Amy Houghton

As the UK's most visited national park, the captivating, enigmatic Lake District is just about as English as landscapes come. Forged from glaciers, this UNESCO site is one of the UK's most popular tourist hotspots for visitors, domestic and international. And while people flock to the Lake District because of the history, the walking, the breathtaking scenery, picturesque villages, and the, well, lakes, after all of that, you really do need a place of comfort, great food, log fires, and luxurious spas to rest your weary bones. Long gone are the days of damp B&Bs – style and quality are on the up in the region, so it’s worth checking out these incredible Lake District hotels right now, as this is just about the perfect time to explore this fascinating, beautiful part of the world. From remote bivouacs and remote stays to lakeside luxury and world-famous hotels that draw people from all over the world, here’s our pick of the best hotels in the Lake District to start booking now.  🏡 RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in the Lake District Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, our travel experts have based our list on expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 📍 The best things to do in the Lake Distric

It’s true – Dads can be hard people to please. But if you were planning on getting your old man a pair of socks or a bottle of whiskey for Father’s Day this year and calling it a day, let us stop you right there. Why not treat him to a proper day out, eh?  If you want to go beyond the cliche steakhouse or pub dinner (though they’re both perfectly good options), London is awash with other stuff that’ll bring a smile to your dad’s face, whether he’s a sports fiend, a gaming enthusiast, a comedy lover or a beer coneisseur.  Here’s our pick of some genuinely good, not-at-all naff things to do with your pops this Father’s Day (Sunday, June 15, in case you need reminding).  Still not found what you’re after? Try our guide to London’s unusual things to do. RECOMMENDED: Our full guide to celebrating Father’s Day in London.

Greece is, quite simply, king of the holidays. It’s a country full of sprawling cities, beautiful islands and some of the best beaches in the entire world, and the food? Don’t even get us started on the food. There’s a hell of a lot of islands, and our editors have been to a hell of a lot of them, but for the on-the-ground knowledge that only a local has, we’ve roped in our Greece expert Demetrios Ioannou, who grew up in Athens but has travelled all over the country. Whatever you’re looking for, here are the best places to visit in Greece.  Where should I go for my first time in Greece? We’re firm believers that everyone should go to Athens at least once in their lives. So if it’s your first time visiting the country, you should probably start there. But the good news is that in Greece, you can pretty much do it all. So don’t stay in Athens for a full week – spend a perfect weekend there before heading out on a ferry to Aegina, Poros, Hydra and more. If you’ve ticked off Athens already, consider Greece’s latest destination dupe, Paros, which is set to this year’s ‘new Santorini’ (just without the crowds).  📍 RECOMMENDED: Discover our ultimate guide to Greece Which is the best Greek island to visit? If we’re talking most popular, Santorini and Mykonos are always going to be top of the list. But Greece has more than 6,000 islands and islets, each with its own unique vibe and all worth visiting for entirely different reasons. Crete is Greece’s biggest island, in the south of th

What makes a good party song? Is it uplifting lyrics? Or maybe it's an uptempo production?Throughout the decades, they’ve come in all shapes, sizes and vibes. However, for a song to be a proper, hip-shaking party song, there are some rules: it’s gotta be a banger, and it’s gotta give you absolutely no choice but to get up and boogie.  No wonder then that this list includes everything from funk, soul and disco classics to ‘90s RnB tunes and 2025 chart-toppers. There’s a tonne of variety on here, so pass the aux cable over to us and we’ll have your party shaking in no time. Ready to throw some shapes? You’re in the right place – these are the best party songs of all time.  RECOMMENDED: 🎵 The best songs of 2025 so far 🕺 The best albums of 2025 so far 🎤 The best karaoke songs🍻 The best drinking songs🎶 The best ’80s songs🎊 The best pop songs This guide was recently updated by Georgia Evans, who covers Time Out’s music section. Entries are by Time Out Editors. For more about how we curate, have a look at our editorial guidelines.

London looks its absolute best when it’s bathing under a blazing sun and bright blue sky. So, on the rare occassion that we’re blessed with such weather, it would be a waste not to head upwards and absorb gorgeous views of the capital in all its shining glory. The city is spoiled with dozens of rooftop bars ready to stand to attention come summertime. But if it’s just greenery, panoramic vistas and a fresh breeze you’re after, one of London’s rooftop gardens may just do the trick instead. Some of the city’s high-rise gardens stay fairly quiet and zen most of the year, while others are attached to buzzy restaurants or host DJs and live music during peak season. So, whether you want a peaceful stroll in the clouds or you’re after some sunny sky-high vibes, these are all of London’s best rooftop gardens. RECOMMENDED: The best outdoor spaces in London.

