FRIDAY FEATURE: JUNE'S HOTTEST EVENTS

June's hottest events, so that you don't miss out....

Chesterton's Polo in the Park

Friday 5th - 7th June 2015

The weekend event at Hurlingham Park is to host the largest Polo event in Europe. Discerning visitors will enjoy at least three matches a day including an International England match on the Friday as well as plenty of bars, gardens and music. The Little Hooves Kid's Club will be holding events across the weekend also making sure that the little ones are entertained so mum and dad can enjoy a Pimm's or two.

Sunset Safari, ZSL London Zoo

Fridays from 5th June - 17th July 2015, 6pm until 10pm 

A safari in the city, the Sunset Safari begins at London Zoo's usual closing time and offers insight into the animals' daily routine as they begin to settle down for the night. The tour, action packed with animal feeds, talks and entertainment showcase the zoo's 750 different species from around the world. Visitors can opt for self-guided or premium guide tours led by a safari expert.

Trooping the Colour

Saturday 13th June 2015, 10am

Although the Queen's birthday is in April, the official celebration of the sovereign's birthday has always taken place on a weekend in June. A glorious event full of colour and pageantry, Trooping the Colour is an impressive display of regimental skill by the Queen's personal troops as they salute her on her birthday. Over 1400 officers and men are on parade as well as 200 horses and 400 musicians, visible from The Mall and some areas of St. James' Park, which is followed by a fly-over by the Royal Air Force.

Open Garden Squares Weekend

Saturday 13th-14th June 2015

An action packed weekend for those with a green fingered inclination, the weekend will see over 200 enchanting gardens with restricted access open to the public across 27 of London's Boroughs. From historic and traditional gardens to those with a more contemporary feel, the Open Garden Squares Weekend is a charming and relaxing event - especially if the weather holds out!

Royal Ascot

Tuesday 16th - 20th June 2015

The world's finest racehorses compete for prizes of up to £5.5 million in Britain's most valuable race meet. Over 18 group races take place, eight of which are in Group one, take place over four days of high fashion broadcast all over the world. The Royal Procession which heralds the start of each race day is quintessential Britain at its best.

Shoes: Pleasure and Pain

Saturday 13th June - 31st January 2016

Once again the Victoria and Albert impresses its visitors with an exhibition charting the cultural significance and the changing fashions of our favourite shoes throughout time. From Ancient Egyptian sandals to Marilyn Monroe heels, the V&A takes visitors on a fashionable journey through time.

Wimbledon

Monday 29th June - 12th July 2015

The yearly tournament returns once again for two weeks of all things tennis, orderly queues and a little British rain. One of the most highly regarded titles in tennis will see players battle it out in singles and doubles to win up to £1.8 million.

Hampton Court Flower Show

Tuesday 30th June - 5th July 2015

The beauty of the Chelsea Flower Show is continued with the world's largest flower show also hosted by the Royal Horticultural Society. Taking place over six days, this year will see the show celebrating their 25th Silver Anniversary in style with special arrangements, historical gardens and a special rose marquee showcasing the Festival of Roses.


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FRIDAY FEATURE: 5 THINGS TO DO THIS BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND

The May bank holiday weekend is finally here and for those of us choosing to stay in the capital over the next three days, here are some ideas to help you make the best of your long weekend....

Stay in a luxury hotel

Many people living in London or those visiting frequently have never experienced the tourist attractions that people travel far and wide to witness. Seize the opportunity and explore our amazing city! Stays at the Savoy or Corinthia hotels allow easy access to the city's glittering West End with Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square nearby, or, opt for a Knightsbridge hotel such as the Mandarin Oriental or the Bulgari if you're in the mood for some shopping.

Museums and Art Galleries

Take advantage of London's vast array of museums and art galleries. From the British Museum in Russell Square, one of the finest in the world with more than 7 million artefacts on show, to the Tate Modern on Southbank housing the best in modern art from 1900 onwards, there is something to cater for all tastes.

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds are celebrating the release of the new Star Wars film with a Star Wars display. The feature comprises of 16 of the series' life-sized heroes and villains as well as the films' most iconic moments offering visitors a 'unique and immersive experience'.

Luxury Picnic in a Royal Park

Pass by renowned Fortnum and Mason and pick up a luxury picnic hamper to enjoy in nearby Green Park. A wide range of themed picnics are available catering from 2 to 10 people making it a lovely day out for all the family - weather permitting!

