Voyage to the Deep at the Horniman

All aboard the Nautilus. Inspired by Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, this immersive experience invites young adventurers to take the helm of a submarine, navigate underwater worlds and encounter a giant squid and other creatures of the deep. An Octonauts trail adds another layer of fun to the voyage.

Best for: Ages 2+ and little explorers.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 7 miles / 35-minute car ride.
Dates: Until 1 November 2026.
Find out more: horniman.ac.uk

The Jolly Postman at The Postal Museum

Step into the pages of one of the most beloved children’s books as The Jolly Postman makes his rounds in an interactive exhibition celebrating 40 years of the classic story. Follow his route through fairytale scenes, deliver letters to familiar characters and discover original artwork by Janet and Allan Ahlberg. Then climb aboard Mail Rail for a journey beneath the streets of London.

Best for: Ages 3–8 and little storytellers.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 2 miles / 15-minute car ride.
Dates: Until January 2027.
Find out more: postalmuseum.org

Cirque Berserk at the Garrick Theatre

More West End spectacular than musical, the exhilarating Cirque Berserk brings the big top to the Garrick this half-term, with acrobats, aerialists and daredevil performers delivering a high-octane display of gravity-defying feats. It’s the kind of show that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Best for: Ages 3+ and junior thrill-seekers.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 0.5 mile / 5-minute car ride.
Dates: 21–31 October 2026.
Find out more: garricktheatre.com

Childhood in War at Imperial War Museum

Explore a different side of history through the eyes of those who lived through it. Childhood in War tells the stories of children growing up during conflict, from the First World War to the present day, through personal testimonies, interactive displays and immersive recreations. Step inside an evacuee train carriage, discover a Cold War-era kitchen and see how everyday childhood — from school to home life — has been shaped by war.

Best for: Ages 8+ and curious young historians.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 2.5 miles / 15-minute car ride.
Dates: Until 28 February 2027.
Find out more: iwm.org.uk

The Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum

See one of the world’s most extraordinary historical treasures in London for the first time in almost 1,000 years. At 70 metres long, the Bayeux Tapestry is more medieval graphic novel than conventional history lesson, bringing the Battle of Hastings to life through scenes of warfare, banquets, ships, horses and mythical creatures.

Best for: Ages 8+ and budding historians.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 1 mile / 7-minute car ride.
Dates: 10 September 2026–11 July 2027.
Find out more: britishmuseum.org

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From open-air theatre and optical illusions to royal palaces and riverside adventures, London is awash with culture for kids during the summer months. Whether your child is drawn to art, history or a musical spectacular, these five outings promise memories for all ages.

M.C. Escher. The Exhibition at Somerset House

Step into the mind of one of the world’s most intriguing artists. This major retrospective brings together more than 150 mind-boggling works by M.C. Escher, whose impossible staircases, mesmerising patterns and mind-bending optical illusions continue to captivate generations. Interactive installations allow visitors to explore the mathematical principles behind his creations, making it as engaging for children as it is for adults.
Best for: Curious minds and budding mathematicians aged 8+.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 1 mile / 10-minute taxi ride.
Dates: Until 6 September 2026.
Website: somersethouse.org.uk

CATS at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s beloved musical returns in a stunning new production staged beneath the stars in Regent’s Park. Featuring iconic songs including Memory and The Jellicle Ball, this open-air performance transforms one of London’s most beautiful parks into a magical theatrical alley-like setting. Arrive early with a picnic and you’ll be humming along for days.
Best for: Ages 5+ and families who love theatre.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 2 miles / 15-minute taxi ride.
Dates: 5 July–19 September 2026.
Website: openairtheatre.com

A River Journey to Greenwich

See London from a different perspective with a Thames river cruise to Greenwich. Explore the Royal Observatory, stand astride the Prime Meridian and discover the fascinating story of timekeeping and navigation. Nearby, the National Maritime Museum brings centuries of exploration, maps and naval adventures to life through interactive displays and collections.
Best for: Ages 7+ and young explorers.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: Approximately 45 minutes by river boat, Thames Clippers leave from Embankment Pier.
Dates: Year-round.
Website: rmg.co.uk

