Cloud songs on the horizon is the artist’s first major institutional show in Europe and will feature five new, large-scale suspended sculptures across the entirety of the Conservatory space.
After a particularly rainy June we are holding out for a super sunny July, as this month is bursting with exciting events and activities in the City of London.
Whether you’re a fan of beer festivals, classical music, or family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone.
Here are just some of the best things to do in the City of London this July.
1. Attend a Beer festival in the City (11 July)
The much-loved City Beerfest is back and marking its 10th anniversary in the historic Guildhall Yard on 11 July 2024 from 12.30pm - 9pm.
With over 35 beers to choose from, you can taste a wide range of options from some of the finest UK and Irish breweries, including St Austell, Guinness, Meantime, Renegade, Shepherd Neame, and Camden Town Brewery. Non-alcoholic, low alcohol, and gluten-free options will be available, plus plenty of delicious street food to enjoy alongside your drinks.
This event not only celebrates the craft of brewing but also supports the fantastic work of The Lord Mayor's Appeal. All proceeds from this year’s event will go to its three partner charities, committed to addressing social issues and delivering ground breaking programmes that change and save lives: MQ Mental Health Research, Homewards, and National Numeracy.
Since its inception, City Beerfest has raised over £150,000 for charity.
Buy your ticket online in advance and receive a 10% discount. If you’re coming with a group, take advantage of the 10 year anniversary offer and receive 10 tickets for the price of 9.
2. Try out a new sport as part of Summer of Sport in the City
Get active with the Summer of Sport in the City, running from July to September. Enjoy free activities like table tennis, crazy golf, and fitness classes, all set against the backdrop of London’s iconic landmarks. You can also book courts to play beach volleyball or pickleball.
Check out the Summer of Sport in the City website for more details and to reserve your spot.
3. Visit the Heritage Gallery’s new mini-exhibition about Tower Bridge (22 June – 19 September)
Step back in time at the Heritage Gallery’s mini-exhibition celebrating Tower Bridge's 130th birthday.
Running from 22 June to 19 September, explore the bridge’s construction, its Royal opening in 1894, the engineering marvel of its bascules, and its role during World War One.
While you’re there, delve into behind-the-scenes stories and discover how Tower Bridge became one of London’s most beloved attractions.
4. See a concert as part of Classical Pride at the Barbican (5 – 7 July)
Celebrate queer classical music at Classical Pride from 5-7 July.
This festival features performances by the London Symphony Orchestra, with Oliver Zeffman and Nick Grimshaw, including a world premiere by Jake Heggie.
Proceeds support Rainbow Railroad, Terrence Higgins Trust, and GAY TIMES' Amplifund.
5. Join the Second Saturday Family activities at Guildhall Art Gallery (13 July)
Enjoy a family day out with themed activities at Guildhall Art Gallery on 13 July.
Celebrate Victorian fashions with hat-making crafts, a gallery trail, and storytelling sessions. Perfect for children aged 3-13, the event runs from 11am - 4pm.
To make a full day of it, pack a picnic to enjoy in Guildhall Yard or nearby!
6. Find somewhere to watch the Euros, Wimbledon and the Olympics
Major sporting events such as Wimbledon and the Olympics will be broadcast live on big screens through the City.
Watch Wimbledon screenings with a stunning view of St Paul's Cathedral at One New Change, head for the Screen on the Green in Seething Lane Garden as part of Summer of Sport, or discover the private courtyard of The Amicable Societies new summer terrace. There's even an outdoor screen at Paternoster Square's Summer Market next to a range of street food stalls. Enjoy the matches in a lively atmosphere, perfect for soaking up the summer sun and the excitement of the tournament.
There are also lots of places in the City to watch the Euros this month! Try one of the fantastic locations in Andaz or Patch by St Pauls.
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7. Take a tour of London’s Roman Amphitheatre (13 July)
Join archaeologist Dr Andrew Lane on 13 July for an extended tour of London’s Roman Amphitheatre, and discover the history and engineering behind London’s oldest sporting venue.
