When visiting London it can often be daunting trying to absorb the vast and impressive history of Britain. Here at HFH, we believe the best way to take in the culture and history of our amazing city is to visit a selection of quintessentially British events! Here are our top picks for the coming months to get you into the British spirit!

Head of the River Race

Spring is nearly upon us, and one of the best ways to celebrate is to watch London’s longest running sporting traditions, the Head of the River Race. Every year crews from around the world to take on the waters of the magnificent river Thames, from Mortlake to Putney – an incredible 4.25 mile journey! The race is the perfect outing for the whole family, and if rowing isn’t your thing, the view itself is worth a visit! The famous event is at the top of our ‘to do’ list!

When: 19 March
Cost: Free
Where: The best locations to view the race include Chiswick Bridge, Barnes Bridge or Hammersmith Bridge. Or test your luck and find a spot on the banks of the Thames along the course or a pub nearby.

(image source – Flickr: Andrew Dennes)

Feast of St George in Trafalgar Square

If you are looking for a family day out in London with traditional English food, free activities, children’s games and much more, the Feast of St George at Trafalgar Square is for you! The spectacular event is inspired by 13-century origins and celebrates Saint George’s Day, a national day of feasting for Saint George.

When: April (exact dates TBC)
Cost: Free
Where: Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN

(image source – Flickr: Greater London Authority)

The Rolling Stones: Exhibitionism

What is more English than The Rolling Stones, well that is of course The Rolling Stones exhibition, ‘Exhibitionism’. This year the Saatchi Gallery hosts a major exhibition celebrating our rock ‘n’ roll icons, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts and Ronnie Wood, with thousands of rare items and photos the band has gathered over the last 50 years. Exibitionism is the first international insight into the band’s thrilling career, we cannot wait for this one!

When: 5 April – 4 September
Cost: Tickets from £19.00
Where: Saatchi Gallery, Chelsea

(image source – stonesexhibitionism.com)

Virgin Money London Marathon

Why not watch the Virgin Money London Marathon this year, whether you want to take part in the race or cheer on from the sidelines, the marathon is a brilliant activity full of laughs and outrageous costumes. The marathon is a 26.2 mile run through the streets of London, starting at Greenwich and finishing in front of Buckingham Palace. The hilarious penguin and superman outfits keep us coming back each year, but most of all we love the impressive scenery which never disappoints!

When: 24 April
Cost: Free
Where: Greenwich, Tower Bridge, London Eye, Tower of London and Buckingham Palace.

(image source – Flickr: VirginMoney)

Shakespeare Son et Lumière

On the 400th anniversary of the death of Shakespeare, a magical event will be held at the historic Guildhall Great Hall. The hall will be illuminated with a breathtaking Shakespeare Son et Lumiereto, celebrating his undeniable connection to London. The family can enjoy beautiful light and sound production, and also take advantage of the surrounding galleries who will operate extended opening hours. We also recommend grabbing a themed cocktail from the bar at some point throughout the celebrations.

When: 4-5 March, 6.45pm–8.45pm
Cost: Free
Where: Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE

(image source – barbican.org.uk)

We can’t wait to attend these events, and if you have any more suggestions please leave us a comment!