We love June in London. You can walk in a city that’s full of life and doesn’t get dark until long after 9.30 pm! If the sun is shining, you can eat outside, or grab a drink in a garden pub, and for walkers, there’s nothing like an evening stroll in one of the many Royal Parks.
And although this is the time of year when there are a lot of tourists, London is so large that there’s always plenty of places to find a bit of peace and quiet - including our incredible neighbourhood in the north of the British capital, which boasts the ‘countryside expanse’ of Hampstead Heath.
If you’re coming to the capital this month and want a few ideas about ways to enjoy yourself, then check out some of our ideas below…and enjoy every moment…
1. London Open Gardens Weekend - 6th and 7th June
London is an incredibly green European capital and whilst the Royal Parks are what first springs to mind when you think ‘greenery’, the city is actually full of beautiful gardens that few know about. Fear not, however, since this weekend is all about these hidden spots opening their doors to the public.
From the elegant ((squares in Kensington and Marylebone) o the panoramic views (Battersea Roof Gardens, and from the historic (the Charterhouse Courtyard Garden in the City of London) to the environmentally conscious (the Floating Garden in Kings Cross) the London Open Gardens Weekend is an event that both young and old can enjoy.
Tickets are available online and there are ballots for the more popular gardens so don’t leave it to the last minute.
2. Trooping the Colour - the King’s Birthday Parade - 13th June
Royalists - this one’s for you. King Charles III will be leading the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony, as the monarch always does in London in June, close to Buckingham Palace.
Many of the regiments in the British Army will be partaking, and so why not head down to Horseguard’s Parade and watch His Royal Highness take the salute? The entire area will be festooned with Union Jacks and there’s bound to be plenty of good cheer besides.
God save the King!
3. Taste of London Food Festival - 17th to 21st June
Foodies will love this one - back by popular demand is the Taste of London Food Festival, held in the fantastic Regents Park. With an incredible mixture of flavours and cuisines, this is the place to go if you’re a fan of culinary extravaganzas.
Pitch up for ‘five days of feasting’ - try affordably-priced dishes from top restaurants, hang out with producers of artisan goods, book a masterclass and enjoy craft beers, whiskeys and good wines whilst you’re at it.
And afterwards, take a stroll in the beautiful park, which has a lovely Boardwalk, a beautiful lake (full of swans) and the fabulous Queen Mary Rose Garden.
4. Mother Courage & her Children - at the Globe Theatre until 27th June
Bertolt Brecht’s masterpiece about war and its consequences is playing at the famous Globe Theatre (built in homage to England’s greatest playwright. William Shakepseare) and this is a production well worth seeing.
Elle While, the director, really really brings this 12-scene epic drama masterpiece to life. Featuring a new translation by Anna Jordan and starring the Globe’s Artistic Director Michelle Terry, this is a bold take on an anti-war protest play.
Mother Courage, for those who don’t know, is a canteen woman operating a supply wagon who tries to profit from the Thirty Year War in Europe (1618-1648) while protecting her three children, ultimately losing all of them to the conflict.
And why not take a walk along the South Bank before or after, and enjoy River Thames views. You can walk down to the TAte Modern, and enjoy panoramic views from its rooftop (free) or west towards the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament…and close to the Globe is also the fabulous Borough Market, which is a foodie paradise and a good place to grab a bite, before or after the performance.
5. Jazz on the Lawn at Lauderdale House - 25th June
Finally, not far from us at Lauderdale House in Highgate, why not take advantage of the long summer evenings and go to hear Jazz on the Tea Lawn featuring John Crawford’s Quartet.
Born in London but shaped by two worlds, pianist John Crawford has spent a lifetime turning cultural crossroads into musical gold. With English and Spanish heritage running through his veins, he grew up soaking in the blues before falling deep into the infectious grooves of salsa, flamenco, and Afro-Cuban tradition. The result? A sound that's entirely, unmistakably his own.
John's talent has taken him to some of the most prestigious stages on the planet — from the Montreal and North Sea Jazz Festivals to the sunny climes of San Sebastián. Closer to home, he's a familiar face at London's most beloved jazz institutions, including the iconic Ronnie Scott's, the Royal Albert Hall, and the intimate 606 Club.
Finally, if you’re looking for somewhere to stay in London, we’re happy to welcome you here at La Gaffe Hotel In Hampstead. We’re located in beautiful Hampstead in the leafy north of the city, where our family-owned and family-run guest accommodation is going strong after quite a few decades.
We offer competitive rates, a warm and personal welcome and our famous cappuccino (made by our beloved general manager!) To book a room directly, either go to our website or give us a call on 020 7435-8965.
We look forward to welcoming you!