I’m a city girl – living in Bristol but spending lots of time in Birmingham and London too – so I love the way British cities come to life in the spring. Every weekend is Party Central, with free music and art for all. Even working in the corporate world and writing thrillers about it, I’ve found time to enjoy myself. Here’s my pick of five fabulous freebies coming soon:
Bath isn’t just incredibly beautiful, it hosts the Bath International Music Festival, on right now until 26th May. Several events are free. The joint was jumping when I popped in on Friday.
Bristol’s Mayfest combines cabaret, bar room parties and midnight walks with theatre and art. It’s all happening until 24th May, and most of it’s free of charge! If you need an excuse to visit Bristol, this is it! And you can come back next month for the exciting Easton Arts Trail. Don’t forget to sample that West Country cider in floating bar, the Apple.
Birmingham is always buzzy, and this summer is no exception. July sees the International Jazz and Blues Festival, much of it free, followed by big screen 80s and 90s films in the Brindleyplace party district.
London isn’t renowned for free events, but they exist! A personal favourite, in the heart of the City financial district, is the weekly free classical concert at St Olaves Church. The church itself is a marvellous medieval Gothic confection and well worth seeing. Its acoustics are amazing. Also – why not head to Walthamstow (20 minutes from central London on the Victoria line) for the E17 Art Trail? Starting with parties on 28th May, there are hundreds of open studios and art shows all over the Stow, right until 14th June. Relax with coffee and cake on Hoe Street afterwards – the main drag abounds with tempting cake displays.
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