Thinking of heading to the UK? Great choice. England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales are packed with jaw-dropping sights, fun-filled nights out and endless cultural offerings for you to fill your calendar to the brim. The Time Out team has spent a hell of a lot of time travelling up and down the country, really getting to know the big sights and local legends – and by now, we like to think we know a thing or two about what is actually worth your precious time. And trust us: you won’t be disappointed. From Cornwall’s crashing surf to Scotland’s rugged peaks, to the buzz of Notting Hill Carnival and secret spots locals whisper about, there’s something for everyone here. These are the best things to do in the UK in 2025.  What are the best events in the UK throughout the year? Where do we begin? In April, join in infectious crowds at the Manchester or London marathons. Head to Somerset for Glastonbury in June (if you’re lucky enough to get tickets, that is), and go up north for all sorts of cultural happenings at the Manchester International Festival come July. In August, we’d recommend Brighton for Pride, London for Notting Hill Carnival and Edinburgh for the month-long Fringe arts festival. The Scottish capital is also a great place to celebrate New Year’s Eve with their Hogmanay street party to see out the year.  Where are the most scenic places to visit in the UK? If it’s dramatic landscapes you’re after, no trip to the UK is complete without spending time in the Scott

There’s something in the air right now. Everywhere you look in London – from the paths of Victoria Park to the pavements of Southbank – you’ll see people running. Sporting their hydration vest, sucking on gels and glancing at the Garmin watch on their wrist. But they’re not trying to catch the tube or escape a god-awful first date, they’re just… running. For fun.  Londoners have well and truly caught the running bug. But who can blame them? This city is blessed with all kinds of terrain to explore when you want to get the endorphins flowing. If you’re not in the mood for jogging down busy central streets, there are wild heaths, flat towpaths and beautiful canalside trails on your doorstep instead. With race season in full swing and the London Marathon just around the corner, Time Out asked some of the city’s keenest runners for their favourite running routes in the capital. These people have run miles and miles of the city, broken records and harnessed the power of running to build thriving communities. So they know their stuff.  There’s no gatekeeping here. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or just fancy a slow and steady 3k from time to time, these are some brilliant routes to try out next (and a few words of wisdom, in case you need the motivation). RECOMMENDED: 🏃 Your winning guide to the London Marathon 2025 📍 The best run clubs in London The best running routes in London Adele Roberts, DJ Photograph: Adele Roberts Where is the best place to run in London?  ‘The place

There’s no season more welcome than the start of summer. Brighter days, warmer temperatures and more time outdoors results in an uplifted mood and a general lust for life. It also helps when you have a stellar summer playlist – the kind that draws on golden classics and modern hits alike to really add a healthy dose of that feel-good feeling we all love. Here at Time Out, our team of writers and editors have you covered when it comes to the most essential summer anthems. From a Bill Withers staple to some Sabrina Carpenter sparkle, our playlist of the best summer songs captures all the fun, warmth and mood-lifting magic you want when it comes to soundtracking your summer months. RECOMMENDED: 🎤 The best karaoke songs ❤️ The best love songs🎉 The best party songs🕺 The best albums of 2025 so far

Work-dos are a hard art to master. How do you find something that strengthens your team spirit and that everyone in the office, across multiple generations, is actually going to find fun?  Stuck for ideas? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re after some healthy competition among co-workers or an activity that requires all your colleagues to work together, London has a load of classic and quirky ways for your team to let their hair down. So, take notes, we’ve rounded up the best of them. These are some of the top places in the city to go to build your office bonds.  RECOMMENDED: The best office party venues to hire in LondonThe top London venues for a private bash 

In the sweltering city heat, few things are more inviting than the prospect of plunging into one of London's finest al fresco swimming pools. And everyone knows it. The capital has well and truly caught the open-air bathing bug over the last few years. Even in the depths of winter, you’ll spot a brave bunch – wetsuits and all – diving head first into the immensely cold waters of London lidos. But that also means that on the hottest days of the year, you’ll need to book well in advance if you want to secure a poolside spot. The good news is that there’s a bounty of places for getting your outdoor swim fix in the city. That’s not to mention all the wild swimming spots a little further afield. Heated or unheated, regimented lanes or wide open water, serious fitness or chilled family fun – these are all of London’s best lidos and outdoor swimming pools for whatever floats your boat. RECOMMENDED:🏊 The best swimming pools in London.🌡️ The best saunas in London. 💦 The best waterparks in London

Morocco is a place where ancient ruins neighbour glistening new skyscrapers, and where souks, unchanged for decades, live a stone’s throw from world-leading cultural centres. It’s also a place where one day you’re chugging through rural mountain villages, the next you’re hopping on a double decker bullet train – the first and only high-speed train in Africa and one of the fastest in the world, in fact.  Since launching in 2018, that speed shuttle (named Al Boraq) has opened up Morocco in a whole new way. It connects six Moroccan cities, including Casablaca, Marrakech and Fez, but with just three days in the country, we used it to explore two places that tend to fly a little more under the radar – Tangier and Rabat.  Tangier: where the ocean meets the sea With the wild Atlantic ocean to one side and the warm Mediterranean sea to the other, Tangier is thought of as Europe’s ‘gateway into Africa’ – we flew there in just over two hours from London, but you can also get an hour-long ferry from Marbella. We stay in the swish but very conveniently located Hilton Tanger City Centre, but our introduction to Tangier begins further out, on the outskirts of the city.  Photograph: Amy Houghton for Time Out We spend the next morning a half hour drive from the centre at Cape Spartel, the northwesternmost point of Africa. The headland, topped by the oldest lighthouse in Morocco, overlooks the exact point that the Mediterranean and the Atlantic meet. Spread with pine trees and roamed by wil