Electric Cinema

If the weather's a little less favourable, head down to the Electric Cinema in Dalston or Portobello Road where you can watch great movies in style. Having replaced the traditional cinema seat with arm chairs, beds and sofas all with foot stalls and cashmere blankets for your comfort, the Electric takes cinema back to the golden age of film providing a sense of occasion and romance.

If you'd like any more information regarding London hotels please visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911

FRIDAY FEATURE: LONDON'S BEST HOTEL BARS

Visiting London? Make the most of your stay by checking out some of the world's finest bars, from contemporary cocktails to classic aged Whiskeys, this is our list of some of London's best hotel bars to help keep you 'hydrated'.

Vista

The Trafalgar, Trafalgar Square SW1A 2TS

The Trafalgar's 'Vista' aptly translates to ' The View', stunningly situated above Trafalgar Square, Vista's roof terrace on top of the Trafalgar hotel offers a sense of tranquillity among the chaos of London's famous square. It's a classy affair with an abundance of black wicker, scatter cushions and even its own herb garden.

Open early April, Monday - Saturday 12pm - 1am and Sundays 12pm - 10pm
020 7870 2900

   

                                                                                

Artesian

The Langham Hotel, Portland Place, W1B 1JA

Heralded by Drinks International as the 'World's Best Bar' for three years running, 'Artesian' at the Langham Hotel combines Alex Kratena's unique cocktail creativity with a playful David Collins' interior, providing a drinking experience like no other. Kratena's inimitable cocktails pervade all of the senses guaranteeing an unforgettable and fun evening.

Open Monday - Saturday 11am - 2am and Sundays 11am - 12am
020 7636 1000

The Connaught Bar

Connaught Hotel, Mayfair, W1K 2AL

A sense of occasion and glamour, the Connaught Bar is the ideal place for celebration and luxury. Another of David Collins' interior masterpieces, inspired by Edwardian fashion and decor, provides the perfect ambience to enjoy the extensive cocktail menu and impress your guests.

Open Monday - Saturday 4pm - 1am

020 7499 7070

Dukes

Dukes Hotel, St. James' Place, SW1A 1NY

If Martini is your choice tipple then look no further! Stocked with choice ingredients selected by Dukes' own cocktail maestro Alessandro Palazzi, this hotel bar offers contemporary drinks whilst also catering to those with a more classic palate.

Open Monday - Saturday 2pm - 11pm and Sundays 4pm - 10.30pm

020 7431 4840

Dandelyan

Mondrian London Hotel, Southbank, SE1 9PD

The combination of breathtaking river views and Tom Dixon's interior design is what defines Dandelyan as one of the city's best hotel bars. However, its rooftop location overlooking the glittering city light is not its only draw, the botany inspired drinks menu designed by Ryan Chetiyawardana (of White Lyan in Shoreditch) make drinking here guilt free (almost!) and above all an absolute pleasure.

Open Monday - Wednesday 4pm - 1am, Thursday - Saturday 12pm - 1.30am and Sundays 12pm - 12.30am 

0203 747 1000

To find out more about exclusive holidays and luxury hotels, please visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911

FRIDAY FEATURE: LONDON'S PRE THEATRE MENUS TO ROUND OFF THE PERFECT EVENING

Night out at the theatre? Then why not complete the evening with a meal at one of these restaurants, offering pre-theatre menus (and some post), they're a perfect start or finish to a night on the town

Nopi

Warwick Street, W1

Hidden in Soho, Yotam Ottolenghi's Nopi carries his signature white decor, coloured by his vibrant dishes. His statement salads and Mediterranean inspired cuisine such as courgette and feta fritters, are a brilliant way to kick off a night.

Theatre menu available Monday - Friday 5.30pm - 6.30pm, dishes are to share at £24.50 pp.
Closest to: Criterion Theatre, Soho Theatre, Lyric Theatre

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The Jugged Hare

Chiswell Street, EC1Y 4SA

Amidst Moorgate's sky scrapers, with an air of a country gentleman's retreat, lies The Jugged Hare. Decked with stuffed hares and hanging pheasants it is no surprise that its speciality is game.

Theatre menu available everyday 5.30pm - 6.30pm, and post theatre 9.30pm - 11.30pm. £22 for two courses, £27 for three.

Closest to: The Barbican Theatre

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Wilton's

Jermyn Street, SW1Y 6LX

The epitome of English dining, one of London's oldest restaurants (established in 1742) provides more than just a meal. With a rich history laid out for all to see on its walls and 'Harry the Lobster' embossed on its dish ware evidencing its focus on seafood (reflected in the theatre menu), Wilton's guarantees an unforgettable dining experience.

