London is the epicenter for a once-in-a-lifetime occasion, the Platinum Jubilee Queen Elizabeth II. Public festivities are planned for the weekend of June 2-5 and include the can’t-miss Trooping the Colour parade. Manchester is buzzing with cultural activities including the addition of a South Asia Gallery to the Manchester Museum and the opening of The Factory, North England’s new flagship venue built to feature music, dance, theatrical and visual arts performances.
Shakespeare fans are invited to attend the grand opening of The Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot. Did you know the Tate Museum has a location in Liverpool? Seek out Tate Liverpool located on the Royal Albert Dock by the sculpture of brightly colored rocks by Ugo Rondinone and stop in for a fascinating summer exhibition on that other well-known royal family, “The Tudors: Passion, Power & Politics.”
The return of many treasured annual events is cause for celebration. Once again, London’s world-famous floral exhibit will open for gardeners and growers to delight in the sights and scents of the Chelsea Flower Show. Hosted by the Royal Horticultural Society, the cutting-edge gardening showcase is held in May on the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Just outside of London and only six miles from Windsor Castle is the Ascot Racecourse.
The Royal Ascot will be held June 14-18 and includes five days of horse racing set amidst the pageantry of the Royal Procession, with the elegance of fine millinery and morning suits alongside private dining by Michelin-starred chefs. For three weeks in August, Scotland’s capital holds an unparalleled celebration of the performing arts. The Edinburgh International Festival features performers and ensembles from the worlds of dance, opera, music and theater.
Only this summer can you find so many global events in one compact country. In addition to regal celebrations, British visitors can also experience UNBOXED: Creativity in the UK, a series of free events and installations across the country by some of the brightest minds in science, arts, culture and technology. Britain’s second-largest city, Birmingham, prepares to host the Commonwealth Games this summer.
The Commonwealth refers to the former territories of the British Empire and the Games are a multi-national competition in sports with everything from aquatics to wrestling. Nowhere else on earth can you find such a diversity of experiences, from a Platinum Jubilee with its royal majesty to dynamic competitions and world-renowned landmarks.