Holy Pop! at Somerset House

From Princess Diana and Prince to Harry Potter’s Dobby the Elf, this thought-provoking exhibition explores the objects and collections through which we celebrate cultural icons. Discover an extraordinary Spice Girls collection of memorabilia alongside tributes in the form of socks and painted stones left at Dobby’s famous Welsh memorial.
Best for: Ages 10+ and fans of pop culture.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 1 mile / 10-minute taxi ride.
Dates: Until 9 August 2026.
Website: somersethouse.org.uk

Hampton Court Palace

Travel back to the age of Henry VIII at one of Britain’s most magnificent royal residences. Explore Tudor kitchens, grand state apartments and 60 acres of formal gardens, then challenge the family to find their way through the famous maze. Combining history, architecture and outdoor adventure, Hampton Court offers one of London’s most rewarding family day trips.
Best for: Ages 6+ and history boffs.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 15 miles / 40 minutes by car or Hotel Café Royal’s car service.
Dates: Year-round.
Website: hrp.org.uk

The post 5 Family Adventures in London This Summer appeared first on Hotel Café Royal.

 As London moves into summer, the city’s cultural calendar shifts courtside via opera terraces and grassy lawns with the particular sense of occasion only an English season can conjure. It is a rhythm Hotel Café Royal has long understood. Since 1865, the hotel has stood at the centre of London society, welcoming royalty, sportsmen, and cultural figures, among them James McNeill Whistler himself, once a habitué of Café Royal’s storied dining rooms (fittingly, a major exhibition devoted to the artist opens this month). From contemporary architecture in Kensington Gardens to strawberries and Champagne in SW19, the season captures London at its most spirited and refined and there is no better base from which to experience it from our home on Piccadilly.

Serpentine Pavilion

Each summer, the Serpentine Pavilion transforms Kensington Gardens into a stage for architectural experimentation and debate. This year’s commission from Lanza Atelier is a redbrick undulating structure inspired by the English country garden, blurring the boundaries between art, design and public space. It is best experienced following a stroll through Hyde Park on a warm afternoon.
Best for: Design enthusiasts
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 2 miles / 10 minutes by car
Dates: 6 June to 25 October 2026
Find Out More: www.serpentinegalleries.org

Royal Academy Summer Exhibition

The Royal Academy’s Summer Exhibition returns with its exuberant salon-style hang spanning painting, photography, sculpture and architecture. First staged in 1769, it remains the world’s longest-running open-submission exhibition, bringing together established names and emerging talent beneath the grandeur of Burlington House. The result is a joyful collision of colour, conversation and creativity.
Best for: Collectors and the culturally curious
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 0.5 miles / 10-minute walk
Dates: 16 June – 23 August 2026

Wimbledon Championships

There are few summer rituals more quintessentially British than Wimbledon. From immaculate grass courts and crisp white tailoring to strawberries and cream enjoyed under the sun, the Championships remain one of the world’s most elegant sporting spectacles. Whether attending Centre Court or simply absorbing the atmosphere, it is an occasion steeped in ceremony and quiet glamour that has to be seen first-hand, to be believed.
Best for: Tennis aficionados and people-watchers
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 7 miles / 35 minutes by car
Dates: 29 June – 12 July 2026
Discover More: www.wimbledon.com

Henley Royal Regatta

Set against the meandering River Thames, Henley Royal Regatta is where the British summer season arrives in full flourish. Side-by-side rowing races may sit at its centre, though the real spectacle unfolds riverside: linen dresses, striped blazers, Champagne picnics and languid afternoons drifting between the riverbanks and marquees. It remains one of the country’s most enduringly stylish traditions for good reason.
Best for: Lovers of English summer pageantry
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 40 miles / 90 minutes by car
Dates: 30 June – 5 July 2026
Learn More: www.hrr.co.uk

Whistler at Tate Britain

This major exhibition devoted to James McNeill Whistler reunites the Massachusetts-born artist’s celebrated portraits, nocturnes and rarely seen works, tracing the life of one of the great aesthetes of the Victorian era. A regular at Café Royal during the late 19th century, Whistler moved within the same glittering artistic circles that helped define the Café itself. The exhibition offers a portrait not only of the painter, but of bohemian London at its most decadent and culturally alive.
Best for: Lovers of London’s Victorian cultural boom
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 3 miles / 15 minutes by car
Dates: 21 May to 27 September 2026
Explore More: www.tate.org.uk

