Night in the museum 

‘Museums at Night’ is the annual nation-wide after hours celebration where hundreds of museums, galleries, libraries, archives and heritage sites open their doors for special evening events. Unfortunately we doubt that the displays will come to life – like the film… but we’re sure there is plenty of fun to be had.

There are a huge range of happenings on offer which range from family friendly events, tours and debates to ghostly readings and evenings of music and dance. Some of London’s venues partaking include the Soho Hotel, the National Gallery and the eccentric Sir John Soane’s Museum.

 Times and dates vary as each museum is deciding how it will run their own events so be sure to check out the website before heading off for a unique night of fun: www.culture24.org.uk/museumsatnight

Dans Le Noir?

A completely unique experience, this is one of our favourite restaurants! Food here is served in complete darkness which, as a result, will completely re-evaluate your notion of taste. Diners are greeted by their host and asked to pick their meal from a choice of four – Chef’s Surprise, Fish and Seafood Lovers, Vegetarian and Meat Lovers. After making your decision, you will be introduced to your blind waiter and taken into the dark room.

The website describes the experience as ‘a magic switch between the sighted and the blind’ and we completely agree. We didn’t realise how vulnerable we would feel! Trying to figure out exactly what you’re eating is fun – and you will inevitably be wrong. It is unlike any other dining experience we’ve ever had the pleasure of trying. Definitely one to check out!

http://www.danslenoir.com/london

Dark Shadows

Directed by Tim Burton. UK release date 11th May 2012.

 In the mood for some dark laughs? Why not head down to the cinema, grab a bag of popcorn and get comfy! Based on the cult TV series, Tim Burton’s gothic horror ‘Dark Shadows’ tells the story of an imprisoned vampire named Barnabas Collins (Depp) who is set free and returns to his ancestral home, where his dysfunctional descendants are in need of his protection.

 A huge departure for Burton (or not haha!), Helena Bonham Carter joins Johnny Depp along with Eva Green and Kick Ass’s Chloe Moretz. It’s been given mixed reviews but is sure to be a hit none the less – we’ll let you be the judge of that!

Channel 4 Comedy Showcase

On Monday 21st why not celebrate the start of the week by going to the 5^th Channel 4 Comedy Showcase featuring the best up and coming talent currently performing on the UK Comedy Circuit.

The brilliant Comedy Store in Piccadilly Circus is where the action is at. The host for the evening is funnyman Simon Evans and the show’s talented performers include Joe Lycett, Bethany Black, Pat Cahill, Celia Pacquola, Joe Wells, John Gordillo, Tom Rosenthal and Chris McCausland.

Doors open at 18.30 and the shows starts at 20.00. Tickets are only £10 and available from:

http://www.thecomedystore.co.uk/special_events.php?location=1&id=118

There you have it, our top picks for some after dark fun! What are your favourite things to do in the city when the sun goes down?

 Let us know on twitter or facebook: @LLAwards

 The London Pet Show

Saturday 12th May 2012 to Sunday 13th May 2012

 For the second year, the London Pet Show returns to the capital. Earl’s Court will open its gates to hundreds of different breeds of animals, live animal action displays and fun and informative talks and demonstrations.

There are four exciting zones to explore where animal lovers can meet and learn about all different types of animals with expert advice on hand. Tickets start from just £13 for adults and are available online.

http://www.londonpetshow.co.uk/

Beauty and the Beast

We may be stretching the ‘animal theme’ slightly it to include this film in our Blog… but this week Walt Disney’s 1991 charming animated classic Beauty and The Beast returns to our cinema screens in 3D. And we’d describe the Beast as an animal… even if he isn’t a lovable one!

The story is the well known tale of a beautiful girl who is taken prisoner by the eponymous beast. She befriends his bizarre assortment of enchanted staff and learns the important lesson that beauty is only ever skin deep. It’s a film universally loved – and now there’s a chance for a brand new generation to enjoy the heart-warming store of Belle and her Beast. Just don’t sing the songs too loudly – the kids will call you an embarrassment!

http://www.odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_info/m100363/Beauty_And_The_Beast_3D/

Greyhound Racing at Wimbledon Stadium

 Did you know that Greyhound racing is appearing more and more on the radar of fun loving Londoners? While the kids are at a viewing of Beauty and the Beast, why not take a trip to Wimbledon Greyhound Stadium for one of London’s more interesting nights out! The buzz and excitement of each race is infectious and you can get so close to the action that you’ll feel the wind rush as the greyhounds pass you on the track.

 No night is complete without a slap up meal with great drinks and the stadium’s new Grandstand restaurant is the perfect place to get your night started. During May, if you eat at the restaurant with 12 people or more in your party or 20 or more, you will receive a complimentary £100 bar tab and £200 bar tab respectively.  Races occur every Friday and Saturday from 7.30pm to 10.30pm.

 http://www.lovethedogs.co.uk/wimbledon/home.aspx

Spitalfields City Farm

Why not visit Spitalfields City Farm this weekend where you can meet the adorable Bayleaf the Donkey & Bentley the Goat. Not only can you see the many rare breeds of animal, but you can pick your own veg and visit the eco-chic outdoor market. The farm reaches out to local residents and organises projects such as free beekeeping workshops, pick and cook sessions and a young farmer’s club.

 http://www.spitalfieldscityfarm.org

And finally, a suggestion for the carnivores among us. Vegetarians look away!

Archipelago

Archipelago, nestled in the heart of Fitzrovia, is an adventurer’s delight. With unique offerings such as Alligator, Wildebeest and Kangaroo, the menu is more akin to London Zoo than Sainbury’s meat aisle. If you aren’t quite ready to take the plunge and chow down on Skippy, there are some more subdued dishes such as Peri-Peri marinated chicken.

 With décor arguably just as nonconformist if not more so than the menu, Thai Buddhas mingle with treasure chests, silk flowers and mismatched cutlery. Archipelago attracts a fun loving crowd and the decibels soon rise, largely helped by staff creating shooters at their tables. If you are looking for a unique venue to indulge in an eccentric menu with drama aplenty then Archipelago is your place!

 http://archipelago-restaurant.co.uk/archipelago_restaurant_home.html

For the music lover.

