British Swimming Championships 2024
This event is a major selection competition for the British Olympic and Paralympic swimming teams. Witnessing the top swimmers in the country compete for a coveted spot on the national teams makes for an exciting event. London Aquatics Centre, Olympic Park| 2-7 April
Tulip Festival
Experience the vibrant eruption of over 100,000 tulips at one of the UK’s largest displays at Hampton Court Palace. Celebrate spring’s start by exploring 60 acres of colourful royal gardens and Henry VIII’s famous grounds during the Tulip Festival. Hampton Court Palace| 8 - 29 April
HistFest 2024
HistFest is a history events company offering a mix of digital and live historical content globally. It includes lectures, screenings, seminars, and performances. Collaborating with major UK institutions, HistFest aims to educate and entertain by exploring the use and misuse of history. By offering a variety of accessible formats, HistFest democratises history, moving it away from its traditionally privileged confines. British Library | 11 April, 13-14 April
The London Coffee Festival
The London Coffee Festival is a must-visit event for coffee enthusiasts and industry professionals. It features over 250 exhibitors, tastings, barista demonstrations, workshops, live music, art, and coffee cocktails. Tickets are available for both industry professionals and the general public. The Truman Brewery | 11-14 April
Sounds of Blossom
The Sounds of Blossom is an immersive experience at Kew Gardens, launched in 2024, combining the beauty of spring flowers with bespoke musical compositions. This collaboration between Kew Gardens and the Royal College of Music features musical pieces inspired by spring, played in Kew’s blossom hotspots for a multi-sensory experience. The festival lets visitors enjoy spring’s visuals, sounds, and scents. Kew Gardens | Until 14 April
Candlelight Spring: Tribute to Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
Experience the enchantment of Candlelight concerts, where the magic of live music meets multi-sensory wonder in some of London’s most breathtaking venues. Be transported by the melodies of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons at Glaziers Hall, transformed by an exquisite floral display celebrating the essence of spring. Glaziers Hall | 19 April
Zippos Circus
Zippos Circus celebrates founder Martin Burton’s 50 years in entertainment with the new 2024 show “Magnificent!” Featuring brand new routines and guest stars, including the return of host and comedy star Paulo dos Santos, aerialist Alex Michael, the debut of clown La Loka, and sensational acts by Mongolian Warriors and motor-bikers. This modern circus production promises a thrilling experience for family audiences with its blend of acrobats, tumblers, aerial performers, clowns, and dancers. Multiple locations and times
Notre Dame de Paris, The Augmented Exhibition at Westminster Abbey
Experience the history of Notre Dame de Paris at the UK’s exclusive interactive exhibition. Delve into its 850-year legacy, from its 12th-century origins to its current restoration after the 2019 fire. This immersive journey highlights key events like King Henri IV’s wedding, Napoleon’s coronation, and the construction and loss of the iconic spire. Discover the craftsmanship and vision of past and present architects and builders bringing Notre Dame back to glory. Until 1 June
In the Round Festival
The Roundhouse, a 19th-century railway turntable, is known for its exceptional acoustics. This April, it hosts a ten-day festival featuring bespoke shows, unique collaborations, and surprise gigs. Celebrated artists like Tirzah, Lucy Rose, and Samara Joy perform, with a highlight event dedicated to The Songs of Joni Mitchell, hosted by Cerys Matthews. Roundhouse, Chalk Farm | 18 - 27 April
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, a magnificent outdoor venue in the heart of Regent’s Park, is a great place to enjoy cultural entertainment during summer. Each summer, this theatre becomes a hub of activity, presenting an extensive and diverse array of entertaining musicals, captivating plays, compelling revivals, and family-friendly shows that appeal to audiences of all ages. This spring, audiences can look forward to a diverse lineup of productions, including “Bear Snores On,” a delightful family-friendly tale, “Twelfth Night,” Shakespeare’s timeless comedy, and “The Enormous Crocodile,” a thrilling adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic.
Regent’s Park | Until 21 September