Schmap.com supports the following browsers:
PC
 World Famous Centre |
Windsor Road (Royal Ascot) London, Berkshire SL5 7JX United Kingdom +44 0 870 727 8765 http://www.ascot.co.uk/ enquiries@ascot.co.uk |
Host to the world-famous Royal Ascot and the Diamond Day, Ascot Racecourse offers exciting entertainment and beautiful views of nearby Windsor Great Park. In addition to the famous races, the centre also houses a variety of corporate and social events, from business functions to weddings or civil unions. If you are in the mood to throw a lavish summer party, the party organisers at the racecourse can arrange events for up to 1800 guests. In addition to the vast indoor space, Ascot is surrounded by over 150 acres of parkland that are available for events such as archery, concerts, and fairs. Located a short distance outside of London. Easily accessible by car or rail. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Classical Concerts |
Kensington Gore (The Royal Albert Hall) London, London SW7 2AP United Kingdom +44 20 7589 8212 http://www.bbc.co.uk/proms proms@bbc.co.uk |
The Henry Wood Promenade Concerts are more commonly known as "The Proms". Usually held at the Royal Albert Hall, these performances of classical music have an informal atmosphere and music lovers pack the stands every year. The Last Night of The Proms is world famous and it is extremely difficult to get tickets for that night. Tickets are by lottery and in order to qualify, you must have attended at least six other concerts during the season. Because the Last Night is inaccessible to most people, Hyde Park now hosts an open-air concert on the same night with tickets available to the general public. Performance times vary. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Simon Li  |
 Photo: Simon Tonge |
 Photo: Alexander Robinson |
 Photo: Jan |
 Photo: laranell2003 |
 Photo: Phil Wiffen |
 Photo: Marc-Albert |
 Photo: Cristina Locati |
 Photo: Raymond Ho |
 An expo of all things snowboard related |
Alexandra Palace Wood Green, Haringey London N22 7AY United Kingdom http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/ |
Right before skiing season, a host of ski shows - featuring new products, equipment, travel packages and the like - will try to part you from your money. This snowboarding festival has all these features, but works harder on entertaining the snowboarding fan and showing would-be boarders what the sport is all about. Past attractions have included the 70m real snow Big Air Jump and Olympic champion Gian Simmen was a former guest. You'll also have the chance to check out what's new in the snowboarding world. Admission costs around £6-£10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Smog-Free Fun |
London, London United Kingdom http://www.greenwich.gov.uk |
Car Free Day is part of 'Totally Greenwich' weekend. Street closures enable visitors to enjoy the village atmosphere while being entertained by free street performance & music. Don't miss out on those bargains in the historic market place. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gary |
 Wild Kaleidoscope of Entertainment |
Various venues around the city (Square Mile) London, London WC1 United Kingdom +44 20 7796 4949 http://www.colf.org/ admin@colf.org |
The City of London Festival features a veritable kaleidoscope of musical styles performed by some of the worlds leading artists, ranging from world to jazz, classical to contemporary. Theater, dance, architecture, literature, walks, film and the visual arts also play a big part in the Festivals three-week program. Performances take place in and around the city, and many of the daytime events are free; other performances range in price from GBP5-GBP40. A full program is available in April. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Row, row, row your boat.... |
16 St-Mary-at-Hill Watermen's Hall London, London EC3R 8EF United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7283 2373 (Organisers) http://www.watermenshall.org/h... events@watermenshall.org |
Among the oldest and longest rowing races ever known, this one was initiated by an erstwhile actor, and is fiercely competitive. Six expert boatmen battle the tides annually as they race the stretch of water from London Bridge to Chelsea's Albert Bridge, to win the coveted silver badge and livery, in addition to money prizes. Timed precisely during the summer's high tide, the event is an exhibition of skillful seamanship and command of the waves. It is open to all and free to watch—get ready for some adrenalin-filled excitement. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 The Derby Festival |
