London summer, it’s a season like no other. Suddenly the S.A.D fades away and instead of hermiting away inside, you’re ready to get back out. But this season comes with a pressure to be out and about, or to know all the hot places to go. Lucky for you, we’re seasoned in both doing and not, so we’ve put together what we like to call our Ultimate London Summer Recommendations. From a dance-all-night spot to a park that’ll let you escape, and a book to get lost in; you can plan a summer that makes you feel just as good as that first bit of Vitamin D.
The Oafs' Ultimate London Summer Recommendations
FOR ART LOVERS
Nigo: From Japan with Love
Design Museum, South Kensington
Tickets from £17
On until October 4th, this exhibition lets you take a nosy into the legacy of designer and creative director, NIGO. From designs to collectibles from his personal collection, it’s a great way to spend the morning before visiting another of our recommendations.
FOR GAMERS
Novelty Automation
1A Princeton St, London WC1R 4AY
10 tokens for £10 or 35 tokens for £28 (to try every game)
In Holborn, this satirical arcade created by engineer and cartoonist Tim Hunkin is a gem we can’t stop revisiting. Stacked with hand-made games, you’ll be able to practice how to launder money, or get ready to meet the parents in a whole new universe.
FOR PARTYING
Dalston Jazz Bar
4 Bradbury St, London N16 8JN
Thursdays 6 ‘til 1am; Fridays & Saturdays 6 ‘til 3am
Now, this spot does get packed, but it’s a visit worth doing the very British thing of queuing for a little too long. Turning from restaurant to full-on dancefloor at 10pm, from here on expect to hear the sounds of the most iconic DJ who’ll play a…bewildering set. We’re not gonna say anymore, but we guarantee you’ll be dancing ‘til the lights come on.
FOR LAUGHING, CRYING AND GETTING DEEP
Jack Rooke: Good Grief at Roundhouse
Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Rd, Chalk Farm, London NW1 8EH
Friday, 14th August at 7:30pm
Our pal Jack is bringing back his debut show for a few nights in August and this is not one you want to miss - again. Expect dead Dad jokes, stories about working through (or trying to) grief and confessions of becoming a self-confessed “telly wanker”.
FOR READERS
The Five: Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper
Historian Hallie Rubenhold sets the record straight about five women who never met, but share one thing in common - their killer’s fame meant their lives never got the recognition they deserved. Handing the power back to victims, this read will have you gripped and frustrated, but relieved their voices are finally being heard.
FOR BEING FOOLED INTO THINK YOU’RE BREATHING FRESHER AIR
Kyoto Garden
Holland Park, South Kensington
Monday-Sunday from 7:30am ‘til 8pm
So, you went to the NIGO exhibition and now want to walk and talk to discuss the exhibition. Less than a 10 minute walk from the Design Museum, this garden filled with waterfalls and koi-filled ponds will leave you feeling oh so tranquil. We’d recommend heading here on a weekday for the most zen experience.
