The sun has finally been shining for a few days here in Hampton Court and the temperatures are definitely warming up. It’s got our thoughts turning towards those long balmy days of summer and all the fun they hold. If you’re staying with us during the summer months you’ll never be bored! There is so much going on in and around Hampton Court this summer and we’ve rounded up five different categories of fun. So whether you’re a Music Lover, Theatre Fan, Outdoor Adventurer, Sporting Fanatic or Foodie, there’s something for everyone. So have your pens at the ready to plan an unbeatable trip.
1.For the Music Lovers
Hampton Court Palace Festival
Always a very popular event, this year’s lineup boasts performances from the Kaiser Chiefs, Kool and the Gang, Gladys Knight and more. Tickets have been released and sell out fairly quickly so be sure to book.
Sandown Music
Enjoy live horse racing followed by live music from none other than Tom Jones at the Jockey Club, Sandown Racecourse in Esher.
2. For the Theatre Fans
Rose Theatre Kingston
Just down the river you’ll find a smorgasbord of cultural delights such as the Kingston International Film Festival and Julia Donaldson’s Zog, all at the Rose Theatre.
Wimbledon Kids Theatre
The Polka Theatre in London specialises in child-friendly productions and it’s the perfect spot to take little ones for a summer holiday treat. You can see the line up here.
The West End
Craven House is just a short train ride from the dazzling stages of London’s unbeatable West End. You’ll find the main-stays of Theatre Land like Lion King and Les Mis, but the summer season also see’s some fresh new shows arrive on stage, like Groundhog Day and Greece the Musical.
3. For the Outdoor Adventurers
An afternoon on the Thames
If you’re staying with us in Hampton Court this summer we recommend renting a boat from Go Boat Kingston and pootling up the river for a delightfully sunny afternoon of breezy fresh air and pretty views.
A little SUP’ing
Hire a kayak or SUP from Hampton Court Paddle Sports and experience the river in a whole new way. Hop off at one of the riverside puds for a bite to eat and a refreshing drink.
A great day of golfing
Surrey is bedecked in beautiful golf courses and you have many to choose from within a short drive of Craven House. We love Silvermere for its beauty and Foxhills for its class.
Hampton Court Garden Festival
One of the biggest flower shows in the country, the HCP Garden Festival attracts experts and fans from across the country. Tickets are selling fast so book now if you haven’t already.
4. For the Sporting Fanatics
Sandown Races
The summer horse racing season is in full swing at Sandown, so put your glad rags on and join the fun!
Twickenham
The home of English Rugby is only a short drive from our front door. The Summer Series kicks off in August, plus a head-to-head between the All Blacks and the Springboks – their final showdown before the World Cup.
Wimbledon
It would hardly do to talk about summer in south-west London without talking about Wimbledon. The world’s tennis elite will descend upon the leafy London suburbs home to the world-famous grass tennis courts for two weeks of unbeatable tennis. It’s not far from Craven House and you can still get tickets on the day by joining the famous Queue.
5. For the Foodies
If you’re stopping in Hampton Court this summer, this food festival is a lovely day out packed full of delicious street food, pop-ups, artisan treats and more. It’s a great one for the whole family!
Wander over to Richmond to discover the delights of Surrey at the Surrey Food festival in July. Hopefully the sun will be out!
This one comes personally recommended by the Craven House team. Tuck into one of their delicious pizzas and even better cocktails.
All the best,
