Jubilee mania might be over, but there’s still plenty going on in London. Here are our top picks for what to do in the capital this weekend.
London Nocturne
Smithfield Market will become a bicycle battleground on Saturday as top cyclists race on its surrounding streets in this year’s IG Markets London Nocturne. The free event also includes a penny farthing race and a challenge to achieve the longest skid on a fixed-gear bike. The brand new City Criterium will see cycling teams from central London firms fight to be crowned the fastest company in the square mile. 9 Jun
Open Garden Squares Weekend
More than 200 of London’s private squares are unlocked to the public for one weekend only each year. Admire the Victorian stump garden and beehive in Camden’s Bedford Square or take tea in Fitzroy Square, the communal garden used by prime minister Lord Salisbury and Virginia Woolf, who lived there at different times. One ticket allows entry to all the squares over the weekend and you can calculate distances between them using the handy ‘My Gardens’ tool on the website. 9 – 10 Jun
Dickens and London
It’s the last chance to catch the Museum of London’s much-praised Dickens and London exhibition charting Charles Dickens’ relationship with the capital. Entry is by timed ticket and pre-booking is advised. Until 10 Jun
The London Green Fair
The Regent’s Park is getting even greener this weekend as London’s biggest eco-festival takes over with music, talks and activities for the environmentally-minded. Try out electric bikes, learn about permaculture, browse organic and fairtrade wares at market stalls, check out exhibitions from Ecotricity and Zipcar and listen to bands at the Global-local stage and Pea Pod Arena. 9 – 10 Jun
MINT Polo in the Park
The Jubilee got our juices flowing for all things British, and what could be more proper than a spot of Polo? Six teams play each other over three days at MINT Polo in the Park at Hurlingham Park, with entertainment from the Devil’s Horsemen equine stunt team. It’s as much about the glamour as the matches – there’s also the Harrods Food Court, a luxury shopping village and opportunity to whet your whistle at numerous pitch-side bars. 8 – 10 Jun
Comedy Store Players
For anyone who feels comedy is too formulaic, here’s your antidote. This top improvisation group puts on a brilliant night of unscripted fun, with members who have worked together since the 80s. Paul Merton is the top name to catch and will be part of the antics on stage at the intimate Soho club on Sunday evening. 10 Jun
Plan your weekend in London at www.visitlondon.com