As April marks the beginning of spring, with the promise of warmer weather to come, the capital is filled with newfound energy. With an exciting line-up of new exhibitions and outdoor events taking place, alongside annual favourites like the London Marathon and St George’s Day, London in April looks set to welcome an abundance of springtime attractions. Here are some of our favourite events to seek out during your trip.
CircusFest
Circus acts from the UK and beyond will be taking over the Roundhouse and other venues across London in a three-week extravaganza. The festival will kick off with Super Sunday, featuring the ‘wheel of death’, a human catapult and trampolining. Other events include the new dance production Kin, and the Take Part Weekend in which visitors will have the chance to learn street dance, acrobatics and the hula hoop, among other circus skills.
From 4th – 24th April 2016
CircusFest
Conceptual Art in Britain 1964-1979
This new exhibition at Tate Britain will explore how art gained social meaning in the 1960s. The showcase will feature artists who have challenged the status quo and used their work for politically charged messages, including Bruce McLean, Victor Burgin and Stephen Willats, alongside land artist Richard Long and influential feminist Mary Kelly.
From 12th April 2016
Conceptual Art in Britain 1964-1979
Udderbelly Festival
Returning to the South Bank for its 2016 edition, Udderbelly will bring comedy, circus acts, children’s shows and outdoor bars to the Thames area, alongside the festival’s unique giant purple cow. Catch the brand new circus show Close Up, performances by The Amazing Bubble Man, and music by the acclaimed a cappella group, Gobsmacked, who’ll be bringing their harmonies to the riverbank.
From 7th April 2016
Udderbelly
V&A Undressed: A Brief History of Underwear
This month the V&A will be launching an intriguing new exhibition that focuses on how underwear has evolved throughout history, and how these garments have reflected society and the ideologies of their time. The exhibition will showcase items such as Gwyneth Paltrow’s Antonio Berardi dress and under-garments once worn by Queen Victoria’s mother.
From 16th April 2016
V&A Undressed: A Brief History of Underwear
The London Marathon
The capital’s annual marathon is one of the biggest events on the calendar, so visitors need to arrive early to get a trackside space. From the sidelines, spectators watch the runners pass by as they complete the 26-mile course. Greenwich, the Cutty Sark and Tower Bridge are popular spots to head for, but to avoid the crowds, try one of the quieter areas along the route.
24th April 2016
Virgin Money London Marathon
St George’s Day
St George’s Day celebrations will be taking place across the city, including the annual feast on Trafalgar Square that is organised by the Mayor of London. Food stalls, games, free activities and more will take over the square in recognition of this traditional day of feasting, providing a fun day out for the whole family.
Date TBC
Feast of St George
The Rolling Stones: Exhibitionism
Celebrate one of the UK’s most famous bands at the Rolling Stones’ first major exhibition. Featuring more than 500 of the band’s original items, the Saatchi Gallery promises an immersive, multi-media experience that will take visitors on an intriguing journey through the past 50 years. Expect photographs, guitars, costumes and letters, amidst the memorabilia.
From 5th April 2016
The Rolling Stones: Exhibitionism
While you’re in the capital, see the city’s most famous sights by joining a London day trip to historic landmarks and cultural hotspots.
Header image: CircusFest © Petter Hellman from Roundhouse