Theatre menu available Monday - Friday 5.30pm - 7.00pm and Saturday 5.30pm - 10.30pm, £30 for two courses, £38 for three.
Closest to: Criterion Theatre, Piccadilly Theatre, Lyric Theatre, Apollo Theatre, Theatre Royal Haymarket, Her Majesty's Theatre

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Portrait

National Portrait Gallery, Trafalgar Square, WC2H 0HE

Located at the top of the National Portrait Gallery, Portrait puts on a show of its own thanks to its perfect location. Portrait's views of London are guaranteed to impress diners, with Big Ben, Nelson's Column and the London Eye all within eye's reach, creating its very own portrait. The food isn't overshadowed either, offering a changing seasonal theatre menu,

Theatre menu available Thursday - Saturday 5.30pm - 6.30pm with last orders at 6.45pm £17.50 for two courses, £20.50 for three.

Closest to: London Coliseum, Her Majesty's Theatre, Theatre Royal, Duke of York's Theatre, Savoy, Adelphi Theatre, Cambridge Theatre, Donmar Warehouse, Noel Coward

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Almeida

Almeida Street, N1 1AD

Recently listed in the top 150 restaurants in the Daily Telegraph's 'Good Food Guide', Almeida offers 'British food with a French accent'. At its helm is Michelin star trained chef Tommy Boland (previously Head Chef at Tom Aikens), who armed with accomplished waiter/sommeliers delivers fantastic dishes.

Theatre menu available 5.30pm - 7.30pm and 9.30pm to close. Two courses £17 and £20 for three.
Closest to: Almeida Theatre, King's Heat Theatre, Old Red Lion Theatre, Little Angel Theatre


Check out our guide to this year's unmissable plays and musicals

To find out about exclusive holidays and luxury hotels, please visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911.

FRIDAY FEATURE: THIS SUMMER'S HOTTEST EVENTS

If you're planning to visit London this summer, these are the hottest tickets in town. Whatever the weather London is a hive of activity, in the summer it is even more spectacular (if that's possible!) with countless things and places to see - tourist or age old inhabitant. This week we've decided to focus on our favourite time of the year and put together the events we'll most definitely be attending.

Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty

Since its recent opening Savage Beauty has been the hot topic on everyone's lips. More than two hundred of the late designer's original works will be on show, laid out in the style and structure of his world renown catwalk shows. A similar exhibition in New York presented one hundred of the British designer's works and was phenomenally successful, becoming one of New York's most visited exhibitions.

V&A Museum, Knightsbridge, Open until Sunday 2nd August 2015
Tickets: Free

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BBC Proms

A BBC tradition since 1895, each year the Proms delight classical music lovers with eight weeks of concerts at the Royal Albert Hall. Without the formalities one would expect at a classical concert, the Proms have a great sense of camaraderie and humour with decade old traditions such as 'Tennis', all in all they're a fantastic way to spend a summer's evening.

Royal Albert Hall, South Kensington, Friday 17th July - Saturday 12th September 2015

Tickets: Vary from £5 standing to £95 Box Seat 

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Wimbledon

No summer compilation would be complete without a mention of the notorious tennis championship which attracts the world's finest tennis players.

Wimbledon Park, Monday 29th June - Sunday 12th July 2015

Tickets: Extremely limited for the final matches.

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The Chelsea Flower Show

Every year the arrangements and gardens hosted by various organisations impress visitors with not only their design but also their underlying messages. A favourite among Royals and the social elite, it never disappoints.

Royal Hospital Chelsea, open to non-members 21st-23rd May 2015

Tickets: All Day £59

Why not check out our blog on this year's most anticipated gardens?

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Polo in the Park

A momentous occasion this year at the Hurlingham Club where it will play host to England's international polo team for the first time since 1939. This thrilling weekend combines fierce polo matches with world-class hospitality; with a shopping village offering a host of luxury items and food - all washed down with champagne and cocktails of course, this weekend is one of London's greatest outdoor events.

The Hurlingham Club SW6. 5th - 7th June 2015

 Tickets: Adults £30 - £45 depending on day       

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The Royal Ascot

The yearly horse races which have turned their thoroughbred participants into household names offer winners a jackpot of up to £5.5 million. A day at the Royal Ascot races offers a truly incomparable experience with six restaurants to choose from, three hours of races a day and a royal procession, The Royal Ascot is the event of London's social calendar.

