Head to the British Academy’s central London HQ (housed in a gorgeous Georgian townhouse by St James’s Park, FYI) then and get stuck into a riveting range of activities inspired by the humanities and social sciences research shaping how we understand the world today. There are tons of talks taking place, including a history of the humble cowrie shell, an exploration of biosecurity, and a discussion on the importance of linguistic diversity from headliner and co-director of the Endangered Language Alliance, Ross Perlin.
Other highlights on Saturday 21 June include a workshop where you can play the role of an eyewitness helping to catch a criminal, a poetry performance in tribute to the late great Benjamin Zephaniah, and wealth of interactive exhibits. Here, you’ll be transported to an ancient Roman laundry, Baroque ballrooms, London’s first Chinatown, the top deck of an iconic Birmingham bus, and many more intriguing places besides.
Soak up breathtaking music from the silver screen with the London Symphony Orchestra — which, fun fact, has contributed soundtracks to over 200 movies — on 22 June. Renowned film music conductor Dirk Brossé guides the LSO through pieces by acclaimed French composers from films like Asterix & Obelix, Black Beauty (2020) and Tess. Our readers can save 50% on tickets with code LONDONFILM.
Less than three weeks to go till Country on the Common! This brand new outdoor festival — which celebrates all things country, roots and blues — takes over Tooting Common, Saturday 5 - Sunday 6 July. Head here for sizzling performances from artists like The Shires, Noah Reid, and Remember Monday; great BBQ food; and Wild West-themed fun, including lasso lessons and axe-throwing.
From bolstering British naval power, to causing devastating social problems, to becoming the darling of the drinks cabinet — gin has a very colourful history indeed. Discover it at the Foundling Museum on 27 June with drinks educator and historian Jane Peyton. She hosts a talk and tutored tasting, featuring three different types of gin and a free welcome drink.
Did you know that one of the best loved British sitcoms of all time is now a stage play? Pay a visit to the most chaotic hotel in Torquay (if not the world) at Fawlty Towers — The Play. It’s at Apollo Theatre till September, but if you book by 22 June you could save up to 37% on tickets.
Flowers + a palace + festival vibes = a wonderful day out in London. And that’s exactly what you get at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, which takes place 1-6 July in the glorious grounds of... you guessed it, Hampton Court Palace.
