From world-class performances to standout art, here is your guide to what we see to be a fabulous August.
Applaud: Edinburgh International Festival, 7-30 August
Spanning 24 days of world-class opera, theatre, music, and dance, this year’s bumper festival features 147 performances by artists from 44 countries. Highlights include the legendary Berliner Philharmoniker, returning to the festival for the first time in 20 years, Mercury Prize-nominated Scottish jazz performer corto.alto, and San Francisco Ballet’s European premiere of Mere Mortals. www.eif.co.uk
Eat: The Carnival Collaboration at Sky Garden’s Fenchurch Restaurant, London, 27 August
A fine dining Caribbean experience arrives ahead of Notting Hill Carnival, hosting a vibrant collection of food, music and culture for one day only. Seeing Fenchurch Chef de Cuisine, Kerth Gumbs, join forces with fellow Great British Menu Chef, Kareem Roberts, this eagerly awaited six-course carnival tasting menu, served 37 floors above London, offers 48-hour curried goat and rum-led cocktails aplenty. www.skygarden.london
Relax: Summer at Waresley Park Estate, Cambridgeshire, throughout August
Another enticing option comes from this sprawling estate, who are hosting an appealing programme of cultural and wellbeing events, from family-friendly entertainment and al fresco dining, to cocktail-making workshops and theatre. Alternatively, for a dose of R&R, unwind with a full-moon wild swim and lakeside sauna, or drift away during a wild-float sound bath. www.waresleyparkestate.co.uk
Fly: Complimentary Helicopter Transfers, Maybourne Hotels, London
For those weary of London traffic, Maybourne has introduced an excellent new service for signature suite guests at Claridge’s, The Connaught, The Emory, and The Berkeley. The complimentary Flexjet helicopter transfer operates from any private jet terminal in the Capital, offering a smooth, swift journey aboard a Sikorsky S-76. It will save more than an hour of travel time – and just think of the views. www.maybourne.com
View: Coastal Impressions at The Brownston Gallery, Modbury, Devon, until 5 September
Anyone visiting Devon should stop by this joyful celebration of the county’s beautiful coastline. Regarded as one of the South West’s leading fine art galleries, visitors can view works by eight resident artists, each capturing the spirit of summer in their own distinctive style. Whether you go to be inspired or invest in your art collection — you will leave uplifted. www.brownstonart.com
Refine: Clinical Brightening Facial at Kate Kerr London, from £200
Skin peels have earned a bad reputation over the years – who can forget Samantha in Sex and the City? But those in the know favour a more considered, bespoke approach over one-size-fits-all treatments. Dubbed the ‘Mosaic Peel’ thanks to its tailored application of different peel types and strengths to specific areas of the face, this coveted treatment delivers a brighter, more radiant complexion by responding to your skin’s individual needs. www.katekerrlondon.co.uk
Experiment: New Ways with Prunier Paris Caviar, from £110 for 30g
Tired of blinis? This summer brings chic new ways to enjoy caviar, from mini Jersey Royals inspired by Jackie Kennedy, to even being used as an indulgent topping for frozen margaritas and sorbets. Our favourite? Spoon your decadence onto British strawberries with a dollop of crème fraiche. This sweet-savoury pairing will make every picnic feel freshly elevated. www.caviarhouse-prunier.co.uk
Expand: Carlos Acosta: Myths and Modern Masters, Royal Ballet & Opera House, London, 5-9 August
Get in there quick: Cuban-British ballet legend Carlos Acosta returns to the Royal Ballet and Opera stage with a spellbinding exploration of classical and contemporary dance. The programme opens with José Limón’s The Moor’s Pavane, widely regarded as a modern repertory masterpiece, before moving to Acosta’s Nutcracker in Havana Suite, a fresh take on a beloved classic. Celebrating the spirit of Cuba, this vibrant fusion of classical, Latin and contemporary dance is a must-see. www.rbo.org.uk
See: Ana Mendieta at Tate Modern, London, until 17 January
Need another taste of Cuba? On now is the UK’s first major exhibition in more than a decade dedicated to Cuba-born multidisciplinary artist Ana Mendieta. Visitors can explore over 120 works, from the iconic Silueta Series to newly remastered films and early paintings, many of which have never been exhibited before. Exploring themes of displacement and nature, the show promises a compelling culture fix you will never forget. www.tate.org.uk
Safari: Wild Summer at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, until 31 August
Finally, if you are seeking an unforgettable adventure to round off the summer holidays, consider a staycation safari. Port Lympne is celebrating its 50th anniversary with exclusive summer experiences that blend wildlife encounters with luxury hospitality and entertainment. Savour the limited-edition 50th Anniversary Afternoon Tea, or, for the ultimate end to your day, book Lion Lodge and sleep in style with lions as neighbours. www.aspinalfoundation.org
