Photo courtesy of Sim Canetty-Clarke
The UK’s festival culture has always been a huge draw to the capital, and summer isn’t complete without venturing to a festival or two in London! The number of festivals here means that you don’t have to get dirty in a field, either. There’s sublime classical music at BBC Proms in the beautiful Royal Albert Hall, invigorating yoga at Citadel in leafy Victoria Park, or cute farm adventures for little people at the popular Lambeth Country Show (there were 170,000 at last year’s event).
If you missed getting tickets for the biggie last week, Glastonbury (or didn’t fancy roughing it, really), relax in London Perfect luxury and make future festival plans. Here’s our pick of the best festivals in London this July. The best thing? No camping necessary!
For Classical Lovers: BBC Proms
Bringing the finest classical music to London for eight weeks, the BBC Proms at The Royal Albert Hall kicks-off in July. The goal is to make classical music accessible to everyone by keeping prices affordable in a low-key atmosphere. Expect a considered programme of events with leading musicians and singers and finishing off with BBC Proms in the Park. Adult tickets £7.50 or £6.
The Music Festival: Citadel
The one-day festival, Citadel, melds together an array of independent music and tasty food in Victoria Park. There’s folk music, BBQ chicken, yoga and a dance hall workout on the Spandex Stage. This year sees a line-up that includes the Foals, Bonobo and a house gospel choir. There’s a science camp, storytelling and sports games for the kids. Check the website for the best ticket deals. Adult tickets from £49.50; 6-11 years £5; 5 years and under free.
The Park Event: Walthamstow Garden Party
Walthamstow, is a two-day extravaganza set in Lloyd Park and the sprawling William Morris House, and best of all, is completely free! Organized by the Barbican, there’s a myriad of activities and events. There’s an international band line-up including Tots And The Mayhals, Barbican Young Poets and even Walthamstow Youth Circus. Make your own xylophone in the craft tent or get your green fingers on at the gardener’s field. Free entry.
Lambeth Country Show, Georgia Merton Photography
The Family-Friendly One: Lambeth Country Show
The Lambeth Country Show is a much-lauded country festival event held at Brockwell Park; it’s been running for the last 42 years, in fact. There’s sheep shearing, a mini farm, vegetable and flower competitions. Add live music and locally made fare to this and you’re onto a winner. It’s ideal for families and it’s also free, so save your cash for the homemade cakes or buying a homemade cider! Take note, there was over 170,000 people at the last one. Free entry.
London’s festivals are numerous but don’t forget the big ones running all over the UK either, some are accessible as a day trip from the city.
For your next stay in London, our friendly reservations team are on hand to help you select one of our stunning family vacation rentals.
