A real gem
For lovers of all that sparkles, the Coutts London Jewellery Week returns to London 8-14 June 2009. Big names of the jewellery world will display their gems alongside rising stars of London jewellery. Visitors can take part in a citywide treasure hunt with prizes from top jewellers, be dazzled by the diamonds at exhibitions and join a jewellery-making class.
The five-star Hyatt Regency – The Churchill is offering a package throughout the week. Guests can enjoy an overnight stay, a 'Jewellery Cocktail' in the bar and English breakfast in The Montagu restaurant. The first 25 to book will also receive a stunning piece of jewellery by top designers, Wright & Teague. The London Jewellery package can be booked now. Rooms start from £295.
London.churchill.hyatt.com, Londonjewellery.co.uk
Music in the capital
Rock out in London's Hyde Park with a weekend of performances from top artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young and The Killers. Hard Rock Calling is an annual music event that takes place this year from 26-28 June 2009.
Hardrockcalling.co.uk
The fun doesn't stop there as Blur hit the stage on 2 July 2009. And for those looking for a festival without the hassle of traffic queues, mud and tents, the 02 Wireless Festival kicks off on 4-5 July 2009. Dance duo Basement Jaxx and US rapper Kanye West headline.
Wirelessfestival.co.uk
A (free) night at the opera
Enjoy a night at the opera or ballet in the open-air and for free. This summer big Screens across the UK will broadcast live performances from The Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. Head to London's Trafalgar Square for The Royal Ballet's Ondine, The Royal Opera's La Traviata and The Barber of Seville.
roh.org.uk
City culture
London's Square Mile business district is normally a hub of finance, but it embraces its artistic side for a midsummer festival. Music, visual arts, film and walks and talks all take place in and outside the exquisite Guild Halls and churches of London's Square Mile. More than 50-ticketed performances, including a grand closing concert in St Paul's Cathedral, take place from 19 June – 9 July 2009. There are also plenty of free events to come along to from 19 June – 7 August 2009.
Colf.org
A day at the park
Victoria Park will be magically transformed for the weekend of 20-21 June 2009. Paradise Gardens is a free festival featuring live music, circus acts, street arts and impromptu performances. Get tickets to the UK premiere of Circus Ronaldo's La Cucina dell'Arte, an exciting circus theatre performance.
Paradisegardens.org.uk
Tasty treat
And don't forget to head to Regents Park on 18-21 June 2009 for Taste of London, sponsored by British Airways. The best in culinary events, Taste is a foodie's heaven with the best of London's restaurants offering visitors samples of signature dishes.
britishairways.com/travel/tasteoflondonhome