Royal Ascot Racing Club, Tuesday 16th - Saturday 20th June 2015

Tickets: Adults £25 Grandstand Admission up to £85 Private Boxes, per day

Looking for somewhere to stay for your trip? Why not check out our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911

FRIDAY FEATURE: THIS YEAR'S WEST END WONDERS

Wondering how best to spend your stay in London? Then why not sit back and enjoy one of its fantastic plays or musicals (or both!). Visitors from all over the world come to London's West End throughout the year for a chance to see its phenomenal plays and musicals. We've put together a list of 2015's must see theatre productions in London's West End to make sure you don't miss out on the action.

The Twits

Royal Court Theatre, Tuesday 7th April - Saturday 30th March 2015

We're incredibly excited to see one of our favourite Roald Dahl creations take to the stage. One for all the family, coinciding perfectly with Easter half term, it's a brilliant excuse to get out and about with the kids!

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Bugsy Malone

Lyric Hammersmith, Saturday 11th April- Saturday 1st August 2015

Alan Parker's kid gangster flick hasn't been adapted for the stage for over a decade in the UK and The Lyric has set expectations high for this film adaptation. Running it for four months - as opposed to its usual three week production schedule, producers are gearing up expectant audiences for unmissable fun.

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Hamlet

Barbican Theatre, Wednesday 5th August - Saturday 31st October 2015

The age old Shakespearian play about the Danish Prince has had tongues wagging for months. Starring Britain's latest acting heartthrob, Benedict Cumberbatch, his faithful followers have caused tickets to sell like hotcakes! Luckily one hundred £10 tickets have been held back for each performance - crisis averted (we hope).

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A View from the Bridge

Wyndham's Theatre, Closes Saturday 11th April 2015

Arthur Miller's domestic tragedy comes to life once more with Ivo Van Hove at its helm. This play has been lauded by critics everywhere, consequently tickets are extremely limited, ending on April 11th - catch it while you can!

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Beautiful - The Carole King Musical

Aldwych Theatre, Until Wednesday 13th February 2016

Beautiful tells the previously untold story of Carole King's rise to fame, with Katie Brayben cast as lead role. Nominated for eight Olivier Awards, the show is already rocking the West End and will be running until February next year so you've got plenty of time to catch it.

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Memphis

Shaftesbury Theatre, Saturday 28th March 2015

Winning four Tony Awards in 2010 and nine Olivier nominations this year, it's no wonder Memphis has set tongues wagging. With Killian Donnelly and Beverly Knight as leads 'boasting some of the most thrilling vocal work you'll find on stage', this musical has brought audiences to their feet with its not stop raucous fun. 

To find out about where to stay in London, please visit our website.

FRIDAY FEATURE: EXCITEMENT BLOOMS FOR THE CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW 2015

With the first day of Spring upon us, what better way to spend a beautiful day than rubbing shoulders with the Royals whilst admiring the beautiful designs at The Chelsea Flower show. Every year the show attracts thousands of worldwide visitors to England's capital for an unforgettable week of sights and scents. Widely considered as the world's most prestigious flower show, we are extremely excited to see this year's fantastic floral displays.

The competition at the show has always been intense with designers battling against each other to be the most innovative, relevant and above all take home the coveted gold medal. Previous years have seen designers really push boundaries to impress the public and judges alike, 2011 saw Diarmuid Gavin with  Fáilte Ireland/Cork City Council garden unveil a hanging garden suspended 60ft above ground, winning him his first gold medal.

Year on year we are taken aback with the talent and calibre of the show's exhibits and it seems this year will not disappoint. In the pipeline for this year's show is a garden design by Matt Keightly, the force behind last year's fantastic 'Hope on the Horizon' for the Help the Heroes charity. He will be returning with Prince Harry's charity Sentebale, who are dedicated to helping impoverished children in Lesotho, Africa.

This year will be a first for Harrod's, who will be presenting their own garden with a perfume themed design. The department store's 'Fragrance Garden' will highlight the art of using flowers to create beautiful scents. Sheena Sheeks who is to design the garden has said she wants to reflect the growing industry in scent selection.

Another new exhibitor we are certain will astound this year comes from Al Barari Firm Management. Designed by Kamelia Bin Zaal and entitled 'Beauty of Islam', it will feature jasmine, rosemary and papyrus with an Islamic art influence. Not one to be missed!


The Chelsea Flower Show, 19-23 May 2015 at The Royal Hospital in Chelsea.
Full Day Tickets £59, please call 0844 338 7502.

To find out about luxury hotels in Chelsea, please visit our website.