Whether you’ve got the voice of an angel or you’re totally tone deaf, karaoke unites us all. But heed our warning: choosing the right song is crucial (aka, don’t opt for that Whitney Houston tune if you haven’t the range. And if you don't have good enough flow, steer clear of rapping. Kapeesh?) So we thought we’d help out a little bit. In our list of the best karaoke songs ever, we’ve got everyone from Adele to Toto, and from Frank Sinatra to Ricky Martin. There's even recent singalongs from Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan. Something for everyone. So down that shot, grab that mic and take to the stage. Your audience awaits you. Here are the best karaoke songs ever.  RECOMMENDED:❤️ The best love songs☀️ The best summer songs🎉 The best party songs🕺 The best albums of 2025 so far  

What is it?  Technically several adjoining markets, this sprawl of stalls stretching from Camden Town tube to the Regent’s Canal is London’s fourth most popular visitor attraction. In its recent heyday, around 250,000 people came here every week to shop, sample street food and soak up the distinctive, still-grungy atmosphere. Camden Lock Market is an arts-and-crafts haven while the Stables Market is a trendy spot for everything from quirky furniture to fetish clothing. Nearby Buck Street Market on Camden High Street has had a shipping container revamp. As you saunter through the different markets, don’t be surprised to see grungy teenagers and old punks on the street corners. Camden feels more mainstream than it did in the ‘90s, but it’s still one of London’s most rock ‘n’ roll neighbourhoods. Why go?  To get lost in a one-of-a-kind maze of art, garms, antiques, accessories, books and endless street food.  Don’t miss The Cheese Bar – London’s only fully fromage focused restaurant – for all manner of gooey, cheese-based delights in a classy, low lit space in Stables Market.  Ticket info  No tickets needed.  When to visit  Camden Markets are open everyday of the week from 10am until late.  Time Out tip If you find the lunch queues and options a bit too much in the main Camden Lock Market, cross the road to Buck Street Market where you’ll find food that is just as great and are more likely to find a free spot to sit.  RECOMMENDED: London’s best markets

What is it?  After 130 years, luxury department store Fenwick left its iconic outlet on Bond Street in February 2024 but its flagship store in Brent Cross Shopping Centre is still going strong.  What does it sell?  The three storey emporium offers up everything you expect from any good department store – apparel, homewear, beauty bits and accessories from classic and emerging high-end brands like Stella McCartney, Viviene Westwood, Ganni, Jo Malone and Our Place. There’s also a wee horticultral section downstairs, selling fresh plants and a bunch of tools and sprays to help your patch bloom.  Opening times  Mon-Fri 10am-8pm; Sat 9.30am-8pm; Sun 11.30am-6pm. 

What is it?  Since launching in 1970, Browns has played an instrumental role in the careers of some of the world’s biggest fashion titans. Founder Joan Burstein (the ‘fairy godmother of fashion’) is credited with discovering John Galliano after stumbling across his graduate collection and later on, stocking the work of (at that time) a little known designer named Alexander McQueen.  Mrs B, as she was known, also introduced the likes of Comme des Garçons, Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein to the British fashion scene. More than 50 years later, Browns continues to champion young and emerging designers. After being acquired by fashion website FarFetch in 2015, Browns moved its flagship store on South Molton Street to a Grade II-listed eighteenth century building on Mayfair’s Brook Street in 2021.  What does it sell?  There are more than 100 established and next-gen designers jostling for attention at Browns, from Chloé and Dries Van Noten to Balenciaga and Christian Dior. The first floor hosts a carefully curated collection of apparel, shoes, bags, fine jewellery, accessories and homewear and the Yellow Room is where the most  luxury of luxurious brands reside. More high-fashion pieces are on display in the Focus Room on the ground floor.  Opening times Tuesday to Saturday 10.30am-6.30pm. Closed Sunday and Monday (but can open by appointment).  Time Out tip On the ground floor, you’ll also fine 123V Browns, a fully plant-based, award-winning sushi restaurant. Menu highlights inclu

What is it?  In business for over 300 years, Fortnum & Mason is as historic as it is inspiring. A sweeping spiral staircase soars through the four-storey building, while light floods down from a central glass dome. The iconic eau de nil blue and gold colour scheme with flashes of rose pink abounds on both the store design and the packaging of the fabulous ground-floor treats, such as chocolates, biscuits, teas and preserves. A food hall in the basement has a good range of fresh produce; Fortnum’s Bees honey comes from beehives on top of the building. There are various eateries, including an ice-cream parlour. The famous hampers start from £60 – though they rise to a whopping £6,000 for the most luxurious. A sweeping spiral staircase soars through the four-storey building, while light floods down from a central glass dome. The iconic F&M eau de nil blue and gold colour scheme with flashes of rose pink abounds on both the store design and the packaging of the fabulous ground-floor treats, including chocolates, biscuits, teas and preserves. What does it sell?  A food hall in the basement has a good range of fresh produce; Fortnum’s Bees honey comes from beehives on top of the building. There are various eateries, including an ice-cream parlour. The famous hampers start from £60 – though they rise to a whopping £6,000 for the most luxurious. The first floor is for homewares: china- and glassware as well as finishing touches such as silver scoops for stilton, F&M coloured linen