Ashley Road London, Surrey KT18 5LQ United Kingdom +44 137 247 0047 http://www.epsomderby.co.uk/De... |
The Derby Festival is one of the most famous and iconic events on the British social calendar. This two day festival of horse racing dates back to 1780 and has spectator capacity of 10,875. It also has a a conference and exhibition hall which can provide banqueting suite and restaurant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Annual festival celebrating lesbian and gay pride |
Various venues London, London United Kingdom http://www.pridelondon.org info@pridelondon.org |
The first Gay Pride event in Britain took place in the early 1970s, as a way to mark the riots which erupted in June 1969 at New York's Stonewall Inn in protest at police harassment of gay people. Since the very first march, which only attracted a few hundred participants, the annual Pride London event has blossomed into a massive annual parade through the streets of central London, celebrating the diversity and strength of the lesbian and gay community. Also see Pride Arts Festival. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eamon Kennedy |
 Photo: Eamon Kennedy |
 Photo: Eamon Kennedy |
 Photo: Marco Wehe |
 Photo: lewishamdreamer |
 Photo: Loodle |
 Photo: Carly Braddock |
|
30,000 Runners Take To The London Streets |
Starts on Blackheath, Greenwich Park Finishes on the Mall, Central London London, London SE3 United Kingdom +44 20 7902 0200 http://www.london-marathon.co.uk/ |
The London Marathon's reputation as world leader in big city marathons has grown immeasurably since the first event in 1981. Each year, an estimated 30,000 runners invade the streets of London to participate in this increasingly popular event, which is sponsored by margarine company Flora. Participants are of mixed ability and age (up to age 89), ranging from the world's elite athletes to those simply running for a personal challenge, and even celebrities raising money for charity. Entries for the Marathon open the August before the event. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chrys Campos |
 Photo: Action Medical Research |
 Photo: orpingtonroadrunners |
 Photo: Tracey Scarlett |
 Photo: Michael Winning |
 Photo: Daniella R-Glenn |
 Photo: Chris Ransome |
|
Beer & Ale For All |
Earl's Court Warwick Road London, London SW5 9TA United Kingdom +44 1727 86 7201 http://www.camra.org.uk/ camra@camra.org.uk |
Organized by the Campaign for Real Ale, this huge event is usually held at the end of July, beginning of August and offers more than 200 British beers, more than 200 imported beers from Europe and America, a range of ciders and row after row of food stalls. There is a family room, and there are organized beer tasting sessions throughout the event, where, for a price, you get the chance to sample all of the award winners from the show. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jillian Taylor |
 Photo: Karl Andres |
 Innovative Arts Festival |
6 College Approach London, London SE10 9HY United Kingdom +44 (0)20 8305 1818 http://www.festival.org admin@festival.org |
Although Greenwich has always been a popular stop on the tourist trail, the Docklands is often overlooked - unless you happen to be working there, of course. This summer arts festival, usually held in June/July, allows you to explore more of the area. Taking advantage of some beautiful riverside locations. On both banks of the Thames, the festival's venue provides the perfect backdrop for this celebration of international theatre, music, dance, visual arts and other cultural events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Neasan O'Neill |
 Photo: Adriano Galante |
|
Bonfire night |
Various venues London United Kingdom |
The 5th of November commemorates the failure of renegade Guy Fawkes' attempt to blow up Parliament for religious motives in 1605. On this chilly night, everyone convenes in various parks throughout London to ooh and ahh at the brilliant fireworks and to keep warm around the bonfire on which an effigy of the historical miscreant is burned. Many parks also have funfairs, food stalls and music. A really enjoyable night no matter where you go, but Battersea Park hosts one of the best parties. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Cory Doctorow |
 Photo: Min Zaw Mra |
 Photo: Elliot Moore |
 Photo: Meg Pickard |
|
Classical music and picnics |
Hampton Court (Hampton Court Palace) London SE17 3AN United Kingdom +44 20 8233 5000 http://www.hamptoncourtfestiva... |
