June means the start of summer, a rare time in which even the slightest appearance of the sun means we’ll be dusting off our shorts and getting out the barbecue. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a family outing or just great ways to spend time together as a couple, here is a comprehensive list of the best things to do in the capital this month.
London Zoo Lates
Beginning in June and happening all the way through to the end of July, London Zoo Lates offers a chance to visit the zoo’s impressive selection of animals after-hours. Strictly 18 and over, it’ll be running every Friday night with over 17,500 creatures on display, including access to the Tiger Territory, with the chance to get closer than ever to one of the world’s most awesome predators, the Sumatran tiger. If that’s not enough, there are also animal talks, improv comedy, pop up bars, street food, wine-tasting opportunities and physical theatre to keep you entertained throughout your visit. A great night out that has proven popular amongst fans and critics alike, it’s a great alternative night out.
For more information, check out www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo/whats-on/zoo-lates-0
Field Day
Back again for another year in Victoria Park in Hackney, Field Day now consists of two days of some of the most interesting and vibrant artists out there. An 18 and over festival, it features an incredibly varied line up with headliners including Pixies, Metronomy and a range of acts such as Jamie xx, The Horrors and much more. However, it’s not just about the music, with a dedicated section to food and drink as well, including Street Feast, ‘London’s pioneering street food market’, Venn Street Market and the London Brewers’ Market. A great alternative if you’ve had enough of camping at festivals as the park closes after each night, meaning you’ve got the comfort of your own bed to enjoy instead of a hellish campsite. Field Day is happening over the weekend of 7th and 8th of June, with both one-day and weekend tickets still available.
For more info check out fielddayfestivals.com/line-up/london
Open Gardens Square Weekend
Every year, Londoners get a glimpse of some of the best green spaces in the capital thanks to the Open Gardens Square Weekend, open over the weekend of June 14 and June 15. Back for its 16th year, this event will allow visitors into 200 exclusive gardens throughout the capital, including private gardens, roof gardens, allotments, urban wildlife and a number of gardens belonging to important historic buildings. There are a number of activities throughout the weekend including live music, stalls, food and drink and family activities, it’s definitely not to be missed. With 20 new gardens opening up this summer, it’s the biggest one so far.
For more information check out www.opensquares.org/
Dogs Unite for Guide Dogs
Probably the biggest dog walk you’ll ever take part in, Dogs Unite For Guide Dogs this June 14th is quite the event. With organisers expecting thousands of dogs, dog-owners and a few celebrities as well, the aim of the walk is to get as much sponsorship money for the charity Dogs Unite, which aims to support the lives of guide dogs. Registration is now open, and each dog will receive their own superhero cape and goodie bag. Hosted in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, the day will also feature dog shows, demonstrations, cruffts heats and chances to meet guide dogs and their trainers.
For more information check out www.guidedogs.org.uk/dogs-unite
Urban Food Fest
Running up to June 21st, the Urban Food Fest is held every Saturday in Shoreditch, providing some of the most unique culinary experiences out there. With a rotating cast of food stalls, each week will focus on a different variety of world cuisine such as jerk chicken, halloumi souvlaki, sushi, wood-fired oven pizza and much more. With a range of drinks on offer as well to quench your thirst, expect craft beers and ales, cider, specially designed cocktails, wine and champagne. There is also a ‘V-Corner’ for vegans and vegetarians and an impressive selection of dessert options as well. Finally, there are a number of up-and-coming bands and entertainers to keep you occupied whilst you chow down on some delectable food.
Urban Food Fest is free entry, for more information check out www.urbanfoodfest.com/
Trooping the Colour
A celebration that brings the country together, take part in the festivities this June 14th for the Queen’s birthday with Trooping The Colour, an amazing military parade that has been held since 1820. Taking place on Horse Guards Parade in St. James’s Park, the event brings out all the pomp and gaudery of the British Army as the Queen inspects the troops of the Household Division. The Queen then leads the troops down the Mall to Buckingham Palace, salutes and guns are fired from Green Park and at the Tower of London. Lastly, she joins other members of the Royal family to watch as the RAF flies past. A long-held tradition in the country, it’s a great experience that can’t be missed. Whilst tickets are no longer available, it is still possible to join the crowds alongside the Mall to catch all the action.
Festival of Colours
Hosted in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, this Holi-inspired festival is sure to be one of the most entertaining events this June. Occurring on the 28th of June, the Festival Of Colours is a fun alternative day out with live bands, DJs, booze and best of all, to chance to chuck coloured powder at your friends and strangers. With the success of last year’s event at Battersea Power Station, this year’s event is sure to carry on with its success. With many tickets having already been sold hours after they were put on sale, there are a still a number left, which include basic entry tickets and packages including t-shirts and packs of coloured powder.
For more information check out https://www.holifestival.com/uk/en/your-city/london