What is it? Part of an esteemed UK chain, Harvey Nicks is a one-stop shop for luxury fashion and lifestyle goodies. Though it may have been in its Knightsbridge pad since 1831, it stays true to its ethos of bringing new and innovative products to a wider audience.  What does it sell?  Makeup junkies should head to the ground floor beauty and perfumery space to pick up established brands like Charlotte Tilbury and Shu Uemura, or to glowup with treatments from the Light Salon, Shavata, Duck & Dry and Nail’d It. Womenswear takes up the next three floors, with swimwear and a Denim Gallery on the third levels, while menswear can be found down in the basement. The clothing rails are full of top labels such as Alexander Wang, Balenciaga and Givenchy, and there’s an excellent array of accessories and beauty buys from luxurious brands such as Tom Ford and COR (whose soap contains real silver). Finish off proceedings with lunch on the fifth floor, where the buzzy food department is located along with The Fifth Floor Cafe, Burger & Lobster, Trullo and Madhu’s Brasserie.  Opening times Monday to Saturday 10am – 8pm, Sunday 11:30am – 6pm (browsing from 11.30am – 12pm).  Time Out tip  Forget Vinted and Depop – if you’ve had a recent wardrobe cull, Harvey Nichols will take any high-end pieces that are still in decent condition. It’ll do all the hard selling work for you, all you need to do is drop the items off. Once they’ve found a new home you can get  a Harvey Nichols voucher with a sw

What is it?  There is a reason why John Lewis is one of the most respected and liked shops in Britain and it’s not a complicated one – John Lewis sells good products, in a pleasant environment, served by knowledgeable and amicable staff. Add to that its sensible ratio of quality to price for all its products, and you quickly see why John Lewis retains its rightful crown as the retail world's safe pair of hands. The store offers one of the most civilised places on Oxford Street to shop – with a commodious food hall stocked with culinary partner Waitrose’s goods (complete with walk-in cheese room), the swanky 1864 Rooftop Bar, the Jamie Oliver Cookery School on the third floor, a Waterstones and four cafes to choose from.  What does it sell?  This enormous store in the centre of the city offers a broad sweep of electricals, homeware, fashion, gifts, furniture and leather goods, each coming with the reassurance of JL’s nonpareil ‘never knowingly undersold’ guarantee and lenient returns policy. Arguably the strongest selling point is the lower ground-floor cookware and white goods section, where an excellent range of kitchen staples is backed up by exemplary customer service. Other strengths include its sprawling beauty hall, technology, schoolwear and a brilliant haberdashery for those knitters struggling to find decent wool. Opening times  Open Monday-Wednesday 10am-8pm; Thursday 10am-9pm; Friday-Saturday 10am-8pm and Sunday 11.30am-6pm.  Time Out tip Why not pair your retail t

What is it?  Brockwell Park is a much-needed slab of green (84 acres) just south of Brixton. Locals from the surrounding areas flock here in summer to sun-worship (if they’re lucky), fly kites, play football, swim in the outside pool, garden in the community greenhouses and parade a stunning array of dogs. The vast space was once the private grounds of Brockwell Hall and was opened to the public in 1891 by the London County Council. The hall still stands today and is one of several grade II listed buildings dotted about the park, including the emerald green Tritton Tower Clock, which was gifted to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.  Why go?  It's big, diverse and interesting, with numerous areas to appeal to different tastes, from the calm, rolling meadows around Tulse Hill and walled ‘Old English’ flower garden to the BMX track and sloped football pitches by the Dulwich Road. The playground in Brockwell Park is a favourite, with its aerial slide, massive sandpit and sections for different age groups; nearby you’ll find duck ponds and a huge paddling pool. There’s also a lovely little minature railway open at the weekends May to October, weather permitting – it’s not particularly massive but it’s been just £1 for a return for years now. Don’t miss:  Regular events at the park include circuses and a busy schedule of summer concerts and festivals including Wide Awake, Mighty Hoopla, Field Day and Cross the Tracks. But one of the most beloved annual events is the Lam

