday (but can open by appointment).  Time Out tip On the ground floor, you’ll also fine 123V Browns, a fully plant-based, award-winning sushi restaurant. Menu highlights inclu
Harvey Nichols

Harvey Nichols

What is it? Part of an esteemed UK chain, Harvey Nicks is a one-stop shop for luxury fashion and lifestyle goodies. Though it may have been in its Knightsbridge pad since 1831, it stays true to its ethos of bringing new and innovative products to a wider audience.  What does it sell?  Makeup junkies should head to the ground floor beauty and perfumery space to pick up established brands like Charlotte Tilbury and Shu Uemura, or to glowup with treatments from the Light Salon, Shavata, Duck & Dry and Nail’d It. Womenswear takes up the next three floors, with swimwear and a Denim Gallery on the third levels, while menswear can be found down in the basement. The clothing rails are full of top labels such as Alexander Wang, Balenciaga and Givenchy, and there’s an excellent array of accessories and beauty buys from luxurious brands such as Tom Ford and COR (whose soap contains real silver). Finish off proceedings with lunch on the fifth floor, where the buzzy food department is located along with The Fifth Floor Cafe, Burger & Lobster, Trullo and Madhu’s Brasserie.  Opening times Monday to Saturday 10am – 8pm, Sunday 11:30am – 6pm (browsing from 11.30am – 12pm).  Time Out tip  Forget Vinted and Depop – if you’ve had a recent wardrobe cull, Harvey Nichols will take any high-end pieces that are still in decent condition. It’ll do all the hard selling work for you, all you need to do is drop the items off. Once they’ve found a new home you can get  a Harvey Nichols voucher with a sw
John Lewis

John Lewis

What is it?  There is a reason why John Lewis is one of the most respected and liked shops in Britain and it’s not a complicated one – John Lewis sells good products, in a pleasant environment, served by knowledgeable and amicable staff. Add to that its sensible ratio of quality to price for all its products, and you quickly see why John Lewis retains its rightful crown as the retail world's safe pair of hands. The store offers one of the most civilised places on Oxford Street to shop – with a commodious food hall stocked with culinary partner Waitrose’s goods (complete with walk-in cheese room), the swanky 1864 Rooftop Bar, the Jamie Oliver Cookery School on the third floor, a Waterstones and four cafes to choose from.  What does it sell?  This enormous store in the centre of the city offers a broad sweep of electricals, homeware, fashion, gifts, furniture and leather goods, each coming with the reassurance of JL’s nonpareil ‘never knowingly undersold’ guarantee and lenient returns policy. Arguably the strongest selling point is the lower ground-floor cookware and white goods section, where an excellent range of kitchen staples is backed up by exemplary customer service. Other strengths include its sprawling beauty hall, technology, schoolwear and a brilliant haberdashery for those knitters struggling to find decent wool. Opening times  Open Monday-Wednesday 10am-8pm; Thursday 10am-9pm; Friday-Saturday 10am-8pm and Sunday 11.30am-6pm.  Time Out tip Why not pair your retail t
Fenwick Brent Cross

Fenwick Brent Cross

What is it?  After 130 years, luxury department store Fenwick left its iconic outlet on Bond Street in February 2024 but its flagship store in Brent Cross Shopping Centre is still going strong.  What does it sell?  The three storey emporium offers up everything you expect from any good department store – apparel, homewear, beauty bits and accessories from classic and emerging high-end brands like Stella McCartney, Viviene Westwood, Ganni, Jo Malone and Our Place. There’s also a wee horticultral section downstairs, selling fresh plants and a bunch of tools and sprays to help your patch bloom.  Opening times  Mon-Fri 10am-8pm; Sat 9.30am-8pm; Sun 11.30am-6pm. 
Brockwell Park

