August is, without a doubt, a very popular month in London as far as tourism is concerned. And whilst many locals leave the capital for the countryside or holidays abroad, the city still offers an extraordinary amount in the summer - from world-class museums with free entry, to large and beautiful parks, not to mention theatre, live music, fabulous restaurants and street markets galore.

Whether you want to see the big tourist attractions or explore some of the city’s lesser known local neighbourhoods, temperatures are also quite pleasant (unless it’s unseasonably cold or outrageously hot!) - well, as we all know, the British weather can be unpredictable! But whether it’s sunny or cloudy, London’s always a great place to stroll, explore, enjoy and savour…

Here are a few of the things we think are worth checking out, should you find yourself in town this August…

 

1. The Boys from the Blackstuff - 1st, 2nd & 3rd August

If you’re a fan of theatre, then you really need to head to the Garrick Theatre in the West End, where you’ll be transported back to 1980’s Liverpool, in this fantastic production of Alan Beasedale’s gripping play about unemployment, poverty and despair.

Following the lives of five men, all tarmac layers, it’s a timely study of the era and a great in-depth look at masculinity cracking under pressure. Weaving the men’s stories together, you can’t help but feel a range of emotions as you sit there, not to mention get a lesson in how the British class system functions.

It’s a short run so grab tickets as soon as possible.


2. Hampton Court Palace Food Festival - 24th to 26th August

Hampton Court is a wonderful place to visit, just to stroll the beautiful grounds and explore the rooms inside the HIstoric Palace which was a favourite of King Henry VIII. From Tudor kitchens to the spectacular maze, it’s a fun day out and made all the more fun by the Hampton Court Food Festival that’s running at the end of the month.

Whether you want to sample artisan produce, tuck into flavoursome street food, sip at expertly-mixed cocktails or sample craft beers, this is the place to be.

And it’s perfect for kids as well as adults, since there’s face painting, fete games and arts and crafts. Your ticket includes entrance to the Palace and gardens too - what a day out!


3. National Gallery’s Summer on the Square - all of August

This free festival of art, located slap bang in the middle of the action in Trafalgar Square, is running throughout the month and a fine way to pass a few hours with the kids, who of course need plenty of entertaining in the long summer holidays.

Summer on the Square offer daily creative sessions, both in the mornings and afternoons - all of them free - including ‘Dare to Draw’ ‘Curious Creatures’ and ‘Decoding Pictures’. All of the activities are open to the public (whatever your age or ability) and spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Combined with a wander before or after in buzzy Covent Garden, or beautiful St. James Park, it’s a low-cost day out and even if it rains, you’ll be ok because they’ll be a covered space in the square.



4. Notting Hill Carnival - 25th and 26th August

Considered one of the most lively festivals in the world, the Notting Hill Carnival is back at its traditional Bank Holiday weekend spot, showcasing the best of British West Caribbean culture. For those that aren’t sure what to expect, think steel bands, calypso music, elaborately decorated floats, brightly-coloured costumes that may well dazzle your eyes in a pageant that goes on for hours, with participants and spectators alike moving to the beats.

And don’t forget to take an appetite with you too - there will be endless opportunities to try tasty Caribbean dishes - including peas and rice, jerk chicken, goat curry, salt fish and peppered shrimps. And, of course, it’s all free! So put on your dancing gear and head over to West London. Just remember that it’s going to be well-attended, so the tubes and buses getting there might be rather crowded…

5. Tango at Spitalfields Market - 4th, 18th and 25th August

Ever wanted to learn how to dance the tango, the fiery Latin American dance that was invented in the slums of Buenos Aires and is now practised and performed the world over? Well if you head to Tango Fever at Spitalfields Market, to the outdoor area called Bshop’s Square, you can do exactly that.

These two free events are a great way to unwind, meet friends and learn a few moves. All you need to do is bring comfortable shoes and partner up - before the event itself kicks off there’s even a free class, for you to learn some moves.

Of course, you can always watch from the sidelines, but what’s the fun in that?



 

6. Swimming at the Hampstead Bathing Ponds - every day

There are fewer beautiful neighbourhoods in London than ours and if the weather is warm, what better place to head than Hampstead Heath, for a picnic, a ramble, or a fantastic swim in one of the famous Hampstead bathing ponds?

There are three of them - one men only, another women-only and the third mixed, all with lifeguards and changing rooms. and it’s a bargain at £4.25 (concessions for £2.55). And if London has one of its rare heatwaves, they’re the best place to keep cool - trust us.

Just be prepared to join long lines at peak time, because these ponds are very popular, both with locals and tourists.

Finally, if you’re looking for a place to stay whilst in London, then why not consider La Gaffe Hotel Hampstead? Located in leafy Hampstead, our comfortable, family-run and family-owned guest accommodation. is just three minutes walk from the tube, a quick stroll both to the lush, green Heath and charming Hampstead Village, and we offer you a warm welcome and a great breakfast cappuccino…

To find out more or to book a room directly, contact us by email or phone. We’ll be glad to hear from you.