This is one of the country's most popular classical music festivals, held in the beautiful setting of Hampton Court Palace. The festival, held annually, harks back to an era when monarchs living in the Palace had guests, and it certainly feels like you've entered a time warp. The concerts themselves are always fantastic and the atmosphere friendly. Demand for tickets is always high, so be sure to get hold of a program early. Performances have a 75-minute interval, during which members of the audience are free to picnic in the grounds or look around the palace. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ulrica Almqvist |
|
Incorporating the British Rose Festival |
Hampton Court (Hampton Court Palace) London SE17 3AN United Kingdom +44 870 906 3791 http://www.rhs.org.uk/hamptonc... info@rhs.org.uk |
This is one of the summer calendar's major flower shows. The historical palace provides a fitting backdrop to the splashes of colour spread throughout the marquees. The festival, incorporating the British Rose Festival, features specialist areas like the Aquatics Village, the show gardens, greenhouses, conservatories and exhibitors displaying horticultural products and crafts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ricksphotos101 |
 Photo: hermeti |
 Photo: ricksphotos101 |
 Photo: ricksphotos101 |
 Photo: Irish |
|
Pearly Tradition |
St. Paul's Church Bedford Street London WC2E 9ED United Kingdom +44 0208 778 8670 / +44 020 7836 5221 http://www.pearlysociety.co.uk lpkqs@yahoo.co.uk |
Each September and October, the London Pearly Society celebrates cherished Cockney icons during their Harvest Festivals. The parade takes place on the last Sunday in September, and another festival is held at St. Paul's Church in October (check the website for updated information). In addition, the Pearly Kings and Queens Association holds its own special festival the first Sunday in October at St. Martin-in-the-Fields. The organization assists in various fundraising activities throughout the year and gather together for this Festival dressed in their traditional buttoned suits. The famous London society still has approximately 40 active families. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: trailerfullofpix |
 Photo: John Williamson |
 Photo: Simon Kisner |
 Photo: www.tigerundelch.com |
|
Hyde and Rock! |
Hyde Park London United Kingdom http://www.hydeparkcalling.co.uk festivals@livenation.co.uk |
Since first beginning in 2006, Hyde Park Calling has become known as the premier festival to see some of rock and roll´s greatest legends. Past years have included such names as The Who, Aerosmith, Primal Scream, and Roger Waters alongside up and coming rock royalty like Razorlight, and Jet. Be sure to check the website to see who is headlining next summer's lineup. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Celluloid Latino craze |
436A New Cross Road London, London SE14 6TY United Kingdom +44 (0)20 8692 6925 http://www.latinamericanfilmfe... info@latinamericanfilmfestival.com |
This popular annual film festival showcases the best in Latin cinema, ranging from magical realism and historical epics to heartfelt romances and drama. Highlights since the festival's debut in 1990 have included such wonderfully well-known and successful films as Wim Wender's superb documentary "Buena Vista Social Club", Guilherme de Almeida Prado's film noir "The Magic Hour", "Like Water for Chocolate", and "Salsa". The festival also features the work of several Latin American artists. This is hispanic heaven for Latin American aficionados. See their website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Experienced performers and young musicians |
Various venues London United Kingdom +44 1883 71 7372 http://www.bachlive.co.uk lbs@lonbachsoc.demon.co.uk |
During the London Bach Festival, Bach is performed in a period setting, using resources which would have been familiar to JS Bach himself. Both devotees and newcomers are made welcome at this friendly event. The London Bach Society dates from 1936, and it has been staging this annual event for 11 years now, with most years emphasising a particular period in the composer's life. This festival forms the centrepiece of the London Bach Society's drive to fulfil its mission of bringing Bach, live, to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
International literary scene |
Hammersmith Road (Olympia Exhibition Hall) London W14 8UX United Kingdom +44 20 8910 7815 http://www.libf.co.uk/ |
