Unmissable events in London this August

Resting discreetly between Mayfair’s boutique-lined streets and the creative heart of Soho, our address on Regent Street makes the perfect base for exploring London’s most exciting events. From electrifying stadium concerts by global phenomena like Coldplay and the much-anticipated return of Oasis, to the thoughtful curation of the Royal Academy’s exhibitions, your journey begins just moments from our doors. Allow us to guide you through a handpicked selection of the city’s most popular events, ensuring your stay is as enriching as it is restful.

Music
Coldplay: Music of the Spheres World Tour, Wembley Stadium
Dates: 22, 23, 26, 27, 30, 31 August & 3, 4, 7, 8 September, 2025
This is without question one of the most popular tours globally. Coldplay’s live shows are renowned for their vibrant energy, kaleidoscopic visual effects, and collective sing-alongs, making each concert a memorable event. Their purposeful approach to sustainability for this tour also adds another layer of meaning. For every ticket sold, at least one tree is planted, contributing to a global reforestation effort that has seen over 9 million trees added so far. Each venue also has dedicated “energy zones” that provide an engaging, interactive element, inviting fans to contribute to the show’s power through their own dancing and cycling, all while learning about clean technologies and the natural world. This pioneering spirit extends to the tour’s energy sources, utilising solar panels and sustainable biofuels, truly aligning artistry with a purposeful commitment to the planet.

Oasis: Live ’25, Wembley Stadium
Dates: 25, 26, 30 July & 2, 3 August & 27, 28 September, 2025
The long-awaited reunion of Britpop legends Oasis is set to be a monumental occasion. Fans can expect an electric atmosphere as the brand brings their anthems back to the stage after a 15-year hiatus. This is a chance to witness rock and roll artistry at its most authentic. General admission tickets sold out in seconds, however our concierge will be happy to explore hospitality options for you, subject to availability.

ABBA Voyage, ABBA Arena
Dates: Ongoing through September 2025
While not a traditional concert, this pioneering digital experience is wildly popular. The ABBA Voyage experience is a groundbreaking virtual residency, featuring digital avatars, or “ABBAtars”, of the band’s four original members, designed to look as they did in 1979. These lifelike avatars perform alongside a live 10-piece band, delivering a spectacular 90-100 minute show of ABBA’s greatest hits within a purpose-built arena. It’s a truly immersive experience, blurring the lines between the physical and digital to create a concert that feels incredibly real, often leaving audiences amazed by the technological illusion.

Art
Royal Academy Summer Exhibition 2025, Royal Academy of Arts
Dates: Until 17 August, 2025
An annual highlight on London’s cultural calendar, the Royal Academy of Arts’ Summer Exhibition is a remarkable celebration of contemporary art. As the world’s largest open-submission art show, it provides a dynamic overview of artistic talent across various media. This year’s theme, “Dialogues”, further encourages engagement with the featured works, sparking conversations and nurturing a sense of community amongst both budding and emerging artists. Highlights include the courtyard’s playful installation by Ryan Gander, featuring five 3-metre inflatable balls. Inside, you’ll discover new paintings by the evocative Tracey Emin, alongside several captivating sculptural installations that seemingly float from the gallery’s ceiling.

Kiefer/Van Gogh, Royal Academy of Arts
Dates: Until 26 October, 2025
Bringing together the works of Vincent van Gogh and German painter and sculptor Anselm Kiefer, a prominent figure in the Neo-Expressionist art movement, this exhibition offers a fascinating exploration of artistic legacy and influence. Expect a profound and evocative experience, showcasing extraordinary talent and a thoughtful connection between historical and modern perspectives.

Yoshitomo Nara, Hayward Gallery
Dates: Until 31 August, 2025
Renowned Japanese contemporary artist, Yoshimoto Nara, is globally adored for his iconic paintings, drawings, and sculptures of wide-eyed, rebellious-looking children and animals–an amusing blend of innocence and defiance. This comprehensive retrospective provides an intimate look into his artistic journey, making it a compelling draw for art enthusiasts. His distinctive style and evocative themes are truly original.

Family Experiences
The Paddington Bear™ Experience, South Bank
Dates: Ongoing, County Hall
This delightful, multi-room immersive journey invites guests of all ages to step directly into the cherished world of Paddington. Beginning at a staged Paddington Station, you’ll board an impressive model train carriage that transports you to iconic locations from the beloved stories and films, from the vibrant Peruvian jungle to the familiar charm of 32 Windsor Gardens. Through characterful sets, engaging live performances, and interactive challenges, you’ll help Paddington and the Browns prepare for the Marmalade Day Festival. This is a genuinely original and intimate way to connect with this much-loved character, promising a joyful and memorable outing for the entire family, complete with opportunities for photos and even a taste of marmalade.

Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue, Canada Water
Dates: Until 28th September, 2025
This immersive quest invites participants to step directly into the pixelated world of Minecraft. Armed with an innovative “Orb of Interaction,” you’ll explore seven curated biomes, gathering resources and encountering both friendly and challenging characters throughout your adventure. This collective journey requires teamwork and ingenuity to save the villagers from a looming threat, culminating in a triumphant celebration at the Trading Post. It’s a purposeful exploration that brings the thrill of Minecraft to life, offering a physically engaging and wonderfully authentic experience for seasoned players and newcomers alike. 

Once back at the hotel, you can marvel at these remarkable events over a quintessential afternoon tea at our Café Royal Grill or treat your loved ones to Michelin-starred chef Albert Adrià’s delicious desserts at Cakes and Bubbles. Throughout your stay, our team is happy to assist with local recommendations and arrangements, ensuring your London experience is as seamless as it is spectacular.

Discover a memorable London stay with Hotel Café Royal.