Katherine Lovage is Time Out's former Global Commercial Copywriter.

Katherine Lovage

Katherine Lovage

Articles (56)

The 13 best Airbnbs in Costa Rica for an epic rainforest escape

The 13 best Airbnbs in Costa Rica for an epic rainforest escape

Costa Rica is most likely a spot you've dreamt of visiting. But why stick to dreaming when you can turn it into a real-life adventure? Picture yourself basking in the warm sun, soaking up the crystal-clear sea, and sinking your toes into those stunning golden beaches. It's paradise, plain and simple. But Costa Rica isn't just about escaping into rainforests and forgetting the world. Nope, this place is a whole blend of cultures waiting to be explored. Think colorful markets packed with local crafts and historical sites that tell tales of the country's past. It's a treasure trove of experiences ready and waiting for you. Feeling the pull to pack your bags and head there? Us too! But before you embark on your Costa Rican journey, let us show you some of the coolest Airbnbs in the country. Get set to turn that dreamy Costa Rican escape into the adventure of a lifetime... RECOMMENDED:🌴 Check out the best things to do in Costa Rica🇨🇷 Discover the best areas to stay in Costa Rica🍲 Book a table at one of the best restaurants in Costa Rica Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Los 8 mejores Airbnbs en Niza para una escapada de cuento

Los 8 mejores Airbnbs en Niza para una escapada de cuento

Hay infinitas razones para visitar Niza, pero empecemos por las tres primeras: sol, playas de arena y socca (la quinta esencia gastronómica de la región, una especie de crêpes de harina de garbanzos). La imagen que nos devuelve la glamourosa capital de la Riviera Francesa rivaliza con cualquier postal y el mérito se lo llevan sus aguas infinitas, arquitectura clásica y calles animadas salpicadas de bares, restaurantes y tiendas burbujeantes. Un viaje que vale mucho la pena. Si estáis buscando alojamiento, quedaros en un Airbnb os mostrará la auténtica vida que se lleva en la costa, una experiencia que ni siquiera los mejores hoteles son capaces de ofrecer. ¿Tenéis vuestro pasaporte listo? Aquí está nuestra selección de los mejores Airbnbs en Niza, para que podáis visitar la Riviera Francesa con estilo. ¡Buen viaje! RECOMENDADO:🏨 Encontrad el hotel perfecto para vuestra escapada al sur de Francia🏖 Descubrid qué visitar en Francia⛵ ¿Preparados para los sitios más bonitos de toda Francia?🏡 Perdeos entre los pueblos con más encanto de Francia ¿Quién hace la selección? Aunque puede que no nos hayamos alojado en todos los hoteles que figuran a continuación, hemos basado nuestra lista en las mejores reseñas para encontraros las mejores estancias. Este artículo incluye enlaces de afiliados. Estos enlaces no tienen influencia en nuestro contenido editorial. Para más información, consultad nuestras directrices de afiliados.

14 Best London wine tasting tours

14 Best London wine tasting tours

Let’s be honest: the world of wine can seem pretty damn confusing from a layperson’s perspective. When confronted with all those endless bottles in the supermarket or at London's best bars, it can be tricky to even know where to start. And even harder, can be poring over the wine list in a posh restaurant and convincing the sommelier – or your date – that you have any clue what you’re talking about. So, if you really want to tell your merlots from your malbecs and your rieslings from your riojas, then we suggest taking a look through our list of London wine tasting classes and tours. There’s a diverse mix here, but we guarantee you’ll be dazzling your dinner party guests with your wine chat in no time. Vino you want to, ahem. Bottoms up!

11 of the best London to Europe train trips for a great escape

11 of the best London to Europe train trips for a great escape

The romance of the railway might be hard to find in London – cramming yourself into a delayed service at rush hour is only going to get you raging, not wide-eyed. But travelling by train doesn’t have to be so stressful. In fact, it can actually be quite relaxing, especially when you have your very own seat and views flashing past you that can only be described as stunning. Finding an aesthetically pleasing new adventure is easy, thanks to London’s great transport links. Whether you fancy heading to a different part of the UK or over the Channel to continental Europe for your next city break, your destination is only a hop, skip and jump away. Along the way, you’ll find picturesque mountain ranges, rugged castles, sparkling rivers and heaps of history – all so enchanting that you’ll really come to believe the old saying that it’s about the journey, not the destination.   RECOMMENDED:The best city breaks in EuropeThe most underrated travel destinations in EuropeThe cheapest cities to visit in Europe on a budgetThe best day trips from London This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The 10 best Airbnbs in Nice for a picturesque getaway

