Page 2: Author: Emilia Sierzynska

2024’s Best British Events To Look Forward To

From edge-of-your-seat sporting championships to spectacular concerts and fun family gatherings, there are a lot of events happening in the UK in 2024.

So, if you’re looking to fill up your event calendar or make some amazing memories with your family, here are some of the best events for you to look forward to.

Barbie: The Exhibition

Audiences laughed, cried and marvelled at the Barbie Movie last year. So much so that it became 2023’s top-grossing movie, pulling in over $1.4 billion worldwide at the box office. If you were among the audiences who flocked to the cinema and want to keep the celebration going, Barbie: The Exhibition is coming to the Design Museum in London.

In 2024, the Barbie brand will be turning 65 years old, and the exhibition celebrates the story of Barbe since her creation. On display, there’ll be many rare and unique items focusing on Barbie fashion, vehicles and architecture throughout the years.

Speaking of anniversaries, in 2024, the National Gallery is celebrating its 200th with a massive tour around the UK. Organisers describe it as a year-long festival of art and creativity with many events and exhibitions taking place, including workshops and a travelling art studio where kids who have less access to art can learn and be inspired.

The tour begins on May 10th when 12 exhibitions across the 12 regions and four nations of the UK open simultaneously with some of the National Gallery’s precious artworks.

Taylor Swift: The Eras tour

Arriving in the UK between June and August this year, Taylor Swift’s The Eras tour has taken the US by storm and generated a staggering $2.2 billion so far. The setlist for the tour features some of the singer-songwriter’s most well-known tracks from across her career, split into ten ‘eras’ that represent each of her albums.

While tickets for the European leg of the tour are sold out, there may still be some re-sales up for grabs if you’re lucky. Or, for fans at home, why not host a Taylor Swift-themed party?

Spirited Away at the West End

Spirited Away is perhaps one of Studio Ghibli’s most famous films, directed by the visionary Hayao Miyazaki. For the first time, UK audiences will be able to see the stage adaptation of this magical fantasy.

The show features the original Japanese cast, and subtitles will be available, so it may not be appropriate for some kids. The show recommends that it’s suitable for children over the age of seven. If you want to grab tickets, act fast, as the show opens in April for a limited run at the London Coliseum.

The Summer Olympics and Paralympics 

In 2024, the Summer Olympics and Paralympics will be taking place in Paris, not the UK. Nevertheless, as one of the biggest events in the sporting calendar, these events are an amazing time for celebrating British athletes and cheering on Team GB.

This year, for the first time, the Olympics will be adding skateboarding, surfing, sport climbing and breakdancing to the roster of events. There are sure to be plenty of local events and watch-along parties to catch the excitement from this side of the channel.

Wimbledon 

Every year, beginning on July 1st, the best tennis players from around the globe arrive in London for one of the most prestigious tennis competitions – Wimbledon.

If you’re planning on spending an afternoon relaxing on Henman Hill with a picnic (and plenty of strawberries and cream), remember to bring along one of our designer umbrellas to keep the sun off your back – or the rain as usually happens once or twice throughout Wimbledon!

UEFA Champions League Final

In 2024, the final of this annual football competition will be returning to Wembley after 11 years. This will be the 8th time that the final has been hosted by Wembley Stadium in London, also known as the ‘home of football’.

On June 1st, after the competition has whittled down the top-division European clubs into just two teams going head-to-head, the winner will lift the trophy. Whether you’re in the stadium with your family or watching from home or a pub, this is one event you’ll probably remember in years to come (especially so if we’re lucky enough to be cheering on the home team!)

Whatever you get up to with your family in 2024, remember to check out our designer umbrellas so you can have an amazing time and stay dry in style, whatever the weather.

Get away with the kids this October half term to one of these ten outstanding staycation destinations.

The Cairngorms

Starting at the top, the Cairngorms National Park in the Scottish Highlands is the ultimate destination for an adventure holiday.

With its dramatic landscape and spectacular scenery, you won’t find a better place for walking, cycling, or hiking. And if that’s not enough, the Landmark Forest Adventure Park has loads of things to do for the whole family, from hair-raising treetop escapades to the amazing Butterfly House. While over at the Loch Insh tions.

Whether you’re looking for relaxing, quality time together or action-packed activities, the UK has it all—just don’t forget your brolly.
Outdoor Centre, you’ll find skating, skiing, archery, sailing and more. Phew. We’re tired already.

