Feature: The most popular UK entertainment themes
The arrival of summer means only one thing: more time to go out and enjoy yourself! Longer days give you a little bit more time at the bar or club. You can sit outside and enjoy films under the stars. Perhaps watch a play at an outdoor theatre or relax at a beachside barbeque. Here are some of the most popular things to do in the UK, come rain or shine:-
Showbars
Showbars are great places to let your hair down. Offering the perfect mix of cabaret and cocktails, they offer a memorable night’s worth of entertainment. Many showbars have a range of shows and some include DJ sets. Strawberry Moons, in the heart of London, offers fancy dress shows and the chance to participate in events such as “Mustachioed” (free entry if you have a moustache!).
London’s Madame JoJo’s is quite possibly the most famous showbar in the UK. Every Saturday night is Kitsch Cabaret – complete with drag queens, feather boas and live music. The showbar also features regular burlesque shows in a nod to the Victorian shows popular in the 1840s.
International Cuisine
According to Visit Britain, the UK tourism industry is worth over £118 billion a year. Tourists spent over £8.6 billion in London alone according a 2011 International Passenger Survey and the popularity of events like the 2012 Olympics have boosted that number in cities and towns across the country.
Restaurants are booming. Wiltshire’s Whatley Manor – a Michelin starred restaurant offering dishes such as steamed bass and black truffle ice cream – is experiencing record demand. The waiting list for Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck may require you to wait you two months for a reservation. Abergavenny’s The Walnut Tree Inn is wowing the Welsh.
Websites such as Square Meal offer a great way to explore restaurants in your local area. Why not broaden your horizons and try something new?
Casinos
Casinos have experienced something of resurgence lately. No longer the preserve of gamblers, many casinos offer luxurious evening entertainment complete with fine dining and cocktails. Some of the more exclusive casinos such as the Aspinalls Club in London require membership. There is a dress code (smart casual is the norm) and rules are strictly enforced.
Casinos offer more than gambling. Blackpool’s G Casino, for example, hosts events such Miss Blackpool and tribute bands such as the Tina Turner Experience. Visit your nearest casino today and see what they can offer. Alternatively you can experience the thrill of the casino online by playing the online slots and such from the comfort of your home.
Cinemas
Movies are one of the UK most popular forms of entertainment. The BBC recently reported that Man of Steel – the new Superman film – grossed £11.2 million in its opening weekend. It’s not just blockbusters we can enjoy at the cinema – cinemagoers can also experience opera and ballet, too. Some cinemas offer live streaming of concerts and plays, too.
The low cost of admission in multiplexes makes it an affordable treat whatever the weather.
Museums and Galleries
Finally, museums and galleries are great places you can enjoy all year round. The British Museum was London’s top attraction in 2012 with over 5.6 million visitors. Art galleries such as the Tate Liverpool are experiencing record numbers thanks to exhibits such as Chagal: Modern Master.
There are numerous museums across the UK, so you can always find something to your taste. Many offer free entry and have great cafes to take a break in after exploring.