The 10 best Airbnbs in Nice for a picturesque getaway

There are several reasons to visit Nice, but let's start with just three: sun, sandy beaches, and socca. Capital of the French Riviera, this glamorous southern city has a vista to rival any postcard, thanks to glittering waters, classic architecture, and lively streets full of bars, restaurants, and bustling shops.  And if you're looking for accommodation, staying at an Airbnb offers an authentic taste of life on the coast that you just can't get at even the top hotels. Got your passport ready? Here's our pick of the best Airbnbs in Nice, so you can visit in style. Bon voyage! RECOMMENDED:🇫🇷 Check out the best things to do in Nice🏨 Stay in the best hotels in Nice👙 Head to the best beaches in Nice Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The 14 best Airbnbs in New Orleans

The 14 best Airbnbs in New Orleans

It's time to get funky in the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans. Explore the multitude of streets that burst with charm and character, and sample tasty cuisine like boiled crawfish (hello, it's the seafood capital after all) and po' boy baguettes. Mmmm. All that walking and eating is exhausting, but where to stay to complete your visit? Lucky for you, New Orleans is bursting at the seams with unique Airbnbs, from enormous penthouses (with pools) to cute little library rooms full of worn-out classics. So whether you’re there to sample New Orleans’ fabulous bars, and restaurants, or you’re headed up there for a festival, choose an iconic Airbnb before you go. Here are our top picks.  Updated April 2024: Keep your eyes peeled for two new properties in this list – especially if you're a fan of artistic interiors.  RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in New Orleans🏨 The best hotels in New Orleans Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The 14 best things to do in North Wales

The 14 best things to do in North Wales

North Wales is an absolute treasure trove – there’s no other way to put it. From the majestic, mountainous landscape of the nation’s number one tourist attraction to the charming seaside towns and scenic coasts, this lovely patch of the world has a bounty of destinations to explore.  There’s a Mediterranean village, an incredible historic library, gorgeous vistas and chances to throw yourself into extreme sports, to name just a few of the activities on offer. The best things to do in North Wales cover lots of ground, but you can expect natural beauty, buckets of character and poetry around every corner. Check out our roundup below. RECOMMENDED:🌤️The best national parks in the UK🌃The best places to visit in the UK🍃The best hikes in the UK🏖️The best beaches in the UK

7 brilliant bike tours in London

7 brilliant bike tours in London

From hopping on a double-decker to sliding into a black cab to catching the tube to sailing along the Thames in an Uber Boat. In London, you're hardly pressed for options when it comes to getting around. Yet when it comes to exploring the city first-hand, there are few better ways of exploring than pedalling your way through it, especially on that rare occasion when the sun is out. So whether you’re looking to get busy on a Santander Cycle or just wanting to find an expert guide able to whizz you around on an informative tour, London’s got plenty of fab bike tours for you. Below we’ve rounded up some of the finest tours on two wheels. Whether you're wanting to experience London culture or just have some organised fun for a few hours, take a look at the tours below and get your pins pumping. RECOMMENDED: Try a London bus tour instead This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

The 9 best attractions in Munich

The 9 best attractions in Munich

The best attractions in Munich represent everything that makes this city such a thrilling visit, from its outstanding art museums to delicious food markets. Munich is famous for its beer gardens and for good reasons, but the best things to do here will offer you plenty of distractions to keep you out of the booze tents – for a while at least.  When you come to Munich, you often come for the infamous beer scene, but leave with memories of the glistening mountain spas, musing over the vast and unique collections of Brandhorst alongside other noteworthy museums, and meandering through the sublime gardens. So, if it's the best of the best you're after – the cream of the crop, the top table – you've come to the right place because we've rounded up our favourite Munich attractions. RECOMMENDED:📍Check out the best museums in Munich🏨 Book a stay at one of the best hotels in Munich This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