While Frankfurt may be home to the book fair, London's Book Fair is still one of the top literary scenes. Over 1,000 companies converge to bring all aspects of the book trade under one roof. With the proliferation of multimedia products, the publishing industry has changed a lot in the past decade, but don't worry, because the old fashioned printed book isn't in any danger. Authors, literary agents, librarians and keen readers alike will be enthralled by the range of services available at the fair, from advice on publishing a novel to collections of rare books. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Godfree |
|
A film aficionado must |
Various venues throughout the city London, London United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7928 3232 http://www.lff.org.uk/ |
This long-standing film festival is surprisingly accessible despite the proliferation of high-profile actors, directors and writers. The festival screens a range of films, from commercial movies to world and experimental cinema. This is an opportunity to view films not only before they get to the cinema but, in many cases, to see the original version before it is cut to its final length. Activities include talks with celebrities and film-makers, open interviews, master classes and more. Venues include the National Film Theatre, Ciné Lumière, ICA and more. Ticket prices vary from GBP7.50-GBP20 depending upon the venue; master classes cost GBP8. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sofaville |
|
Explore London's private garden squares |
Various venues London, London United Kingdom +44 800 19 2192 http://www.opensquares.org/ |
This annual event, held in early June, aims to raise money for the upkeep and beautification of London's garden squares. Art shows, bouncy castles, and competitions will be amongst the amusements on offer this year. Go along and enjoy some of London's hidden treasures! Admission: GBP6-7.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
One of the best of its genre |
Various venues London SE1 8XT United Kingdom +44 20 7815 1322 http://www.llgff.org.uk sarah.lutton@bfi.org |
Not surprisingly, this festival attracts some of the best works of its genre, as well as directors and actors who often make appearances at interviews and screenings. One of the most conspicuous recent trends has been the way in which the mainstream has been redefined by what would have once been considered 'queer cinema' and films with mixed casts. The festival always includes surprises and quirky events - this is where the Sound of Music Sing-A-Long was introduced. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Greatest festival of mime in the world |
35 Little Russell Street London, London WC1A 2HH United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7637 5661 http://www.mimefest.co.uk/ mimefest@easynet.co.uk |
If you thought mime was all clowns trapped inside perspex cubes, this will soon change your perception. Encompassing a wide range of styles from the disturbing psychological probing of Russia's BlackSkyWhite company, through France's physical, frenetic Theatre du Mouvement, to the cutting edge abstract puppetry show by the acclaimed American innovators Basil Twist, this annual event has something for everyone. Though most of the events are being held at the South Bank Center, others are at various venues across London, so phone or check the website before traveling. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: seekaltroutes |
|
Gay Cultural Festival |
Hyde park London United Kingdom +44 20 7494 2225 |
Formerly known as the Pride Arts Festival, this summer festival celebrates the diversity of arts and culture, focusing on events of interest to the gay and lesbian community. It began as an offshoot of the 1995 Lesbian and Gay Pride festival (aka Lesbian and Gay Mardi Gras) and is now a major cultural festival, featuring everything from a lesbian beauty contest to exhibitions featuring major artists such as Lola Flash, Maggi Hambling and Lucien Freud. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Celebrating Punch and Judy |
Bedford Street (St. Paul's Church) London, London WC2E 9ED United Kingdom +44 20 7375 0441 http://www.punchandjudy.com/co... info@coventgarden.org.uk |
What better relic to epitomise a British childhood than Punch and Judy, that irrepressible puppet duo? On the second Sunday in May, Covent Garden celebrates the craft of puppetry with Punch and Judy acts from all over the country, and also other puppetry acts; some of which push the limits of what can be done with puppets. There is also a processional parade and a unique church service for Punch in St Paul's Church in the morning. The whole event is for a good cause, raising money for the local Community Association. See the website for further information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Biggest in Europe |
