From picnics in the park to sharing a pitcher of Pimm’s along the Thames, it’s fair to say London is at its best during the bank holiday season. Whether you’re in town on family holidays, looking for a romantic treat for your other half or wanting some quality time with your mates, we’ve rounded up some top tips to help you ditch the typical London landmarks and museums and make the most of the warm, spring weather.
Putney Bridge by mcobby via Flickr
Brunch is the new lunch
Much like London’s younger American counterpart, the island of Manhattan, weekend brunching is becoming all the rage in this city. And with reasonable deals stretching from Aldwych and Barbican to Soho and Notting Hill, there are plenty of places where you can do it, such as The Breakfast Club, which has branches in trendy central London spots such as Angel, Old Street and Soho. Most eateries offer tables outside, so get there early if you fancy sipping your Bloody Mary in the sun.
Food Festival at Hampton Court Palace
From the bank holiday weekend from May 5-7 you can check out the food festival at Hampton Court Palace in Surrey. The event offers a range of different cuisines from some of the world’s most talented chefs, many of them whom have been awarded Michelin stars for their culinary contributions. If you’d like to up your game in the kitchen, you can learn from the professionals themselves as there are plenty of workshops available with master classes for children as well. Adult tickets are £15 each, and children under 16 get in for free.
Mudchute Park and Farm
Show the kids a slice of the country while you’re in the capital at one of the city’s largest farms in the Isle of Dogs. With horse riding lessons available for a range of abilities from beginners to novice show jumpers, it’s a breath of fresh air from the bustling London streets. If you’re not an equestrian enthusiast, visit the petting zoo and stroll along the duck pond. With free admission, it’s a perfect day out for cheap holidays.
Clubbing on the river
Board the Dutch Master and party down the Thames on this plush, three-story boat. With a dance floor, roof terrace with spectacular views of London’s most famous sights such as Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. The ship leaves Tower Pier and times vary so be sure to keep on the look-out for the next departure, and with a capacity of just 370, be ready to snag a spot quickly. Tickets generally cost £20 and the event is exclusively for 21+, so don’t forget your ID on the night.
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