What To Do | Washington Mayfair Hotel Blog

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN AUGUST 2018

August in London is teeming with fantastic events, cultural happenings and things to do. Enjoy the capital’s many outdoor and open-air activities to make the most of the warm summer days. Make sure you hit a film summer screening or two (or more), take advantage of the sunshine by getting involved in some outdoor events and visiting one of the many exhibitions. Don’t forget that welcome bank holiday at the end of the month, the highlight of which is the immense Notting Hill Carnival.

FILM 4 SUMMER SCREEN – from 9th to 22nd August

Watch modern and classic movies under the stars at gorgeous Somerset House this summer. Last year, the open-air film festival presented a mixed programme of UK premieres, old favourites and Cannes award-winning films in full surround sound, as well as DJ sets inspired by the films and special guest introductions. Films start at 9pm, but doors open at 6.30pm. Arriving early you can enjoy a picnic listening the DJ playing music inspired by the film. For more information or to buy tickets visit the official website.

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL – 25th – 27th August

Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s biggest street festival, is a vivid spectacle representing London’s multicultural past and present. Elaborate floats and colourful costumed performers wind their way through the streets to the sound of steel bands and calypso music. Watch the carnival parade, join in the fun and visit the tempting food stalls at one of London’s biggest and best annual events. The Carnival celebrations take over the areas of Notting Hill, Ladbroke Grove and Westbourne Park. Visit Notting Hill Carnival website for more information.

BBC PROMS – until 8th September

The BBC Proms is an eight-week summer season of daily orchestral classical music concerts and other events held annually, predominantly in the Royal Albert Hall. From classical favourites to contemporary world premieres and family concerts, the BBC Proms offer a stage for leading musicians, singers, orchestras and soloists from across the world with a broad programme of music. Visit the official website for more information.

SENSATIONAL BUTTERFLIES, NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM – until 16th September

Enjoy a fun family day out among hundreds of live butterflies and moths in the tropical butterfly house at the National History Museum. Most of the creatures in the Natural History Museum have been dead for a very, very long time. But here, in this humid tent on its lawn, you can see the most beautiful birth sequence in the natural world: a butterfly wriggling out of its chrysalis, pumping up its damp wings then taking flight and landing, maybe on you, instead of a flower. Book your tickets.

UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL – until 30^th September

Enjoy a fun-packed festival of live entertainment and al-fresco eating and drinking at Underbelly Festival in South Bank. Stretching throughout the summer, the festival stages affordable circus, theatre, cabaret, comedy, music and children’s shows on the south bank of the Thames. Visit the official website for more information.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN JULY 2018

With so much going on, July is the perfect time to explore London. Outdoor attractions and open-air events, sports galore, pop-ups to boot, and festivals like no other month – we’re big fans of July. We’ve put together a list of the best events and attractions that are going ahead throughout the month. Stay with us this summer and enjoy the best of the city…..

SUMMER STREETS ON REGENT STREET – from 1st to 22nd July

Enjoy the rare spectacle of a traffic-free street with art, music, fashion and family activities on Regent Street. The festivities will take on a different theme each week, with free entry, installations, demonstrations and activities to get stuck into. Sundays: 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd July 2018. Visit the official website for more information.

WIMBLEDON – from 2nd to 15th July

Wimbledon is the oldest tennis tournament in the world. It now attracts over 500,000 spectators for two weeks every year and has some very old-school rules about what the players can and can’t do. Players from more than 60 nations compete in front of a crowd of millions worldwide, through the press, radio, internet and television. Experience two weeks of first-class tennis, strawberries and cream, and good-natured queuing, at the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships. Visit the official website for more information.

RHS HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW – from 3rd to 8th July

Run by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), who also manage the Chelsea Flower Show, the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show attracts around 130,000 visitors every year. RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show is world’s biggest annual flower show. Enjoy Show Gardens, the Rose Marquee, Floral Marquee, plant pavilions and a variety of talks, demonstrations and exhibits. Plus, get tips on gardening in a changing climate and shop for garden supplies to create your own little oasis at home. Visit the official website for more information.

