SEE & DO
An auction at Sotheby’s (or Christie's)
— Who wouldn’t want to be in the room when a Monet is being sold? Even if you’re not bidding, feel the excitement. You don't have to be a registered bidder, visitors are welcome in showrooms and tours can also be arranged. See their calendar for auction dates.
www.sothebys.com
Royal Albert Hall
— London’s most famous concert Hall offers a program of over 300 performances. See the website for monthly engagements. If you can’t take in a show, you can take a tour and visit the shop and restaurant.
Some highlights in 2009 include: Eric Clapton (May); Lord of the Rings cinematic experience April and Carman (May)
8 January -2 February, 2009 Cirque du Soleil returns, book early!
www.royalalberthall.com
The Royal Opera House
— The 2009 calendar of Ballet, Opera and Dance is as impressive as ever.
See website for online bookings and performance times. There are also free lunchtime concerts each Monday from 1pm and Backstage tours.
Ballet - Swan Lake in October and some dates in February 2009. The Nutcracker in December and January 2009
Royal Ballet Masterclass 22 Sept, 23 Oct - a 'behind the scenes' close up look at the ballet rehearsal process. See site for booking and programme times.
Tube : Convent Garden
www.roh.org.uk
Bow Street, London WC2E 9DD
Notting Hill Carnival
— One big famous street party for the young (and young at heart). This once small street party now rivals many a Carribean carnival. Lots of loud music. More importantly, its held to celebrate the diversity of West Indian community in London. See official website for more detials, well at least I think its official? August 29 - 30 in 2008. 2009 t.b.p
www.nottinghillcarnival.biz
Buckingham Palace Summer Opening
— Fans of royalty can sneak a look at the Queen's normally very private 'State Rooms' where dignitaries are still received today. This year the Grand ballroom will exhibit historical costumes worn at balls. Enjoy musical performances and admire a 500 year-old collection of royal paintings (Rembrandt & Rubens to mention a few) and some very exquisite French and English antiques. A glimpse at the life of the royals.
31 July - 29 September, Buckingham Palace of course. 2009 dates t.b.a.
Tube: Victoria Full entry £28.50
www.royal.gov.uk.
Bookings 020 77 66 7300
Fan Museum
— Any fans of fans? Described as the only museum in the world dedicated to the ancient art of the fan. You can also purchase replicates on museum pieces. Entry £4 children under 7 free or over 7 £3
www.fan-museum.org
20 Maresfield Gardens London NW3 5SX t: 0202 7435 2002
The Wapping Project
— A mini Tate Gallery set in an industrial space, lots of machines and old artefacts still remain. There's an ultra groovy cafe/restaurant. Very much an 'in' crowd venue.
Restaurant: Mon-Fri 12:00-15:30 & 18:30-23:00
Sat 10:00-12:30, 13:00-16:00 & 19:00-23:00
Sun 10:00-12:30 & 13:00-16:00
www.thewappingproject.com
Wapping Hydraulic Power Station, Wapping Wall, E1W 3ST,
The Wernher Collection (Ranger’s House)
— One of the main attraction is the ‘Wernher Collection’ of artworks arranged elegant around the panelled wall of the mansion, as well as decorative arts and jewellery. The Cutty Sark is also nearby is you wish to combine your visit.
Closed Thursdays (unless pre-booked) 10am – 5pm
Train : Blackheath, Greenwich, Lewisham and Maze Hill.
www.english-heritage.org.uk
Greenwich Park - SE10 8QX