The Camden Crawl

London’s coolest indie music festival hits town this Bank holiday weekend. With one ticket and over 300 artists taking part, this bar hopping festival strikes a unique note. Almost every main venue in Camden will host some of the world’s coolest indie acts such as The Cribs, The Futureheads and Kids in Glass Houses. Things kick off from 11am daily with comedy and exhibitions before darkness descends and the bands take you through to dawn. The main strip begins at Mornington Crescent and leads on towards Chalk Farm where you will find Camden favourites Barfly and The Roundhouse.

The Camden Crawl runs from 4th May – 6th May and tickets can be found at www.thecamdencrawl.com

For the Sports fan.

2012 Hours To Go

This Saturday, the 5^th May, the Olympic stadium hosts a one off evening of athletics and entertainment. The night kicks off at 7pm with the final hour of the British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) Visa Outdoors Athletics Championships, followed by a series of UK Athletics Invitational Events which will feature some of Britain’s best athletes. After the athletics, a celebrity host will be joined by famous faces including Olympians and Paralympians for an evening of stunts, games, challenges and prizes.

For more info visit their website – http://www.london2012.com/news/articles/year=2012/month=03/article=olympic-stadium-to-host-evening-of-athletics-and-enterta.html

For the fun-loving family.

Family Fete with Shrek the Musical

To celebrate Shrek the Musical’s first anniversary, the Theatre Royal Drury Lane are throwing their doors open and inviting Shrekaholics to “come down to the swamp” and join in with their Family Fete. There will be opportunities to meet the cast, enter competitions, and participate in loads of party games and fun activities. Best of all, it’s free! Be sure to turn up early as after 2pm the theatre will only be open for those in possession of the 3pm performance tickets.

11am-2pm, Sunday 6^th May.

For more information on Shrek the Musical visit – www.shrekthemusical.co.uk

For the hopeless romantic.

The Lucky One

Directed by Scott Hicks. UK release 2^nd May

One for the romantics among us, The lucky One is based on a book of the same name written by Nicholas Sparks (the author of The Notebook.) U.S. Marine Sergeant Logan Thibault (Zac Efron) returns from his third tour of duty in Iraq, with the one thing he credits with keeping him alive—a photograph he found of a woman he doesn’t even know. Learning her name is Beth (Taylor Schilling) and where she lives, he shows up at her door, and ends up taking a job at her family-run local kennel. Despite her initial mistrust and the complications in her life, a romance develops between them, giving Logan hope that Beth could be much more than his good luck charm.

For the thrillseeker.

HTC Skydiving and Wind Tunnel Experience.

After seeing the HTC skydiving advert, you can now have a go yourself… well nearly.

This weekend HTC are opening its very own wind tunnel experience in London’s Covent Garden. Each day 120 visitors will be given the opportunity to enjoy their very own ‘skydive’ which will be filmed on the newly launched HTC One Series smartphone.

The HTC wind tunnel pop-up will be open between 12pm – 6pm on Saturday 5th May and 10.30am – 4pm on Monday 7th May and visitors will be allowed in on a first-come-first-served basis.

There we have it, our top London events this Bank Holiday weekend!

Let us know what you get up to!  Tweet us @LLAwards

Want to escape this rainy April weather? Check out some of these indoor events around London this weekend:
Eat Out
Poppies: 6-8 Hanbury Street, E1 6QR

Warm up with some comfort food and take in the delights of the typically British dish of Fish & Chips at Poppies in the incredibly trendy Spitalfields. There’s nothing to scare away the traditionalist looking for a no-frills fish supper, but the carefully considered ’50s interior will appeal to local trendsetters seeking an authentic backdrop. You can sit in – table service is provided, wine by the glass, beer byt the bottle and a cuppa if you fancy it! Meals served: 11am-11pm daily Main courses: £9.90-£18.90

New Film Releases to hide away from the rain!
‘Avengers Assemble’ Directed by Joss Whedon – UK release 27th April
Check out www.odeon.co.uk for times.

One for all the family, escape this awful weather, get comfy and witness this summer’s top blockbuster. With a stars studded Hollywood line up, the Marvel superheroes unite to take on enemy Loki, who plans to take over the world with evil skeleton monsters. Starring Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Captain America (Chris Evans), The Incredible Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) The Black Widow (Scarlet Johansson) and bringing them all together is Nick Fury played by Samuel L. Jackson.
Theatre Treats
‘Matilda’ The Cambridge Theatre www.matildathemusical.com

Experience one of the Capital’s newest editions to theatreland, ‘Matilda.’ After its sell-out success at The Courtyard Theatre,the production has moved to London’s West End. This classic Roald Dahl tale brings this much-loved story into the musical limelight. For information about ticket bookings and times go to www.matildathemusical.com

Days Out
London Aquarium – www.visitsealife.com/london

Fun for all the family, come to one of London’s most famous attractions. In addition to the hundreds of varieties of fish and sea life from all over the world, including stingrays, sharks, piranhas and sea scorpions, the aquarium’s Shark Walk allows visitors to walk over a floating glass platform with sharks swimming just below their feet. The aquarium is well placed for the attractions of the South Bank; it’s right beside the London Eye and a 20-minute walk along the river from Tate Modern.

Apr 20-21 Royal Geographical Society, 1 Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AR

The iconic style bible is holding its first ever festival with a talks and panel discussions involving some of the biggest names in the industry, such as Stella McCartney, Rachel Zoe, Christopher Bailey, David Bailey, Laura Bailey, (no relations) Lily Cole, Tom Ford, Holly Fulton and Henry Holland to name but a few. Individual tickets for the festival are available for the morning and the afternoon sessions of each day. Each ticket allows you to see three talks and panel discussions, and experience other events including makeovers, photoshoots, trend talks and fashion films. There will also be a limited-edition T-shirt designed for the festival by Mulberry.

9am-1.45pm, 1.45pm-6pm Fri; 9am-1.45pm, 1.45pm-7pm Sat.

£75 per session.

http://www.vogue.co.uk/voguefestival/

London Marathon 2012

Hoping to catch the action and cheer on the runners? Find the perfect place to watch the London Marathon on Sunday April 22 with our handy map of the race.

The start in Greenwich (or starts to be precise, since elite men elite women and the mass race all begin in slightly different places) will be heaving. Your support, whether general or specific, will probably be more appreciated later on.