Brockwell Park

What is it?  Brockwell Park is a much-needed slab of green (84 acres) just south of Brixton. Locals from the surrounding areas flock here in summer to sun-worship (if they’re lucky), fly kites, play football, swim in the outside pool, garden in the community greenhouses and parade a stunning array of dogs. The vast space was once the private grounds of Brockwell Hall and was opened to the public in 1891 by the London County Council. The hall still stands today and is one of several grade II listed buildings dotted about the park, including the emerald green Tritton Tower Clock, which was gifted to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.  Why go?  It's big, diverse and interesting, with numerous areas to appeal to different tastes, from the calm, rolling meadows around Tulse Hill and walled ‘Old English’ flower garden to the BMX track and sloped football pitches by the Dulwich Road. The playground in Brockwell Park is a favourite, with its aerial slide, massive sandpit and sections for different age groups; nearby you’ll find duck ponds and a huge paddling pool. There’s also a lovely little minature railway open at the weekends May to October, weather permitting – it’s not particularly massive but it’s been just £1 for a return for years now. Don’t miss:  Regular events at the park include circuses and a busy schedule of summer concerts and festivals including Wide Awake, Mighty Hoopla, Field Day and Cross the Tracks. But one of the most beloved annual events is the Lam
Big Ben

Big Ben

What is it?  Big Ben is technically the name of the 13-ton bell that chimes the hours from the clock tower of the Houses of Parliament in Westminster. Since 2012, the tower itself has officially been called the Elizabeth Tower. And before that, it was known very unimaginatively as just ‘the Clock Tower’. Still, when most of us talk about Big Ben, we mean the whole thing –bell, clock, tower and all.  Designed by architect Charles Barry as part of the Palace of Westminster, the Clock Tower was completed in 1859. The Great Clock started on 31 May that year, with the chimes of the Great Bell (that is, Big Ben himself) heard for the first time on 11 July and the quarter bells first chimed on 7 September. The Victorian clockwork still keeps surprising accuracy, thanks to a counterweight that relies on the stacking of old pennies.  You may recall that the tower was shrouded in scaffolding and its bells went silent from 2017 to 2022. The clock underwent a major five-year renovation, marking the first time that it had been removed from the Elizabeth Tower during its 160-year lifetime. It emerged more glistening and golden than ever.  Why go?  So you can say that you’ve seen what is arguably London’s most legendary landmark in the flesh.  Don’t miss The Big Ben tours. Sure, seeing it from the street is nice, but you miss out on so much of the structures details and intricacies if you never step foot inside. You climb 334 spiral steps from the bottom of Elizabeth Tower to the belfry r
The View from the Shard

The View from the Shard

What is it?  Spread across floors 69 to 72 of Western Europe’s tallest skyscraper, the View from the Shard provides the most magnificent 360° views of the city you can get.  Your journey starts the minute you step foot in the lift. Look up, because screens in the ceiling provide fascinating facts and hypnotic visuals as you hurtle 800ft skywards to the first viewing gallery on floor 69. From here you can explore three more levels by foot (don’t worry, there is another lift if you can’t manage the stairs), with walls of windows providing an incredible backdrop and an open-air skydeck on floor 72. There are London experts dotted about the deck to guide you through your view (if you want), sharing stories of the city’s past and offering recommendations fror whatever kind of London experience you’re after.   Why go?  To look down on the Big Smoke in all its shining glory. All of London’s most legendary landmarks are visible (provided it’s not extremely cloudy!), including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London and even Wembley Stadium over in Brent. and the Tower of London. On a nice clear day, views stretch as far as Southend-on-Sea.  Don’t miss Watch out for the different events going on here throughout the year. Every Wednesday from 2pm-4.30pm, there’s live music to make your visit even more atmospheric and every so often there are yoga classes offering a chance to practice sun salutations in the clouds.  When to visit Opening times change throughout
Up at The O2

