Washington Mayfair Hotel Blog

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

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.

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

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. The famous Last Night performances including BBC Proms in the Park. The 123rd edition of the classical music event presents more than 90 concerts including 30 premieres. Visit the official website for more information.

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

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.

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.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN AUGUST 2017

August is one of the warmest months of the year in London. 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.

Exclusively selected for you from the Washington Mayfair Hotel, here’s the very best of London during August.

IAAF WORLD ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS – from 4th to 13th August

London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park will light up for a spectacular Summer of World Athletics. It will be the biggest global sporting event of the year. The world’s top athletes will bring the roar back to the iconic stadium that saw Mo Farah, Jessica Ennis-Hill and Usain Bolt race to glory. Visit the IAAF World Championships website to find more information about the location, tickets and event calendar.

FILM 4 SUMMER SCREEN – from 10th to 23rd 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 – 27th and 28th 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.

STAR WARS IDENTITIES: THE EXHIBITION AT THE O2 – until 3rd September

If you are a Star Wars fan you can’t miss this extraordinary exhibition. Now you can see your favourite characters like you’ve never seen them before, explore what makes you who you are and discover the Star Wars hero hiding inside you. Get a fresh perspective on the legendary Star Wars characters thanks to the 200 costumes, models and props from the saga on display. Official website.

ROBOTS AT THE SCIENCE MUSEUM – until 3rd September

Explore how and why scientists and artist have attempted to recreate humans through robotics with Robots at the Science Museum. Featuring a unique collection of over 100 robots, from a 16^th century mechanical monk to robots from science fiction and modern day research labs, this exhibition will enable visitors to discover the cultural, historical and technological context of humanoid robots. Visitors will be able to interact with some of the 12 working robots on display. For further information or to purchase exhibition tickets visit the official website.

SENSATIONAL BUTTERFLIES, NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM – until 17th 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.

BUCKINGHAM PALACE TOUR: SUMMER OPENING – until 1st October

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

WASHINGTON MAYFAIR HOTEL SUMMER AFTERNOON TEA

This summer staying with us enjoy a cup of tea and a glass of Pimm’s, complimented with freshly baked warm scones, sweet pastries, fresh cream & strawberries and an array of sandwiches. Afternoon Tea at The Washington Mayfair Hotel is the ideal opportunity to spend a lovely afternoon with family and friends in the heart of London. Offer price is £29.50 for two instead of £59. Book today. info@washington-mayfair.co.uk

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN JULY 2017

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 2nd to 23rd 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: 2nd July, 9th July, 16th July & 23rd July. Visit the official website for more information.

WIMBLEDON – from 3rd to 16th 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 4th to 9th 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.

STAR SIXES AT THE O2 – from 13th to 16th July

Star Sixes is a competitive six-a-side indoor football competition, where former international players are chosen to represent a senior national team for which they played. The star-studded tournament will feature 12 teams – England, Brazil, Spain, Germany, Mexico, Italy, France, Portugal, Denmark, Scotland, Nigeria and China – across 4 days of intense 6-a-side football. Tournaments will consist of a group phase followed by knock-out stages – including penalty shootouts – culminating in the Star Sixes Final, when the trophy will be at stake. Don’t miss this event at the O2, you could see stars such as Steven Gerrard, Carles Puyol, Michael Ballack, Deco, Robert Pires and Jay Jay Okocha, plus many more to be announced. Visit the official website for more information.

BBC PROMS – from 14^th July to 9^th 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. The famous Last Night performances including BBC Proms in the Park. The 123^rd edition of the classical music event presents more than 90 concerts including 30 premieres. Visit the official website for more information.

BUCKINGHAM PALACE TOUR: SUMMER OPENING – from 22^nd July to 1^st Oct.

THE LUNA CINEMA – until 21^st September

UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL – until 30^th September

WASHINGTON MAYFAIR HOTEL SUMMER AFTERNOON TEA

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN JUNE 2017

June is a downright joyful time to be in London. The sun is officially (hopefully) out and you can enjoy some of the capital’s most famous royal events, including Trooping the Colour, as well as outdoor festivals in the sunshine.