Victoria Revealed

Until Feb 27 2013 Kensington Palace, The Broadwalk, Kensington Gardens, London, W8 4PX

The Palace re-opened in March after major refurbishment, with the permanent exhibition ‘Victoria Revealed’, which looks at the life and reign of Victoria through her own words. Visitors learn about Victoria’s first day as Queen at Kensington Palace, the early days of her relationship with Prince Albert, their family life and aspects of Albert’s involvement in the 1851 Great Exhibition. Exhibits include Victoria’s wedding dress and jewellery, along with personal objects including paintings by Winterhalter and Landseer and gifts that Victoria exchanged with Albert during their engagement. There are also replica Victorian toys and interactive displays including clothes to try on

Mar-Sep 10am-6pm daily; Oct-Feb 10am-5pm daily; last adm one hour before closing. Closed Dec 24-26

£13.75, £12.10 concs, £6.90 under-16s, free under-fives, £34 family ticket (2 adults, up to 6 children)

http://www.hrp.org.uk

Kitty and the Bulldog: Lolita Fashion and the Influence of Britain

Apr 23-Jan 27 2013 V&A, Cromwell Rd, London, SW7 2RL

A display exploring the way in which British fashion – notably Victoriana, Punk and Gothic -has influenced the development of Japan’s ‘Lolita’ style and its preoccupation with cuteness or kawaii. The display focuses on the period 1990 to 2000 and contains various Japanese styles.

10am-5.45pm daily, until 10pm Fri (selected galleries only)

http://www.vam.ac.uk

Bedtime Stories

Wed Apr 18 40 WiNKS, 109 Mile End Rd, E1 4UJ

The dress code is strictly pyjamas and nightgowns at these decadently themed storytelling evenings from professional storytellers, curated by 40 WiNKS’s David Carter and Miss Rachel Rose Reid and held in Carter’s flamboyantly decorated home/hotel. Tonight and tomorrow, it’s ‘Tales of Bewitchment’, led by Xanthe Gresham and Debs Newbold. Booking and the dresscode is essential and the ticket price includes nibbles and fruity gin cocktails.

7-10.45pm

£25, book in adv via reservations@40winks.org

http://www.40winks.org

Until Sun Sep 16 Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, London, SW7 5BD

An exhibition by the team behind Gunther von Hagens’s ‘Body Worlds’, examining the biology, anatomy and physiology of animals. Around 100 plastinates and capillary specimens – including giraffes, octopuses and ostriches – are on display in a show that illustrates how anatomy is crucial to discovering more about the evolution of animals and the natural world. If you’re into all things science and biology this is a must this weekend!

10am-5.50pm daily (last adm 5.30pm)

£9, £6 concs, £27 family

London Aquarium

London Aquarium, Riverside Building, Westminster Bridge Rd, London, SE1 7PB

In addition to the hundreds of varieties of fish and sea life from all over the world, including stingrays, sharks, piranhas and sea scorpions, the aquarium’s Shark Walk allows visitors to walk over a floating glass platform with sharks swimming just below their feet. Californian cownose rays which swim in synchronised formation are another recent feature, as is a tunnel constructed from a 25-metre-long whale skeleton, beneath which visitors can view a tropical ocean of fish, coral and green turtles. The Rainforests of the World area, complete with exotic vegetation, a tropical waterfall, is home to a pair of six-foot dwarf crocodiles. Perfect for a family day out or even a first date!

10am-6pm (last adm 5pm) Mon-Thur, 10am-7pm (last adm 6pm) Fri-Sun

£19.80, £14.40 children (3-14), £18 students (15-17) & concs, under-threes free, £60 family; discount for online bookings

The Alternative London Tour

Until Sat Dec 22 Old Spitalfields Market, Brushfield St, London, E1 6DT

East London’s ‘alternative’ side is revealed on this leftfield tour. Expect to be introduced to the history and culture of the Brick Lane ‘Banglatown’ and Shoreditch areas as well ascurrent issues and street art. Booking essential via www.alternativeldn.co.uk

Tue-Thur 7pm, Tue & Sat 12noon

Shepherd’s Bush Market

Until Sat Dec 22 Shepherd’s Bush Market, East side of railway viaduct between Uxbridge Rd and Goldhawk Rd, London, W12 7JA

There’s nothing you can’t buy at Shepherd’s Bush Market. Everything from a bra to a budgerigar, hardware to haberdashery, a three-piece suit to a three-piece suite – plus your week’s grocery shopping – can be found among the stalls and stores of this 95-year-old local landmark, which actually comprises two independently run markets nestled together under the Hammersmith & City Line tracks between Goldhawk Road and Uxbridge Road.

9am-6pm Mon-Sat

Flight BA2012

Until Tue Apr 17 3-10 Shoreditch High St, London, E1 6PG

A pop-up  dining room, bar, art gallery and cinema that showcases talent uncovered by the BA Great Britons programme. The airline-themed venue features art work by Pascal Anson, who was mentored by Tracey Emin on his ‘Dove’ design for a range of celebratory aircraft, and a short film, ‘Boy’, starring Timothy Spall, written by screenwriter Prasanna Purwanarajah under the mentorship of Richard E Grant. On offer in the dining room is a menu created by chef Simon Hulstone, who has produced an Olympic Games-inspired menu under the guidance of Heston Blumenthal. Book fast- as slots are being filled faster than hot cakes!

Apr 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17 6-11pm

Go on a giant egg hunt this weekend with all the family as London is invaded by beautiful ceramic Easter eggs decorated and designed by various artists, jewellers and architects. The event is in aid of the Elephant Family and Action for Children charity, challenging the public to try and find the 200, two and half foot high Easter eggs all over the capital.

Find out more at www.thebigegghunt.co.uk

Easter Weekend Movies

‘Mirror Mirror: The Untold Story of Snow White.’ Released Firday 6^th April

This remake of the classic Brothers Grimm tale follows the story we love and know. Featuring all our favourite characters, the film stars Julia Roberts as the wicked stepmother and Snow’s (dropped the White) friendly companions, the seven dwarves, who have fallen into a few bad habbits since Disney! Fun film for all!

‘The Pirates! In An Adventure With Scientists’

From the makers of ‘Wallace and Gromit’ and ‘Flushed Away,’ we see Hugh Grant transformed from his usual chick flick role into the swash buckling Pirate Captain whose attempts to become Pirate of the Year constantly fail. When kidnapped Charles Darwin (David Tennant) discovers that the Captains beloved parrot is in fact the last living dodo, the crew go on a mission to London to present their find to the Royal Society. Kids will love the adventure and yo-ho-ho action, parents will appreciate the clever animation and quick humour.