London’s best tenpin bowling alleys

London’s best tenpin bowling alleys

There are few things more satisfying than letting loose that perfect bowl, watching it spin down the lane and clatter down the skittles for a sweet strike. Whether you’re a bumpers-up, gutter-shooting, ramp-using no-hope or a foot-sweeping, self-styled tenpin pro, there’s a lot of satisfaction to be had in lumping a heavy, three-holed ball down a laminated lane. London has no shortage of brilliant tenpin bowling alleys in which to show off your skills. Some come with arcades, pool tables, bars and live music, while others are designed specifically for you to focus on the game and that alone. So lace up and pick a lane – these are London’s best bowling alleys. RECOMMENDED: an oral history of Rowans Tenpin Bowl.

Top wine tours in Paris

Top wine tours in Paris

France is the world’s most famous producer of wine. It’s not hard to see why either, thanks to 17 different regions that produce everything from sparkling Champagne to deep, intense Burgundies. Today, France is still the leading exporter, but for those who aren’t connoisseurs, it can all be a tad intimidating. Luckily, vin-curious visitors to the capital can take their pick from our list of wine tours and tasting sessions in Paris, where expert guidance is on hand. We’ll drink to that! RECOMMENDED: The best cafes in Paris This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here. 

The 12 best Airbnbs in Iceland

The 12 best Airbnbs in Iceland

Other than the fact it should really swap names with Greenland (because it’s green and Greenland is, erm, icy), Iceland is nothing short of wondrous. This place looks incredible, it was the site of the first European Parliament and is home to not one, but two tectonic plates – you can actually see them moving apart (at 2cm per year). Plus, it’s 80 percent powered by geothermal and hydropower, so that's pretty damn cool. It’s also one of the very best places to catch the Northern Lights, resplendent in all their majestical, trippy glory. Ready for a getaway to this unique part of the globe? Well, we’ve already rounded up the best things to do on this mysterious and unique Nordic island, so all you need to do now is find somewhere to stay. And for a true taste of Icelandic living, nothing beats an Airbnb. Here’s our pick of the best Airbnbs in Iceland. Ready? RECOMMENDED:The 22 best things to do in IcelandThe best hotels in Iceland  Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Listings and reviews (9)

‘Variant 31’ review

‘Variant 31’ review

2 out of 5 stars

There’s a lot of big talk around ‘Variant 31’. It’s billed as an incredibly complex fear-fest, as close as you’ll get to gaming IRL, so much so that its opening was pushed back twice. And since 90 percent of my friends refused to join me prior to my visit (wimps), surely, I thought, this had to be good. And by good, I mean shit-your-pants terrifying. As we approached for our midweek slot, green lights shone through the windows with a menacing glare. Smoke bellowed from the tattered New Oxford Street building complex it’s housed in, congealing with blobs of rain and fogging up the street below. It would have been creepy if we hadn’t been waiting out there for 45 minutes while it ran behind schedule.  Still, once you’re inside things ramp up. Sour-faced ‘lab staff’ thrust you into hi-tech gear – a light-up military vest with a pretend gun. Then a safety briefing happens (goal: collect points by tapping your bracelet on hidden scanners and kill zombies) and then you’re thrown into the belly of the beast, along with a burgeoning dose of hyper-vigilance.  There’s a husk of a plot here. A (not so) brilliant scientist has concocted a serum to reanimate the dead. What could go wrong? Well, everything, it turns out – because his experiment went tits up and now the undead are gonna getcha. Oooooo. But despite the actors putting up a good fight (often having more fun with their elaborate deaths than we do), things are mostly one-note. Your actions don’t seem to make any difference, scar