BUCKINGHAM PALACE TOUR: SUMMER OPENING – from 21st July to 30th September

Every summer London’s most famous house opens for tours with an accompanying exhibition. Visit the official London residence of the Queen, as Buckingham Palace opens its doors to the public. During a visit to Buckingham Palace, visitors can see the nineteen magnificent State Rooms which provide the setting for ceremonial occasions and official entertaining. All rooms are furnished with many of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection. Every year, Buckingham Palace’s summer opening features a special exhibition. This year’s Prince and Patron exhibition celebrates the 70th birthday of Charles, Prince of Wales, with a special display of more than 100 artworks chosen by the prince. The items on display include paintings, decorative arts, furniture and textiles. Visit the official website for more information.

THE LUNA CINEMA – until 6th October

Enjoy an outdoor screening of your favourite movies in some of London’s most iconic locations this summer. The beauty of this touring outdoor cinema is walking into a palace, Royal Park or other equally magical location with a picnic just as everyone else is leaving. Luna’s most popular venues include Kew Gardens, Kenwood House on Hampstead Heath and Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. This year, for the first time, they will be also be screening in the gardens outside Westminster Abbey. Visit the official website for more information.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN JUNE 2018

June is a magical month to be in London. With warm weather and an events calendar packed with festivals, sports, free entertainment and more, this month is a lively and exciting time to visit London. Here at The Washington Mayfair we will bring you the top things to do in London during June, allowing you to make the most of your visit.

TROOPING THE COLOUR: THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARADE FREE – 9^th June

Watch troops from the Household Division honour the Queen’s official birthday with a fantastic military parade that has taken place in London for two centuries. This impressive display of pageantry takes place on a Saturday in June by Her Majesty’s personal troops, the Household Division, on Horse Guards Parade, with Her Majesty the Queen herself attending and taking the salute. Over 1400 officers and men are on parade, together with two hundred horses. Over four hundred musicians from ten bands and corps of drums march and play as one. The parade route extends from Buckingham Palace along The Mall to Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall and back again.

If you do not have tickets for the Trooping the Colour ceremony on Horse Guards Parade, you can join the crowds of spectators on the edge of St James’s Park overlooking Horse Guards Parade or along The Mall for the parade. For more information visit the official website.

OPENING OF THE QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE GALLERIES – from 11 June 2018 to 31 December 2022

For the first time in 700 years, it’s about to open to the public eye as a new museum space. Currently being reinvented as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries, it will make its debut June 11, and at an ultimate cost of $32.5 million, it’s described as the most significant addition to the church since 1745. The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries offer spectacular views of the church and the Houses of Parliament.

The galleries will show off a range of artifacts and ephemera that demonstrate the strong connection between the Abbey and the monarchy. There are centuries-old stained glass panels, manuscripts, and medieval funeral effigies of kings, as well as the more modern vestments used for the Queen’s 1953 coronation. Oh, and the marriage license of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, a.k.a. Prince William and Kate Middleton will also be on view. For more information visit the official website.

HORSE RACING: ROYAL ASCOT 2018 – from 19 to 23 June 2018

Experience the world-famous race meeting and one of the most fashionable events in London’s sporting calendar at Royal Ascot. Founded by Queen Anne in 1711 and steeped in tradition, heritage and pageantry, Royal Ascot is attended by members of the Royal Family, including the Queen herself. Royal Ascot also features a daily horse-drawn procession from Windsor Castle to Ascot Racecourse led by the royal carriage. For more information visit the official website.

MICHAEL JACKSON: ON THE WALL AT THE NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY – from 28 June to 21 October 2018

Michael Jackson is to be the subject of an exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery looking at the late singer’s influence on art. Almost 10 years after his death, the London gallery said the way he inspired contemporary artists was “an untold story”. The exhibition coincide with what would have been Michael Jackson’s 60th birthday. Discover the lesser-told story of the King of Pop’s impact on visual art with works from several generations of contemporary artists, including Andy Warhol, Grayson Perry, Maggi Hambling, Catherine Opie and Gary Hume. For more information visit the official website.

