Can you believe we are well into our so-called British summer?! And in true British Summer style we’ve had to use our wellies more than our flips flops! Regardless, we never seem to let the weather get in the way of enjoying all the exciting activities over the season. There are numerous must-see and do cultural events going on, so I’ve listed a few that are key in embracing the outdoors this summer:
Flower Shows
If you didn’t get the chance to pop along to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, fear not, the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show kicks off from this week until the 17th July. Very similar to the Chelsea event, the one at Hampton Court gives you the chance to seek gardening inspiration and also the opportunity to find a diverse range of gifts! I have been to both flower shows and I can certainly say that rain or shine they are so much fun, especially if you’re looking to revamp your garden. If I’m off to an event like this, and know I’m going to be on my feet all day, I will always stop over. With the Hampton Court Flower Show there is a handy Travelodge Kingston Upon Thames hotel about 3 miles away.
If you don’t want mainstream flower shows there are many smaller ones going on around the UK. Southport Flower Show has Anton du Beke opening this year’s show which commences from the 14th-17th August. There is the handy Travelodge Southport which is nice and central so if you decide to explore the area afterwards you can do so easily.
Music
So we’ve checked off doing the civilized gazing at flowers and dreaming of ideal gardens, but It wouldn’t be summer if I didn’t mention a music festival. If we’re sticking to mainstream there’s one festival in particular I’ve always wanted to go to……V-festival!!!!! This year’s festival is on the 16th and 17th August with top acts like Justin Timberlake, Ed Sheeran, The Killers and Lily Allen hitting the stage. Maybe it’s an age thing but sometimes I prefer day passes just to see my favourite acts then go and sleep in a warm bed. If that appeals more than camping in a muddy field then the place to be is the Travelodge Chelmsford.
Having attended last year I definitely recommend the BBC Proms in the Park for a day out in Hyde Park, It’s always an event that incorporates so much talent and makes a spectacular effort each year. The 13th September sees Rufus Wainwright, Earth, Wind and Fire plus many more grace the stage alongside the BBC Concert Orchestra, topped off with the one and only Sir Terry Wogan presenting.
Theatre
If you find yourself in Cambridge this summer I’d suggest popping along to The Cambridge Shakespeare Festival. You can catch Shakespeare classics and enjoy watching them outdoors from the 7th July, all the way through to the 24th August. These plays will be going on in various spots in Cambridge, so it’s the perfect excuse to visit the wonderful city and catch a show. There are three hotels close to all the open air venues throughout the city. For somewhere to rest your head check out Cambridge Central, Orchard Park, Newmarket Road,