Edinburgh

Just a wee short hop away is the nation’s capital, Edinburgh. Here, history is piled on history, with the dramatic Edinburgh Castle sitting proudly on top. And, if you dare, you can take a ghost walk beneath the old town and learn about Edinburgh’s dark side. As you’d expect, there’s also a wealth of museums and art galleries to explore. The National Museum of Scotland is a great place to take the kids, with interactive exhibits, workshops, and special events throughout the holidays.

If you’d rather be outdoors, escape the city centre and head to the Royal Botanic Garden, home to an enormous collection of flora and fauna from all over the world. When you’re done, climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat and enjoy the view.

The Lake District

Recently voted the second most beautiful national park in the world on social media (narrowly beaten by the Grand Canyon National Park), the Lake District really is one of the most spectacular and peaceful places to visit in the UK. It’s also one of the most popular. So, whether you’re going to don your hiking boots and brave a climb with a nine-year-old or stick to the easy-going, lakeside paths, you’ll find lots to see and do.

When you’ve had your fill of walking, take some tea in Windermere and stop by The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, where you’ll find Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddle-Duck and all Beatrix Potter’s famous characters. And, if your kids are super-fans, take a drive across Windermere to Hill Top and discover the inspiration behind the tales.

Northumberland

If you’d prefer peace and quiet and miles of sandy beaches, head over to the other side of the country to Northumberland. You can get your fill of history, from the 2000-year-old Hadrian’s Wall with the remains of forts and towns that once stood over the northwest frontier of the Roman Empire, to a fortress of castles including the imposing Bamburgh Castle and Alnwick Castle, the second-largest inhabited castle in the UK.

And with incredible sweeping dark skies at night, Northumberland is one of the best places for stargazing. Wrap up warm and head over to the Dark Skies event at the Kielder and Battlesteads Observatories to learn about the secrets of the universe. These events tend to sell out, so book well in advance to avoid disappointment.


Eryri National Park (Snowdonia)

If your kids are the adventurous type (and you can keep up with them), Eryri could be the perfect short break for you. Here, just outside Betws-y-Coed, you’ll find Zip World Forest, where you can ride the UK’s only alpine coaster of its kind, or let the kids get high 60ft off the ground in the Treetop Nets.

You can’t get much more beautiful than the stunning Yr Wyddfa (or Snowdon). But beware, the Mountain Railway doesn’t run beyond the end of October, so if you’re doing the climb, be sure to check the weather forecast and prepare yourself with the right equipment well in advance. Eryri in Gwynedd is also one of the windiest places in the UK, so be sure to pack a windproof umbrella if you’re going there.

Norfolk

Making our way down the aisle, back over to the other side, we’re going from rugged mountains to one of the flattest areas in the UK, Norfolk. Despite its low-lying land, Norfolk has its own beauty and charm. Enjoy Cromer’s miles and miles of beautiful coastline—one of the only places in the UK where you can watch the sun rise and set over the water from the same place.

Stop off in Great Yarmouth and enjoy the classic seaside experience for half-term. The kids will love the Pleasure Beach, the Hippodrome, and the Sealife Centre.

Norfolk is famous for The Waterways, a scenic park where you can stroll, relax, or take to the waters of the Boating Lake. And the coast is peppered with seaside resorts and market towns to explore.

Dorset

Nestled along the iconic Jurassic Coast, Dorset boasts a romantic landscape perfect for adventure seekers and those looking for a slower pace. Fossil hunting is an obligatory pursuit along this ancient shoreline, and you can even follow dinosaur tracks outside Langton Matravers.

Inland, the Moors Valley Country Park is the perfect place for leisurely strolls and cycling or, for the daring, take to the trees with the Go Ape Treetop Challenge. When you come down, seek out the Moors Valley Railway, which winds its way around the park.


Devon

Heading back to the South of England, let’s explore Devon. This region is known for its expansive sandy beaches and big skies. Venturing inland, the Dartmoor National Park has plenty of B&Bs and Hotels where you’ll find the warmest welcome and the best breakfasts. For family-friendly walks, wildlife, cycling, horseback riding, and rock climbing, Devon is hard to beat.

If the kids love animals, take them to the UK’s largest National Marine Aquarium or Pennywell Farm for an up close and personal animal experience. Or, look for more exotic creatures, try Paignton Zoo, which celebrates its 100th birthday this year.

Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight has it all, from scenic landscapes with long beachfront for bracing walks to coastal trails and nature reserves, where you’ll find red squirrels and even the rare and elusive wild cat, which is so similar to a domestic tabby cat that interbreeding has become a serious threat to its survival.

At just 23 miles by 13, getting around the Isle of Wight is easy using local transport, so it’s a great option if you want to leave the car at home.

And if you fancy yourself as a ghost hunter, the Isle of Wight has a reputation for spooky tales and strange goings on, earning it the name “Ghost Island”. Perfect for a trip just before Hallowe’en. Scooby-dooby-doo!

Whatever your age or interests, the UK has so much to offer for families looking for a getaway this half-term holiday. So, pack your brolly and head out somewhere you’ve never been and try something you’ve never done before. It’s all waiting to be discovered – which one is on your half-term bucket list?

Where Are The Best Outdoor Cinemas and Theatres To Catch A Show This Summer?

The weather in the UK is famous for its unpredictability. As if to prove just that, we’ve been experiencing a decidedly rainy summer so far. Nevertheless, that doesn’t stop us from hosting some amazing outdoor entertainment.

Relaxing back in a deck chair or on a picnic blanket with your favourite snacks while a great film plays in the background or watching a dramatic play beneath the stars sounds like a great way to make the most of the lighter evenings. So, grab your designer umbrellas for our top picks of outdoor cinemas and theatres to visit before the summer is over.

Rooftop Film Club, London 

The Rooftop Film Club in London is an established outdoor cinema that, as you might have guessed, is held atop various London buildings. This year, the club currently has showings at Roof East in Stratford and the Bussy Building in Peckham.

The club is currently showing various films over August, from new releases like the highly anticipated summer movies Barbie and Oppenheimer to beloved classics, including Amelie and Jurassic Park.

The Luna Cinema, various locations 

The Luna Cinema is a touring outdoor cinema that hosts films at various locations throughout the UK, so it’s great for picking somewhere that’s close to you. The locations are also often within glorious country estates, next to medieval castles or ruins, or in parkland – the perfect setting to watch some of your favourite films.

In August, you’ll be able to watch Harry Potter against the dramatic view of Lulworth Castle in Dorset or enjoy Pride and Prejudice at Chatsworth House – the same place featured as Pemberly in the film itself. Other locations include Guildford Cathedral, Chester Zoo, and Bolton Abbey.

 The Minack Theatre, Cornwall 

The Minack Theatre is a tourist attraction in its own right and is visited by over 250,000 people each year. And how could it not be? Nestled on the edges of the cliffs of Penzance, the Minack Theatre is in a stunning location that’s perfect for experiencing a show.

In August and September, you’ll be able to go and see a variety of plays, from The Scottish Play, a humorous retelling of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, to Tennessee Williams’s A Streetcar Named Desire and the Tony-winning musical Evita. For families, a stage adaptation of Tom’s Midnight Garden is also shown.

The Minack Theatre is also open to the public to discover more about this amazing venue. However, we recommend booking in advance to secure a timeslot and avoid disappointment.

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, London

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is Britain’s oldest professional outdoor theatre and has been putting on performances for audiences for almost 100 years.

Throughout the remaining summer season for 2023, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre will be bringing the glamour with the classic Broadway musical La Cage Aux Folles. Or for children under 12, until early September, you can also be thrilled by the lifelike puppets of Dinosaur World Live.

All seating is completely uncovered, and the theatre only cancels shows on rare occasions when the weather is particularly bad, so you’ll definitely want to pack an umbrella just in case to protect yourself from any showers.

Brighton Open Air Theatre, Brighton 

The Brighton Open Air Theatre, more informally known as BOAT, is set in beautiful parkland just on the edge between Brighton and Hove.

Throughout August and September, there will be a huge variety of shows to go and watch, including classic adaptations such as Robin Hood, Shakespeare’s Hamlet, and Jane Austen’s Persuasion. There are also plenty of music and comedy performances to see this summer, including Cavern To Imagine by The Vox Beatles, Drag In The Park, and Stand Up Under The Stars with some of the UK’s funniest comics.

Shakespeare’s Globe, London
Last but not at all least is Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre on the banks of the River Thames in London. The original theatre that opened in 1599 and became known for its performances of Shakespeare’s plays is long gone. However, the tradition continues in the new Globe Theatre that was opened in 1997 after years of campaigning.

