VidaVida Recommends... Top Things To Do In London Before Summer is Really Over
When I realised that we are almost a fortnight into September I started to wonder where the summer went. After a while of trying to understand how the year has gone by so quickly I decided I would be much better off if I tried to make the most of the rest of our glorious (and let’s be honest, probably short-lived) summer. So I made a list of the top things to do in London before summer is well and truly over and sweater weather and the inevitable lead up to Christmas begins. Enjoy!
1. Restaurant on the Roof with Q, Selfridges, until 11 October 2014
Whether for breakfast, lunch, dinner or even afternoon tea, Restaurant on the Roof sounds like the perfect end to a beautiful summer. With extraordinary views, superb food and an experience retractable roof just in case you experience an unlikely rain shower, this is definitely somewhere to go. I love the sound of their “burnt ends” and sweet potato omelette and the juices sound amazing (especially the ‘Orchard’), and I personally don’t know anyone who would turn down one of their desserts, from a Chocolate Caramel Torte to an Aperol Spritz Jelly with Prosecco Ice Cubes, there is something sweet for everyone on the roof of London’s premier department store. Going there is also the perfect excuse to do a little bit of sales shopping!
2. The Nomad Cinema, Various Locations, until 28 September 2014
This cinema calls itself ‘the roaming pop-up that gives back’, and it really does. Not only does it mean we can see classic movies in the best way – with a picnic and some drinks in the sometimes not too cold parks of London – but 100% of the profits are donated to The Sustainability Institute, an environmental and educational charity in South Africa. This is definitely somewhere to consider instead of being cooped up indoors; from The Blair Witch Project to Tarantino’s classic Pulp Fiction, there will definitely be a film for you!
3. Summer Market at Spitalfields Farm, Sundays until 28 September 2014
Every Sunday since early June, Spitalfields City Farm has been the place to be. From instrument sessions for families and pop-up music performances to DIY craft stalls and sheep shearing demonstrations, there are countless things to do. Handmade products are for sale and live folk music is a constant, and to top it all off, the café sell artisan coffee, cold drinks and lots of cake! This definitely sounds like the perfect place to spend a relaxing Sunday afternoon soaking in the last of the sun!
4. London Fields Lido, Hackney, All year round
Located in East London, the London Fields Lido is the best place by far to splash around while attempting to soak in enough vitamin D! With a café nearby and sunbathing area, this is a place to check out before it gets too cold, although the Olympic sized swimming pool is actually heated for when it does get a bit chillier. What more could you ask for?!
5. Open House, Various London Locations, 20 - 21 September 2014
Open House started in 1992 and has been getting bigger and bigger each year. A unique chance to visit interesting and modern architecture, this not-for-profit organisation allows you to spend the weekend traipsing around London, amazed by the creativity that goes into some of the city's homes. I have had a look at some of the highlighted buildings and the 'Magic Box' caught my eye with its glass and cedar outside and the exposed brick and concrete. I would definitely recommend a visit as from past experience it makes for a great day out!