Gift Ideas

Vom-Fass Easter Liqueurs

For a very grownup Easter weekend, why not try out these boozy Easter bunny and egg styled liqueurs from Vom-Fass. Choose from yummy flavours including Chocolate, Vanilla, Marzipan and Tiramisu for a naughty and indulgent festive treat. You can buy these quirky bottles from £12 at Vom-Fass stores or go to www.vomfassuk.com.

Hawksmoor Seven Dials – 11 Langley Street, WC2H 9JJ

If you want to have a chilled out Easter instead of slaving over a hot stove to make the perfect roast dinner, then why not take a trip to Hawksmoor Seven Dials in Covent Garden. The restaurant prides itself on British produce, taking care on choosing its ingredients and serving it simply to its customers. Make sure you come with a very hearty appetite, as this meat eaters paradise will make your mouth water as soon as you step through the door! For menus and times go to www.thehawksmoor.com

The Boat Race 2012- Oxford v Cambridge 7^th April 2.15pm

Grab a good spot along the river or take a pew at one of the many pubs along the Thames and watch this years Boat Race. This iconic London event will start at Putney Bridge and end at Chiswick Bridge, attracting over 300,000 spectators, so don’t miss out! To celebrate this years race, Hammersmith and Fulham council have collaborated with the organisers to bring together Bishop’s Park and Furnivall Gardens where there will feature a big screen, beer tents, food and music. Fun for everyone! Go to www.theboatrace.org

Until Sun Apr 1 Southbank Centre Square, Belvedere Rd, London, SE1 8XX

This scrumptious outdoor festival  features chocolatiers and chocolate companies, with tons of stalls selling chocolate-related products including cakes, chocolate-infused savoury treats and kits to make your own chocolate. In the Chocolate Cookery Theatre there are demonstrations and tutored tastings with the likes of chocolatier William Curley… our mouths are watering just thinking about it! Head down and stock up in time for Easter!

Fri & Sat 11am-8pm, Sun 11am-6pm

http://www.festivalchocolate.co.uk

The Making of Harry Potter

Mar 31-Mar 6 2013 Warner Bros Studio, Aerodrome Way, Leavesden, Watford, Herts, WD25 7LS

Bookings are being taken for this new attraction opening on March 31, 2012. The 150,000 square foot area includes two dedicated soundstages where the blockbuster film series was filmed over ten years, and visitors can walk through the sets that appeared on screen including the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office, the Gryffindor common room and Hagrid’s hut. Costumes and props will also be on show, and guests can see animatronics in a ‘creature effects’ workshop that reveals the technology behind ‘Harry Potter’ beasts such as Buckbeak the Hippogriff, Fawkes the phoenix and the giant Basilisk head. The studio is located in Watford (London trains run from Euston), and buses will take visitors from Watford Junction Station to the venue; booking is essential. This is a must visit for any Harry Potter fanatic.. kids and adults alike will love this magical day out!

From 10am daily (closed Dec 25, 26)

£28, £21 children, £83 family (2+2)

http://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk

CHAKRA WEEKEND LUNCHES

157-159 Nottinghill Gate w11

Indian restaurant Chakra start their weekend Lunches from this Saturday 31st March…Yummy street food like Bhel Puri, Dhai Bhallas, and Chaats will flow freely. Eat Kebabs, Paratha’s & Curries to your hearts content!

Chakra, headed up by executive celebrity chef Andy Varma is a modern take on tradtional Indian food. The decor and flavours of this new restaurant will literally take your breath away- so head down and eat up!

Price per child: £8.95

Price Per adult: £16.95

www.chakralondon.com

Guilty Pleasures

Sat Mar 31 Koko, 1a Camden High St, London, NW1 7JE

This weekend the ultimate cheese-fest hits Koko. A full on party of pop, disco and soft rock. This time in a ‘Sound of the Musicals’ fashion and plenty of tongue-in-cheek antics on the decadent  dancefloor. Expect all the usual madcap trimmings, Bestival-rivalling costumes and high-kicking interactive fare and dance marathon meganess from the performers onstage! The more outrageous the better!  All aboard!

10pm-3am

£16, adv £13.50

http://www.guiltypleasures.co.uk

Behind-the-Scenes Tours of Tower Bridge

Until Sat Mar 31 Tower Bridge Exhibition, London, SE1 2UP

These Behind-the-scenes tours of Tower Bridge last 90 minutes and offer access to parts of the bridge that aren’t ordinarily open to the public, including the control room, the bascule chambers below the level of the river bed and the machinery room. Perfect for the inner tourist in you!

Tours every Sat & Sun Jan 7-29 & Mar 3-31 2012

£30

http://www.towerbridge.org.uk

Until Sat Jul 21 Wyndham’s Theatre, Charing Cross Rd, WC2H 0DA

David Seidler actually wrote a stage play version of the story of stammerin’ King George some years before his screenplay for ‘The King’s Speech’ was filmed. The enormous success of the film has made the play’s eventual staging all go!  And here it is, arriving in the West End after glowing reviews of its regional tour. Adrian Noble directs the production, which stars Charles Edwards as the King and Jonathan Hyde as his speech therapist Lionel Logue.

Mon-Sat 7.30pm; Sat Mat 2.30pm

http://www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk

Bar Italia Scooter Club Tenth Anniversary Kickstart Rideout

Sat Mar 24

Marking the start of official scootering season, the ‘Kickstart Rideout’ sees riders from London and the South East come together at the London Eye at 11am to ride en masse to the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, arriving at around 12.30pm. Winners of a best scooter competition are announced during the afternoon. Fingers crossed the sun is shining!  Toot Toot Beep Beep!

http://www.ornc.org/events/detail/bar-italia-sc-kickstart-rideout-2012

Future Cinema Presents Bugsy Malone

Until Sat Apr 14 The Troxy, 490 Commercial Rd, E1 0HX

Future Cinema is back this weekend with  its all-singing, all-dancing homage to ‘Bugsy Malone’ with cola floats, dancing girls, boxing, gangsters and plenty of prohibition-era surprises. Sounds A-Mazing and we’ll see you there. Bang Bang!

