Your heads-up on this season’s must-see shows and events. From muddy wellies at a music festival, the UK’s cultural calendar is bursting with unforgettable experiences this season.
Whether your idea of a great day out is enjoying wonderful food at Taste London, soaking up the atmosphere of Brighton Pride, or losing yourself in the creativity of the Edinburgh Art and Fringe Festivals, there’s enough to keep you busy throughout the summer months.
UK summer events and festivals
1) Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait
To celebrate what would have been her 100th birthday this year, the National Portrait Gallery’s new exhibition explores the life, career and legacy of Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe, through portraits created by some of the greatest photographers and artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Alongside works from the likes of artist Andy Warhol and photographer Cecil Beaton, the exhibition also includes Marilyn’s personal belongings, enriching the understanding of the woman behind the image. From 4 June to 6 September. Find out more.
2) Taste of London
London’s hottest food and drink event is back and celebrating its 22nd year. Enjoy five days of feasting in this next-level garden party, held in Regent’s Park. From cookery schools and masterclasses to bars and market stalls, there’s something for everyone. With 36 restaurants, 50 chefs and 150 artisan producers, one thing’s for sure – you won’t go hungry. 17 - 21 June. Find out more
3) Reading Festival
It's one of the biggest music festivals in the UK, held over the August Bank Holiday Weekend. With multiple stages, you'll find a line-up bursting with non-stop rock, indie, pop and hip hop. August 27 to 30. Find out more
4) Royal Highland Show
With everything from competitions to shopping and live music to tasty food and drink, the Royal Highland Show, held in Edinburgh, exhibits the best of the countryside. Marvel at sheep shearing and performances from Scottish artists, before sampling artisan offerings from across the UK and coming face to face with farm animals. 18-21 June. Find out more.
5) Camp Bestival
Designed by families for families, Camp Bestival combines the fun of a camping holiday with all you’d expect from a festival adventure. Whether you want to visit for the day and do activities – from yoga to roller discos – or pitch a tent for the weekend and party the night away. Dorset. 30 July to 2 August. Find out more.
6) Allegra: UK Tour
In her first UK tour in two decades, Dame Maureen Lipman takes centre stage. With an irresistible urge to sing, Allegra bursts into song at home, in the street and in local shops and cafes, much to the delight and occasional horror of those around her. Brother Ronen and carer Anna do their best to keep life steady, but how do you protect someone you love without dimming the light that makes them who they are? 12 May to 4 July. Find out more.
7) Henley Festival
Festivals don’t have to mean donning your wellies. For those who like the finer things in life, Henley Festival – the black-tie music and arts festival – promises a good time with added elegance. A non-camping event, festivalgoers won’t be pitching a tent in the mud, but will be focusing on delicious food, sipping champagne and watching the likes of Jo Whiley, Boy George, Björn Again, Sugababes and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra on the magical floating stage. And all proceeds go to charity. Find out more.
8) The Archers: Live at 75
Can you believe it’s 75 years since BBC Radio 4 launched The Archers? To mark the occasion, the show is stepping out of the studio and on to the stage for a national tour. 7 June to 24 November. Find out more.
9) Royal Ascot
Get your hats at the ready as Royal Ascot returns for five days of world-class racing, style, pageantry and the boldest millinery around. Attended by royals including the King, Queen and Zara Tindall, alongside our previous cover stars Carol Vorderman and Charlotte Hawkins, keep your eyes peeled for famous faces while you place your bets and quaff fizz. 16 - 20 June. Find out more.
10) Brighton Pride
The UK’s biggest Pride festival features a spectacular parade, dancing in the streets and a fabulous range of live music, all celebrating and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Its Pride on the Park includes headliners RAYE and Diana Ross. 1-2 August. Find out more
11) Edinburgh Art Festival
The UK’s largest annual festival of visual art is back for its 22nd year. During August, Edinburgh comes alive with an eclectic programme of art, performance, experimental music, and poetry. 14-30 August. Find out more.
