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Features

Visit London: 5 Of The Best Things To Do This Summer

Thursday, 14 July 2011

It is official (despite the dubious weather); summer is here, and what better time to visit London than when the sun is shining?

The UK's capital is considered one of the most exciting cities on Earth, envied by its European neighbours because of the range of free events offered to residents and visitors. If you are planning a trip to the Big Smoke this summer, make sure you do at least some of the following things:

1: Go To A Festival
You might associate festivals with big fields in the middle of nowhere, but this is not always the case. City festivals are becoming increasingly popular; for example New York's Electric Zoo draws in huge crowds annually from all over the world.
1-2-3-4 Shoreditch Festival, held in the East London district's park, is sure to attract hundreds of Londoners. Lots of trendy bands will be performing, including Atlantan and Black Lips. For other festivals in the capital such as Field Day check out listings online.

2: Visit A Museum
You must go to at least one London museum because there are so many excellent ones to choose from. Whether you want to find out about wildlife and nature or play around with magnets, London is the place to do it.
The Natural History Museum has an interesting exhibition, the Sensational Butterflies. Guests are invited to explore how butterflies move, touch and taste. The Science Museum also has a good show on at present, which explores climate, science and atmosphere; definitely one to check out!

3: Theatre In The Sun
If you go to any theatre this summer, go to the Udderbelly. As exciting as its name suggests, this distinctive venue can be found on the South Bank (one of the most vibrant parts of London).
For a whopping 12 weeks a festival of comedy, magic, music, circus and drama (as well as a few children's shows), will be held against the backdrop of the Thames.

4: Breakfast In Style
OK, so it may seem an odd addition on a list of things you must do in London, but going for the perfect breakfast is up there with seeing Big Ben.
Lantana, in Charlotte Place, has been serving up award-winning breakfasts for some time now; creating inventive Aussie-inspired brekkie to hungry diners.
Brunch is the most important meal of the day for travellers and this place takes it very seriously. Offering dishes such as spinach baked ricotta and tomato salsa, full English breakfasts, for those with a bit of a sweet tooth, muffins and pancakes. Breakfast for two will set you back about £25.

5: Notting Hill Carnival
Get yourself a London map because you will need it if you brave Notting Hill Carnival in August. Spanning much of west London, starting at Great Western Road and ending up on Ladbroke Grove, this event is much anticipated by Londoners every year. It takes place on the 28th and 29th August and traditionally attracts crowds of partygoers from all over Europe.

Make sure you check public transport on the day and leave early if you don't want to get stuck among the huge crowds of people trying to get home.

There you have it; a guide to what you can expect from London this summer. If you want to get out and about, buying yourself a London Pass is a good idea. This gives you free access to 55 top London attractions, as well as a complementary guide book. London truly is a spectacular city and whether you live here or are visiting for a holiday; make the most of all the capital has to offer!