The Mark

The Mark

5 out of 5 stars

Undeniably lavish, minus the pomp, The Mark does everything right (and makes it seem easy, too) Known for its impressive celebrity clientele, The Mark beckons the fashion-conscious with near-tangible magnetism. Why? Because ostentatious aspects of design are married with more contemporary and zealous aesthetic choices. Yes, there’s black-and-white decor and yes there are marble features, but it’s all punctured by distinctive orange hues in the form of flora, wallpapers and soft furnishings. In short, it looks really, really nice.  And the whole operation is slick and polished, from succinct check-in to simple check out. As for the suites, the bath is luxuriously deep and the wifi is speedy. Plus, it’s culinary wonderboy Jean-Georges Vongerichten who heads up the fine dining restaurant and bar offerings, so you can expect an eclectic menu with the likes of hamachi sashimi, Scottish salmon and parmesan-crusted chicken with artichokes and lemon-basil butter. Delicious. Neighborhood: A five-minute wander from Central Park and pretty close to the Guggenheim, The Met and the rest of Museum Mile, you’re perfectly located for a few days of culture. But while it may be the glistening streets of the Upper East Side that draws tourists and inner-state travellers to the hotel, it’s The Mark’s flamboyance that keeps them there.  Nearby: The Metropolitan Museum of Art: for creative inspiration Papaya King: to get your fill of hot dogs and syrupy papaya juice Bemelmen’s Bar: for a luxe dri

Skyler London

Skyler London

5 out of 5 stars

Skyler is a Wandsworth salon with an unusual premise – the hair specialists don’t use scissors. Instead, this place is all about colour. Walking into reception through giant glass doors, there’s a full display of hair product eye candy: it’s a Wonka factory for colour junkies. Oh, and there’s a blimmin’ great slide there, too. Why? Who knows. But does it really matter? A silky-haired staff member accompanies me through to a mirrored area and we talk through my grand ideas. Not someone to downplay fashion statements, I opt for a rainbow base layer and a blue streak in my fringe. (It’s worth noting that Skyler also has more natural options on offer, including the ever-trendy balayage).  All in all, the process takes a couple of hours. Pros: you don’t get neck ache because the washing area has fully reclinable chairs; the massage was heavenly; and between trips to the basin, I got to chill in an area complete with magazines, teas, colouring books and free-to-turn sweet dispensers (which I took full advantage of). In fact, waiting was almost as enjoyable as discovering my new do. And I say almost, because I got to go home looking like a bag of Skittles. Winner.

Ama

Ama

Whenever I feel despondent enough to listen to Dido unironically, I know it’s time to get a manicure. My visit to Brixton-based nail salon Ama coincided nicely with a recent bout of misery, and boy did it nourish my soul. Firstly, the store is aesthetically delicious – the outside walls are wild with foliage and the inside ones plastered with glorious images of Beyoncé, Frida Kahlo, Maya Angelou and the Guerrilla Girls. The space is small, but not cramped, the vibe is modern and the staff are welcoming. But the best thing? The signature free-from manicure therapists use eco-friendly products and polishes. By the end of the treatment, my nails looked great and I felt totally green-fingered.

Bambrows

Bambrows

Having perfectly preened eyebrows is a trend that has arrived and stayed, so I feel zero shame in admitting that I am very precious about mine. I’ve seen bad versions, from over-plucked sperms to blocky Scouse brows, and my reaction is visceral. You can imagine, then, the pulsating anxiety I had when I shuffled into Bambrows – I was about to give up one of my treasured hairy bits to unknown hands. Luckily for me, Bambrows founder, Chanice, had some of the most beautiful eyebrows I had ever seen. I sat in the chair, leaned back and we got to work. We chatted through my preferences and decided on a tidy-up with a light tint, to give my brows the appearance of thickness. The waxing was quick and almost pain-free (not entirely though, sorry), and the tint was wiped away within minutes. By the end, I was a total convert – my brows were nothing less than enviable. Oh, and I got caught taking some particularly vain selfies on the train home – the ultimate endorsement.

Millennium Hotel London Knightsbridge

Millennium Hotel London Knightsbridge

4 out of 5 stars

Sure, it’s well-heeled tourist-central but let’s face it: there’s still plenty of appeal to Knightsbridge. Anywhere home to Harrods the Royal Albert Hall, gorgeous buildings and first-class shopping is always going to make for a sweet city break – even (especially?) to those of us who live further east. This elegant four-star hotel impresses inside. The lobby is pretty chic, with marble features and walls lined by mirrors. And the room? Beautiful, contemporary and clean as a whistle. Expect all the usual amenities – including a pretty nifty mobile phone device that helps guests from out of town discover London.  My only complaint? There is access to free wi-fi, but if you’re looking to work from your room, be warned: while I could easily access the internet on my phone, I struggled loading web pages on my laptop. Still, I would happily stay here again – after all, who wants to take their work home with them anyway? 