Glyndebourne Festival Opera

Few cultural experiences rival Glyndebourne in summer, where world-class opera unfolds amid the romance of the English countryside. Guests arrive in black tie and evening dress before spilling onto manicured lawns for Champagne popping at sunset. This season’s programme features Puccini’s Tosca, Britten’s Billy Budd and contemporary productions to boot, in one of Britain’s most atmospheric cultural settings.
Best for: Opera devotees and young romantics
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 55 miles / 2 hours by car
Dates: 21 May – 30 August 2026
See More: www.glyndebourne.com

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London’s cultural calendar this spring unfolds with a sense of grandeur befitting Hotel Café Royal, which has hosted artists, fashion luminaries and society’s most colourful figures since 1865. With couture elevated to art, a duel of wits on the stage, and a regal tribute to the late Queen, the season feels perfectly attuned to a city coming back into glorious bloom.

Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace
This landmark exhibition brings together nearly 200 pieces from ten decades of the late monarch’s wardrobe. From her christening robe to her Norman Hartnell-designed Coronation gown, each look charts a lifetime of assured leadership and quiet diplomacy in Elizabeth’s inimitable style.

Best for: Royal family fans
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 1 mile / 5 minutes by car.
Dates: 10 April – 18 October 2026
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Schiaparelli at the V&A
The V&A’s landmark exhibition Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art celebrates 100 years of the Elsa Schiaparelli’s brand, tracing the house’s surrealist beginnings in Paris to its modern couture revival. Expect jaw-dropping gowns and arresting art from Elsa’s inner circle including Cocteau, Dalí and Picasso.

Best for: Artful followers of fashion
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 2.5 miles / 15 minutes by car.
Dates: Opens 28 March
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David Hockney at Serpentine Gallery
This contemplative show, David Hockney: A Year in Normandie and Some Other Thoughts about Painting, sees one of the world’s greatest living artists capture the changing seasons around his studio in France. Painted on an iPad, but exhibited as a continuous work spanning the circumference of the Serpentine’s North Gallery, it evokes the narrative sweep of the soon-to-arrive Bayeux Tapestry.

Best for: A Spring day in Hyde Park
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 2 miles / 10 minutes by car.
Dates: Now until 23 August 2026.
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Les Liaisons Dangereuses at National Theatre
Christopher Hampton’s elegant adaptation of Choderlos de Laclos’ novel about power games in the pursuit of social standing returns with Lesley Manville and Aidan Turner as the calculating Merteuil and Valmont. Seduction, manipulation and razor-sharp dialogue unfolds in one of the year’s most anticipated revivals.

Best for: Aficionados of The Crown and Rivals
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 1.5 miles / 10-minute walk.
Dates: Now until 6 June 2026
Book Here

The Coming of Age at Wellcome Collection
The Coming of Age brings together more than 120 artworks and objects exploring how we experience ageing from adolescence to later years. Highlights include installations by Suzanne Lacy and intimate works by Paula Rego. Alongside historical artefacts and scientific material, it challenges assumptions around youth, beauty and longevity—asking how we might all age better.

Best for: Wellness warriors and curious minds
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 2 miles / 10 minutes by car.
Dates: 26 March – 29 November 2026.
Learn More

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This February half-term in London is brimming with interactive storytelling and immersive exhibitions for the whole family. From Paddington’s world brought-to-life to the magic of Harry Potter, there’s a mix of learning, wonder and inspiration for children of all ages.

Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit at Young V&A

Step behind the scenes with Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and other Aardman favourites. Explore original sketches, puppets, and interactive animation spaces where kids can try their hand at creating their own scenes.
Best for: Budding storytellers aged 5–12.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 5 miles / 20 minutes by car.
Dates: Opens 12 February 12 and runs through November 2026.
Explore More Here 

Imagine Children’s Festival at Southbank Centre

The Imagine festival abounds with interactive theatre, music and dance performances such as Quentin Blake’s Mrs. Armitage On Wheels and an acrobatic interpretation of The Princess and the Pea. Children are invited to participate in stage shows and workshops offering playful experiences for the whole family.
Best for: Ages 4–12 and young families looking to immersive themselves in the arts.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 1.5 miles / 10-minute walk.
Dates: 11 to 21 February.
Discover More Here

The Paddington Bear Experience

The Paddington Musical at The Savoy Theatre may be sold out for months but never fear, iconic scenes from the Paddington films have been brought to life with an interactive experience filled with sets, puzzles and games and a chance to meet the adorable characters.
Best for: Ages 3–10, fans of the Paddington films.
Distance from Café Royal: 1.5 miles / 12-minute walk.
Dates: Now open.
Book Here

