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 30th 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.