What’s On in London – July

Taking place between the 1st and 14th July, the annual Wimbledon Tennis Championship is back, giving lucky ticket holders a chance to see some of the greats in tennis. If, however, you weren’t fortunate enough to get your hands on a ticket this year, our beautiful Ruinart Champagne Terrace is the perfect secondary place to sit back, relax and watch the players take to centre court whilst sipping on a crisp glass (or a bottle) of rose champagne.

Back again for another year of wonderful live music, the Somerset House Summer Series will be hosting a collection of open-air gigs in an atmospheric courtyard setting, from the 11th to 21st July. In collaboration with American Express, the gigs will feature a mix of up-and-coming and well-known artists, such as promising R&B talent Pip Millet, Amapiano DJ and Producer DBN Gogo and finishing with legendary performer, Patti Smith Quartet.

Seeking somewhere to cool off in the London heat? Look no further than the capitals great collection of outdoor swimming pools. Heralded by locals as the perfect place to spend a hot summers day, a trip to one of London’s lidos will certainly not be disappointing. Located close by, take a daring dip in the chilly Serpentine Lido, or alternatively, if you want something warmer, opt for Charlton Lido in Greenwich, or London Fields Lido in the east of the city.

Returning for the first time since 2019,expect to see the sky filled with beautiful flying balloons, thanks to the Lord Mayor’s Hot Air Balloon Regatta. So long as the weather remains calm, over fifty uniquely designed balloons will take to the sky, passing by some of London’s most iconic landmarks. What’s more, the event is also for a great cause, raising awareness for The Lord Mayors Appeal, a charity striving to fix London’s most pressing societal issues.

Epitomising a traditional English summer garden party, the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival will showcase spectacular gardens and beautiful floral displays, in a range of interesting topical themes. There will also be a range of talks and workshops, offering tips and tricks on how to keep your own green spaces in immaculate condition. In addition to the numerous activities on offer, live music, delicious street food and entertainment will fill the palace grounds.

A reincarnation of the former Zoo Lates, London Zoo Nights focuses on bringing after hours fun back to ZSL London Zoo. On each Friday Evening of the month, adults will get the chance to explore the wildlife with exclusive tours and talks, including an after-hours look at the new reptile house. After much exploring, the Wild Bites Street Food Market will be serving up global delights, alongside incredible live music. To make it extra special, you can even opt to stay over in one of the zoo’s very own lodges.

Whether you are an avid fan catching every game, or more of a casual viewer just supporting your home country, our neighbourhood is not short of places to catch one of the many Euros games. For something more casual, head to the Star Tavern or The Antelope. Alternatively, head to The Thomas Cubitt or Alfred Tennyson where you can hire your very own viewing room, before heading back to The Hari Bar and Terrace for a much needed post-football snack.

Taking place on the 19th to 21st July, Hyper Japan Festival is a celebration of all things Japan,  from amazing food to spectacular live performances. Expect to also see a plethora of market exhibitors, selling items from every part of Japans extensive culture, workshops where you can create your very own origami and even learn the basics of Japanese, and a sake tasting event that will leave you thirsty for more.