Tours are at 11am and 2.30pm, each lasting approximately one hour.
8. See this wonderfully quirky City Tradition (20 July)
A fun event for all the family and transport enthusiasts, witness the traditional Cart Marking Ceremony in Guildhall Yard on 20 July from approximately 10am - 12.30pm.
The free to watch parade will have over 40 old and new vehicles, from handcarts to steam engines. This 500-year-old ceremony celebrates the history of transport, and as each vehicle is presented for marking, a commentator will explain its history and relevance today. Each vehicle will be marked with a red-hot iron by the Master of the Worshipful Company of Carmen, and representatives of the Lord Mayor of the City of London.
9. See Francis Alÿs latest exhibition at the Barbican (27 June – 1 September)
Explore a major new exhibition by renowned Mexico-based artist Francis Alÿs – his first and largest institutional solo exhibition in the UK for over a decade.
Running from 27 June to 1 September, the exhibition features the UK premiere of his critically acclaimed Children’s Games series and a site-specific project for the local community. Alÿs’s work, spanning painting, drawing, video, and photography, explores the interplay between art and geopolitics.
Francis Alÿs - Children's Games
10. Experience the Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra at St Pauls Cathederal (29 July)
On 29 July, the Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra, conducted by Keri-Lynn Wilson, will perform Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 at St Paul’s Cathedral.
This powerful concert, presented by the Barbican, Royal Opera House, and Askonas Holt, features the orchestra's acclaimed Ukrainian-language version.
KLW ©2023 c. Karpati Zarewicz
11. See a concert at the Spitalfields Music Festival (1, 3 & 9 July)
The Spitalfields Music Festival 2024 runs from 27 June - 10 July, and features world class musicians in incredible venues across East London and in the City of London.
There will be three events this year within the City of London including ‘The Cries of London’ on Tuesday 2 July at St Botolph-without-Bishopsgate, the NMC Recordings at 35 on Wednesday 3 July at The Dutch Church and Pierrot Lunaire on Tuesday 9 July at St Mary-at-Hill.
NMC Recordings at 35. Image courtesy of Spitalfields Music Festival.
12. Travel back in time to Roman Londinium (26 – 27 July)
Make a note in your diaries – the popular Roman Quest Family Days are returning this Summer! Embark on a thrilling adventure with your family and travel back in time to Roman Londinium on Friday 26 & Saturday 27 July 2024. Uncover the secrets of Roman life through exciting activities at London’s Roman Amphitheatre, London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE and the Bank of England Museum. Each site will host family activities and quests for visitors to complete on the day.
Perfect for ages 5-11 (although all welcome) this is a family day out that you won't want to miss.
13. See the ‘Dictionary Desk’ of celebrated 18th century writer Samuel Johnson
After a 250-year absence, the ‘Dictionary Desk’ of celebrated 18th century writer Samuel Johnson makes a historic return to his former abode, Dr Johnson’s House in the City of London. Launching Wednesday 3 July, the exhibition titled ‘Desks, Drudgery, and the Dictionary: Samuel Johnson’s Garret Lexicography’ will recount the fascinating journey of the desk back to the very garret where the seminal English dictionary was born.
If you’re looking to expand your day, follow the City of London Literary walking trail that explores the rich literary connections from Dr Johnson's House along Fleet Street to St Paul's Cathedral.
14. See the Westin Hotel’s new Installation in their Hotel Lobby
Visit the Westin London City’s lobby this month to see an eco-friendly installation by British artist Victoria Noakes.
Celebrating the River Thames’ biodiversity, this artwork crafted from recycled materials highlights the hotel’s commitment to environmental consciousness and aims to educate visitors about the local ecosystem.