£25, students and Freedom Pass holders £17.50, under-16s £10

http://www.futurecinema.co.uk

Sunday Best

Sat Mar 24 Bussey Building, 133 Rye Lane, London, SE15 4ST

Rob Da Bank’s raucous summer party soundsystem, Sunday Best, rocks up to this Peckham warehouse space with a fistful of eclectic live music, featuring sets by highlife house tinkerer Auntie Flo and Beans On Toast, plus stellar turntable action from the man himself, Mr Da Bank and his circus of DJ characters including voodoo-faced technoist Drums of Death, Native Indian feather headdress-toting producer Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, plus Tayo, Frank Tope, 70-something ska veteran DJ Derek and more. This sounds banging and you’ll most definitely see us strutting our stuff on the dancefloor!

10pm-5am

£12, adv/NUS £10, adv £8 early birds

http://www.sundaybest.net

Carry on Doctor

Friday 23^rd March 18 Greek street/14 Ganton Street W1

Calling all dashing doctors and notorious nurses.  Zebrano Bars are throwing one hell of a party in support of Great Ormond Street childrens hospital.

They are filling up their syringe shooters and dancing till ‘lights out’. With special cardiac cocktails don’t forget your scrubs and stethoscope as who knows who you’ll be giving mouth to mouth to by the end of the night!

7pm- Till Late

http://www.zebrano.uk.com/

Mar 16-Apr 1 Earl’s Court Exhibition Centre, Warwick Rd, SW5 9TA

Whether you’re a foodie, a little green fingered, an interiors obsessive or a DIY demi-god , the Ideal Home show offers a bit of homely inspiration for the domestic improver. Located in Earl’s Court, there is room for masses of stalls and lots of variety; taste dishes from sample stalls and the Celebrity Chef Theatre, stroll around the Show Gardens and enjoy live demonstrations from industry experts. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea but there are good buys and some interesting labels to discover.

£12. £10 conc. Children under 16 free.

http://www.idealhomeshow.co.uk

St Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival 2012

Sun Mar 18 Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5DN

The annual St Patrick’s Day parade of Irish floats begins its amble from Green Park, along Piccadilly and down to Trafalgar Square at noon with marching bands, dancers and community representatives. The parade also includes the Arigato Parade, featuring Japanese musicians and performers, many dressed in traditional costume. In Trafalgar Square, there will be traditional and contemporary Irish music and dance on the main stage ialong with other activities and events. Also joining the celebrations are Irish Olympians and Paralympians including runner Sonia O’Sullivan, gymnast Kieran Behan, high-jumper Deirdre Ryan and boxer Kenneth Egan. We will be there sipping a Guinness thats for sure!

Sun noon-6pm

http://www.molpresents.com/stpatrick

Affordable Art Fair Battersea

Until Sun Mar 18 Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park (Chelsea Bridge entrance), London, SW11 4NJ

The spring 2012 incarnation of this popular art event opens with work for sale from 120 galleries. Prices range from £40-£4,000, plus there will be talks, workshops and free activities for all ages. Head on down and invest in some culture!

Adv £8-£20, on the door £12-£20, under 16s free

http://www.affordableartfair.co.uk

Japan Gelato Day

Sun Mar 18 Gino Gelato, 3 Adelaide St, London, WC2N 4HZ

‘Masterchef’ contestant Aki Matsushima and champion gelato maker Palmiro Bruschi celebrate the start of Japan’s cherry blossom season with ten Japanese-themed gelati and sorbetti. Flavours include miso caramel and green tea white chocolate. The chefs are on hand to talk about their creations and free samples are available during the afternoon. We are licking our lips at the thought!

Sun 2-6pm

http://www.ginogelato.com

Around the World

Fri Mar 16 Arcadia (formerly The Arches), 51-53 Southwark St, London, SE1 1RU

Secret Garden Party fans will warmly remember The Colisillyum, a multi-tiered fort of hay that causes carnage at the Cambridgeshire festival each year. Now the team behind it, Bearded Kitten, are bringing another concept party to London: Around the World. It’s all aboard their raucous flight to the Arcadia club in London Bridge, which they will have transformed into the interior of a Boeing 747 complete with sunburned cabin crew and plenty of interactive madness. Stopovers include South America, Africa, The Balkans, the USA, Japan and France, celebrated via the musical notes of ace DJs Krafty Kuts, Chris Tofu, Count Sizzle and Goldierocks and more, along with eclectic live acts the Trans-Siberian March Band, Dollar Bill and the London School of Samba. And that’s just the tip of the in-flight entertainment. This is one NOT to be missed! see you on the dancefloor!

9pm-4am

adv £15

http://www.beardedkitten.com

“BEST LONDON FESTIVAL”

Festivals are such an integral part of British culture and we think that Londoners do them best! so nominate your favourite London Festival HERE now and have your say!

Sat Mar 10 Abbey Road Studios, 3 Abbey Rd, London, NW8 9AY

The Abbey Road Studios are the most famous Studios in the world and this saturday its doors will be open to the public!

The Studios are most notable as being the venue in the 1960s for innovative recording techniques adopted by The Beatles, Pink Floyd, The Hollies, Badfinger, and others.

Brian Kehew and Kevin Ryan, authors of ‘Recording the Beatles’, will be giving a presentation on the studio’s history.

It’s an amazing opportunity to see Abbey Road’s interior with its many different works of art, photos, films, recordings , an exhibition of vintage recording equipment, and to take a photo at the famous zebra crossing- Now who wouldn’t want one of those?!

http://www.abbeyroad.com/

10am & 3pm Mar 10

£75 http://www.seetickets.com

WOW: Women of the World Festival 2012

Until Sun Mar 11 Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, London, SE1 8XX

In celebration of International Women’s Day  the WOW festival features music, talks, debates, market stalls and participatory events, including a new speed-mentoring session, some of which are free to attend. Returning this year is the women-only orchestra.

On Friday Annie Lennox, Katy B, Sinead O’Connor and Emeli Sandé perform in a one off ‘girl-power’ style concert (Mar 9 7.30pm; £22.50-£27.50).

Wed-Sun various times and prices

http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/wow

Bunkasai Japanese Cultural Festival

Sun Mar 11 Park Crescent Conference Centre, 229 Great Portland St, London, W1W 5PN

A cultural festival to mark the one-year anniversary of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami. There are performances of music, martial arts and traditional dance, calligraphy and manga drawing displays and demonstrations, a Furoshiki show and cosplay. A one-minute silence takes place at 2.46pm. Money raised goes to the Aid for Japan charity.