What is it?  Never mind the river buses. If you want some excitement on the Thames – the kind that 007 himself would encourage – step aboard the super speedy RIB. This ‘rigid inflatable boat’ will have you hurtling up and down the river in no time with 740 horse power behind you and ‘V8’ twin turbo thrust. No, we don’t know what that means either, but we do know that the RIB can do speeds of up to 30 knots (roughly 35 mph). It’s a pure adrenaline experience. Journeys range from 20-minute blasts to a full 75 minutes. The former either takes you from Tower Millennium Pier past The Shard, Tower of London and HMS Belfast or from The O2 Arena past the Thames Flood Barrier and Greenwich. The longest trip includes the lot. You can choose to have detailed commentary along the way, or there are experiences that keep it to a minimum. Life jackets and waterproof clothing is provided, and all ages are welcome, but there is a minimum weight requirement of three stone (15kg). Why go?  For the fastest, most thrilling way to travel the Thames. Don’t miss The Thames chase scene in ‘Spectre’ was filmed on one of these vehicles, so naturally, Thames RIB offers an ‘Ultimate Spy Experience’. Passengers are taken past some of the most recognisable Bond locations, zooming down the river with the likes of Paul McCartney’s ‘Live and Let Die’, Adele’s ‘Skyfall’ and Shirley Bassey’s ‘Diamonds are Forever’ blasting through the speakers. There’s also an onboard quiz with a chance to win a 007-themed pri

What is it?  Spread across floors 69 to 72 of Western Europe’s tallest skyscraper, the View from the Shard provides the most magnificent 360° views of the city you can get.  Your journey starts the minute you step foot in the lift. Look up, because screens in the ceiling provide fascinating facts and hypnotic visuals as you hurtle 800ft skywards to the first viewing gallery on floor 69. From here you can explore three more levels by foot (don’t worry, there is another lift if you can’t manage the stairs), with walls of windows providing an incredible backdrop and an open-air skydeck on floor 72. There are London experts dotted about the deck to guide you through your view (if you want), sharing stories of the city’s past and offering recommendations fror whatever kind of London experience you’re after.   Why go?  To look down on the Big Smoke in all its shining glory. All of London’s most legendary landmarks are visible (provided it’s not extremely cloudy!), including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London and even Wembley Stadium over in Brent. and the Tower of London. On a nice clear day, views stretch as far as Southend-on-Sea.  Don’t miss Watch out for the different events going on here throughout the year. Every Wednesday from 2pm-4.30pm, there’s live music to make your visit even more atmospheric and every so often there are yoga classes offering a chance to practice sun salutations in the clouds.  When to visit Opening times change throughout

What is it?  You want stunning views of London? You’ve got to earn it. In this adrenaline-pumping experience, you’ve got to scale the height of the O2 in order to see unique vistas of Greenwich, Olympic Park, Canary Wharf and beyond. But it’s worth it.  You’ll be kitted out with boots, a suit and a harness and get a quick safety briefing before you start your 170ft  ascent. For the 90 minute experience, one of The O2’s guides will lead you along the springy walkway all the way to the top. You pull yourself via safety lines, clipping and unclipping carabiners along the metal bars leading to the top. The steepest incline you’ll have to tackle on your way up is about 28-degrees. Once you reach the summit, you’ve got 20 minutes to breathe in the fresh air, admire the panorama of the city, take a selfie or two and discover some facts about London’s landmarks before reattaching yourself to the rail and heading back down. The return route a little longer and steeper.  It’s suitable for ages 8+ and anyone at least 1.2 metres tall.  Why go?  For thrills and views.  Don’t miss If you ask us, the best experience at Up at the O2 is the sunset climb. You head up the venue as the sun goes down, meaning you get incredible shades of pink, orange and yellow backdropping your London views. Just make sure to wear an extra layer or two.  When to visit In the summer climbs are from 10am-8.30pm daily and in the winter 10am-6.30pm daily. Peak season is from June to August.  Ticket info  Prices depe

What is it?  Big Ben is technically the name of the 13-ton bell that chimes the hours from the clock tower of the Houses of Parliament in Westminster. Since 2012, the tower itself has officially been called the Elizabeth Tower. And before that, it was known very unimaginatively as just ‘the Clock Tower’. Still, when most of us talk about Big Ben, we mean the whole thing –bell, clock, tower and all.  Designed by architect Charles Barry as part of the Palace of Westminster, the Clock Tower was completed in 1859. The Great Clock started on 31 May that year, with the chimes of the Great Bell (that is, Big Ben himself) heard for the first time on 11 July and the quarter bells first chimed on 7 September. The Victorian clockwork still keeps surprising accuracy, thanks to a counterweight that relies on the stacking of old pennies.  You may recall that the tower was shrouded in scaffolding and its bells went silent from 2017 to 2022. The clock underwent a major five-year renovation, marking the first time that it had been removed from the Elizabeth Tower during its 160-year lifetime. It emerged more glistening and golden than ever.  Why go?  So you can say that you’ve seen what is arguably London’s most legendary landmark in the flesh.  Don’t miss The Big Ben tours. Sure, seeing it from the street is nice, but you miss out on so much of the structures details and intricacies if you never step foot inside. You climb 334 spiral steps from the bottom of Elizabeth Tower to the belfry r

Tooting’s vast pool, with its multicoloured changing huts, has been treasured by fortunate locals since it opened as a bathing lake in 1906. At just over 90m, it’s the largest outdoor freshwater pool in the whole of the UK and inspires devoted swimming all through the year. To swim in winter you must be a member of the well-established South London Swimming Club, which has been based at the lido almost as long as it has existed. Facilities include a paddling pool for kids, a café, and lockers for small valuables.  

