Why You Should Visit London’s West End This Summer

London alone sees excitement on a daily basis, and the West End in London is no exception. With upcoming festivals, delicious food and new performances, there are more than enough reasons to include London’s West End in your travel plans this summer.

© Courtesy of London’s West End

Festivals

Covent Garden hosts the Ice Cream Festival, Aug. 19–Sept. 4. Sample from more than 40 ice cream flavors at this highly anticipated event.

One Aldwych © Courtesy of London’s West End

Also in August and September, the Carnaby Summer Festival boasts an exciting lineup of live music and open-air comedy. The festival also includes art and craft workshops such as fresh flower crown making.

Performances

Head to Adelphi Theatre on The Strand to see Back to the Future or walk to Criterion Theatre to be spooked by the thriller 2:22 A Ghost Story. Across many of London’s iconic rooftops, pop-up performances emerge all summer during the Sing it From the Rooftop series. Pre- or post-theater, enjoy a drink in the hidden oasis garden of Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London’s oldest theater.

Apricity © Ben Carpenter

Food and Drink

For a unique afternoon tea experience, One Aldwych invites Charlie and the Chocolate Factory fans to experience its Charlie & the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea. Like One Aldwych and its superior service, The Biltmore Mayfair is another great hotel with an afternoon tea service, located in Grosvenor Square, just steps from some of the city’s most iconic shopping destinations.

© Nic Crilly Hargrave

In Chinatown, head to Chinatown’s Dessert Alley to enjoy authentic East and Southeast Asian food. The hardest part might be deciding which dessert to eat! Also in the West End, Apricity serves classic dishes made with British produce. Award-winning chef and sustainability champion Chantelle Nicholson aims to celebrate makers, growers and farmers in the country with delicious dishes.