REGENT’S PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE – until 15 September 2018

Spend the warm summer evenings watching theatre shows in an idyllic venue with the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre 2018 Season. Events featuring:

Peter Pan (17 May-15 Jun)
The Turn of the Screw (22-30 Jun)
As You Like It (6-28 Jul)
Little Shop of Horrors (3 Aug-15 Sep)
Dinosaur World Live (14 Aug-9 Sep)

For more information visit the official website.

CHANGING THE GUARD AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE

Changing the Guard, also known as Guard Mounting, takes place outside Buckingham Palace from 10.45am and lasts around 45 minutes, with the actual handover taking place at 11am. The Buckingham Palace Old Guard forms up in the palace’s forecourt from 10.30am and is joined by the St James’s Palace Old Guard at around 10.45am. The New Guard then arrives from Wellington Barracks and takes over the responsibilities of the Old Guard in a formal ceremony accompanied by music. The ceremony is free to watch and currently takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, weather permitting.

FATHER’S DAY AT THE WASHINGTON MAYFAIR HOTEL

One day a year. That’s all. Make it special this year with a trip to London experiencing the sophistication and finesse brought to you whilst you stay in Mayfair London. This great city has so much to offer. Whether you are here for a day or three weeks there is always something to do for anyone. Discover an assortment of pubs, theaters, restaurants and so much more. If you find yourself wanting to stay an extra few nights or planning on spending more than just a day in London with your family take advantage of the Washington Mayfair’s offer of 4 nights for the price of 3. Find the offer here.

We are also offering an exclusive Father’s Day Afternoon Tea – £29.50 per person – Get 50% off by celebrating with your father. See menu here and book now.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN APRIL 2018

Its official! Spring has landed in London; Sunny warm weather is just around the corner. Enjoy free outdoor events in April in London, including the London Marathon, cultural celebrations and Easter activities. Here at The Washington Mayfair we will bring you the top things to do in London during April, allowing you to make the most of your visit.

THINGS TO DO ON EASTER WEEKEND 2018 – from 30 March to 2 April 2018

From London Easter Egg hunts and interactive family attractions, to a spectacular Good Friday performance and traditional Easter Sunday lunch, find Easter activities and opening times in London. Keep the whole family entertained over the Easter holidays with the round-up of the best things to do during this Easter 2018 in London. From Easter egg hunts and special Easter events for kids and grownups, to the best chocolate shops and Easter opening hours in London, plan a fun-filled Easter break in the capital. More Easter 2018 events will be added as they are announced, so do check again closer to the date to find out what’s on in London at Easter including:

Easter Weekend 2018 Events in London
London Easter Egg Hunts and Trails
Easter Chocolate in London
London Easter Sunday Lunch
Spring Blooms and Baby Animals
Family Attractions and Activities for Kids in London
Easter Weekend Shows in London
Easter Opening Hours and Transport in London

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN MARCH 2018

There’s so much happening in London all year round – London’s events calendar is always busy! Although the weather may still be quite cold, the first signs of spring appear in March in London.

We’ve put together a list of events to keep you occupied during your stay with us!

ORCHIDS FESTIVAL AT KEW GARDENS – until 11th March 2018

Kew Gardens’ celebration of the orchid returns for its 23rd year, this time with a focus on the plantlife of Thailand. See the Princess of Wales Conservatory transformed by floral installations celebrating Thailand, admire handcrafted Thai umbrellas, and walk through beautiful arches and tunnels decorated with rare orchids. Breathe in the fragrance of hundreds of beautiful flowers and discover the importance of orchids in Thai medicine, cuisine and culture. Experience the exhibits during the evening with Orchids Festival: After Hours, where you’ll get the chance to try botanical cocktails, catch live traditional dance performances, enjoy a Thai massage, and even take part in insect tastings! Visit the official website for further information.

