July in and around London is always special. It’s the month when a triumvirate of the most British sporting occasions, and two magnificent music festivals, spring into life in a blur of boaters, linen, black tie, strawberries and fizz.
The Henley Royal Regatta
Arguably the most famous regatta in the world, Henley spans five days and more than 200 races. Olympians and international rowers abound, with the event under the chairmanship of Sir Steve Redgrave. At the time of writing tickets were still available, and do be aware of the unbending dress code if you’re destined for the Stewards’ Enclosure.
1st July - 5th July
The Wimbledon Championships
Lovers of extreme queuing, and tennis, flock to SW19 for the finest tennis event in the world. Seize the opportunity of a Brit having a serious chance of winning the event again. It doesn’t happen often.
29 June-12 July
The Qatar Goodwood Festival
No morning dress or starched collars here; Goodwood is traditionally the home of Panamas and linen. But there’ll be no relaxation on the track, with racing’s finest equine horseflesh pursuing a record-breaking £4.5m in prize money, thanks to a new sponsorship deal with Qatar.
The 2015 BBC Proms
Now in their 120th year, the Proms this year seem more eclectic than ever. The season spans everyone from Elgar and Vaughan Williams, to Family Guy’s Seth MacFarlane singing Sinatra, to Radio 1 Xtra’s best urban artists, to Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory on the Last Night.
The Glyndebourne Festival
For lovers of opera who also like dressing up, it doesn’t get any better. Performances of the Glyndebourne season in high summer are traditionally accompanied by picnicking in the gorgeous grounds of the house. Black tie is traditional and groaning hampers are a must.
The Festival runs until 30 August
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