2015 is a great year to visit London. In addition to all the normal sights, there’s some wonderful events taking place. And if you’re planning a trip, or indeed are living here for the foreseeable future, there’s certainly some wonderful activities, shows, festivals and sporting affairs going on.
So let’s take a look at some of the ‘not to be missed’ events coming up in London in 2015.
The London Marathon
Even if you’re not up for running yourself, the London Marathon provides an incredible atmosphere for a fabulous day out. If you’re prepared to get up early, you can bag yourself a great vantage point along The Mall, at the end of the 26-mile route. Here you can join thousands of other supporters and cheer the runners as they finish their epic journey.
Covent Garden May Fayre and Puppet Festival
This traditional fayre takes place on 10 May 2015, at St Paul’s Church Garden in Covent Garden. Punch and Judy shows are part of British history, and this celebration dates back to 1662, when Samuel Pepys first came across Mr Punch, and the Punch and Judy shows as we know them became more widely known.
The FA Cup Final
Whether you love football or hate it, you’re going to know about it. Football is second only to religion in the UK, and pubs around London will be showing the FA Cup Final on the 30th May that takes place at Wembley Stadium. There’s only one thing for it, and that’s to pick a side, order a beer and join in the fun…
London Wonderground
Taking place from 07 May to 27 September, this alternative cabaret festival takes place at the Southbank Centre. There are loads of different acts, as well as fairground rides, bars and food stalls. It’s a great place to spend an evening. And you don’t even have to book one of the events, just enjoy wandering amongst the stalls, soaking up the atmosphere.
Royal Ascot
The 16-20th June is one of the UK’s most iconic horse racing meetings. Located a stone’s throw outside London, close to Windsor Castle, Royal Ascot is perhaps one of the most glamorous events in the annual sporting calendar. Mingle with the rich and famous, or why not go on the infamous, Ladies Day, when you can compete with the British upper class as to who can wear the most outrageous hat…!
Pride in London
The annual Pride celebrations are now a massive event in London. And this year the festival runs from Sunday 21 June right through to Sunday 28 June, with the infamous Pride Parade taking place on Saturday 27 June.
Wimbledon 2015
Strawberries and cream, anyone? There’s something ‘oh so British’ about the sound of the thwack of a tennis ball whilst enjoying a serving of fresh strawberries – washed down with a glass of champagne, naturally. See the world’s top tennis players battling it out at what is probably the most famous tennis tournament in the world. This year’s tournament runs from 29 June to 12 July.
BBC Proms
This classical music festival takes place at the Royal Albert Hall during the months of July to September. If you’d like to go, booking for the various concerts opens on the 16th May. There’s something here for all tastes, not to mention a wonderful way to experience an event with 120 years of history.
Buckingham Palace Tour
Once a year The Queen opens the doors to her wonderful palace to members of the public. Well, you don’t get to see the whole building, but you get the amazing opportunity to visit The State Rooms as well as other areas. And you can also take time out for refreshments in the Garden Café that overlooks the famous Palace lawns and lake. The Palace is open to visit from 25 July through to 27 September.
Notting Hill Carnival
The world famous Notting Hill Carnival takes place from 29-31 August, ending with the Grande Finale Parade on the Monday. Billed as ‘London’s biggest street party’ it really is an event that everyone should see at least once. And if the throbbing beat and vibes don’t get you dancing, then nothing will…
London Fashion Weekend
From 17-20 September, London plays host to one of the largest fashion trade shows in the world. The location is the beautiful Somerset House, and it’s not just for those who make their living in the fashion world. Anyone with an interest is welcome, and you can enjoy beauty treatments from experts, insider talks, browse the latest clothing and, of course, see some up and coming styles being modelled on the catwalk.
Rugby World Cup
It’s the turn of the UK to host this incredible sporting event, with matches taking place around the country. From 18 September to 31 October, the world’s best rugby players will battle it out, culminating in a nail biting final at London’s Twickenham Stadium on 31st October.
The Lord Mayor’s Show
This annual event gets more flamboyant every year, and millions of people show up to join in the fun. A wonderful procession wends its way around the streets of London, and this year’s parade on the 14 November is the 800th anniversary, meaning it’s going to be even more of a celebration. Definitely not one to be missed.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks
This ticketed event promises to be spectacular, with the sky lighting up behind the iconic backdrop of famous London landmarks. And of course, Big Ben will chime out the moment that the year spills over into 2016. Certainly a night to be remembered…