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

HAMPTON COURT PALACE FESTIVAL – from 7^th to 24^th June 2017

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Hampton Court Palace Festival. Starting life in 1993 as a classical music event, it has gone on to host top international stars from around the globe and has become an annual fixture in the summer calendar.

Confirmed to play this year are Bryan Ferry, Van Morrison, Michael Ball & Alfie Boe, James Morrison, Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, Rick Astley, Björn Again and the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra.

Opening at 5:30pm, the East Front Gardens is the perfect place for concert goers to relax, drink and picnic before taking their seats for the evening’s entertainment.

Visit www.hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com for more information and to book your tickets now.

BP BIG SCREENS – from 7^th June to 14^th July 2017

Experience live opera and ballet in the centre of London with the Royal Opera House’s BP Big Screens 2017. Big screens will once again be set up in Trafalgar Square, where you can watch two operas and one ballet, while some of the shows will this year also be relayed to The Scoop, Hammersmith Lyric Square and Alexandra Palace for more chances to catch all the action. Bring a cushion and a picnic and if the weather’s looking good, arrive early. Trafalgar Square packs out fast. This season’s screenings take places on June 7, July 4 and July 14.

The Royal Ballet’s The Dream, Symphonic Variations, and Marguerite and Armand – Wednesday 7 June at Trafalgar Square and The Scoop

The Royal Opera’s La Traviata – Tuesday 4 July at Trafalgar Square and Hammersmith Lyric Square

The Royal Opera’s Turandot – Friday 14 July at Trafalgar Square, Hammersmith Lyric Square, Alexandra Palace and The Scoop

BEATING RETREAT – from 14^thJune to 15^th June 2017

Experience a spectacular evening pageant of music and military precision drill featuring horses, cannons and fireworks. This annual event is performed on Horse Guards Parade in front of the beautiful backdrop of St James’s Park each year on the Wednesday and Thursday evenings preceding the Queen’s Birthday Parade or “Trooping The Colour” as it is often called. Beating Retreat refers to a military drum call that can trace its origins to 17th-century England and was first used to recall nearby units to their camp for the night. Today Beating Retreat is an evening military concert with a marching display and usually marks the lowering of the Regimental flag at sunset.

Price: from £11.50 per ticket

TASTE OF LONDON – from 14^thJune to 18^th June 2017

Join London’s top restaurants and celebrity chefs for the ultimate al fresco feast in Regent’s Park. For the occasion, the park is transformed into a foodie wonderland as 40 of London’s best restaurants gather to show off the hottest dishes from their extensive menus. Watch live cooking demonstrations, meet some of the capital’s leading chefs, participate in masterclasses and shop at more than 200 food and drink stalls.

Prices:

Adult Ticket: £17 to £30 per ticket

VIP Ticket: £52 to £70 per ticket

https://london.tastefestivals.com/

TROOPING THE COLOUR – 17^thJune 2017

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.

Although tickets for the seated stands on Horse Guards Parade are available to the public, the ballot for Trooping the Colour 2017 tickets is now closed. So if you don’t have tickets, you can still join the crowds of spectators along The Mall or on the edge of St James’s Park overlooking Horse Guards Parade from 9am to catch all the action. http://www.householddivision.org.uk/trooping-the-colour

ROYAL ASCOT – from 20^th June to 24^th June 2017

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.

https://www.ascot.co.uk/

WEST END LIVE – from 24^th June to 25^th June 2017

Thousands of people gather in Trafalgar Square to enjoy performances from top West End shows for free. Last year’s line-up included The Lion King, The Bodyguard, Matilda The Musical, The Phantom Of The Opera, STOMP, Jersey Boys, Impossible and Breakfast At Tiffany’s, and starred Beverley Knight, Tom Chambers, Kerry Ellis, Matt Cardle, Pixie Lott and many more famous faces.

This free event is hugely popular and there is limited space, so be sure to get there early to secure a space.

BRITISH SUMMER TIME – from 30^th June to 9^th July 2017

Barclaycard presents British Summer Time Hyde Park which brings you 10 days of music & entertainment, with legendary headliners & support from today’s rising stars.

Headlining the two weekends of live music in the iconic Royal Park are Green Day, Phil Collins, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, The Killers, Kings of Leon and Justin Bieber.

http://www.bst-hydepark.com/tickets