Parliament Square London, London SW1P 3 United Kingdom +44 20 8566 8586 http://www.londonparade.co.uk/ nick@londonparade.co.uk |
One of the world's greatest street spectaculars, the parade celebrates the New Year with colour, music and carnival-type festivities galore. Begun in 1987, around 10,000 participants and one million spectators now attend each year. Marching bands from all over the world, clowns, cheerleaders, giant inflatables and vintage cars all feature heavily, but it's the feel-good atmosphere that's really worth coming for. The two-mile route goes via Whitehall, Trafalgar Square, Lower Regent Street and Piccadilly, and is led by the Lord Mayor of the City of Westminster. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Al Howat |
 Photo: Richard Banks |
 Photo: David Collins |
 Photo: Phil Whitfield |
 Photo: Zoe Rimmer |
 Photo: Andrew Smith |
 Photo: sheryL. |
 Photo: Jehane Penfold-Ward |
 Photo: Patricia Chung |
 Photo: Maren Backstrøm |
 Photo: Audrey Sykes |
 Photo: Joy Pollard |
 Photo: Les Fletcher |
 Photo: delara-photos |
|
One Act Festival |
2 Bath Road Lost Theatre Company London, London W4 1LW United Kingdom http://www.losttheatre.co.uk/ losttheatre@yahoo.co.uk |
Theatre freaks must not miss this event. Also all those who want to impress their dates can bring them here and enjoy a thought provoking play. Budding talent is encouraged, so if you choose to be the maker rather than the viewer, send in your applications well in advance. The festival has received wide acclaim and has been running for more than two decades now. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: |
|
Festival atmosphere in the city |
Exhibition Road London SW7 2AR United Kingdom +44 20 7298 2100 |
This gargantuan pop-fest takes place on the first Sunday of July every year. It's the festival in London for catching several big name acts on one ticket. The event is sometimes a bit mud-ridden, although the atmosphere is blazing whether the sun joins in or not. The purpose of these gigantically high-profile open-air concerts is to raise money for the Prince's Trust, and usually to great effect. Tickets are usually in very high demand so make sure you get yours in advance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ian Wilson |
|
Independent & Innovative |
54 Blechynden Street London W10 6RJ United Kingdom +44 20 8960 0996 http://www.portobellofilmfesti... pff@btopenworld.com |
This festival was founded in 1996 as a "reaction to the moribund state of the British film industry." Its mission is to provide a forum for new filmmakers and give exposure to movies on different formats. The festival includes screenings, master classes, and award ceremonies. Theater, poetry, music, comedy, dance, and magic are also included in the festivities. Check the website for more details and schedules. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Celebrating Indie Films |
Local venues throughout the city London W1F 8TM United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7287 3833 http://www.raindancefilmfestiv... info@raindance.co.uk |
This independent film festival was established by a group of filmmakers in 1992 and specialises in showcasing first-time feature directors and low budget films. It was created in the spirit of promoting boldly fresh celluloid innovation and an imaginative passion for film, whatever the genre. The festival takes place annually in October at local venues. The Raindance Channel is in the process of being launched in collaboration with Sky, so competitors could even see their creations appearing on TV. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Major international percussion festival |
South Bank (Royal Festival Hall) London SE1 8XX United Kingdom +44 20 7960 4242 http://www.rfh.org.uk/ |
One of the biggest percussion music festivals in the world, Rhythm Sticks sets the Royal Festival Hall alive with world, jazz, rock, contemporary, classical and club styles. The drumfest, held in July annually, features the best in sounds and dance from every country, from America to Africa, England to Iran. Workshops and other special events complement the schedule of performances. Tickets prices range from GBP5-GBP20 - call the Royal Festival Hall box office (number above) for details of the next festival. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Music with a message |