Like the Minack, the Globe is also open for guided tours where you can learn more about the history of the area. If you’re more interested in experiencing what it might have been like to go and see a show, you’ll be able to see performances of Macbeth and As You Like It until the end of October.

The other venue on the site (which happens to be indoors should the weather turn on you) is the Sam Wannamaker Playhouse, which throughout August, is showing the family-friendly Midsummer Mechanicals, based on A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

There’s so much to choose from, whether you’re more interested in laughing until your sides hurt, anguishing at a dramatic tragedy, or enjoying a good time with your family – just don’t forget to have an umbrella on hand, just in case! Have you decided what you’re going to see before summer is over?

How to Weatherproof Your UK Outdoor Wedding

Content: Whether you’re saying your vows under a forest canopy, enjoying a garden party in a sprawling country estate, or overlooking an endless glistening ocean, spending your big day in the great outdoors can create a breathtaking experience for you and your guests. However, no matter how much you plan the details of your wedding, if you’re in the UK then one thing you’ll always be unable to control is the weather.

Some believe that the heavens opening on your wedding day is good luck, but between soggy guests and muddy fields, there’s no denying that it can make things difficult. Nevertheless, rain doesn’t have to be a bad thing and you can have a day that’s just as magical and memorable. Here are our top practical tips for embracing the rain whilst staying comfortable.

1. Make sure there’s cover available

If the forecast is looking rainy, the first thing you should do is make sure that your venue has an indoor or covered area that you can use. Renting a tent, marquee or gazebo is also a must to keep your guests dry, especially if you’re planning on having a laid-back barbeque or food trucks.

Ahead of time, you might also want to do a practice run-through of how you’re going to quickly move everything indoors, should the weather be too bad to stay outside.

2. Keep your vendors informed 

If there is rain on your wedding day, there’s a good chance it’s going to change your schedule in one way or another. Whenever your plans change, it’s a good idea to keep everyone informed of what’s happening, including your photographer, stylist, florist, caterer etc. Your planner can help you with this, or you can ask close friends or family to help everybody coordinate so they know what the plan is.

3. Choose footwear wisely

I think we can all agree walking around with wet feet, or damp shoes and socks is uncomfortable and not enjoyable on any day. For outdoor weddings, waterproof sprays might help in keeping the rain from seeping into your footwear. Another good tip is to leave the stiletto heels at home as they may cause you to sink and damage both the ground and your shoes. If the venue is likely to get a little muddy, you could truly dress for the occasion and opt for matching wedding wellies.

Another thing to consider is bringing spare footwear that you can reserve for the photographs and then swap out for a pair that you don’t mind getting a little dirty. Remember to also send a message to your guests ahead of schedule so they have time to find themselves appropriate footwear.

4. Provide umbrellas

Having an umbrella is a necessity for a rainy outdoor wedding. Our windproof umbrellas can certainly keep the rain off your back. Or for the photos, our transparent umbrellas will help you capture the perfect shot without obscuring the view.

You could either stock your venue with a bucket of spare umbrellas that people can use, or send guests a message ahead of time to let them know that they’ll need to bring one. You could even consider asking guests to bring colours or patterns according to your theme so everyone can be matching in the photographs!

5. Keep a few towels on hand 

It’s always handy to have a few towels at your venue if rain is forecast, both for the wedding party and guests to dry off with or to wipe down outdoor seating and tables once the rain has stopped.

6. Hair and makeup 

Your stylist will help you pick the best makeup and hairstyles for a rainy day. Just be aware that your original plans may have to change. If you were planning on wearing your hair down, for example, you might have to consider an up-do instead, so it doesn’t end up flat or frizzy.

7. Check the forecast

While this might be the last thing you want to do, if you’ve got a rough idea of when the rain is going to fall on the day, you can make sure to plan around it. But try not to tie yourself up in knots thinking about the rain – after all, the weather is difficult to forecast.

You probably weren’t planning on a rainy wedding, but just think about all the ways it can make your day just as special and memorable. Intimate photographs of the happy couple cosied up under a stylish umbrella, guests splashing in puddles, moody atmospheric photos – your photographer probably has lots of ideas on how to make the most of it.

The rain may change some plans, but what it won’t change is the fact that this is a day to celebrate love, so embrace it!