House of Lady Muck

House of Lady Muck

House of Lady Muck is part of a new generation of salons. The delightfully trendy space in the Oxford Street outpost of Topshop is occupied by a thorough wash of millennial pink, blooms and persian carpets – a Wes Anderson-esque daydream. It’s a cutesy, small space, but it doesn’t feel cramped. The moment I sit down I’m offered a drink (naturally I opt for champagne) and I begin flicking through some artfully-curated colour swatches. I opt for the 40-minute gel manicure (£40), and the chipped ghost of nail polish past is swept away from my mistreated talons. The technician files my nails to almond-shaped perfection, cures my cuticles of their unevenness and lightly buffs without damaging my natural nails. Not one for minimalism (although understated chic is HOLM’s forte) I go for pink glitter which is neatly applied and topped off with gloss. The cherry? An indulgent, moisturising arm massage that’s given with such tenderness I could drift off in my chair.

New Motion at Lightbox

New Motion at Lightbox

Lightbox is a compact venue nestled within the Vauxhall arches, close to Vauxhall Station. Usually a vibing club where house music reverberates through to your very soul, this popular South London spot transforms itself during the week into an even sweatier workout space courtesy of fitness collective New Motion. The space is undeniably cool. In fact, wandering in feels a little strange, especially if you’re used to corporate or dreary gyms. Not only are the walls covered in twinkling LEDs, there’s a bar behind you, which feels like a particularly cruel taunt during a post-work class. Luckily, as soon as the workout begins, those distractions drift away. New Motion have a mixed bag of classes on offer, including: 4Kardio Dance, HIIT x House and Vinyasa Flowz. I headed into Box ‘n’ Bass. Wraps on, I begin a supercharged warm-up where cardio takes centre stage. As everyone star jumps to the beat, the LEDs inject some fun into the workout. Then begins the boxing, where combinations and pad work are joined by some high-tempo tunes to get you really pumped. Later on in the class burpees are also thrown into the mix, as well as core-testing planking variations, squats (lots of ‘em) and sun-salutation-esque twists. It’s all pretty sweaty and tough, but it’s so much fun that it hardly seems to matter. Plus, punching things whilst listening to Pow by Lethal Bizzle is nothing short of hilarious.

All Star Lanes White City

All Star Lanes White City

When All Star Lanes first opened in 2006, they were right up our alley. Now, they’re adding to their super-striking bowling empire, with a new Miami-themed venue in Westfield, White City. Turning up the heat, the decor here is fashion-fusion, where London luxury meets modern Miami flair. Naturally, palms are pretty much everywhere, and they’re joined by ten sleek bowling lanes, private rooms, karaoke, and toasty outside terraces. Between turns, you can nibble on Americana classics, sample Miami-style seafood and sip clever cocktail concoctions.

News (18)

Orgasm ahoy! See ‘When Harry Met Sally’ on our movie boat

Orgasm ahoy! See ‘When Harry Met Sally’ on our movie boat

We’ll have what she’s having. Well, if what she’s having is a sunset film cruise down the Thames with a classic movie, anyway. Yep, it’s all hands on deck, because Time Out’s exclusive cinema boat will be showing ‘When Harry Met Sally’ on July 27. Your chance to jump aboard London’s only floating picture palace on the Thames, this is a cinema experience like no other. Slip on your deck shoes and a striped T-shirt, because you’ll set sail from Tower Pier and enjoy some city sightseeing while you drift. Once the sun goes down, the boat will drop anchor and you’ll get to enjoy this classic flick on the top deck. Plus, the boat is stocked with drinks and snacks – and we’ll even give you a blanket so you can get extra comfy while you catch feels. See you there! To buy tickets for ‘When Harry Met Sally’, click here. To see the full Movies on the River line-up, click here.