Up at The O2

What is it?  You want stunning views of London? You’ve got to earn it. In this adrenaline-pumping experience, you’ve got to scale the height of the O2 in order to see unique vistas of Greenwich, Olympic Park, Canary Wharf and beyond. But it’s worth it.  You’ll be kitted out with boots, a suit and a harness and get a quick safety briefing before you start your 170ft  ascent. For the 90 minute experience, one of The O2’s guides will lead you along the springy walkway all the way to the top. You pull yourself via safety lines, clipping and unclipping carabiners along the metal bars leading to the top. The steepest incline you’ll have to tackle on your way up is about 28-degrees. Once you reach the summit, you’ve got 20 minutes to breathe in the fresh air, admire the panorama of the city, take a selfie or two and discover some facts about London’s landmarks before reattaching yourself to the rail and heading back down. The return route a little longer and steeper.  It’s suitable for ages 8+ and anyone at least 1.2 metres tall.  Why go?  For thrills and views.  Don’t miss If you ask us, the best experience at Up at the O2 is the sunset climb. You head up the venue as the sun goes down, meaning you get incredible shades of pink, orange and yellow backdropping your London views. Just make sure to wear an extra layer or two.  When to visit In the summer climbs are from 10am-8.30pm daily and in the winter 10am-6.30pm daily. Peak season is from June to August.  Ticket info  Prices depe
Thames RIB Experience

Thames RIB Experience

What is it?  Never mind the river buses. If you want some excitement on the Thames – the kind that 007 himself would encourage – step aboard the super speedy RIB. This ‘rigid inflatable boat’ will have you hurtling up and down the river in no time with 740 horse power behind you and ‘V8’ twin turbo thrust. No, we don’t know what that means either, but we do know that the RIB can do speeds of up to 30 knots (roughly 35 mph). It’s a pure adrenaline experience. Journeys range from 20-minute blasts to a full 75 minutes. The former either takes you from Tower Millennium Pier past The Shard, Tower of London and HMS Belfast or from The O2 Arena past the Thames Flood Barrier and Greenwich. The longest trip includes the lot. You can choose to have detailed commentary along the way, or there are experiences that keep it to a minimum. Life jackets and waterproof clothing is provided, and all ages are welcome, but there is a minimum weight requirement of three stone (15kg). Why go?  For the fastest, most thrilling way to travel the Thames. Don’t miss The Thames chase scene in ‘Spectre’ was filmed on one of these vehicles, so naturally, Thames RIB offers an ‘Ultimate Spy Experience’. Passengers are taken past some of the most recognisable Bond locations, zooming down the river with the likes of Paul McCartney’s ‘Live and Let Die’, Adele’s ‘Skyfall’ and Shirley Bassey’s ‘Diamonds are Forever’ blasting through the speakers. There’s also an onboard quiz with a chance to win a 007-themed pri
London's Royal Docks Open Water Swimming

London's Royal Docks Open Water Swimming

You can dive headfirst into the Royal Docks in safety as swimmers are tagged to make sure nothing goes wrong and qualified coaching is available should you feel you’ve thrown yourself in the deep end. Race distances are marked to help those training for competitive events, but there’s also a casual area for leisure swimmers. Children aged six and over are permitted but they must be able to swim 200m without stopping, wear a wetsuit and a tow float and be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

News (1583)

This beloved Hackney venue is at risk of closure

This beloved Hackney venue is at risk of closure

The Bath House in Hackney Wick could be forced to close following a Hackney Council decision to end its lease.  Sat inside the restored Victorian baths at 80 Eastway, the multi-use, not-for-profit space is a regular host of one of Time Out’s top nights out in London, Giant Steps. But it’s a lot more than that. The Bath House is home to a cafe, bar and multiple events spaces and studios where people go for things like community-led life drawing classes, ice bath sessions, craft workshops and live music of almost every kind. It describes itself as ‘a local institution, fuelled by care and collectivism’. Now, the Bath House has launched a petition calling on local leaders to intervene in the council’s plan. It says that it was made without due process.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Bath House (@the.bath.house.hw) On its website, the Bath House wrote: ‘This is about more than a building—it’s about who gets to shape our cities. The Bath House stands as a living model of what’s possible when local people are empowered to lead: a self-sustaining civic hub generating not just public benefit, but deep social wealth.’ At the time of writing, the petition has gathered nearly 4,000 signatures. One signatory said ‘I regularly come to London from Oxford just for the ecstatic dances at the Bath House. This community saved me and is a wonderful, healing, fantastic gem,’ while another commented ‘I can’t imagine life without this space. It’s been a home and
This remote village pub has been crowned England’s ‘pub of the year’

This remote village pub has been crowned England’s ‘pub of the year’

