Fresh ways to explore London this summer

Fresh ways to explore London this summer | The Standard
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Going Out
Fresh ways to explore London this summer
Swap the standard city checklist for something a little more memorable
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24 April 2026
There’s more to the capital than meets the eye, with an abundance of unique experiences to try that you might not know about. From live theatre to craft workshops and sporty outings, the capital is alive with exciting activities and opportunities
Escape reality at a new immersive experience in Knightsbridge
Paradox Museum
Step off the everyday streets of the capital and into Paradox Museum London, a new immersive attraction in Knightsbridge, where curiosity is the order of the day.
Inside, more than 50 mind-bending exhibits invite visitors to question how they see and experience space in unexpected ways. Perspectives shift, gravity appears to alter and clever illusions create plenty of camera-ready moments throughout the journey, like walking upside down on the Tube. Among the highlights is Zero Gravity, an interactive challenge where balance and movement are put to the test, complete with playful missions and a souvenir pass.
Whether you’re a local or visiting with family, friends or out-of-town guests, Paradox Museum offers a distinctive day out in London. Limited slots available daily.
Book now at paradoxmuseum.com/london .
Visit the sights of London along the river
PA
See the capital from a new perspective with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, a fast and scenic way to enjoy the best of London along the River Thames.
Operating like a river bus, the service links key piers across the city, passing some of the most recognisable sights. Spacious seating, refreshments on board and regular departures make it a desirable alternative to bus and rail travel – it’s the perfect option for both commuters and visitors who want to explore some of London’s top landmarks.
Launching from April 2026, new audio tours narrated by comedian and impressionist Rory Bremner add another fun yet informative layer to the experience, with dedicated themes covering the likes of film locations and the history of the river.
Plan your journey at thamesclippers.com and download the app.
Immerse yourself in the home of cricket
Marylebone Cricket Club
Experience twice the action at one of the world’s most iconic sporting venues this spring bank holiday with two Vitality Blast T20 double headers at Lord’s Cricket Ground.
On Friday 22 May, Middlesex’s women’s and men’s teams face Kent’s women’s and men’s teams respectively, while Sunday 24 May sees Middlesex’s men’s team take part in a London derby against Surrey, before the women’s team takes on the Leicestershire Foxes.
Just one ticket gets you a full day of fast-paced T20 cricket at the home of cricket. Expect a big hitting, electric atmosphere, food and drink and something for all ages. Perfect for friends, families or entertaining clients in central London.
Visit lords.org to take advantage of the early bird offer to save £5 on adult tickets before 30 April.
Get creative and crafty painting pottery with friends
Social Pottery
Based across four London locations – Camden Town, Kentish Town, Balham and Westfield White City – Social Pottery is a fast-growing favourite creative studio offering a genuinely hands-on, social and creative experience.
Choose from three fun activities: pottery painting, wheel throwing and handbuilding – with no prior experience needed. Sessions run for between 90 minutes to two hours, all materials and glazing are included, and finished pieces are fired in the studio kiln by Social Pottery’s experts. These can be collected or shipped two weeks after your visit.
Whether you’re coming solo, as a couple or with a group, it’s fun, chatty and even a little therapeutic at times. Private bookings are available for birthdays, hen parties and corporate team-building events. Gift vouchers are also available.
Book online at socialpottery.com .
Set the stage for afternoon tea with a touch of drama
LW Theatres Group
Like any great performance, the Showstopping Afternoon Tea at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane is presented in two dramatic acts, including delectable delights and theatrical flourishes. Taking place in the theatre’s opulent Grand Saloon, one of the most stunning Regency rooms in London, it’s truly a feast for all the senses.
Act One is a taste of the stage, with savoury pastries and sandwiches served on a board created from the 101-year-old stage floor, allowing guests to ‘tread the boards’ as they eat. Act Two sees the velvet curtain rise to unveil a selection of sweet treats and unexpected surprises that mirror the thrill of opening night.
Enjoy it all with tea or choose to upgrade to champagne or punch. It’s sure to delight devoted theatregoers or those looking for a unique day out in London.
From £59 for adults and £28 for children. Book your spot at lwtheatres.co.uk .
Laugh the night away at a limited-run comedy musical
J EDGAR THEATRE PRODUCTIONS UK
Gear up for a night of belly laughs in London’s West End at the world premiere of Here Comes J. Edgar! , an irrepressible comedy musical about the love of power and the power of love.
Brought to you by comedy legends Harry Shearer (star of The Simpsons and This is Spinal Tap) and Tom Leopold (a writer who’s worked on TV classics such as Seinfeld and Cheers), the musical unveils the scandalous life of J. Edgar Hoover, who, as FBI director from 1924 to 1972, wielded great power by collecting secrets on others, while concealing his own sexuality, a flamboyant private life and a lifelong relationship with his deputy, Clyde Tolson.
For theatregoers keen to see the next comedy hit show, this is an unmissable night of fun where you might even learn what a simple black dress and a single strand of pearls can do for a guy.
Find tickets and discounts at kingsheadtheatre.com .
Escape to Cornwall for an August bank holiday festival
TUNES FESTIVALS
For a bank holiday with a difference, Tunes in the Park brings four days of music and family fun to the grounds of Port Eliot in Cornwall. The festival takes place over 27 to 30 August, with headliners Faithless, Basement Jaxx, Jessie J, Joel Corry, Kelis and Razorlight leading the packed line-up of more than 100 acts across 10 stages.
Beyond the music, there are a host of activities for all ages, from wellness experiences to archery and axe throwing and a comedy tent featuring Jason Manford, Seann Walsh and Russell Kane. There will also be an array of delicious food and drink options to keep festivalgoers energised over the weekend.
Just three-and-a-half hours by train from London, Tunes in the Park is an easy way to turn a long weekend into a memorable summer escape, with a setting that spans riverside views, open parkland and historic surroundings. More acts to be announced soon.
Book tickets at tunesinthepark.com .
Find your fitness tribe and get summer-ready together
The Fitting Rooms
Looking for a fun, social way to get fit this summer? The Fitting Rooms, a boutique personal training gym in London Bridge, offers Shared PT sessions.
Train in small groups of up to four people, matched by goals and ability, coached by expert personal trainers every step of the way. It’s the social workout you didn’t know you needed. Go with a friend or let the team match you with like-minded Londoners.
Every session is tracked, every client gets regular one-to-one check-ins and results are real and sustainable. No contracts, no membership fees, just expert training that fits your life. Plus, the first session is completely free.
Get 10 per cent off any first package with code TF…

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