Hey stud, you can catch ‘Grease’ at Movies on the River next week

Hey stud, you can catch ‘Grease’ at Movies on the River next week

Why this car is automatic. It’s systematic. It’s hyyyyydromatic. Why, it’s greased lightnin’! Throw on your leathers or your pink satin jacket, because ‘Grease’ is coming to Movies on the River. That’s right – our nifty cinema boat is pitching up at Tower Millennium Pier on Wednesday July 24 so you can enjoy this classic musical on the top deck of a boat.  All aboard, because after you’ve floated down the Thames, you’ll drop anchor for some extra-special movie-watching among some equally impressive city sights. Plus, there’ll be an onboard bar with drinks and snacks, and we’ll even provide you with a blanket. We’re peachy keen, wbu? Tell me more, tell me more... To book tickets for ‘Grease’, click here, or to view all film listings, click here.

It’s back! Movies on the River is launching this week

It’s back! Movies on the River is launching this week

Kicking back on a boat is great – but you know what’s even better? Watching a film while you’re doing it. Cue Movies on the River: the best seat in the house, that isn’t in the house. Yes, London’s only floating cinema is back! A unique way to enjoy some of your favourite flicks, these sunset sessions are dreamy. Enjoy the view as you drift, then watch the big screen, nibble on popcorn and sip on a tasty bevvy when the boat docks up (in the middle of the river). And since Movies on the River is curated for you by Time Out, you know it’ll be plain sailing. So what’s on this week? Well it’ll begin with the high school, hair-slickin’, ‘Grease’, followed by ‘Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again’, the Queen biopic ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘The Greatest Showman’ and then finally, Hepburn classic ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’. Swoon. Not only that, but there’s a bar on board, so you can ensure you’re well watered, too.  If you can’t make it for these movies, no worries! The cinema will set sail from Tower Pier near Tower Bridge for five nights a week, every Tuesday to Saturday from June until August. And if you’re worried about catching the last train – don’t be! The boat will return you back to the city streets in plenty of time. Full steam ahead!  Can’t decide when to visit? To flick through the full movie schedule, click here.    

The Crystal Maze Live Experience has moved to a new West End location

The Crystal Maze Live Experience has moved to a new West End location

Start the fans! The live version of the cult ’90s game show has moved to a West End location. We head along to find out what’s new.  Like any well-rounded twentysomething, I spent my tweens drinking questionable alcopops, picking out polyphonic ringtones and watching gameshow re-runs on Challenge TV, where ‘The Crystal Maze’ really had its way with me, thanks to charismatic bald Maze Master Richard O’Brien. Fast-forward to the 2016 reboot and Stephen Merchant slipped into the presenter role, followed by current host Richard Ayoade. Sticking with the original format, the show has spawned a new set of maze devotees and inspired The Crystal Maze Live Experience escape game, which has just moved from its old digs in Angel to a new location on Shaftesbury Avenue. Now occupying the old Trocadero space (which has been given a £5 million renovation), the revamped maze is twice the size of its predecessor,  with 32 fresh crystal-collecting games and a glamorous on-site bar. A note to all escape-room nerds: the maze’s production value will make you quiver. The set-up unites the classic Aztec, Medieval, Future and Industrial zones, which are all whimsically decorated in the style of the ’90s show. As you’re led around by a Maze Master – ours was partial to innuendos like ‘put the ball in your sack’ – it’s hard not to get swept up in game-based delirium. Your team captain is in charge of choosing which person plays each game to win the all-important crystals - each giving you five pre

Leave London for an underground shell mystery in Margate

Leave London for an underground shell mystery in Margate

London’s trusty tube network shuffles us to work every day but, let’s get real, the Underground is pretty banal. Margate’s Shell Grotto, around 80 miles south-east of the Central line, puts London’s subterranean spaces in the shade. The strange underground cave is unlike anything you’ve seen before and is something of a landmark on the Thanet coast. View this post on Instagram Looking for something different to do this weekend? We are open all bank holiday weekend, 10am-5pm. 🎉 Tag someone who hasn't experienced the wonder of the Grotto yet.. 🐚#visitmargate #shellgrotto #different #wonderful #interesting #shells A post shared by Shell Grotto (@shellgrotto) on May 4, 2018 at 1:55am PDT Descending the chalk stairway, the first thing you’ll notice is the shiny walls. Very sci-fi. But lean in and you’ll see that this is no bygone ‘Doctor Who’ set. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tucker & Marks (@tuckerandmarks) on Aug 18, 2018 at 9:46am PDT The buried trail’s walls and roof are thickly covered with shells – around 4.6 million of them. Why? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Travel Dream Seekers 🌏 (@traveldreamseekers) on Dec 7, 2018 at 9:59am PST The Shell Grotto was discovered in 1835, but its purpose and age are unknown. Theories range from cults to astrology to alien intervention, but no one actually knows its origin. It’s a real-life mystery. And if that’s not enough to intrigue yo