As the country’s official tourist board, you can trust that VisitEngland knows it’s stuff. Every year, it scours the length and breadth of the country, searching for the crème de la crème of English hospitality. And every year, it reveals its winners at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, spotlighting everything from the finest hotels to the greatest tourist attractions.  Of course, there’s no way you can talk about English hospitality without mentioning the great British pub. Boozers, taverns and free houses are stalwarts of British life and there are tens of thousands of them scattered across England. But VisitEngland reckons there’s one that stands out above the rest.  The Farmers Arms in the small Devonshire village of Woolsery (aka Woolfardisworthy) took the title of VisitEngland’s ‘Pub of the Year’ for 2025. Visit England said: ‘Combining rustic charm with a modern twist, the pub serves up hearty, locally-sourced meals and a wide selection of craft ales and ciders. With its cosy interiors and an inviting beer garden, The Farmers Arms is the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring the Devon countryside.’   Photograph: VisitEngland   Set within a restored Grade II-listed pub, the Farmers Arms serves up dishes made with ‘hyper-seasonal’ cuisine from its own kitchen garden. Punters can expect elevated versions of all the British classics and a family-style Sunday roast feast that lays all the dishes out on the table ‘so everyone can get stuck into what they lik
Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour setlist revealed – what to expect at London Tottenham Stadium shows this week

Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour setlist revealed – what to expect at London Tottenham Stadium shows this week

One down, five to go. Beyoncé arrived back in north London on Thursday to kick off six nights at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for her star-spangled, rootin’ tootin’ Cowboy Carter tour. And night one was dazzling.  At her first 2025 show here in the capital, Bey told the crowd: ‘London you're so beautiful. I feel so honoured to be standing on this stage. I'd like to say thank you all for so much support over so many years, I love you and I thank you.’ No, Beyoncé, thank you.  Across nearly three hours, the megastar serves a seven-act rodeo featuring all the songs from Cowboy Carter, plus R&B favourites from Renaissance (in case you got FOMO from the last tour) and several bangers from her back catalogue. Keep reading for the full setlist.  RECOMMENDED:The ultimate guide to Beyoncé in London: Cowboy Carter Tour timings, dates, set list and everything you need to know. When is Beyoncé performing at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium?   Queen Bey will be playing at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium again on June 5, 7, 10, 12, 14 and 16. The full London setlist for the Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour So far, Bey’s setlist at Hotspur Stadium has looked like this:  ‘AMERIICAN REQUIEM’ ‘Blackbird’ (The Beatles cover) ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ (John Stafford Smith & Francis Scott Key cover) ‘Freedom’ ‘YA YA / Why Don’t You Love Me’ ‘AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM’ ‘SPAGHETTII’ ‘Formation’ ‘MY HOUSE’ ‘Diva’ ‘ALLIIGATOR TEARS’ ‘JUST FOR FUN’ ‘PROTECTOR’ ‘FLAMENCO’ ‘DESERT EAGLE’ ‘RIIV
All Points East has announced Cleo Sol as its next 2025 headliner

All Points East has announced Cleo Sol as its next 2025 headliner

Festival season is in full swing, folks. Things kicked off a few weeks back with Field Day and Gala Festival, shortly followed by Mighty Hoopla and LIDO. And there’s much, much more to look forward to.  Among the festivals still to come is All Points East, which returns to Vicky Park in August. RAYE and Chase & Status are among the headliners that have already been announced for the multi-weekend event. Now, it’s been revealed that acclaimed soul singer Cleo Sol will be topping the bill on the festival’s opening night, in her biggest headline slot to date.  On the same day, there’ll be an opportunity to witness an incredibly rare performance from the mysterious multi-genre collective SAULT (led by Cleo herself and producer Inflo). Here’s all the information you need to make sure you don’t miss out.  RECOMMENDED: The best music festivals in London 2025.  When is Cleo Sol playing All Points East?  Cleo Sol is headlining the festival on Friday, August 15.  Who else is on the lineup?  Cleo will be joined by reggae artist Chronixx and anonymous collective SAULT, in what will be their second ever live performance following an appearance at Drumsheds in 2023. All Points East has promised that more names will be announced in the lead up to the festival.  Image: All Points East When do tickets go on sale?  Tickets for Cleo Sol’s headline show will go on general sale at 10am on Thursday, June 12. They’ll be up for grabs here.  Is there a presale?  If you want tickets before anyone el
London tube and train closures this week: full list of travel disruption for June 9-13