FERRARI: UNDER THE SKIN AT THE DESIGN MUSEUM – until 15th April 2018

Take a look behind the scenes of one of the world’s most iconic car manufacturers with Ferrari: Under the Skin at the Design Museum, 70 years after the launch of the first Ferrari car in 1947. In an Italy ravaged by the Second World War, Enzo Ferrari and a small team decided to create the perfect racing machine. The exhibition will explore Ferrari’s powerful personality, the design and manufacturing process, the famous clientele and the future of the luxury car brand. From the very first Ferrari to Michael Schumacher’s winning Formula One car and the newest hybrid model, the exhibition features rare cars and memorabilia displayed in public for the first time. Discover the Ferrari experience through original hand-drawn sketches, sculpture-like models and engines, alongside films and interviews telling one of the great design stories of all time.

ABBA: SUPER TROUPERS AT SOUTHBANK CENTRE – until 29^th April 2017

For the first time, objects from ABBA the Museum and private archives will be brought together in the UK, charting the success of Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, from their individual careers to that Eurovision Song Contest win and their subsequent international stardom. ABBA: Super Troupers is a guided exhibition which goes beyond the surface of the group to transport you on a journey through previously unseen archive material including ABBA’s original costumes, handwritten notes and sketches, personal photographs, music and instruments. It will also feature album artwork, photography and film by notable collaborators such as film director Lasse Hallström. Visit the official website for further information.

CHANGING THE GUARD AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE

THINGS TO DO ON EASTER WEEKEND 2018 – from 30 March to 2 April 2018

From London Easter egg hunts and interactive family attractions, to a spectacular Good Friday performance and traditional Easter Sunday lunch, find Easter activities and opening times in London. Keep the whole family entertained over the Easter holidays with the roundup of the best things to do during Easter 2018 in London. From Easter egg hunts and special Easter events for kids and grownups, to the best chocolate shops and Easter opening hours in London, plan a fun-filled Easter break in the capital. More Easter 2018 events will be added as they are announced, so check back closer to the date to find out what’s on in London at Easter including:

Easter Weekend 2018 Events in London
London Easter Egg Hunts and Trails
Easter Chocolate in London
London Easter Sunday Lunch
Spring Blooms and Baby Animals
Family Attractions and Activities for Kids in London
Easter Weekend Shows in London
Easter Opening Hours and Transport in London

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN FEBRUARY 2018

Get ready for an amazing February. This month brings romance, fashion and pancakes to London with city-wide celebrations. Here at The Washington Mayfair we will be bringing you the top things to do in London during February, allowing you to make the most of your visit.

PANCAKE DAY IN LONDON: PARLIAMENTARY PANCAKE RACE – 13th February 2018

Pancake Day takes place 47 days before Easter Sunday. Because the date of Easter Sunday is dictated by the cycles of the moon, Pancake Day can occur anytime between February 3 and March 9. This year’s batter action takes place on Tuesday February 13 2018. Treat yourself and join in the fun on Pancake Day in London. Staged in the shadow of the Houses of Parliament, the Rehab Parliamentary Pancake Race is one of London’s must-see annual attractions where MPs, Lords and members of the media “batter” it out to see who will be crowned champions on Shrove Tuesday, February 13. The relay race attracts hundreds of Londoners and tourists who flock to see the runners dress up in pinnies and chefs’ hats to raise awareness of the important work carried out across the UK by the Rehab disability charity.

The race will be overseen by pancake race veteran ITV newscaster Alastair Stewart OBE. Among the well-known TV faces intending to show off their pancake-flipping prowess in 2018 will be the BBC’s James Landale and Will Boden, Channel 4’s Michael Crick, and ITV News’ Romilly Weeks.

Members of the public wishing to support the work of Rehab’s brain injury services across the UK can visit www.parliamentarypancakerace.co.uk to donate.