Magical Mischief at Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Discover the trickery behind Harry’s invisibility cloak and the Weasley twins’ pranks at the Warner Bros Studio Tour’s Magical Mischief experience. As the secrets behind the props, effects, and cinematic magic at Diagon Alley and the Forbidden Forest unfold, your kids will be leave completely spellbound.
Best for: aspiring Hogwarts students aged 7+.
Distance from Café Royal: 22 miles / 45 minutes by car.
Dates: Until 27 April.
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Samurai at the British Museum

Meet the mighty samurais who fought epic sword battles wearing intricate armour all in the name of honour and bravery. This exhibition brings together paintings, costumes, video games, and treasures from the 1,000 year-long history of these Japanese warriors.
Best for: Ages 7+.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 15 minutes by taxi.
Dates: 3 February–4 May.
Discover More

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In the heart of London, where food trends constantly evolve, Café Royal Grill stands as an icon of timeless culinary elegance. Honouring its rich history, the storied restaurant is embracing a new chapter under the creative leadership of Chef Kevin Gratton. We took a seat in the ornate dining room to learn about his vision for a menu that evokes cherished memories, one thoughtfully crafted dish at a time.

Nostalgia is a key theme at Café Royal Grill. How did you tap into the concept of food as an emotional experience when you created the menu?

When I was first invited to join Café Royal Grill, I was given some insight into its rich history—including a recipe for a Chicken Pie that had been passed down from chef to chef over the decades. It was clear that this dish held a special place in the restaurant’s legacy, and we were keen to bring it back to life. As it happens, London is currently experiencing something of a pie renaissance, so the timing couldn’t be better.

Which other signature dishes are you excited about showcasing and why?

The menu has been designed to allow guests to dine at any time of day, any day of the week—which I believe is essential for what a Grill Room should offer. With our ingredient-led approach, the focus is as much on showcasing the quality of the produce as it is on the dishes themselves, particularly those that are fiercely seasonal. Right now, Isle of Wight tomatoes take centre stage, along with Annabel’s strawberries from Harrogate. As we move into autumn, game will naturally take its place on the menu.

How does Café Royal Grill fit into London’s thriving and diverse food scene?

While the city celebrates a vast array of global cuisines and cutting-edge dining experiences, Café Royal Grill offers something distinctly different: a return to timeless British hospitality, delivered with modern elegance. We’re not chasing trends. Instead, we’re quietly reclaiming what it means to be a Grill Room in London: a place where quality, seasonality, and a sense of occasion meet. That balance allows us to contribute something enduring to the city’s food landscape—rooted in heritage, yet open to the moment.

How do you balance honouring the classic traditions of Café Royal Grill with a modern culinary vision?

At Café Royal Grill, we believe tradition and modernity don’t need to compete—they coexist beautifully. The Grill Room has always been about timeless comfort and simplicity, and we continue to honour that legacy through cooking that is ingredient led. Today’s guests are more curious, more connected to where their food comes from. That’s why we bring a modern sensibility to the classics—celebrating seasonality, sourcing responsibly, and letting exceptional ingredients lead the way. For us, it’s about elevating what’s already great with care, precision, and a genuine respect for the produce.

Tell us about some of your suppliers…

Nearly all of our suppliers have been hand-picked—carefully chosen to meet a brief that was simple in theory, but far from easy in practice: source the very best seasonal produce the UK has to offer. We believe we’ve achieved that, but this kind of work is never truly finished. It requires constant care—nurturing relationships over time, building trust, and creating a framework that supports not only today’s menu, but the future of sustainable, ingredient-led cooking. It’s this ongoing collaboration with farmers, growers, and producers that enables us to create dishes with real depth, honesty, and integrity—and to share meaningful stories with both our guests and our team.

Become part of the story at Café Royal Grill.

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Stepping into Café Royal Grill is like entering a story in medias res – you feel an immediate and palpable connection to a historic space whose gilded walls have played host to London’s most dazzling society.

Today, the room continues to enchant, now offering a sophisticated all-day dining experience that deftly taps into the nostalgia of a bygone age. We sit amid its exquisite Grade II-listed interiors to speak with Eugene Leonard, General Manager of Hotel Café Royal, about preserving and celebrating an extraordinary heritage.