London tube and train closures this week: full list of travel disruption for June 9-13

After a weekend full of major events like LIDO Festival, Beyonce’s Cowboy Carter tour and London’s inaugural SXSW, Monday has rolled back around. And that means we’re back with another essential edition of all the train disruption across London that you need to know about this week.  So whether you’re just spending the week commuting to work or have a bunch of exciting evening plans to get to, here’s a roundup of all the Transport for London cancellations, delays and closures you can expect over the next four days.   RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in London this week.   Central  TfL has warned of severe delays from Leytonstone to Hainault and minor delays between Hainault and Woodford on Monday and Tuesday. Overground  Mildmay  The westbound Mildmay line between Stratford and Camden Road will shut at 11.45pm each day from Monday to Thursday. On Wednesday and Thursday, eastbound services from Willesden Junction to Stratford will stop from 11pm.  Weaver  On Tuesday and Thursday, the 9.33pm and 10.03pm Weaver trains from Liverpool Street to Chingford won’t run. The 10.10pm, 10.40pm and 11.10pm trains from Chingford to Liverpool Street are also called off on those days.  Windrush  There’ll be no Windrush trains between New Cross Gate and Crystal Palace and West Croydon after 11.30pm from Monday through to Thursday.  Station closures Cutty Sark (DLR)  Cutty Sark station will be closed until spring 2026 while TfL replace all four escalators at the station. Passengers should us
Pitbull at London’s O2 Arena: start time, tickets, potential setlist and what you need to know

Pitbull at London’s O2 Arena: start time, tickets, potential setlist and what you need to know

If you happen to be around Greenwich this week, prepare yourself for an influx of people donning suits, aviators and, most importantly, bald caps. You know what that means? Yep – after playing a huge sold out show at the London O2 back in February, Pitbull is coming back for more.   View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out London (@timeoutlondon) Last time Mr Worldwide was here, he told the crowd: ‘I hope when you put on those bald caps you feel just like I do: having a good mother-fucking time every day of my life.’ And who doesn’t want that? If you’re ready to party, here’s everything you need to know ahead of Pitbull’s Party After Dark London shows, round two.  When is Pitbull playing at London’s O2 Arena? Mr Worldwide will be back at the O2 Arena on Monday, June 9 and Tuesday, June 10.  What are the timings? Doors will open at 6.30pm on both nights and Pitbull appears on stage around 9.15pm. Curfew is at 11pm.  What’s the setlist? Based on last time, the show will be brimming with a load of absolute bangers. Here’s the setlist from February to give you an idea of what to expect.  Don't Stop the Party Hey Baby / Are You Gonna Go My Way Hotel Room Service International Love Whoomp! (There It Is) (Tag Team cover) Sweet Child o' Mine / Rain Over Me Interlude (Intro DJ Mix 1) I Feel Good Suave The Anthem Shake / Culo I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho) Gasolina (Daddy Yankee cover) Interlude (Intro DJ Mix 2) On the Floor (Jennifer Lopez cover) I Like
Beyoncé in London: Cowboy Carter Tour timings, dates, set list and everything you need to know

Beyoncé in London: Cowboy Carter Tour timings, dates, set list and everything you need to know