Sun 9.30am-4.30pm

£5, adv £3.50

http://www.bunka-sai.com

London Drinker Beer and Cider Festival

Until Fri Mar 9 Camden Centre, Bidborough St, WC1H 9AU

UK and imported beers (including more than 70 real ales), ciders and perries are on offer at the festival, along with games and food. What more could you want on a weekend? See you there!

Wed, Thur noon-3pm & 5-10.30pm, Fri noon-10.30pm, last admission 10pm

£3.50, Wed, Thur noon-3pm free

http://www.camranorthlondon.org.uk

Move It 2012

Mar 9-11 Olympia, Hammersmith Rd, London, W14 8UX

Dance fair featuring stage shows encompassing every style of dance and the chance to tap your feet in taster classes, masterclasses and on the Freestyle Stage. Also seminars, information on dance schools and exhibitors selling dancewear. This year, there’s a chance to learn to dance like Beyonce and Lady Gaga, along with appearances by Pussycat Doll and ‘Got to Dance’ judge Kimberly Wyatt, Bonnie Langford, ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ winner Matt Flint, Darren Bennett & Lilia Kopylova and others.

Fri, Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 10am-5pm

£13.50, 5-15 year-olds £10.50, under-fives free

http://www.moveitdance.co.uk

Until Sun Mar 25 The Yard,

Unit 2 , Queens Yard, White Post Lane, E9 5EN

From the people who brought you Rooftop Film Club and Underground Film Club, a fortnight of film screenings at The Yard, a new theatre next to the Olympic Park built out of reclaimed materials from the site. ‘Reservoir Dogs’ is the opening film (Feb 29), and others on the bill include ‘Purple Rain’ (Mar 9), ‘Requiem for a Dream’ (Mar 11), ‘The Lost Boys’ (Mar 16) and ‘The Big Lebowski’ (Mar 23) . There are girly offerings on Chick Flick Tuesdays of ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ (Mar 6), ‘The Bodyguard’ (Mar 13′ and ‘Dirty Dancing’ (Mar 20). The Yard Cafe and bar will be open before and after the film, serving up ‘weird and wonderful’ fresh food, drinks and, if you’re up for it, dancing.

8pm weekdays, 7.30pm weekends

£9

www.the-yard.co.uk

‘Pay what you want’ lunch

Fridays & Saturdays  @ Pips Dish, N1

Pip Dundas has become a bit of a food hero up in Islington, mostly due to his somewhat virtuous approach to business.  Firstly, back in December, he took over an old Citroen garage and together with the owner of Farm Direct, created a food space selling some great produce by day and hosting suppers using the produce by night.  Now, he has decided to operate a policy of ‘pay-what-you-think-it’s-worth’ on Friday and Saturday lunches.  Why? For no reason other than to fund free lunches for groups of local pensioners.  Somebody pass this man a knighthood!  www.pipsdish.co.uk

EVERY WEEK @ 133B UPPER ST N1 1QP

FRIDAY & SATURDAY LUNCH 12-3pm pay what you think… FRIDAY & SATURDAY 745pm dinners at the Barn Table £25pp SUNDAY 3-course Lunch at 1pm with chilled live acoustic music £25pp TO BOOK one of these nights or private dinner parties (min 15) £35pp 5-course BYO or £45pp inc wines

TWEET @pipsdish or TEXT 07764 336 220

Barbican Weekender: Urban Stories

Mar 3-4 Barbican Centre, Silk St, London, EC2Y 8DS

A weekend of dance, music, theatre and more for young people of all ages. Shakespeare-meets-hip hop is the theme and performers include the Barbican Young Poets, free runners Streets United and MC Roxxxan. There will be street dance classes with Boy Blue Entertainment, graffiti sessions and workshops led by the Hip Hop Shakespeare Company. The BBC Symphony Orchestra, rapper Akala and one hundred members of the public will be creating an opera in a day and there are ticketed concerts each evening. This is sure to be too cool for school Daaaarlings!

FREE

Barbican Centre,

Silk St, London EC2Y 8DS

www.barbican.org.uk

St David’s Day True Taste Market

Mar 2-4 Southbank Centre Square, Belvedere Rd, London, SE1 8XX

In celebration of St David’s Day, a partnership between the Real Food Market and True Taste to showcase Welsh produce including lamb, cheeses and chocolate. There are products to buy and cookery demos to watch from the likes of James Sommerin and Rhodri Edwards. Like good food? then whats not to love? get involved!

Fri noon-8pm, Sat 11am-8pm, Sun noon-6pm

http://www.walesthetruetaste.com

Live at the Chapel

Sat Mar 3 Union Chapel, Compton Terrace, London, N1 2UN

There’s another superb line-up here this evening in one of the capital’s most beautiful venues. The comedy tonight is provided by king of the surreal one-liner Milton Jones, rapper-turned-comic Doc Brown, stunning silent comedy act The Boy with Tape on His Face, whimsical delight James Acaster and bearded marvel MC Alex Horne.

7.45pm (doors 6.30pm)

£16

http://www.liveatthechapel.co.uk

To The Lazer Cave

Sat Mar 3 Hackney Downs Studios, Downs Park Rd, E5 8QJ

Illicit-feeling warehouse party up Dalston way that combines tacky ’70s B-movie references with hi-NRG disco, spaced-out house and techno with DJs for the night including Psychemagik, Jonny Robb, Mike Allport, Adam Martin and a secret special guest. They have a whopping 40 lasers, innovative audiovisual projections, a smoke machine, free tin foil, face-painting and, they tell us, an all-new laser maze, ‘a disorientating series of 26 mirror panels in a confined laser and smoke filled room’. DC: Freaks, robots, aliens – use your imagination. Sounds freaking awesome to us!

10pm-6am

adv £12, £10 after 2am on the door

http://www.tothelazercave.co.uk

Feb 24-26 Earls Court, Warwick Rd , London, SW5 9TA

Japan comes to town this weekend with a festival of Japanese culture and cuisine. There’s sushi, sake and snacks to sample, anime and manga to see, as well as fashion shows, demonstrations, workshops and seminars. There will be live performances from singer and actress Natsuko Aso and YouTube sensation Beckii Cruel and, for those who like dressing up, the UK selections for the European Cosplay Gathering and World Cosplay Summit. If you’ve always wanted to go to Japan but haven’t had the chance  then check this out!