“Café Royal Grill has such a rich and storied past, and for me, the most important aspects to preserve and celebrate are the ones that truly capture its spirit.” Eugene shares, “What stands out is its role as a cultural icon during London’s Belle Époque. This was a place where artists, writers, and thinkers gathered — people like Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw, and Virginia Woolf. That literary and intellectual energy lingers in the walls, and we keep that connection alive through storytelling, atmosphere, and thoughtful touches that reflect its history.”

Indeed, it’s easy to imagine Oscar Wilde in his flamboyant glory, holding court in this very room, delighting a rapt audience with his wit. Eugene agrees that the personalities who frequented these halls are central to its enduring allure: “There’s something special about the sheer range of people who’ve passed through these doors — from royalty to revolutionaries, celebrities to everyday Londoners. Remembering those figures and the moments they created here adds a layer of depth that’s hard to replicate. Even subtle tributes, whether in the menu or the décor, can keep their presence felt.”

 Beyond its illustrious guests, Eugene suggests the architecture itself is a testament to an era of uncompromising glamour and beauty: “The Louis XVI-style interior, with its ornate ceilings and mirrored walls, is breathtaking. It doesn’t just represent a design era — it represents a philosophy of elegance and attention to detail that I believe should always be showcased.”

 This commitment to preserving historical elegance while remaining relevant is precisely what sets Café Royal Grill apart in London’s dynamic culinary scene: “This is a restaurant that has truly stood the test of time. Its atmosphere still rings true today, resonating with a modern audience while carrying with it the charm and sophistication of another era. It has adapted without losing its essence, and that timeless quality is something incredibly rare.”

 Eugene shares that this blend of heritage and contemporary appeal extends, naturally, to the culinary offerings: “Of course, the food is central to Café Royal’s legacy. Its reputation for fine dining, especially its French-influenced cuisine, is part of what made it iconic. Honouring that tradition — perhaps by offering a form of nostalgic dining that transports you back in time — is a beautiful way to stay grounded in its roots while still appealing to today’s tastes.”

 The ongoing success of this remarkable restaurant is its unique capacity to honour an illustrious past while embracing the present, ensuring its iconic status is enjoyed by generations to come. “Above all, what makes Café Royal Grill special is its ability to evolve without losing its soul. That blend of old-world sophistication and modern edge is rare, and it’s something I’d want to protect and celebrate every step of the way.”

Do you have a Café Royal Grill story of your own to tell? To celebrate our hotel’s 160th anniversary, we’d love you to share your memories, milestones and moments spent here.

Get in Touch

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While our vibrant capital is full of energy all year round, the first months of the year offer a unique opportunity to do as Londoners do and explore the city among fewer crowds. As Café Royal’s lyrical patron Virginia Woolf put it, ‘The streets of London have their map, but our passions are uncharted. What are you going to meet if you turn this corner?’

The magic of Mayfair

A shopping destination with an intriguing past, Mayfair’s Burlington Arcade is a catwalk of one-of-a-kind boutiques selling vintage watches, sparkling jewels, handmade shoes and perfumes. Commissioned by Lord George Cavendish in 1819 as a safe place for his wife to shop, this historic thoroughfare was the place to go for a stylish bonnet. Today, the Arcade’s Beadles – Britain’s oldest and smallest police force recognisable by their velvet-collared capes and Lock & Co. top hats – ensure shoppers adhere to strict 200-year-old rules. Sir Paul McCartney is one of two people granted permission to whistle here – the other being a former East London schoolboy whose status was awarded upon him getting a good report.

At the other end of Bond Street, discover a piece of musical history. In the early 18th-century, 25 Brook Street was the home of George Frideric Handel, who composed some of the world’s most enduring Baroque music here, including Messiah. Centuries later, rock legend Jimi Hendrix moved into next door’s top-floor flat. Today, the two buildings comprise Mayfair’s quirkiest museum, Handel Hendrix House. Walk through the dining room where Handel gave intimate recitals to friends and neighbours, and the bedroom in which he passed away, a revered figure who would be given a state funeral. Explore the Hendrix Flat, complete with the guitar the musician used to hone his cover of All Along the Watchtower.

An amble through London’s Royal Parks is a quintessential experience loved by locals. Bordering Mayfair, Hyde Park is one of the city’s most beloved green spaces. Its Dragonfly Trail takes you around the picturesque Serpentine Lake with its abundant wildlife, and past the Peter Pan statue and the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain. Visit Speakers’

Corner, a stage for history’s thought leaders, from Suffragettes to poets and politicians. Still today, people from all walks of life still congregate and engage in thoughtful debate here.