Beyoncé’s Renaissance tour at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was a colossal occasion. Across five nights in summer 2023, the Beyhive descended on north London in their droves, decked out in rhinestones, cowboy hats and leather jackets for the megastar’s first world tour in seven years.  But, thankfully, she hasn’t made us wait that long again. Just two years later, Beyoncé is back at the stadium with more breathtaking stage production, flawless choreography and mesmerising vocals for the Cowboy Carter tour (full title: ‘Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin’ Circuit Tour’).  Planning to be in north London for a real-life boogie and a real-life hoedown with Beyonce herself? Here’s all the important info you need.  When is Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour in London? She played her first London shows on June 5 and 7. There are four more to go on June 10, 12, 14 and 16. What time will Beyoncé come on stage? Doors to the stadium open at 5pm and for her London shows so far, Beyonce has appeared on stage at around 7.45pm.  Are there any tickets left? Yes, there are actually quite a lot of tickets still up for grabs for each of Bey’s London dates via verified resale on Ticketmaster or on Viagogo.  How much do tickets cost? At the time of writing, the Ticketmaster resale tickets start from £103.50 each and there are tickets on sale on Viagogo from £72.  What’s the full setlist for the Cowboy Carter Tour?  The nearly three hour Cowboy Carter setlist features all the songs from the album plus sev
Two London restaurants are among the best in the world for 2025

Two London restaurants are among the best in the world for 2025

With thousands and thousands of establishments to compete with, being named one of the best restaurants in London is an impressive feat in itself. So to be named one of the finest restaurants in the entire world (out of an estimated 15 million potential candidates), is pretty monumental.  Every year, World’s 50 Best Restaurants reveals its prestigious list of (guess what!) the 50 best restaurants on the planet, based on votes from more than 1000 industry experts. The 2025 ranking is being released later this month, but before that, World’s Best has unveiled the restaurants ranked 51-100. And two London establishments were the only UK restaurants to make the cut.  Mountain in Soho soared 20 places up from its ranking last year, coming in at number 74. Founded by chef Tomos Parry (the same guy behind Brat), Mountain was one of the city’s most hyped restaurants when it launched in 2023. The judges called the menu at Mountain ‘cutting edge and experimental’, highlighting its ‘spider crab omelette and beef sweetbreads sitting alongside mutton chops and the signature smoked potatoes’. London’s second entry on the longlist sits at number 86: Shoreditch’s two Michelin-star joint The Clove Club. The judges at 50 Best said: ‘The Clove Club’s interpretation of ‘modern British’ is refreshing and full of surprises, with produce from across the UK reinvented in creations that showcase natural flavours and playfully mingle with tradition.’ Leonie Cooper, Time Out’s food and drink editor, g
‘This is their way of phasing us out’: inside the busking battle in central London

‘This is their way of phasing us out’: inside the busking battle in central London

It’s a glaring hot afternoon and noise permeates Soho: shrieks of kids on school trips, ’80s anthems blaring from pedicab speakers, the clumsy honks and growling engines of passing traffic. Turn the corner into Trafalgar Square and you’re met with the sounds of amplified guitar strums and the sight of a growing crowd of couples tapping their feet, toddlers bobbing their knees and teenagers clapping their hands in time to a rendition of Coldplay’s ‘Viva la Vida’. Busker Johan Satre has them in a gleeful trance.  After waiting in a queue of buskers since 8.30am before finally getting a slot at midday, Satre has a firm hold over his audience of around 40 to 50 people (a smaller crowd than normal, he tells me afterwards). After his grand finale (‘Dancing Queen’ by ABBA), the crowd line up to tap their phones onto his contactless machine as another busker starts to set up equipment within a large yellow circle marked on the ground – one of the few legal amplified busking pitches left in the borough.  For as long as streets have existed, so have street performers. For centuries, fiddlers, troubadors, bards and one-man bands have serenaded the capital city, with the likes of Rod Stewart, Simon and Garfunkel and Ed Sheeran among those honing their trade on London’s streets. At the same time, buskers have always been a divisive feature of the city. After several centuries of existence, they were only effectively legalised in the 1980s when British courts ruled buskers were in fact not
You can ride a vintage 1930s train on the London Underground next month

