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 Design: the new sex? |
Earl's Court Exhibition Centre London SW5 9TA United Kingdom +44 20 8910 7724 http://www.100percentdesign.co.uk |
Having long looked to Paris and Milan for inspiration, London is now generally regarded as the design capital of Europe, maybe even the world. So, where better to showcase young, contemporary designers than here? Over 450 companies exhibit, specially selected by a panel of industry experts. Recent exhibitors have included B&B Italia, SCP, Cappellini, Helen Yardley, TwentyTwentyOne and The Igloo, and all genres of modern design are represented. Unfortunately the first few days of the fair are for trade only, with only the final day open to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Larsz  |
 Sale of the century |
Royal College of Art Kensington Gore, South Kensington London SW7 2EU United Kingdom +44 20 7590 4444 |
The 20th and 21st Century British Art Fair gives you the chance to appreciate the diversity of two centuries of painting, sculpture, photography and ceramics under one roof. It's the only fair for British Art from 1900 to the present day. Leading dealers will exhibit historic British art from the Impressionists to Pop Art, to current work, by both known and undiscovered artists. Prices range from a few hundred to many thousands. Somewhat appropriately, the fair is showcased in the Royal College of Art and often features work of past students. 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 |
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Hedonistic Brazilian Carnival |
Shepherd's Bush Empire London W12 - 7JP United Kingdom |
Who needs Rio when you can party with the best of them at the annual O Carnival, the UK's biggest Brazilian carnival party? A host of entertainers, musicians, dancers and famous faces will be on hand at the Shepherds Bush Empire to make sure you have fun. Costume contests, performances and loads of color, rhythm and hedonistic fun running into the wee hours are the order of the day at this two-three day festival, which takes place in February or March every year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Fans Gone Wild! |
Stevenage Rd Fulham London SW6 6HH United Kingdom +44 0870 850 1059 http://www.fulhamfc.com enquiries@fulhamfc.com |
If mayhem, rowdiness and public displays of drunkeness are your idea of a good time, then you will certainly want to catch a sporting event at Craven Cottage. For years this venue has been making headlines as much for the action and antics in the stands and by the fans as for the sports on the field. Home of the Fulham Football Club since 1896, football fans from all over England make their way to Craven Cottage for regional, national and international games. Capacity is over 22,000. Guided tours are available of the historic grounds; check website for dates, times and prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: nicksarebi |
 Photo: blogparty |
 Photo: Kaitlin M. Walsh |
 Photo: iceroyale |
 Photo: Ben Houck |
 Photo: kk_wpg |
 Photo: Laura Jane MacD |
 Photo: Matthew Topp |
 Photo: romax04 |
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Huge worldwide travel show |
Seagrave Road Earls Court London W14 8UX United Kingdom +44 870 121 2181 http://www.destinationsshow.com |
Thousands of visitors flock to Destinations to check out the place to sun themselves. With over 600 exhibitors, this must be one of the biggest travel shows in the UK. A varied representation from holiday companies, tourist boards from around the world and a whole host of displays, discussions and experts are on hand to advise you on your latest trip, whether it's a weekend excursion or the vacation of a lifetime. The show takes place in early February. See Web site for next year's exact dates. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Antiques and cutting edge interior design |
Battersea Park (The Marquee, the Riverside Terraces) London, London SW11 United Kingdom +44 20 7624 5173 http://www.decorativefair.com/ fairs@decorativefair.com |
This exciting event is aimed at both trade and public, and there will be pieces for sale in all price ranges. It is an unusual event which brings quality antique furniture together with high class interior design and soft-furnishing items. Held three times a year in the marquee, Battersea Park, the fair is now well established, and a free shuttle runs between the Moat House Hotel in Sloane Square and the Marquee in Battersea Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 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 |
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Boat race along the river Thames |
London Rowing Club Embankment (River Thames) London, London SW15 1LB United Kingdom +44 (0)20 8253 1009 (Tourist Information Center) http://www.horr.co.uk/ |
Not as famous as the collegiate Oxford v Cambridge Boat Race, this race involves 420 teams, 65 of whom are from outside the UK. The best view is from Chiswick or Hammersmith Bridge as sometimes the whole width of the Thames is filled with boats, and you can hear all the coxes shouting at once. Starting times are usually in the early afternoon. Look out for supporters of the University of London teams, and join in the vocal support! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Trubble |
 Photo: Annie Christiansen |
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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 |
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Designs and gadgets for homes of the future |
Warwick Road Earl's Court London, London SW5 9TA United Kingdom +44 870 606 6080 http://www.idealhomeshow.co.uk/ simonmayle@uk.dmgworldmedia.com |