Secrets of St James’s

The oldest of London’s Royal Parks is the period drama-esque St. James’s Park. Bordered by 10 Downing Street, the Houses of Parliament, and the iconic Buckingham Palace, the vast green area dates back to Henry VIII’s 16th-century reign. Royal traditions are preserved here, with the 350-year-old Changing of the Guard ceremoniously enacted before the public every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Another delightful feature of the park is its inhabitants – six outgoing pelicans named Tiffany, Isla, Gargi, Sun, Moon, and Star. Little ones will love strolling down to say hello during February half-term.

A cherished St James’s institution since 1768 is the Royal Academy of Arts. Until the end of February, the inspiring ‘Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael: Florence c. 1504’ explores the creative rivalries and influences between three titans of the Italian Renaissance. This year’s newest exhibition, ‘Brasil! Brasil! The Birth of Modernism is a colourful showcase that will launch at the end of January and run until early spring.

Our world-leading creative capital is always on form during its biannual London Fashion Week, where the intersection of the city’s classic style and punk spirit has thrilled crowds since the event began in 1984. This season’s edition falls between Thursday 20th and Monday 24th February, a date in every style savant’s calendar. Find the contemporary and heritage brands celebrated on the catwalk lining St James’s and nearby Regent Street.

Soho stories

Winter is a wonderful time to catch a show. There’s a certain nostalgia in entering the cosy warmth of a theatre, and as the beating heart of the West End, Soho has some of the world’s best. Each season brings new delights to the stage, with this winter welcoming Matthew Bourne’s Oliver! to London for the first time in 15 years at the beautiful Gielgud Theatre. Ask the concierge team at Hotel Café Royal to find you the best seats in the house.

Soho Photography Quarter is a vibrant outdoor space currently showing ‘Siân Davey: The Garden’. The free exhibition depicts the photographer’s own garden of wildflowers as a space of biodiversity and inclusivity, rooted in love and acceptance. Inside, The Photographer’s Gallery tells the confronting story of 1970s and 80s life under organised crime in Palermo with ‘Letizia Battaglia: Life, Love and Death in Sicily’.

As January draws to a close and London prepares to welcome the Year of the Snake, the West End comes alive with Lunar New Year celebrations. The colourful parade features traditional dance, martial art displays, and Europe’s largest gathering of Chinese lions and dragons. On Soho’s edge, Chinatown is a culinary playground for foodies and families, who’ll also enjoy the art and craft workshops in nearby Leicester Square. From here – with fickle weather being one of the city’s endearing charms – it’s not far to James Smith & Sons, the world’s oldest umbrella shop from which you can take home a piece of London eccentricity.

Embrace London’s quieter season with a quintessential stay at Hotel Café Royal. Our Set Winter Offer includes generous savings and the opportunity to stay longer for less.

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As summer draws to a close, many of us find ourselves returning from holidays, having enjoyed a well-deserved break. Whether you spent your time away relaxing on a beach, exploring new destinations, or simply taking a pause from your regular routine, it’s natural to have stepped back from your usual fitness regimen. Now, with the season changing, it’s the perfect time to refocus on your fitness goals and get back into a healthy routine.

There are two types of people: those who are totally motivated to get back into workouts after summer and those who feel overwhelmed by the thought of exercising again. If you belong to the first group, congratulations! For those in the second group, here are 5 easy tips to help you get back on track:

Ease In
Start with exercises that are easier on your body. If you strength train, focus on higher reps with lighter weights to rebuild your foundation. If you prefer classes, choose the ones you enjoy the most—having fun will make it easier to get back into the swing of things.

Commit to It
Make your workouts a non-negotiable part of your routine. If you have a personal trainer, book your sessions in advance before you have time to second-guess yourself. If you attend classes, just book them. The key is to remove any opportunity for excuses.

Focus on Form
Restarting your routine is the perfect time to refine your technique. Proper form is essential for preventing injury and ensuring that you’re targeting the right muscles. Take this opportunity to concentrate on doing each exercise correctly to build muscle memory and improve your overall performance.