Fri 3-9pm, Sat 9.30am-8pm, Sun 9.30am-5pm

Fri: £7, adv £6; Sat-Sun £14, adv £12

http://www.hyperjapan.co.uk

All New People

Until Sat Apr 28 Duke of York’s Theatre, St Martin’s Lane, London, WC2N 4BG

Last summer Zach Braff made his debut as a playwright with this angsty off-Broadway comedy about a thirtysomething man trying to escape the world in the depths of a friend’s luxury apartment. Still, it takes more than ‘written by the guy from “Scrubs”‘ to get a show onto the West End, and so after taking a behind the scenes role in New York, Braff himself will star as the disillusioned Charlie for this limited ten week run at The Duke of  York Theatre. The show received great reviews on Broadway so book your tickets now for some guaranteed laughs.

“Sensationally funny” New York Times

Mon-Sat 7.30pm; Sat, Wed Mats 2.30pm

£15-£49.50

http://www.ambassadortickets.com

Vodafone London Fashion Weekend

Until Sun Feb 26 Somerset House, The Strand, London, WC2R 1LA

This weekend see’s ‘London Fashion Weekend’ hit Somerset House prolonging the fashion fun from LFW. For four days, the venue transforms into a designer shopping emporium brimming with exclusive collections and discounts from more than 100 brands.

Expect to see names such as House of Harlow, David Longshaw, Olivia Rubin, Twenty8Twelve and the Royals’ favourite Rigby & Peller making huge discounts on their past and present collections for the general public. Vintage lovers, meanwhile, can enjoy the Vintage Boutique and search for pre-loved wares. Elsewhere, beauty fans can indulge at a Cowshed pop-up spa offering mini treatments as well as a Benefit brow and lash bar. Not purely a shopping event, the weekend also sees TV presenter Zoe Hardman present catwalk shows to feast your eyes on new and unseen collections. There is also foodie treats and the odd freebie too. This is a must visit for any budding fashionista or shopaholic.

5-10pm Thurs Feb 23; noon-9pm Fri Feb 24; 10am-7pm Sat Feb 25; 10am-6pm Sun Feb 26

Prices start from £12.50.

http://www.londonfashionweekend.co.uk

Hix Belgravia

20 Chesham Place, SW1X 9EJ

British food champion & go-getting restaurateur Mark Hix has teamed up with the international Thomson Hotel group for this latest venture in Belgravia. While he may be known as a crusading supporter of native regional produce, the menu here takes a very different tack: ‘we’re going off-piste’, says Hix, ‘so if you’re expecting my signature British style think again’.

The adjoining ‘Mark’s Bar’ pays homage to Hix’s Soho original – as well as boasting a stylish cigar garden & specially commissioned Brit-art from Mat Collishaw.

The indulgent menu features caviar on hot buttered toast, rack of Glencoe red deer with cherries, and Yorkshire rhubarb with champagne jelly. Drinks include the signature Hix Fix (morello cherries, Somerset eau de vie, prosecco) and Hix Oyster Ale.  Foodie Fans- book a table now to avoid disappointment… as if whispers are to be believed this place is going to go down a storm.

Open breakfast 7-11am daily; restaurant noon-11pm daily; bar noon-1am daily

Meal for two with wine and service: around £140.

www.hixbelgravia.co.uk

Maslenitsa Russian Festival

Until Sun Feb 26

The Russian Sun Festival is a celebration of the beginning of spring – and  features events across London this weekend including, a photography exhibition at City Hall (Feb 13-26) and cookery masterclasses with Russian chefs, culminating in a day of celebration in Trafalgar Square on February 26, with performances by the Folk State Academic Pyatnizky Choir, pop band Balagan Limited, Siberian folk music and dance by ‹lger ensemble and others. This London event is the largest celebration of Russian art, culture and food outside Russia and the climactic party in Trafalgar Square will include a live video link-up with Moscow’s Red Square. This amazing freebie weekend of events is a cultural feast for any ‘culture vulgar’ Londoner.

Free

http://maslenitsa.co.uk

Scandalism & Mylo Present

Scala, 275-277 Pentonville Rd, London, N1 9NL

Mylo’s club nights have been a highlight of 2011 with their basement takeovers at Dalston Superstore and bigger bashes at XOYO, but now the electro-house linchpin is stepping it up a notch with a much larger party at the Scala. Testament to his new nu-disco direction, he has a guest live set from cosmic disco prince Lindstrom, plus Belgian re-edit wizard Aeroplane and French bad boy Brodinksi on the decks, rave the night away at this electro house filled night of fun.. See you on the dancefloor.

9pm-5am

adv £12.50

http://www.scala-london.co.uk

Saturday 18^th February

We head to the depths of the ocean with our submariner, Richard Sisson. Bring your flippers as we explore the deep sea with music by Saint-Saens, Debussy and some suitably bubbly popular songs! 

Saturday Spectaculars are a great way for families to enjoy classical music in an informal and fun environment.

Tickets*: £6 children. £8 adults. £22 family of four

http://www.cadoganhall.com/showpage.php?pid=1685

3D Pancake Masterclass

Saturday 18^th February

Atelier des Chefs 19 Wigmore St, London, United Kingdom W1U 1PH

Polly Betton and Andrew Stellitano present this masterclass showing how they make edible 3D landscapes – including desert islands, volcanoes, icebergs, rapids, and forests – from pancakes. Limited spaces available for this family event; booking by email is essential.

Age 6+

pancakeplayhouse@tateandlylesugars.com

London Duck Tours: The James Bond Tour

Until Sunday 19^th February

Taking place on the third Sunday of each month, the James Bond Tour is a journey for fans of intrigue, espionage and Ian Fleming, revealing little-known facts about the author, his best-known creation, James Bond, and spying in general. The tour examines a dossier of top secret archive pictures relating to Bond in London.

