London in July is the city at its very best. The odds of sunshine and warmth are high, pub gardens and parks are full of happy punters and picnickers, and the city has more festivals, performances, and other seasonal events on offer than ever. If you’re planning to join one of Evan Evans’ London tours at the height of summer, here are seven fantastic events to make sure your trip is unforgettable.
RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show
Britain in July is in full bloom, and nowhere is that more apparent than at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. The world’s largest annual flower show, it includes a fantastic array of blossoms, a floral marquee, and other stunning exhibits, which are made even more spectacular by their regal backdrop.
RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show
3rd-9th July 2017
Wimbledon
It isn’t summer in London without Wimbledon. The Grand Slam tournament is one of the capital’s most beloved annual traditions, from the see-and-be-seen crowd and spirited competition to the strawberries and cream. Each day, visitors can join the queue for last-minute entry to Centre Court, No.1 Court and No.2 Court; though the wait is long, the once-in-a-lifetime experience is well worth it.
3rd-16th July 2017
Turandot at the Royal Opera House
Puccini’s final opera is a classic of the repertoire, and Andrei Serban’s production is an opulent affair. Head to the Royal Opera House in early July to see this stunning staging in action. Alternatively, Trafalgar Square will also play host to a free, open-air screening as part of the BP Big Screens programme on 14th July; show up early with a picnic to make the most of the occasion.
5th-16th July 2017
Summer Series at Somerset House
A spectacular Neoclassical landmark, a host to art exhibitions and, in the summer months, a music venue: Somerset House has it all. This year, its popular Summer Series will return with a diverse range of ground-breaking artists, from Goldfrapp and Foster the People to Norah Jones and Damian Marley.
6th-16th July 2017
Lovebox
Fancy a festival? You don’t have to tromp through the mud in Glastonbury to experience the best of Britain’s large-scale live music offerings. Held in Victoria Park over the course of two days, Lovebox is one of London’s most anticipated annual events. This year, acts like Frank Ocean, Jamie XX, and Solange are headlining.
14th-15th July 2017
BBC Proms
Billed as the World’s Greatest Festival of Classical Music, the BBC Proms have been a beloved London tradition since 1895. The magnificent Royal Albert Hall is the primary setting for the daily roster of performances; this year’s highlights will include evenings with the London Symphony Orchestra and a musical 85th birthday celebration of film composer John Williams.
14th July-9th September 2017
Buckingham Palace Summer Opening
It’s not every day that you have insider access to Her Majesty’s gaff, which is why it’s well worth taking advantage of Buckingham Palace’s annual summer opening. A highlight of London in July, a tour of the State Rooms offers a fascinating window into the monarchy and its history. Combine your tour with a trip to The Queen’s Gallery for an even more enlightening experience.
22nd July-1st October 2017
Complement Evan Evans’ inspiring London tours with these summery city events.
Images courtesy of RHS/Neil Hepworth, AELTC/Jon Buckle, KENTON, James Bryant, Lovebox, cinoby/iStock, and Royal Collection Trust/ © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2017.
