Out and about in London

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Enjoy London this summer by visiting one of the many attractions our vibrant and diverse capital has to offer

Enjoy London this summer by visiting one of the many attractions our vibrant and diverse capital has to offer

Enjoy the river

Get a bird's eye view of the Thames and Houses of Parliament as you enjoy a flight on The London Eye. Enjoy spectacular views of London's landmarks as you complete your 30-minute journey.

Combine your flight with a unique 40-minute circular sightseeing cruise on the river Thames, with London Eye River Cruises. With its fascinating live commentary revealing the history and secrets of Thames-side London, this exciting journey brings landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul's Cathedral and the Tower of London to life.

This year, the London Eye will be bringing the world to London. From 24 July - 1 September the London Eye will be taking visitors from Paris to Mumbai; Australia to Rio de Janeiro; and even Hollywood and South Africa! Onsite entertainers will capture the spirit of the country and add a new dimension to the flight.

Flights cost £17 for adults and £8.50 for children aged 4-15. Under 4s are free. Cruises cost £12 for adults and £6 for children aged 6-15. Under 4s are free.

For more information visit www.londoneye.com
Go to the Proms

The greatest classical music festival returns to London's Royal Albert Hall from 17 July to 12 September.

Around 150 events featuring the world's best artists and composers are packed into the eight-week BBC Proms's schedule. Sing along to your favourites and discover new classics at these inexpensive (tickets start at just £5 each) and informal concerts.

For more information visit www.bbc.co.uk/proms/2009

Photo by Chris Chirstodoulou
Explore Buckingham Palace

Each summer, from 26 July to 30 September, visitors can explore the magnificent State Rooms at Buckingham Palace.

These lavishly furnished rooms contain some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens and Canaletto as well as beautiful examples of Sevres porcelain.

Enjoy the Palace and all its finery for £16.50 for adults and £9.50 for children aged 5-17. Under 5s are free. For more information and advance tickets visit www.royalcollection.org.uk
Take to the streets

Join some two million people at London's largest street party, the Notting Hill Carnival over the August bank holiday weekend (30-31 August).

Originally started by Trinidadian immigrants in an effort to bring together the community, the carnival has been a must-visit destination since 1964.

The carnival gets underway on the Sunday with the family-orientated kids' carnival. Monday is the main carnival day, so expect huge crowds.

For more information visit www.rbkc.gov.uk
London Mela

Celebrate Asian culture and creativity in a day of live music, dance and performance.

The London Mela 2009 is to be held in Gunnersbury Park on Sunday 16 August from midday until 8.30pm. A number of live stages and activity zones will be set up, with the main stage featuring up-and-coming and established British Asian talent and international artists.

In addition, there are classical, indoelectronica, community and cabaret stages.

For more information about this free event, see www.londonmela.org
Explore a Butterfly Jungle

Take a magical jungle journey this summer at London's Natural History Museum.

From the dark depths of the forest floor to the heady heights of the tree canopy, experience the magic and beauty of live butterflies and other rainforest creatures.

As well as the enchanting tropical butterfly house, there's an exciting outdoor jungle trail to explore.

Butterfly Jungle is located in the Museum grounds on the east lawn, and costs £6 for adults and £4 for children. For more information, see www.nhm.ac.uk