Listen to Your Body
Balance is crucial when getting back into a fitness routine. Pay attention to how your body feels and don’t push too hard too soon. Incorporate rest days and allow your body to recover to avoid injuries and burnout.

Visualise Your Dream Body/Health Goal
Spend a few minutes each day visualising your ideal body or health goal. Whether it’s imagining yourself feeling confident on the beach or living an active, illness-free life, detailed visualisation can help you stay motivated. Look at pictures or videos of your role models for extra inspiration. The clearer your vision, the easier it will be to stay on track and achieve your goals.

As you get back into the swing of things, consider the benefits of an Akasha membership or personal training with me at Hotel Café Royal. Together, we’ll create a personalised plan that aligns with your goals, in an environment that’s as motivating as it is luxurious. Let’s make this season your best yet.

About Dogan Yildiz, Head of Fitness and Elite Personal Trainer at Akasha
Dogan Yildiz is an expert personal trainer at Hotel Café Royal, offering tailored fitness solutions. Known for his focus on form and holistic well-being, he helps clients achieve their health goals with personalised guidance.

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Summer in London is a season of vibrant culture, traditional sporting events, and delightful outdoor activities. At Hotel Cafe Royal, we invite you to immerse yourself in the magic of the city, enjoying everything from serene picnics in picturesque parks to exploring world-class art galleries and attending thrilling sporting events. Here’s how you can make the most of your summer stay with us.

Picnics and Parks

Embrace the charm of London’s green spaces with a delightful picnic. Pick up a delicious selection from Cakes & Bubbles or ask our Hotel Café Royal Room Service team to prepare a picnic basket filled with delicious treats and a chilled bottle of champagne to go. Regent’s Park (20 minute drive), with its romantic Regency-era character, offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely afternoon. Alternatively, stroll to St James’s Park (14 minute walk), the oldest Royal Park, located at the heart of ceremonial London, and enjoy the tranquil lakeside views and beautifully landscaped gardens. Other wonderful parks to visit include Hyde Park (20 minute walk) and Green Park (10 minute walk), each offering their own unique charm and serene landscapes perfect for a summer day.

Arts & Entertainment

Summer in London is the perfect time to explore the city’s rich art and design scene. Visit the Serpentine Gallery’s Summer Pavilion (19 minute drive), an architectural masterpiece designed by a renowned architect each year. Marvel at innovative structures, enjoy contemporary art exhibitions, and relax in Kensington Gardens. For music lovers, an unforgettable concert at Somerset House awaits just a 20 minute walk away from Hotel Café Royal. The Summer Series hosts a diverse lineup of artists in a stunning open-air courtyard. Enjoy live music in an intimate setting, with our concierge team securing tickets for a truly special experience. These cultural outings ensure that your summer in London is filled with inspiration and creativity.

London’s Cultural Gems

There is no better time to visit London’s top attractions than during the summer. Our concierge can arrange tickets to the Buckingham Palace Summer opening (July to September), where you can explore the lavish State Rooms and enjoy a refreshment in His Majesty’s Palace Garden. Many of London’s cultural gems are best enjoyed in the sunshine, allowing you to fully appreciate their excellent architecture. Wander through the historic streets and marvel at landmarks such as the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the British Museum. Each location offers a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of this magnificent city all within an hour from Hotel Café Royal.

Traditional Sporting Events

Experience the thrill of summer sports in London with premier events. Dive into the excitement of the Ashes Series, one of the oldest and most celebrated cricket rivalries, as England takes on Australia at venues like Lord’s Cricket Ground and The Oval (25 minute drive). Further afield, enjoy the nostalgic charm of the Goodwood Revival, a unique event celebrating the golden era of motorsport with historic car races, vintage fashion, and a delightful atmosphere reminiscent of the mid-20th century.

Should it Rain!

British weather can be unpredictable, but this shouldn’t dampen your fun. Our concierge can recommend some wonderful local galleries, with the National Portrait Gallery just a 5-minute walk away. After your cultural exploration, why not retreat to Akasha, our luxurious spa and wellbeing haven, for a rejuvenating experience? Indulge in treatments designed to relax and refresh, ensuring that even a rainy day in London is filled with luxury and comfort.

Discover the magic of summer in London with Hotel Cafe Royal. Reserve your stay today and let us curate a bespoke itinerary that ensures your visit is filled with elegance, culture, and unforgettable moments.

To plan your perfect day, connect with our concierge team located just off the main lobby or email us here.

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