Download 2025 is over. That means that the countdown to Download 2026 has begun. Held at the ‘spiritual home of rock’, the festival is one of the biggest rock and metal extravaganzas on UK soil, so we can’t blame you for thinking about next year’s event already.  People on the internet have already been speculating about who could top the bill in a year’s time, with Deftones, Iron Maiden, Linkin Park and Ghost among the biggest names in the rumour mill. It’ll be a while before the next lineup is announced, but tickets could go up for sale in a matter of days. Here’s everything we currently know about securing your tickets for Download Festival 2026.  RECOMMENDED: Metallica’s M72 World Tour is coming to the UK in 2026. When will Download tickets go on sale for 2026?  Early tickets are on sale now! Early bird tickets went live on Monday June 16, and you can find them on the Download website here.   How much will tickets cost?   Five-night early bird tickets start from £315, while three-night tickets begin at £305.  When and where will Download take place in 2026? Download Fest has been held at Donington Park for the past 22 years and that’s not about to change. It’ll take place from June 10-14. How many people attend Download festival? Obviously, numbers will vary every year, but for 2025 it’s thought that more than 75,000 metalheads descended on Donington Park for the festival.  The best UK music festivals to book for 2025.  Stay in the loop: sign up to our free T

When summer comes to London, you can never have too many lidos. As soon as temperatures hit anything above 23C, we all flock to the nearest open-air pool to sunbathe and cool off. The problem is that they can often get packed and can be tricky to book. So, the more lidos, the better!  Right on cue, Royal Docks is launching a temporary lido for a month later this summer. The lido, AKA Summer Splash, opens around this time every year and has been ‘designed to provide a safe outdoor water space for local communities, young people, and particularly those without access to their own private garden or outdoor area’.  For 2025, the pool will be accessible from Friday, July 25 until Sunday, August 17. It’s unheated, just in case you need to mentally prepare yourself to brave the chill.  Besides the pool itself, there’ll be sandpits, deckchairs, lessons for kids, ‘lates’ DJs series and a wood-fired sauna. Like a sort of quasi beach club.  Summer Splash part of a wider water-focused programme in the area, titled At The Docks, that’ll also offer wakeboarding, paddle boarding and open water swimming. On top of all that, there’s a bunch of waterside events planned, like The Cause’s big birthday bash and Ensemble Festival – a showcase of circus, dance and physical theatre.  Justine Simons, the deputy mayor for culture and the creative industries, said: ‘The Royal Docks is one of London’s best-kept secrets, a vibrant hotspot for creativity and culture, so I’m delighted to see the return of

The World Naked Bike Ride was back in London on Saturday (June 14) in all of its full-frontal glory, with crowds of two-wheeled folk hanging out in the nude. More than 1,000 cyclists gathered in various meet-up points across the city to ride starkers through the likes of Clapham, Hackney, Croydon, Regents Park and Hyde Park for the event’s 20th edition.  And before you ask – yes, it is in fact perfectly legal. The law says that getting naked in public is only an offence if someone exposes their private parts with the intent to cause alarm or distress. WNBR is not that. Since it started in 2004, it has acted as a peaceful protest advocating for cyclists’ rights, body freedom, the end of global oil dependency and curbing car culture.  So, without further ado, here’s a look back at the World Naked Bike Ride in London 2025 (the PG version).  World Naked Bike Ride 2025 in pictures  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jorge Carocas (@_carocas_) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adam K Scarborough (@adam.scarborough.39) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lou Perillo | Photo (@perillolou_photo) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pocket Picks by Ruby (@pocket.pickss) Get the latest and greatest from the Big Smoke – from news and reviews to events and trends. Just follow our Time Out London WhatsApp channel. Stay in the loop: sign up for our fre

Warning: in just under two weeks, thousands of cyclists will be cruising stark naked through the streets of London. Yes, you read that right – from Clapham Junction to Hackney Wick, they’ll be completely, utterly, full-frontally in the nude.  The World Naked Bike Ride is an event that has been happening since 2004. It’s purpose is five-fold: protest against the global dependency on oil, curb car culture, obtain real rights for cyclists, demonstrate the vulnerability of cyclists on city streets and celebrate body freedom. You can get an idea of the kind of sights to expect here.  Here’s all the key info you need if you want to take part in (or firmly avoid) the World Naked Bike Ride 2025.  When is the World Naked Bike Ride happening in London?  The 2025 edition of the World Naked Bike Ride is happening on Saturday, June 14. Start times vary depending on where you choose to start from – more on that below.  Do I need to sign up?  Nope. It’s completely free to take part in. All you need to do is turn up at the right place, at the right time with your bike and be prepared to get in the nude.  Where does the London Naked Bike Ride start?  There are nine starting locations dotted across London for the bike ride. So wherever you are in the city, you’re likely to have one nearby. Not all starting points will have body paint stations, so if you want to add a little splash of colour to your birthday suit, make sure to check whether you have to do it at home instead.  Clapham Junction