CHINESE NEW YEAR 2018 – 18th February 2018

Celebrate Chinese New Year 2018 in London on 18 February during the free annual event across London Chinatown and the West End. Enjoy a colourful Chinese New Year parade, Lion dances in London’s Chinatown, delicious Chinese street food, and free entertainment and a spectacular pyrotechnic display in Trafalgar Square, marking the Year of the Dog.
Dragon and Lion dances will kick things off on Charing Cross Road at 10am, shimmying down through the streets to China Town. At noon, Trafalgar Square’s main stages will spring into action with traditional dance shows, contemporary hip-hop acts and Chinese performers. Food trucks will also be stationed there and restaurants in Chinatown will have special festive treats on their menus. If you’ve got kids in tow, you can entertain them with calligraphy workshops, dressing up and performances in the Leicester Square family zone before heading back to Trafalgar Square for the closing pyrotechnics display.

DIANA: HER FASHION STORY AT KENSINGTON PALACE – until 28th February 2018

Discover how Diana used her image to inspire people and to champion the causes she cared about through an extraordinary display of some of her most iconic outfits. Take a closer look at the glamorous gowns from the 1980s and the chic working outfits she used to wear in the 1990s, and see how Diana established herself as a trendsetter, princess and patron. The Princess’s relationship with her favourite designers is explored through a display of original fashion sketches created for her during the design process.

FERRARI: UNDER THE SKIN AT THE DESIGN MUSEUM – until 15th April 2018

ABBA: SUPER TROUPERS AT SOUTHBANK CENTRE – until 29^th April 2017

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN JANUARY 2018

January is the perfect time to forget about the stress of Christmas and plan your trip to London. With so much going on in London this January here are some helpful tips on the must see events and experiences.

NEW YEAR’S DAY PARADE – 1^st January 2018

London will be hosting a magnificent parade on New Year’s Day at 12 noon. The Parade will be made up of huge floats and balloons perfect for families to enjoy and be part of this London tradition that started in 1987. Catch the festivities along the parade route, which runs from Green Park Tube station at 12pm, to Parliament Square at around 3.30pm,via Piccadilly Circus, Lower Regent Street, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square and Whitehall.
The Washington Mayfair is the ideal choice of hotel as it would allow you to be away from the crowds on and around the days of the parade but just 30mins from the attraction.

LUMIERE LONDON – 18^th – 21^st January 2018

Bigger, brighter and bolder, the Lumiere light festival returns for a spectacular second edition. More than 40 UK and international artists reimagine London’s iconic architecture and streets, transforming the city into a dazzling nocturnal art exhibition. Free to visit and taking place north and south of the river Thames, the UK’s largest light festival extends its reach across the capital. Everyone is invited! Visit the event’s website to download a map showing you the locations and dates of the exhibits.

BURNS NIGHT IN LONDON – 25^th January 2018

On the 25th of January it is Burns Night. While Burns Night is commonly celebrated in Scotland it has become more of an annual celebration outside of Scotland. This lively night celebrates the famous Scottish Poet (Robert Burns) who died in 1796. The night is filled drinking, dancing and energetic music that is sure to uplift anyone and instill joy and laughter. Many pubs in London are offering deals, music and a great atmosphere to fully experience the night and this great Scottish tradition. Make the most of your trip to London with the Winter Warmer offer from The Washington Mayfair hotel. To find out more about this limited time offer click here.

ABBA: SUPER TROUPERS AT SOUTHBANK CENTRE – until 29^th April 2017

CHANGING THE GUARD AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN NOVEMBER 2017

The British winter is well known for being long, dark and cold, but that’s no reason to hide inside. This month the city comes alive, illuminated with thousands upon thousands of dazzling Christmas lights. The festive cheer in the air and the huge array of world renowned shops such as Harrods make London a great place to spend the festive season.

There are plenty of things to do in November in London. We’ve put together a list of events to keep you occupied during your stay with us!

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM ICE RINK – until 7 January

Skate in a magical winter haven in the heart of the city at the Natural History Museum’s open-air ice rink. The spectacular rink is surrounded by thousands of fairy lights and features a glittering 30ft (9m) Christmas tree. Book your skate session online to guarantee your place or buy your tickets from the box office when you arrive. Remember, you may have to wait for your turn on the ice if you haven’t booked your session in advance, especially during peak times. Visit the museum’s Cafe’ Bar for winter warmers, and watch the skaters glide on the ice from the cafe’s balcony. Non-skaters are welcome. Visit the official website for more information.