One of the most celebrated annual design shows in Europe, the Daily Mail Ideal Home Exhibition premiers all the latest household designs and high-tech gadgets. Always a fantastic spectacle even if you don't have any particular interest in home improvements, the event featured a giant 18m lighthouse centrepiece, a relaxing landscape garden, and a series of concept products to let visitors glimpse the future of home life. Beat all those TV interior designers at their own game. Admission: GBP10-12 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stuart |
 Photo: Phil Day |
 Home of the Rangers! |
South Africa Road London W12 7PA United Kingdom +44 844 477 7007 http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/ |
Constructed in 1904, Loftus Road has been the home of the Queens Park Rangers Football Club since 1917. The stadium consists of four spectator stands, called The Loft, Ellerslie Road Stand, South Africa Road Stand, and the School End. Loftus Road was the first stadium in Britain to host international games not involving an English team, most notably hosting the Jamaican and Australian teams. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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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 |
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Design paradise |
Chelsea Harbour (Chelsea Harbour Design Centre) London, London SW10 0XF United Kingdom +44 20 7225 9100 http://www.chelsea-harbour.co.... enquiries@chdc.co.uk |
This collaborative exhibition brings together the best of British and international designers at the Chelsea Harbour Design Centre and nearby showrooms. Usually around one hundred exhibitors, many resident at the centre, use this established design event to launch their collections of furniture, wall coverings, textiles, lighting, accessories and more. London Design Week takes place annually in March, and you're advised to check a month or so in advance for dates and admission price. Complimentary shuttle services are available to ferry you between Earl's Court, the CHDC and other participating showrooms. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ben Arent |
 Photo: Jim English |
 Photo: marpelan |
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Preview the season's new black |
Cromwell Road (Natural History Museum) London, London SW7 5BD United Kingdom +44 870 429 4318 http://www.londonfashionweek.c... |
London is still a global fashion force. Home to Alexander McQueen, John Galliano, Stella McCartney, Clements Ribiero and Ronit Zilkha, London leads the pack when it comes to eclectic style. New York may be sleek, Paris classic, Milan chic, and Tokyo super-trendy, but London mixes it all up to great effect. Two annual fashion weeks, sponsored by The British Fashion Council and Vidal Sassoon, bring you the best of the new season's collections. While the Natural History Museum is usually the site of most catwalk shows, many designers are taking their shows to other, hipper venues. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Meriem Aissaoui |
 Photo: Anisya Sam |
 Photo: junky_styling |
 Photo: Abby Cattermole |
 Photo: Julianne.hide |
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Designer labels at bargain prices |
Cromwell Road (Natural History Museum) London, London SW7 5BD United Kingdom +44 870 735 2222 http://www.londonfashionweeken... |
Continuing from London Fashion Week, this weekend of shopping takes place in the gardens of the Natural History Museum. Designer clothes from labels such as Phillip Treacy and Lulu Guiness are all available at trade prices so there are certainly many bargains to be had. There are also makeovers and catwalk shows and a champagne lunch to wash it all down. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: curiouspidge |
 Photo: Ally |
 Photo: miss celine |
 Photo: Sana Sadiq |
 Photo: Adam Polselli |
 Photo: Deanna Iobbi (Johnson) |
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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 |
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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 |
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Classy car rally |
Hyde Park London United Kingdom +44 (0) 1327 856024 http://www.lbvcr.com info@lbvcr.com |
One of Britain's biggest motoring spectacles with an estimated one million people lining the route, this June run (not race) heads through central London, Westminster, Lambeth, Thornton Heath, Croydon, Purley, Redhill and Gatwick, before taking B-roads from Crawley to Brighton. Only cars built before 1 January 1905 are eligible. Of course, the ripe old age of many of these veteran cars mean that quite a few don't make it to the finish line. Cars are limited to 20 mph, so it's no wonder that the race starts at 7.30am. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: John Bennie |
 Photo: British MM |
 Photo: Rudolf Cech |
 Photo: Eddie |
 Photo: Peter Roper |
 Photo: clicks_1000 |
 Photo: oriza trizniak |
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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 |
 Photo: SJ Watson |
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Everything necessary for that perfect wedding |
Hammersmith Road (Olympia Exhibition Centre) London W14 0QR United Kingdom +44 121 767 3127 http://www.nationalweddingshow... weddings_bridal@mrn.co.uk |
Why do people still love traditional weddings? Well, let's face it, a wedding is a great excuse for a party and your chance to be the centre of attention, so you might as well make it the highlight of your life! This huge fair showcases the best of everything related to weddings, from caterers to wedding organisers and catwalk shows of all types of dress design. As the organisers would say... don't start planning your big day until you've made a trip here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Europe's Largest Street Carnival |
Various venues London, London United Kingdom http://www.nottinghillcarnival... enquiries@lnhc.org.uk |