The Queen's Walk, 4th floor, City Hall Greater London Authority London, London SE1 2AA United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7983 6554 (Organisers) http://www.risefestival.org/ info@risefestival.org |
London's biggest free, open-air music extravaganza is a crowd-puller every year. It's not just the entertainment scene that attracts folks, but also the fact that the event celebrates multiculturalism and takes a stand against racism. The best in the music industry come here to perform before crazed fans of all ages. Famed hip-hop artistes like De La Soul and Public Enemy and reggae idols like Gregory Isaacs and other acts often put in an appearance. Sustenance in the form of refreshments keeps the buzz alive, while a comedy pavilion keeps the kids occupied. Check the Web site for details and head over early; crowds of more than 100,000 are anticipated each year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jessica Cheek |
 Photo: Jonathan Bein |
 Photo: Lucy Andrews |
 Photo: Matt Horgan |
 Photo: Luke Robinson |
 Photo: xtaros |
 Photo: xtaros |
 Photo: See Wah Cheng |
 Photo: Luke Robinson |
 Photo: Al Cattell |
 Photo: David POllendine |
 Photo: Louisa Carpenter |
 Photo: Dean Kerrigan |
 Photo: Richard Kaby |
|
Much more than tartan and bagpipes |
Kensington Gore (Royal Albert Hall) London SW7 2AP United Kingdom +44 17 2233 2233 http://www.thescottishtattoo.com/ |
Scottish Tattoo started in 1999, and seems destined to continue spreading Scottish culture to the South. This annual London performance at the Royal Albert Hall features music, highland dance, military bands, bagpipe music, and much more. An absolute must for enthusiasts of all things Scottish. Tickets are available near the time of the event from the Royal Albert Hall box office. Admission costs around GBP 14-24. Don your kilt and enjoy the spectacle! Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Sold Out In 8 Minutes Flat! |
Shepherds Bush Green London, London W12 8TT United Kingdom +44 20 8354 3300 http://www.shepherds-bush-empi... mail@shepherds-bush-empire.co.uk |
18th September 2002, 9a. Here, Bon Jovi's show was completely sold out in a record 8 minutes flat! If this is not enough, rumor has it that this place is haunted by a young worker, who fell through the roof at the turn of the century. His spirit is said to haunt the Level 1 balcony at night. The Shepherd's Bush Empire, now owned by the McKenzie Group Limited, opened on 17th August 1903. This place has been the chosen venue for many high profile events including MTV's Five Night Stand, the UK DJ Championships and Comic Relief. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James C |
 Photo: Steve Bird |
 Photo: Marco de Niet |
 Photo: Steve Makin |
 Photo: Phil Hudson |
 Photo: Richard Brown |
 Photo: irwan widarto |
 Photo: Toxic Web |
|
Lunch hour fun |
Commercial Street Spitalfields Market London, London E1 6BJ United Kingdom +44 20 7375 0441 |
There's never been a better excuse to snaffle some pancakes than Shrove Tuesday or "Pancake Day". Based on a traditional Christian holy day, pancake day was so named because people needed a way to use up all of their eggs before the Christian fast of Lent which starts the following day on Ash Wednesday, when no such luxuries could be eaten. From 12.30pm on Shrove Tuesday, Spitalfields market runs riot with teams of four people running relays with frying pans and pancakes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Annual east end classical music festival |
Shoreditch High Street London, London E1 6AA United Kingdom +44 20 7377 0287 http://www.spitalfieldsfestiva... info@spitalfieldsfestival.org.uk |
The Spitalfields Festival is held every year in Jun and Dec in venues in and around this historic part of the East End, including the Spitalfields Market. Classical music from the 16th century to the present day is the focus with highly acclaimed concerts featuring leading composers and performers taking place in the atmospheric surroundings of Hawksmoor's Christ Church. There is a distinctive global element to the season with opportunities to hear musicians and choirs from all the diverse elements of the local community. A concurrent program of lunchtime events is also run featuring carol singing and exhibitions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Luke Robinson |
 Photo: Richard Gillin |
|
Fantastic Jazz |
London, London United Kingdom +44 016 8987 5683 http://www.riverfrontjazz.co.uk/ dave.silk@jazznights.co.uk |