© The Westin London City
15. Plan a fun day out with the kids at the F1 Arcade
Looking for an exciting family activity to keep your kids entertained over the summer holidays? Look no further than F1 Arcade. Drivers over the age of 7 will feel like true Formula 1 drivers and with their five skill levels, it doesn't matter if you're a complete beginner or a serious racer, everyone can get behind the wheel and race.
You'll also find everything on their menus, from burgers and flatbreads to family-style sharing plates which are sure to refuel your crew before, after or during your race.
16. Dine on the Engel Terrace
Step into Berlin’s golden twenties at Engel’s pop-up outdoor terrace at The Royal Exchange. Enjoy authentic German hot dogs, draught beer, and champagne in a lively atmosphere.
Open Monday to Friday from 12pm - 8.30pm, with Engel Bar and Engel Live opening later in July.
Credit: Eleonora Boscarelli
17. Plan a trip to the Ned
Indulge in summer activities at The NED, including an ice cream parlour with Jefferson's, a BBQ brunch, and unlimited prime rib dining.
Celebrate Wimbledon with smash burgers and signature Eton Mess ice cream at Electric Diner or Millie’s Lounge.
18. Enjoy a Rosé Afternoon Tea at Searcys at the Gherkin
Celebrate a summer of rosé up in the sky with Searcys rosé afternoon tea, in partnership with Ultimate Provence.
Take in the summer views of The City of London while you indulge in their quintessentially British selection of traditional sandwiches and scones, as well as an array of sweet pastries, paired perfectly with a glass of Ultimate Provence Côtes de Provence Rosé.
This sun-soaked afternoon tea in the sky is priced at £55 per person.
19. Visit the Summer Markets in the City
Check out these brilliant summer markets in the City:
- Paternoster Square (10 June – 21 July): Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of summer markets at Paternoster Square and St Paul’s Cathedral. Enjoy a delightful array of street food, refreshing summer drinks, and engaging games, all set to the backdrop of a giant screen displaying live events and movies.
- Craft Fairs and Vintage Markets at Leadenhall Market: Visit the pop-up monthly craft fairs and vintage markets at Leadenhall Market. Explore unique handmade crafts and vintage treasures, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs. These markets offer a charming shopping experience amidst the historic architecture of Leadenhall Market.
- Street Food Market at The Leadenhall Building: Satisfy your culinary cravings at the Street Food Market underneath The Leadenhall Building. Open every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, this market features a variety of delicious street food vendors offering a range of cuisines. Perfect for a mid-week lunch break or a quick bite on the go.
20. Enjoy an evening of Theatre in the City
Head out for an evening of theatre in the City:
- Kiss Me, Kate at the Barbican Theatre: Experience the magic of Cole Porter’s "Kiss Me, Kate" at the Barbican Centre. With its captivating blend of romance, comedy, and spectacular musical numbers, this production is a must-see for theatre enthusiasts. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy this timeless classic in one of London's premier cultural venues.
- You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown at Sedos Theatre: Laugh and sing along with "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown" at Sedos Theatre. This heartwarming musical brings the beloved Peanuts characters to life with charming performances and catchy tunes. Ideal for audiences of all ages, it’s a perfect outing for families and fans of the classic comic strip.
The company of Kiss Me Kate. Photo by Johan Persson.
21. Soak up the sun on Pan Pacific’s Summer Terrace
Escape to Provence at Pan Pacific London’s Summer Terrace Takeover. Enjoy a garden oasis with a sharing menu of charcuterie, fromage, crudités, and Mediterranean flatbreads, paired with Roseblood wines and cocktails.
Open until 29 September, it’s perfect for casual lunches, evening drinks, and al fresco gatherings.
Summer Terrace © Pan Pacific London
22. Perufest (6 July)
Celebrate ArtPerUK’s 5th anniversary at Perufest on 6 July from 12 - 5pm in Festival Gardens. Enjoy Peruvian dance performances, live music, kids’ activities, and workshops.
This free event, supported by the City of London Corporation, is open to all.
PERUFEST In The Garden 2024