BONFIRE NIGHT FIREWORK DISPLAYS IN LONDON – from 3 to 5 November

Remember, remember the fifth of November…..each year London marks the historic moment when Guy Fawkes and his motley crew attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and Kind James I in the Gunpowder Plot of 5 November 1605. The day became known as Guy Fawkes Day or more commonly Bonfire Night. The main firework action takes places on Sunday 5th November, but events will run before and afterwards. You can enjoy traditional Bonfire Night food and drink, alongside music, funfairs and family activities. Visit the following website to find the list of the best local firework displays in London on Bonfire Night.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN LONDON – from 7 November to 5 January 2018

Nothing signifies the approach of Christmas more than the glow of seasonal street lights. From the shimmering lights on Oxford Street to the beautiful decorations illuminating Covent Garden, don’t miss the world-famous London Christmas lights as the city is gloriously decked out for Christmas. Here’s our list to when London’s festive lights are switched on in some of the capital’s biggest shopping destinations.

Oxford Street (7th November)
Carnaby Street (9th November)
Covent Garden (14th November)
Marylebone (15th November)
Regent Street (16th November)

EFG LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL 2017 – from 10 to 19 November

The Festival returns to the city in November, for ten days jam-packed with heavyweight musical talent from across the globe, bringing a wealth of international legends to London’s concert halls – with new music, emerging British stars and outstanding collaborations all added into the mix. The festival takes place across a series of impressive venues including the Barbican, Royal Festival Hall, Kings Place and more.

Visit the EFG London Jazz Festival official website to find all the locations of the event, who is playing this year and to book your tickets.

WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK -from 17 November to 1 January 2018

Only a 15 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. New attractions for 2017 include the Magical Ice Kingdom Deep Sea Adventure brimming with ice and snow sculptures, an alpine-style village with karaoke huts for festive sing-a-longs and Cinderella on Ice. Visit the official website and book your favourite attractions.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN OCTOBER 2017

In October, London is a month of festivals, changing leaves and so many things to do and see. So why not come down and visit us a the Washington Mayfair Hotel. Our locations is in the heart of London city and offers a great location to stay when visiting this great city.

In this article we will be exploring some events and experiences that will be happening during the month of October in London.

LONDON RESTAURANT FESTIVAL – from 1 to 31 October

October is the month to enjoy amazing dining experiences for less at some of the capital’s best restaurants. Enjoy great-value special menus, amazing one-off chef-led events and a special series of gastronomic activities, including restaurant tours and wine tasting. Visit the official website for more information.

Staying with us, don’t forget our lovely restaurant. Join us at Madisons restaurant and try our chef’s delicacies.

ERDINGER GERMAN OKTOBERFEST AT GREENWICH PENINSULA – from 5 to 22 October

With German beer, food and entertainment on offer, enjoy a taste of Germany in picturesque Greenwich during the Erdinger Oktoberfest from Germany. The traditional Bavarian beer hall with a capacity for 3,000 guests plays host to some of Munich’s most famous Oktoberfest bands, as well as modern pop acts and DJs. Over 40 expert Bavarian waitresses will also be flying over to serve the guests and train British staff how to carry up to 10 masses of beer at one time. Erdinger Weißbräu Privatbrauerei, the world’s largest wheat beer brewery, is on hand to provide the beer and there’s also a funfair and Alpine-style huts selling German souvenirs. Visit the official website for more information.

FRIEZE SCULPTURE 2017 IN REGENT’S PARK – until 8th October

Explore a free outdoor exhibition featuring 25 new and significant works by some of the world’s most famous sculptors with Frieze Sculpture 2017 in Regent’s Park’s English Gardens. Highlights of the sculpture trail include works by Ugo Rondinone, Gary Hume, Eduardo Paolozzi, Gary Hume and Emily Young. You can also join a guided tour of the open-air display, or download the free Frieze Sculpture Audio Tour app, with descriptions of all the artworks on show. Find more info.