Right now, the labyrinthine undercrofts beneath Waterloo Bridge are a bit drab, dark, and (since they’re largely used as open-air lavatories) pretty stinky. And if you’ve ever travelled through them to get to the BFI IMAX, you’ll know that it can be easy to get lost in them, too. But finally, they’re going to get a much-needed makeover The underpasses were once owned by the Southbank Centre but sold to Lambeth Council in 2021, which has been after a tenant to rent the space and help transform it ever since. This week, the council agreed to lease the unused subterranean roundabout to the same people behind Flat Iron Square, Vinegar Yard and Hackney Bridge in Hackney Wick – Thrale Investments. That means that a vibrant food market will arrive there very soon.  The layout of the market, sketched out in the planning application, features two bars, several events spaces and a large food court, accommodating up to 1,200 punters.  It’s hoped that the space will start opening in phases from Christmas 2025 and will stick around for at least 10 years. Here’s an idea of what it could look like.  Photograph: Thrale Investments Photograph: Thrale Investments Councillor Marcia Cameron, the cabinet member for economic inclusion, said: ‘We’re moving forward with plans to improve the wider Waterloo area, transforming this cultural hub into a more accessible, welcoming, and thriving space. ‘One key initiative is bringing underused areas—like the undercrofts—to life as part of our Nighttime

Parklife is one of the UK’s finest festivals (according to Time Out). It’s hosted the likes of Wu Tang Clan, Liam Gallagher and Snoop Dogg in years gone by, so naturally, this year’s bill features even more of the planet’s biggest stars.  The Manchester festival kicks off this weekend, with performances spanning multiple genres, from ‘90s hiphop to electronic, pop and dubstep. And if you’re feeling spontaneous, there are still plenty of tickets to get your hands on. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of Parklife 2025.  RECOMMENDED: Our ultimate guide to Download Festival 2025. When is Parklife 2025? Parklife is happening on June 14 and June 15. Gates open at 12pm on Saturday and 1pm on Sunday, finishing at 11pm.  Where is Parklife 2025 and how do I get there? As always, the festival is taking place at Manchester’s Heaton Park. The best way to get there is to hop on the dedicated shuttle bus, which goes from Lever Street in the city centre every 10 minutes, dropping punters right outside the festival site. The journey takes around 30 minutes. At the end of each day, it’ll begin picking people up from the site at 6.30pm and keep running until the site is clear. There are also the trams from Manchester Victoria to Heaton Park which run every six minutes, with the journey lasting 15 minutes.  If you download the Bee Network app, you can purchase the Parklife Travel Pass for £8 a day (or £14.85 for the weekend), which will let you get on any bus or tram service in Greater Ma

Beyoncé’s Renaissance tour at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was a colossal occasion. Across five nights in summer 2023, the Beyhive descended on north London in their droves, decked out in rhinestones, cowboy hats and leather jackets for the megastar’s first world tour in seven years.  But, thankfully, she hasn’t made us wait that long again. Just two years later, Beyoncé has returned to the stadium with more breathtaking stage production, flawless choreography and mesmerising vocals for the Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin’ Circuit Tour. Across a three hour spectacular, you can expect to see the Texas-born singer riding a mechanical bull, soaring over the stadium in a flying car and belting out some of her best-loved loved tunes from the past two decades.  Planning to be in north London for a real-life boogie and a real-life hoedown with real-life Beyonce? With only two more shows to go, here’s all the important info you need.  When is Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour in London? Beyonce’s final shows at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium are on Saturday, June 14 and Monday, June 16. What time will Beyoncé come on stage? Doors to the stadium open at 5pm and for her London shows so far, Beyonce has appeared on stage at around 7.45pm.  Are there any tickets left? Yes, there are still tickets up for grabs for each of Bey’s London dates via verified resale on Ticketmaster or on Viagogo.  How much do tickets cost? At the time of writing, the Ticketmaster resale tickets start from £103.50 each

Last year, we had Brat summer. This year, a there’s different lime green queen taking over the UK – FlixBus.  FlixBus has been going from strength to strength the past few years, building a 200-strong fleet of coaches and offering trips across 80 different locations. And it’s certainly not slowing down.  As part of its plans for expansion, FlixBus is launching its first direct, mega cheap bus routes between Brighton and London. So, whether you want to get out of the Big Smoke for some fresh sea air, or have a mini-break in the capital city, it’s got you covered. The best bit? Prices start from a mere £4.49 each way.  Photograph: Shutterstock The trip takes around two and a half hours, which is an hour longer than it takes on the train. But for tickets that are a third of the rail price, we don’t think that’s too shabby. The new connections will run twice a day, starting on Friday, June 13.  Andreas Schorling, senior managing director of FlixBus UK, said: ‘Londoners now have even more affordable, sustainable, and reliable travel options for weekend getaways, airport connections, and visiting friends and family this summer. ‘Brighton is an iconic British destination and we’re excited to offer a direct route from the capital just in time for the warmer months.’ Over the past several months, the company has also launched routes to Bournemouth, Newquay, and Truro and is introducing direct services to Gatwick Airport and from Cambridge to London Stratford in the very near futur

