June is one of London’s best months in the capital, we think. With the city bathed in light until after 9.30 pm (the summer solstice falls soon) you’re more assured of good weather which means that everywhere you look you’ll see people enjoying life ‘al fresco’.
From walking along the Thames, exploring London’s Royal Parks, sitting outside a pub with a cold drink or attending an outdoor music or theatre performance, London is yours for the taking. And even though there are bound to be many tourists descending upon the capital, there’s always a quiet corner to discover…particularly in our lovely Hampstead neighbourhood.
You’re spoiled for choice in our city when it comes to things to do but here are a few of the ideas we have that are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. So get out your sandals, pack a picnic lunch and go out and enjoy yourselves!
1. My Master Builder at the Wyndham Theatre - ongoing
Theatre lovers with a penchant for Ibsen…there’s a new play taking the West End by storm. Currently playing at the Wyndham, and starring Ewen McGregor (‘Trainspotting’/Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars Prequels) and Elizabeth Debecki (Princess Diana in "The Crown) ‘My Master Builder’ is a new take on an old Ibsen classic that’s definitely worth checking out.
Penned by US-playwright Lila Raicek, the scene is set at a 4th July party in the Hamptons, New York. Thrown by the wife of a publishing magnate, in honour of her successful architect husband. But the arrival of one of his former students (with whom he had an affair, some years ago), means the evening is sure to throw up a few surprises.
This is a play that deals with the consequences of infidelity…and the havoc it wreaks in a marriage. A play full of plot and drama, it may well be worth booking in advance because tickets are sure to sell fast
2. ‘West End Live” - 21 and 22nd June at Trafalgar Square
If you’re a fan of outdoor dancing, merry sing-a-longs and a buzzy atmosphere, then there’s no better place to head than Trafalgar Square in the latter part of the month, for the ‘West End Live’ extravaganza, which - by popular demand - is back!
This free event (yes, you read it correctly) is nothing short of incredible - performers from some of the country’s most popular shows and musicals will be performing on a big stage and the atmosphere is bound to be electric! As well as the (free with advance registration) ticketed area, there’s general access but be warned - the queues can be long.
Furthermore, London weather is unpredictable, so - along with your energy and enthusiasm - bring a sweater and perhaps even an umbrella. Afterwards (the event runs until 5pm) you can explore Chinatown, Covent Garden or Soho - all great spots for eating and drinking.
3. Taste of London Food Festival - 18th to 22nd June
Taste of London Food Festival is back this June, in the gorgeous surroundings of Regent’s Park for some serious eating and drinking. The event will be spread out into eight sessions over five days and - trust us - you should plan on arriving hungry…
What can you do there? Well, attend a masterclass, try out signature dishes from fine restaurants at affordable prices, enjoy demonstrations led by world-class chefs, meet artisan producers and sample and indulge fine wines, craft beers and unusual spirits.
So if you’re looking to devour some fine food and drink, then this is where you need to be - you’ll be in good company (last year, the event hosted over 50,000 people!)
Regent’s Park itself is too beautiful not to walk around too…
4. Trooping the Colour - 14th June, Buckingham Palace
If you’re a lover of pomp and pageantry, then this one’s for you - to celebrate our monarch’s official birthday, King Charles III will be leading the annual ‘Trooping the Colour’ on 14th June. Taking place on Horse Guards Parade, close to Buckingham Palace, it will be carried out by His Majesty's personal troops of the Household Division.
The streets will be lined with crowds (it’s a free event but you’ll need to arrive early for a good view) to watch the parade travel down the Mall from Buckingham Palace. Naturally, the monarch will not just be in attendance but will also be taking the salute. There will also be other members of the Royal Family there, both on horseback and in carriages.
So if you want to experience fanfare and horsemanship on an epic scale (with some brass band music thrown in for good measure), don’t miss this spectacle and remember to shout out: ‘God save the King!’
5. Silent Disco at the London Transport Museum - 7th June
There are few cooler things we can imagine doing this June in the capital than partaking in a Silent Disco. And for one night only, you can - it’s taking place at the iconic Transport Museum in the heart of Covent Garden and promises to be a fantastic after-hours experience.
Even better, the event caters both to early-birds and night-owls - the first session runs from 6pm to 9pm and then second from 9p to midnight. Taking part are some phenomenal DJs, playing music from the 80’s, 90’s and 00’s across three channels…not to mention a little indy.
There will be bars across the museum, so you can enjoy a tipple (or stick to water and stay hydrated). And with your headphones, you can move between floors and soundtracks easily. Imagine - you’ll be dancing amongst vintage double deckers and old trains for three hours. Get your tickets now!
As for our neighbourhood, we might be biased but, for us, Hampstead Heath is one of London’s most beautiful green spaces. Perfect for exploring year round, winter can be a magical time to take a long walk across what’s known as London’s ‘Green Lung’. In fact, you could be forgiven for thinking you were in the countryside, rather than just a quick underground journey from the West End.
If you take a walk there, you’ll soon understand why - it’s like being in the country, even though it’s just 15 minutes from the city centre by underground.
Hampstead Heath stretches endlessly, and there’s plenty to see - whether you want to explore stately Kenwood House (entry is free), climb to the top of Parliament Hill, or brave the bathing ponds and go for an invigorating swim in the waters there. No matter if the skies are grey and moody or blue and clear, the air is fantastic, the nature is stunning and the views are astonishing.
So if you’re going to be visiting the British capital and looking for accommodation in London then consider staying with us, here at La Gaffe Hotel Hampstead. Our comfortable guest accommodation is competitively-priced, we’re family-run and owned ( so you’re assured of a warm and personal welcome) and our rates include VAT and a continental breakfast (complete with our famous cappuccino).
We’re just three minutes walk from Hampstead tube and then it’s a quick trip (around 15-20 minutes) into the city centre by underground. And our area is so charming, many people never want to leave it!
To find out more about us, give us a call on 0207 435-8965 or book directly with us (for the best rates!) on our website.