We might be staring September in the face but the summer isn’t over yet. Get out and explore all that London has to offer this August Bank Holiday weekend.
Notting Hill Carnival – the Bank Holiday big one
If there is one event that epitomises the best of London during the summer, then it has to be the Notting Hill Carnival. This vibrant, mad event is Europe’s biggest street festival and celebrates the capital’s Caribbean communities and culture, with live music, colourful floats and enough jerk chicken to keep you going ‘til Christmas. The parade starts at 9.30am, arrive early to get a decent spot.
When: 26-29 August
Where: Notting Hill
How: www.nottinghillcarnivalguide.com
The Beast – blow up heaven
You’re never too big for the world’s largest inflatable obstacle course, the Beast. Clamber and scramble your way over 32 bouncy inflatable obstacles over a whopping 272 metres. Keep energy levels up with street food, beers and cocktails, and enjoy tunes from the onsite DJs. What’s not to love.
When: 25-28 August
Where: Alexandra Palace
Zip World – for a bird’s eye view of London
Fly through the air at a speedy 50mph on the world’s biggest – and fastest – city zip line. You’ll need a head for heights taking off from 35 metres up (that’s 9 double decker buses!) but will be rewarded with one of the best views of London, including the London Eye and Houses of Parliament.
When: until 28 September
Where: Archbishop’s Park (closest tube: Lambeth North)
How: www.zipworld.co.uk
Field Day at Dinerama – food, glorious food
Are there two better things in life than music and food? Nope. Field Day festival will be taking over the popular Shoreditch dining spot, Dinerama, for 12 hours of music, food and drink. Expects DJs, special guests and brilliant street food, with a bit of dancing thrown in.
When: 27 August
Where: Shoreditch
How: www.streetfeast.com/field-day-x-dinerama
Walala X Play – be a part of art
Dive into a 3D art installation down in Greenwich in this immersive maze of mirrors and patterns. Explore through a range of spaces and have a go at solving the giant puzzle. If all that sounds a bit much, you could always play a game of ping-pong on one of the artist’s tables. Just ask for a bat and ball.
When: until 24th September
Where: Greenwich
How: www.nowgallery.co.uk/exhibitions/walala-x-play