DIWALI FESTIVAL 2017 – 15 October

Join in the Diwali festivities in London. Fireworks across the dark winter sky, tempting and exotic aromas of Indian feasts in the air, music and laughter, celebration and lights….colourful lights, everywhere in Trafalgar Square. Thousands of people come together to celebrate the Hindu, Sikh and Jain festival of lights. Diwali is timed to coincide with the new moon in October or November, so the actual date varies from year to year. This year, Diwali is celebrated on and around 19 October, however, the Trafalgar Square celebration takes place on 15 October. The programme includes music and dance stage performances, family-friendly craft activities, yoga, henna art, and delicious food from India and beyond. Visit the official website for more information.

MUSEUM AT NIGHT – from 26 to 28 October

Explore museums, galleries and heritage with late-night exhibitions, Halloween-themed events, quirky activities and spooky guided tours, Museum at Night is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy London’s culture and history in a new light. Find the list of all the museums visiting the official website of Museum at Night.

We are the perfect place to stay during your Halloween weekend!

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN SEPTEMBER 2017

Summer is not over! September is still warm enough to enjoy some outdoor events in London. In this month the city welcome an exciting line-up of architecture, fashion and music festivals.

Here at The Washington Mayfair we will be bringing you the top things to do in London during September, allowing you to make the most of your visit.

BBC PROMS – until 9th September 2017

OPEN HOUSE LONDON – 16th and 17th September 2017

Open House London is the event that give you the extraordinary opportunity to explore for free more than 800 churches, museums, public buildings, private houses, schools and offices that are not usually open to the public. Join also tours, guided walks and activities. Admission is free to all Open House events, but many venues and tours require advance booking or entry into a public ballot. For more information visit the official website.

THE LUNA CINEMA – until 21st September 2017

LONDON FASHION WEEK FESTIVAL – from 21st to 24th September 2017

Experience a day out as a fashion insider with the London Fashion Week Festival at The Store, 180 The Strand. Taking place just after London Fashion Week (15 to 19 September), one of the “big four” fashion trade shows in the world, and in the same venue, this public festival formerly known as London Fashion Weekend lets everyone in on the fabulous world of fashion. Spot the latest fashion trends for the AW17 season with catwalk shows featuring pieces from renowned designers and up-and-coming talents. Shop more than 150 designer brands at special show discounts. Hear fashion editors, stylists and other industry experts share their stories and advice on making it into the world of fashion. Plus, enjoy a spot of pampering with beauty treatments, hairstyling and more activities. Visit the official website and book your tickets.

AMY WINEHOUSE – until 24th September 2017

See a different side to the music icon with an exhibition dedicated to the singer’s family and personal life in her hometown of Camden. Take a look through Amy’s record collection, distinctive fashion pieces, photographs and more, and see the influence her family roots and hometown had on her musical career. As well as Amy’s personal items, find a specially commissioned installation by close family friend, street artist Pegasus. Originally staged at the museum in 2013 and returning following an international tour, Amy Winehouse: Family Portrait was co-curated with Winehouse’s brother Alex and sister-in-law Riva. Visit the official website and book your tickets.

BUCKINGHAM PALACE TOUR: SUMMER OPENING – until 1st October 2017

Every summer London’s most famous house opens for tours with an accompanying exhibition. Visit the official London residence of the Queen, as Buckingham Palace opens its doors to the public. During a visit to Buckingham Palace, visitors can see the nineteen magnificent State Rooms which provide the setting for ceremonial occasions and official entertaining. All rooms are furnished with many of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection. This year’s exhibition, Royal Gifts, will tell the story of the Queen’s reign through a wide-ranging display of official gifts presented to Her Majesty during the past 65 years. With gifts representing every continent, including those from world leaders such as former US President Ronald Reagan, former South African President Nelson Mandela and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China, the exhibition will present a spectacular display of craftsmanship from across the globe. Visit the official website for more information.

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THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN NOVEMBER 2017

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN OCTOBER 2017

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN SEPTEMBER 2017