50% off food at some of London’s best eateries with our new restaurant boxes

50% off food at some of London’s best eateries with our new restaurant boxes

There’s no use denying it: at Time Out, we can’t stop eating. Our Food team hunts down the city’s best eateries and the rest of us profit from their finds. London’s delicious – and boy, do we know it.So here’s some big news! We’ve just launched two limited-edition restaurant boxes, bagging you (and a pal, date or whatever) 50 percent off the food bill at some of London’s very best restaurants. Yep, put down that cookbook and quit your half-hearted attempt at ragú, because we’re here to banish your meal-based dilemmas. But with two boxes on offer, here’s some handy info to help you choose between them… The Favourites Box   Wanna get dishy somewhere that’s been tried and tested, Time Out-style? No sweat, dinner devotees: get a load of our Favourites Box, which gives you discounted food at 11 (count ’em!) London eateries that we’ve raved about in the past 12 months. Each restaurant in this box has a tasty four-star (at least) Time Out review, so getting your gastronomic game on point is easy. For more info, click here. The Splash Out Box If merely the mention of steak, celeriac and truffles is enough to make you start cooing like a pigeon, then we feel you. Luckily our Splash Out box runs the full gamut of London’s pedigree restaurants, giving you and a (very) lucky friend half-price food at eight of London’s fanciest spots. Want to know who’s on the menu? Click here to find out. Time Out’s Favourites Box and Splash Out Box are both on sale now. Prefer to keep it plant-based?

Don't miss the biggest Pride festival in the UK

Don't miss the biggest Pride festival in the UK

Love London Pride? Brighton is actually home to the biggest Pride festival in the UK.  A post shared by BrightonPrideOfficial (@brightonprideofficial) on Jul 15, 2018 at 9:00am PDT This year, you can dance through the rainbow-draped streets with the parade crowd at the annual ‘Carnival of Diversity’. There’s the seafront Pride Village Party, the LoveBN1 Fest, a Pride Dog Show and the Pride Pleasure Gardens, which is home to a weekend’s worth of fierce fun, including drag acts from SinkThe Pink, The Glory and more. Then there’s the Pride Festival in Preston Park, headlined by Britney. A post shared by BrightonPrideOfficial (@brightonprideofficial) on Jan 22, 2018 at 11:04pm PST Brighton Pride is a mega weekend of entertainment for sure. But with events promoting tolerance and inclusion, supporting LGBT+ organisations and charities, it’s also a super-important celebration of a diverse community.  Heading to Brighton Pride? The event runs from Aug 3 - Aug 5 2018. Find more information here.  A post shared by BrightonPrideOfficial (@brightonprideofficial) on Aug 7, 2017 at 5:19am PDT Looking for London-based LGBT nightlife? Here are the best gay bars in London Interested in queer heritage? Visit London's LGBT landmarks

The historic John Snow water pump is back in Soho

The historic John Snow water pump is back in Soho

We know, we know – water pumps are hardly the most thrilling of objects. But hear us out, because this one’s pretty major. After disappearing briefly during renovation work in Soho, a refurbished replica of the John Snow pump has been unveiled on Broadwick Street today. Originally, the water pump was the source of a deadly cholera epidemic - but luckily, now it’s just a reminder of the lives saved by Dr John Snow. Ok...but who’s he? And why care? Dr Snow’s the guy who produced evidence that cholera was waterborne, ground-breaking research that changed the way scientists investigate and treat epidemics across the world. All in all, very impressive stuff. If you’re schlepping around Soho and want to welcome back the Jon Snow pump, you can find it outside the John Snow Pub on Broadwick Street. Spending the day in W1? Here's our guide to Soho Been there, done that? Here are some more ace things to do in London this weekend