You can ride a vintage 1930s train on the London Underground next month

Many a train have travelled beneath London streets since the Underground first opened more than 160 years ago. Back in 1863, steam locomotives chugged along the Metropolitan line. Then, as the Underground got deeper, more electric vehicles were rolled out and by 1960, the whole network was electric.  Now, while we await the futuristic new trains promised for the Piccadilly line, London Transport Museum is is offering people the opportunity to ride the dark blue line on an actual art deco Underground train from 1938. Photograph: London Transport Museum The restored heritage train will be running along the Piccadilly line from Friday, July 11 to Sunday, July 13. Unfortunately, normal tube charges won’t apply and you can’t just tap in, tap out. If you want to ride the vintage vehicle, you’ll have to buy a ticket in advance. Prices vary according to each day (although all kids under three go free), so here’s a breakdown.  On Friday, the train will take passengers on a return journey from Northfields and around the Heathrow loop via Terminal 4. With four services throughout the day, a ‘gold’ ticket for the front carriage is £30 for adults and £20 for kids, while a bronze ticket is £25 and £15.  Photograph: Eleanor Bentall The following day, it’ll make three 90 minute return journeys from Acton Town to Uxbridge. That’ll be £27.50 if you want to sit in the front or back carriages (£17.50 for children), and £25 (£15 for kids) for the rest.  On the final day of the train’s outing,
Sam Fender at London Stadium: start time, tickets, potential setlist and what you need to know

Sam Fender at London Stadium: start time, tickets, potential setlist and what you need to know

It’s time – Sam Fender is coming back to London with for one of his biggest shows yet. The People Watching tour at London Stadium will be the Geordie singer’s first ever stadium show in the capital, but experts reckon he’s more than up for the job. When Sam played two nights at the O2 Arena back in December, Rolling Stone said: ‘If the first of these London shows is anything to go by, those stadium dates will be a walk in the park. Across two hours, Fender proves that his thrilling music – emotional heartland rock by way of an old soul from a Tyneside fishing town – was always going to end up on this level.’ Here’s all the information you need if you’re heading to see Sam Fender at London Stadium this week (and if you want to bag some last minute tickets).  RECOMMENDED: The best London gigs and concerts in June.  When is Sam Fender playing London Stadium? Sam Fender will be performing at London Stadium tomorrow night (Friday, June 6).  What time do doors open? Fans can start entering the stadium from 5pm.  What time will Sam Fender come on stage? London Stadium hasn’t confirmed exactly when Sam will kick off his performance, but based on previous shows, you can expect him to appear some time between 7.30pm and 8.30pm.   What’s the seating plan? Here’s a look at the set-up inside the stadium for Sam Fender’s show.    Image: London Stadium   Who’s supporting Sam Fender?  Two former Time Out cover stars will be opening up the show – CMAT and Olivia Dean. You can expect their s
Massive Attack at LIDO 2025 in Victoria Park: set times, full lineup, tickets and everything you need to know

Massive Attack at LIDO 2025 in Victoria Park: set times, full lineup, tickets and everything you need to know

Major news, folks – LIDO festival is making its debut in less than 24 hours. And the brand new event in east London’s Victoria Park promises to be one hell of a party.  Across two weekends, the likes of Jamie xx, London Grammar and Charli XCX will be taking to the stage in the park’s 5000-capacity Lido Field. For its inaugural day, LIDO is being headlined by none other than legendary trip-hop band Massive Attack. The whole thing will kick off mid-afternoon on Friday, with sets from acts like French duo Air and Mercury Prize-nominated singer Tirzah before Massive Attack appear later in the evening. Got plans to be there? Here’s everything you need to know.  When and where is Massive Attack at LIDO Festival? The trip-hop duo is playing at LIDO Festival in Victoria Park’s Lido Field on Friday, June 6. Their set is scheduled to start at 9.25pm.  What’s the full Massive Attack LIDO lineup and set times?  Main Stage  3.35-4.05pm: Hunny 4.45-5.25pm: Tirzah 6pm-6.45pm: 47Soul 6.45pm-7.30pm: DJ Milo 7.30pm-8.30pm: Air 9.25pm-10.55pm: Massive Attack Stage 2 4.05pm-4.45pm: Everything is Recorded 5.15pm-6pm: Mad Professor 6.30pm-7.30pm: Yasiin Bey Festival map Here’s how the festival will be laid out.  Image: LIDO Festival How to get to LIDO festival The recommended tube stations for LIDO are Mile End (District, Central and Hammersmith and City lines) and Bethnal Green (Central line). But remember that there are no night tube services on the District or Hammersmith and City lines.