Every August, a Caribbean sway comes to West London for Europe's largest street party. Steel drums, singers, eye-catching floats and troops of costumed dancers all pulsate to the beat. Throngs line the streets to watch this exceptional extravaganza. Rap and reggae mingles with dance music and other beats pumped out at deafening volumes as people munch on Caribbean snacks. The parade route winds through Chepstow Road, Westbourne Grove, Ladbroke Grove and Kensal Road. The carnival is free but bring cash for plantains, patties and Red Stripe beer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Colin Palmer |
 Photo: Pedro Figueiredo |
 Photo: Colin Palmer |
 Photo: Pedro Figueiredo |
 Photo: Pedro Figueiredo |
 Photo: Ernesto Cinquenove |
 Photo: quejaytee |
 Photo: Rupert Phillips |
 Photo: Zoubin Navi |
 Photo: Jakub Martyński |
 Photo: William Simon |
 Photo: Tina Gunawardhana |
 Photo: Sarah Jane Leake |
 Antique furniture and fine artwork |
Olympia Exhibition Hall (opposite Olympia tube station) London, London W14 8UX United Kingdom +44 870 736 3105 http://www.olympia-antiques.co.uk |
Around 350 exhibitors will be selling antique furniture, fine art, modern and contemporary works at this leading art fair, held three times a year in spring, summer and winter. Collectors, curators and connoisseurs should all find something amongst the traditional English and continental art. The exhibits include furniture, glass, ceramics, textiles, tapestries, oil paintings, old master drawings, watercolours, maps, silver, jewelery and more. Because the items have been approved by the British Antique Dealers Association, LAPADA, The Association of Art and Antiques Dealers, academics and museum curators, you can buy with confidence. Admission is £8, and catalogues cost £5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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London's longest running antiques fair |
Kings Road Chelsea Old Town Hall London, London SW3 - 4TR United Kingdom +44 1460 43 2090 http://www.penman-fairs.co.uk/ info@penman-fairs.co.uk |
A prestigious annual fair which has been taking place since 1950, Penmans Chelsea Antiques Fair plays host to many BADA and LAPADA members. The organisers ensure that all exhibits are strictly vetted before going on sale, and most predate 1875. Items have included early English pottery, barometers, French and Oriental bronzes, antiquarian maps, domestic brass, and copperware. There are light meals and refreshments available at the fair, which is held in the month of September. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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World-renowned and genteel garden show |
Royal Hospital Grounds London, London SW3 4JX United Kingdom +44 20 7834 4333 http://www.rhs.org.uk/ info@rhs.org.uk |
The largest, most prestigious and most popular flower show in the world. The first two days of this show are for members of the Royal Horticultural Society only, but non-members are free to attend the latter half of the event. In addition to the floral show, there are stands selling everything from English 'wellie' boots to priceless botanical prints, floral tea towels, bowls of potpourri, and rare gardening books. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: tracy ducasse |
 Photo: tracy ducasse |
 Photo: tracy ducasse |
 Photo: tracy ducasse |
 Photo: tracy ducasse |
 Home of the Chelsea Pensioner |
Royal Hospital Road London SW3 4SR United Kingdom +44 207 881 5298 http://www.chelsea-pensioners.... |
King Charles II established the Royal Chelsea Hospital in 1692 as a home for retired soldiers, a purpose it still fulfills today. The historic Restoration-era buildings are open to the public and several of the halls are available for hire. A variety of events are held throughout the year, including readings and musical performances. Check their website or call for details on upcoming events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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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 |
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Battles on the Football Field |
Fulham Rd London SW6 1HS United Kingdom +44 20 7915 2900 / +44 870 300 2322 http://www.chelseafc.com tours@chelseafc.com |
Officially opened in 1877, Stamford Bridge has been the home of the Chelsea Football Club since 1905. The stadium is located at the site of one of the most famous battles of King Harold's reign in 1066 against the Vikings. Now, the battles have moved to the football field for over 42,000 spectators to enjoy. Fans from around the world stop by Stamford Bridge to check out national competitions at one of the best and largest football stadiums in Europe. The stadium is located in the west of London approximately 5km from the city centre. Guided stadium tours are available; check website for more information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stewart Damonsing |
 Photo: jxl_in_london |
 Photo: Julian Guffogg |
 Photo: James Graham |
 Photo: Chelsea FC |
 Photo: derboe |
 Photo: iamshaft3 |
 Photo: S.Banerjee |
 Photo: Marc Mañé |
 Photo: Elena Lombardi |
 Photo: patrikjensen.dk |
 Photo: SpennyTee |
 Photo: Chiara Romano |
 Photo: Kane Washington |
 Photo: Julián Macías |
 Photo: trace.log |
 Photo: Zєzσ αℓ мu∂нαŦ |
 Photo: Chris T |
 Photo: YOKO TSUCHIYA |
 Photo: Angelo Romano |
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Men's pre-Wimbledon tournament at Queen's Club |
Queen's Club London W14 9EG United Kingdom +44 20 7894 5005 http://www.stellaartoistennis.... |
All tennis insiders know that the Stella Artois, the one-week tournament opening up the grass court season, is the best place to see the top male players prepare themselves for the following week's Wimbledon Championships. Not only are you almost certain to get tickets (even if you will have to queue a bit), but the Queen's Club is intimate and you'll get to see the world's top players up close and personal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rob Roy |
 Photo: Andy Hares |