Guys, it’s happening. Driverless cars are about to become an actual real-life thing in the UK.  Uber has announced that it has joined forces with AI firm Wayve to bring self-drive taxis (aka ‘robotaxis’) to London’s roads next year. The big reveal has come after the UK government said that trials of fully driverless vehicles would be brought forward to spring 2026.  Hang on, though – haven’t trials been going on in the UK for years? Well, yes, for more than a decade actually. But those tests have all involved having a human safety driver on board, ready to take over the controls if necessary. Under the new government legislation, these new vehicles will be the first in Europe to operate without human backup.  For now, the vehicles are just part of a trial and it’s not clear whether they’ll be available for customers to use – the company says that it’s still ironing out the details. A larger rollout is expected in late 2027.  The department for transport reckons that the vehicles will help reduce deaths and injuries on British roads, as they have faster reaction times than humans and have been trained on a large number of driving scenarios. It also says that they could create 38,000 jobs and add £42bn to the UK economy by 2035. Transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: ‘The future of transport is arriving. Self-driving cars could bring jobs, investment, and the opportunity for the UK to be among the world leaders in new technology.’ The government’s Automated Vehicles Act wi

When summer starts to rear its head in London, saving money can be a tricky business. There are endless day fests, gigs, art exhibitions, theatre shows and restaurant openings that are hard to resist spending your hard-earned cash on, and we can’t blame you for wanting to go to them all (the FOMO is intense this time of year). But there comes a point when your bank account begs: ‘no more!’.  The great thing about this city, though, is that there will always be a load of fun free stuff going on too. So, if you want a low-spend weekend that doesn’t just involve rotting on your sofa, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a roundup of all the best things to do in London over the next few days without spending a penny.  The best free things to do in London this weekend  Walk through queer history at the British Museum  Over the next few weeks, the British Museum is hosting in-depth 70-minute guided tours titled ‘Desire, Love, Identity: Exploring LGBTQ Histories’. Knowledgeable volunteers talk visitors through a huge variety of objects ranging from the ancient world to the present day. They’ll illuminate the fascinating LGBTQ stories behind some of the museum’s most famous artefacts and lesser-known gems, including the Townley Diskobolos, the Gilgamesh Tablet and the Warren Cup. The tours are totally free, but you do need to book in advance.  British Museum, WC1E 7JW. Sat June 14. Free (advanced booking advised). Photograph: Jesse Olu Ogunbanjo Pay homage to pirate radio at the Barbican 

The weekend has rolled back around and, as ever, London is packed with stuff going on. Charli XCX will be at Vicky Park for the second weekend of LIDO, Little Simz’ Meltdown festival at the Southbank Centre begins, the National History Museum has launched its first exhibition dedicated to outerspace and there’s a Clown Fest in town.  But this city is enormous. And if you’ve got any plans over the next few days, it’s likely you’re gonna need to take a train or two to get there. Often, though, TfL uses the weekends to carry out maintenance on lots of its lines and services. The last thing you want is to turn up at a station only to see the shutters down and have to completely rethink your journey. So, plan ahead. Here are all the cancellations, closures and reduced services and diversions happening across London’s train network this weekend.  RECOMMENDED: All the best things happening in London this weekend.  Central line The Central line between Leytonstone and Epping will be shut for all of Sunday and the Saturday Night Tube.  Jubilee line From 11pm on Friday and for the rest of the weekend, Jubilee trains won’t stop at Southwark station.  Elizabeth line  On Sunday, you won’t be able to get the Lizzie line from Paddington to Abbey Wood and Whitechapel until 9.50am.  DLR line  On Saturday and Sunday, there’ll be no DLR services between Bank / Tower Gateway and Canning Town / Lewisham or between Stratford and Canary Wharf. You’ll be able to get a replacement bus instead.  Ove

Move aside Addison Rae. Capybaras are the moment. The adorable South American mammals have been the internet’s favourite animals of 2025 so far, somehow garnering a cult-like following across social media platforms. They’re known to be extremely friendly and chilled out – exactly the kind of creatures you’d want to come across in your local caff, even if they are technically giant rodents.  The cabybara’s popularity over the past few years has given birth to a number of cabybara petting experiences across the world and in the UK. Now, the UK’s first café dedicated to the creatures is set to open in the Norfolk town of Toftwood. Aptly named the Cabybara Café, the venue will initially be home to two baby capybaras – Clover and Sweet Pea. Owner Jemma Aldridge hopes that if the café proves popular after six months more will be brought in. It’ll offer ‘spa treatment’ for the animals while customers can enjoy cakes and coffee as an ‘added extra’. Aldridge has got her hands on a tropical animal licence through the council and is now waiting for the vet’s approval of the capybaras’ enclosure. She told Eastern Daily Press: ‘We want to play on their character and make the space resemble that of their calming, therapeutic outlook. ‘We are very excited to raise them and are hoping there will be a special bond imprinted. The unique and natural friendship they can form with everyone; I can only imagine how much it will help the community.’ If you need any convincing of the strange, uplifti