Hamleys now has an entire floor dedicated to Harry Potter merch

Hamleys now has an entire floor dedicated to Harry Potter merch

Just when you think there couldn't possibly be any more Harry Potter merch flying around London, toy-shop-titan Hamleys has partnered with Warner Brothers to unveil an entire floor dedicated to the boy who lived. Within Hamleys’s Department of Magic, you'll find collectables, wands, golden snitches (if you can catch one) and enough chocolate frogs to complete your famous witches and wizard card collection. Plus, thanks to the theatrics of the Hamleys staff, you can bet that the sorting hat will be brought to life too. (🤞 GRYFFINDOR).To get a dose of Potter pop culture, head to Hamleys flagship store on Regent's Street. Or try one of these ace Harry Potter activities in London.  More Potter? You'll Neville believe (sorry) these Harry Potter holiday spots. Think you're an expert on JK Rowling's boy hero? Test how well you know Harry Potter’s London 

Celebrate the summer solstice with sunrise rooftop yoga

Celebrate the summer solstice with sunrise rooftop yoga

Forcing our bleary-eyed selves out of a duvet pre-dawn is usually reserved for catching holiday flights, but even the most hardened night-owls should consider making an exception for what might just be the most beautiful morning of the year. The Queen of Hoxton is hosting a Summer Solstice Rooftop Yoga session, welcoming the longest day of the year and summer in London in serene style. Expect loads of early-morning stretching and posing with all the auditory delights of singing bowls, too. If you can bear the 4.30am start, you know what to do. If you can’t – and we’re not here to judge — you can downward dog at a 7am class instead. Summer Solstice Rooftop Yoga is at the Queen of Hoxton on June 21. There are two sessions: 4.30am-5.30am and 7am-8am. Tickets from £10, on sale now. Want to shavasana under the sun every day? Discover more rooftop yoga sessions.

Hackney Arts Centre is coming together nicely

Hackney Arts Centre is coming together nicely

Already a renowned den of artistic expression, another cultural dimension is opening soon in Dalston: the Hackney Arts Centre.  Initially announced last year, this multi-discipline space is an ambitious overhaul of what was originally a popular art deco cinema – the Savoy – built in 1936. Before redevelopment, the dishevelled picture house had been carved up into the Efes snooker hall and a wedding venue. The auditorium had been closed to everyone since 1984 (the last film shown there was ‘Scarface’). But the venue’s rebirth as Hackney Arts Centre will see it open at various times throughout the week, day and night – so punters will always be able to get a fix of live music, club nights, film screenings, poetry readings, comedy and more. Size-wise, there’s a pretty roomy 1,000-capacity standing venue called the HAC Hall, a 750-seater HAC Auditorium, a bar and a kitchen too. The latter will be open from 8am till late, while the venue as a whole will also provide educational initiatives in creative disciplines and a platform for emerging talent. When the doors open in August with a performance from Kevin Morby it’ll be running a special programme until everything is fully completed in 2019. Today’s first announcement of shows includes highlights such as London songsmith Lianne La Havas and Ethiopian jazz deity Mulatu Astatke as well as talks organised by 5x15 and various market pop-ups from the likes of Hackney Flea Market.  The project is being spearheaded by Village Undergrou

Test your Harry Potter knowledge at a quiz night in the actual Great Hall

Test your Harry Potter knowledge at a quiz night in the actual Great Hall

Accio Harry Potter fans – here’s your chance to prove that the wizarding world is just common knowledge to you. The Warner Bros Studio Tour is hosting Harry Potter quiz nights on the actual set this summer, where you can pit yourself against other teams to decide who’s the real master of magic. What can dedicated Potterheads expect? Definitely the opportunity to swot up beforehand, because the tour, featuring the Forbidden Forest, Diagon Alley and more, is included. Quizzers will then have a hot meal complete with butterbeer at the Backlot Café, before making like Harry, Ron and Hermione sitting their OWLs and embarking on some Sirius-ly (sorry) good quizzing in the Great Hall.  If you win, you’ll get a bag of pretty swish (and flick) exclusive HP goodies. Sorting hats off and thinking caps on. Harry Potter Quiz Nights in the Great Hall take place on Jul 5, 12 and 19 at Warner Bros Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter.  Tickets, which cost from £65, go on sale June 5 and are available to book here.  Love Harry Potter? Check out our guide to Harry Potter tours and more magical things to do in London.