Back in July, I had a lot of fun putting together my London Summer Hot List, a list of activities and places I wanted to see this summer. It was part a guide to highlight some awesome things going on in London, and part to act as my own motivation. So now the nights are drawing in and the temperature is dropping I bet you’re wondering – how many, if any, did I check off?!
1. Visit an outdoor art exhibition
One of the things I love about London is how much public art there is – it’s out in the streets, not tucked away. While it’s controversial, I liked the tactile nature and colours of the Serpentine Pavilion, set in Hyde Park. And I am fascinated by the faces of the Rising Tide, set into the Thames river. Taking the slides of Carsten Höller’s Decision was probably the most fun I’ve ever had with art! I definitely had a lot of fun checking these out.
2. Drinks on a rooftop
I predicted this one would be pretty achievable and I was absolutely right – there were many opportunities to drink in the skies, from Shoreditch to Peckham. I loved the sunset and views back to the city from Frank’s Cafe in Peckham – I’ll definitely be back!
3. Sign up for my next half marathon
I’ve been running most of the summer as I whittle away the kilometres on my #1kk New Years Resolution challenge, to run 1000km this year. I had an enforced time off after surgery but now I’m back on track with just 252 kilometres to go – wow that feels good! I’ve not signed up for another half marathon as I got so disrupted by my surgery (from which I am now fully recovered, yay!). But I did enter the ballot for the London Marathon, so I’ll find out this week whether fate has a whole lot more running planned for me in the future!
4. A weekend away in the UK
I had an amazing weekend away in the Scottish Highlands, which I’ll be blogging about soon. From climbing the sixth-highest mountain in the UK (yes, I know, not exactly a world record) to trying to spot Nessie, all while soaking in the fresh Scottish sunshine and air, it was a great trip. My only complaint was that there was nowhere near enough time to explore around Inverness, or go further afield to the Isle of Skye – so I’ll be back!
5. Broadway Market
It was also not too tough to schedule in more visits to Broadway Market – my only complaint is that it’s not open Sundays too! A great range of producers and loads of tasty treats, I also love the relaxed vibe. While it can’t top my true love for Maltby St Market, it is an awesome option in East London.
6. Add to my Thames Path walked
Although I have walked and/or run some sections of the Thames Path on an almost daily basis, I don’t think I’ve really added to it much. But any time spent down by the river is fine by me – and I still live in hope of spotting a seal or dolphin!
7. Visit Buckingham Palace
Well, this year I just didn’t get myself organised enough for the Palace tour and once again, tickets sold out. I’ll be booking it in asap next year!
8. Outdoor cinemas
I’m going to blame it on a large part of London’s summer just not feeling like summer – after the mini heatwave we had, it seemed like most of the warmth got used up. It didn’t motivate me any further to catch an outdoor screening of a movie old or new – another one to keep on the list for next summer! Hopefully conditions will be more conducive.
9. Sky Garden
I wrote about my visit to Skygarden here – I still can’t get over the incredible sunset we were treated to, and those amazing views! Definitely my favourite London item on the hot list this time around.
10. A walking tour
Another one that I didn’t quite get around to this time – but as they’re a year-round activity, I’m sure I can manage one before the next summer rolls around! I had so much fun putting together my summer hot list – keep an eye out for my winter list coming soon! Any suggestions for me?