A fantastic range of every style of jazz is played at the Spring Riverfront Jazz Festival, one of the biggest jazz festivals in England. Lord Hood, Olivers and Mycenae House are but some of the staple venues of this yearly festival. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Classical music and fine wine as winter approaches |
Ave Maria Lane (Stationers Hall) London, London EC4M 7DD United Kingdom +44 1327 36 1380 http://www.st-ceciliatide.com/ cecilia@st-ceciliatide.com |
Enjoy eight days of classical music and fine wine at this City of London autumn festival. Set in one of London's most historical livery halls and featuring the Fiori Musicali Orchestra and a variety of international acts, the festival has become a popular way to spend the cold days before winter. It is named after St Cecilia, patron saint of music, whose birthday was on 22 November. Each concert is preceded by drinks and canape while complimentary champagne is served during the interval. After the concert, you can enjoy a lavish banquet with a selection of fine wines. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Musical Spectrum |
161 Old Street London EC1V 9NG United Kingdom +44 207 490 3939 http://lso.co.uk/lsostlukes/ |
St. Luke's is an 18th century church renovated and restored specifically to host events put on by the London Symphony Orchestra and LSO's music education program, LSO Discovery. Artists from a diverse range of musical genres have played at St. Luke's, such as Elton John, Asian Music Circuit, and Russell Crowe to name just a few. Check their website or call for a calendar of events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
St. Valentine's Day Cruise |
Victoria Embankment (Embankment Pier) London, London WC2N 6NU United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7695 1800 http://www.bateauxlondon.com info@bateauxlondon.com |
Take your loved one (or maybe someone else if you can get away with it) for a candlelit dinner on a luxury cruiser along the Thames for St. Valentine's night. The cruise offers a view of the sights of the London Eye, Tate Modern and Millenium Bridge, while dining on a five-course gourmet meal and being entertained with live music and dancing. Seating is limited on this trip, so book early and she will love you forever. The price of the ticket includes a five-course meal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: |
|
Free movies under the summer stars |
Various venues London United Kingdom http://www.stellascreen.co.uk |
All your favorites - including box office hits, cult favorites and classics - under the stars. Every year, there is an amazing line-up, all projected on an outdoor 60 x 30 foot screen. Best thing of all, tickets are free. Bring a chair or blanket, and a jacket because entertainment starts at 6p-ish and films only start after dark, around 9p. Also on hand to entertain you are DJs, late license bars, pub quizzes, Q & As with film directors. The October/November 'Weekender' event takes place at art house cinemas across the nation. See website for event information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Art and entertainment where you'd least expect it |
Venues throughout London London, London United Kingdom +44 20 8356 6411 http://www.stokefest.co.uk/ |
A local festival which grows in stature every year bringing art, music, theater, street performances, comedy and the like to the community, utilizing every possible space, from local shops to Abney Park Cemetery, Clissold Park and buses. The climax is a buzzing street festival on Stoke Newington Church Street. Many events are free and there is much to appeal to children and adults alike. Pick up a program or tickets from the Box Office at The Garage, Tana Mana, 148 Stoke Newington Church Street. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fin Fahey |
 Photo: Dylan Curtis |
 Photo: Fin Fahey |
 Photo: Joelle McNichol |
 Photo: Simon Bruce |
 Photo: jigsaw youth |
|
Winter wonderland |
Regent Street London, London W1B United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7440 5530 (Regent Street Association) |
London is ablaze with holiday lights in mid-November, as celebrities switch on the lights of famous shopping streets. Bond Street, St. Christopher's Place, Regent Street, Oxford Street and Covent Garden Market all celebrate the switching on of Christmas lights. Celebrities at past ceremonies have included Victoria Beckham, David Ginola, and Charlotte Church. A Norwegian official usually flicks the switch in Trafalgar Square to commemorate the donation of a Christmas tree from Norway. Free admission. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Keogh |
|
Lighting up the river |
Around the Thames River (from Blackfriars Bridge to Waterloo Bridge) London SE1 9LH United Kingdom +44 20 7928 0011 http://www.thamesfestival.org festival@coin-street.org |
This annual festival offers a free programme of arts and river themed events, all in celebration of London's life source, The Thames. The festival takes advantage of its location on Southbank, London's thriving arts area, to offer a vast array of free exhibitions. Events will include fireworks displays, street theatre, a children's treasure hunt and sculpture and art exhibitions. Added to this is the highlight of the festival a torch-lit procession along the banks of the Thames accompanied by music and illuminated floats. The web site above has a programme of what's on when. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alec O |
 Photo: The Church Collector |
|
Fit For A King |
Ivory House St. Katherines Dock London, UK E1W United Kingdom +44 2074 805 353 http://www.medievalbanquet.com/ info@medievalbanquet.com |
Allow yourself you step back in time where kings, queens, knights, and more food and drink than you could ever want are all at your command. Wenches dressed in period costumes serve an assortment of food including roast chicken, soups, and salads while you merrily watch the show by torchlight. After the exciting performance feel free to kick off your formal attitude and get down to the music when the whole venue transforms into a nightclub. If thats not your style, you might want to take a lovely stroll along The Embankment while you gaze at the spectacular panoramic views of London. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Contemporary concert with a historic backdrop |
15 Nottingham Road Trinity House London, London SW17 7EA United Kingdom +44 (0)20 8682 1616 / +44 (0)870 895 5666 (Box Office) http://www.towermusicfestival.... info@towermusicfestival.co.uk |
Enjoy a 12 night musical extravaganza in the heart of London. Held at the famous and historic Tower of London, this musical festival is extremely exciting. With an impressive line-up of musicians like Pet Shop Boys, James Brown and Jamie Cullum, it covers a variety of music choices. High energy performances by national and international artists get this outdoor concert rocking away in the summer. Tickets range from GBP35 to GBP65; limited Super Seats are available at GBP125. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Rock Out Britain! |
London Road London, Essex CM2 8WQ United Kingdom http://www.vfestival.com/index... |
The annual V Festival started in 1996 and is held simultaneously in two locations, Hylands Park in Chelmsford and Weston Park in Stafford. The festival is a weekend long rock concert that traditionally takes place at the end of August. Past performers include Dido, Coldplay, and the Killers. Check their website for ticketing information and performer lineups. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Simply the Best |
Elvin House Stadium Way, Wembley, Middlesex London, London HA9 0DW United Kingdom +44 870 060 0870 http://www.wembley.co.uk contacts@wembley.co.uk |
The Wembley stadium has a conference and exhibition centre, an excellent venue for business, themed events, graduation ceremonies, product launches and other public events. Everything from football, cricket and ice skating to horse jumping and basketball events have been held here. This is the world's biggest, fully-covered football stadium, with a capacity to hold 90,000 football fanatics! Big acts from the music scene have entertained massive crowds for years. The Wembley complex, not to be confused with the Wembley National Stadium, has several hotels located in its vicinity. Visitors can find bars, restuarants, hotels, cinemas and offices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Williams |
 Photo: John (Waves) |
 Photo: Mark K |
 Photo: Stephanie Bain |
 Photo: Bob Twells |
 Photo: Keven Law |
 Photo: Robin Coleman |
 Photo: Omid Tavallai |
 Photo: Maglev-K |
 Photo: Stephen Ryder |
 Photo: Steve Bird |
 Photo: Nathan Collins |
 Photo: Herschell Hershey |
 Photo: Mahez |
 Photo: Hardeep Virdee |
 Photo: Malcolm Morgan |
|
The best time to visit the Castle |
Various venues London, London United Kingdom +44 1753 71 4364 http://www.windsorfestival.com/ info@windsorfestival.com |
Many people visit Windsor Castle and Eton College anyway, but at the end of the summer this lovely town hosts a range of concerts, from classical to contemporary, opera to jazz. Launched in 1969 and organised by the Windsor Festival Society, the festival also features a range of lectures, tours and other events. Review © 2007, Wcities |