Tickets: £16 – £23

http://www.londonducktours.co.uk/tours/james-bond-tour

Damien Hirst: The Complete Spot Paintings 1986-2011

Until Saturday 18^th February

Gagosian Britannia St, 6-24 Britannia St, London, WC1X 9JD

Hirst’s spot paintings have always been the prêt-a-porter range within his prolific output; compared to bisected cows and pickled sharks they’ve never generated much controversy, but that was always the oint. They look good in a museum or in a collector’s living room, they look a bit like modern art and they look a bit like interior decoration too.

Crazy For You

Novello Theatre, Aldwych, London, WC2B 4LD

A five star, all-singing all-dancing spectacular CRAZY FOR YOU is the perfect treat for audiences of all ages. Don’t miss your last chance to see the glittering spectacle that’s lighting up the West End. Book now before it tap dances out of London on 17 March

http://crazyforyouthemusical.com/

Movimientos Carnival Special

Friday 17^th February

Passing Clouds 
1 Richmond Road, E8 4AA

To celebrate the start of carnival in Brazil Movimientos presents a night of carnival drums, jump up afro-latin roots music and psychedelic tropical grooves. Brighton’s finest King Lagoon’s Flying Swordfish Dancing Band with very special live show featuring light and aromas, plus all female Brazilian percussion project Let Drum Beat and Newcastle’s Burundanga bring a unique mix of Afro-Latin rhythms from Peru to Brazil. On the decks special guest from Athens DJ Palov (from the amazing production duo Palov and Mishkin) joins Movimientos DJs to provide the backdrop mixing up the freshest Latin beats with Samba Funk, Cumbia and Swing, whilst upstairs the Udigrudi host a funky eclectic Brazilian themed affair. All at Dalston’s finest boutique live music venue and cultural hub Passing Clouds.

£5 before 10 / £8 after

 8pm-3am

http://www.movimientos.org.uk/index.php?section=11&eventid=53

East Village Fourth Birthday

Saturday 18^th February

89 Gt Eastern Street, London EC2A 3HX

Four years on and this Shoreditch nightclub is still going strong. Celebrate this occasion at this venue which has seen endless great nights produced by some of the world’s greatest promoters and housed everything from vintage house nights to the most cutting egde bass sounds this side of Croydon. For this occasion they are keeping it classic, and Stuart Patterson and Roual Galloway from Faith, will be joined by soulful house don Joe Claussell from NYC and The Revenge, fLako (live) and friends rock the disco-lounge upstairs.

http://www.eastvillageclub.co.uk/

We want to invite you guys to spread love across London , by voting for the business which is always there to make you feel special.

How to spread and receive love.

– Go to our Facebook page @ http://www.facebook.com/TheLondonLifestyleAwards -Go to our Facebook app @ http://apps.facebook.com/spreadlovelondon/ –

Share the   app link to let your friends know to nominate / display their love for you.

Here is to London’s year; 2012.

Lets make it special.

Kew Gardens

Saturday 4^th – Sunday 5^th February

The Princess of Wales Conservatory is being transformed this weekend into a floral explosion of colour inspired by the ‘forces of nature’. With vibrant floral displays representing fire, water, air and earth, you can experience the blazing reds, oranges and yellows of fire, and the glimmering blues of water… We can bet it will smell amazing too!

Tickets: £11.90-£13.90 Under 17s FREE

www.kew.org

Leonardo Da Vinci: Painter at the Court of Milan

National Gallery

Until Sunday 5^th February

The National Gallery is exhibiting some of Leonardo Da Vinci’s rarest paintings between the late 1480’s and 1490’s, which have never been seen in the UK. Focusing fully on his work as a painter, this exhibition explores his passion for portraits and creating art that is most true to the human form. Works on display include ‘La Belle Ferronière’, two versions of ‘Virgin of the Rocks’ and a copy of the famous ‘Last Supper’. Fancy some culture? Then head here!

Ticket prices start at £8 – £16.00

www.nationalgallery.org.uk

Matilda

Cambridge Theatre

‘Hilarious, Moving and Magical – A Glorious Production’ The Daily Telegraph

Roald Dahl’s much loved story of Matilda has hit the west end stage this week and in musical form. With five star reviews, the RSC’s production of Matilda is an all-round hit for all ages, telling the story of a little girl with an exceptional talent. We’ve heard on the grapevine this is amazing!

Prices start from £59.50

www.matildathemusical.com

David Shrigley: Brain Activity

Hayward Gallery

1st – 21^st February

This exhibition is David Shrigley’s first major show in London, and is displaying a lot more than just drawings. Making witty pokes at everyday life relationships, the exhibition also includes photography, sculpture, animation, music and paintings, which brings something a bit unique to London’s regular art scene.

Tickets £8.00

http://ticketing.southbankcentre.co.uk

Evening With The Stars

Until 29^th February

‘Evening With The Stars’ gives visitors a chance to look through the 18 tonne Victorian telescope into the wonders of the universe and experience an exhilarating planetarium show for a truly unbeatable evening. This is going to be out of this world!

Tickets £16 per person

www.rmg.co.uk

Brick Lane Market

Sundays

The best thing about Brick Lane Market is you never know what you’re going to find. The street packs out with people buying and selling antique furniture, vintage clothing and food of all cultures, as well as street performers to set the lively atmosphere. This is a must for londoner’s and visitors alike.

93 Feet East

Saturday 4^th February

7pm – 1am

This Saturday will be an amazing night for any Indie and Alternative music lovers. 93 Feet East is holding a ‘Geek out v Call the Landlord’ DJ battle night, featuring Steve Harris, Liam Young, Sunta Templeton and many more. With music from the likes of The Drums, REM, They Might Be Giants, Hot Chip, Beastie Boys, Pulp, Vampire Weekend, Elvis Costello, We Are Scientists and Darwin Deez.

FREE BEFORE 8PM,

£5 with flyer or on the guest list

£7 door

www.93feeteast.co.uk

Situated on the border of Notting hill and Holland Park, Chakra is a local favourite and a destination must for International gourmands of West London.

Chakra is not your typical Indian; it delivers a stunning  menu inspired many centuries of tradition from different regions of India and royal Indian cuisine. Executive Chef Andy Varma has invested many year cooking with legendary Indian chefs and studying ancient recipes to draw inspiration for his menu at Chakra. His dishes are inspired by his respect for artisan chefs – the artists of the kitchen.

Chakra is the balance of mind, body and food. With evolved Indian cuisine  presented with the modern British palate in mind, the Chakra experience is unique. The art of spicing, searing, baking and marinading combined with  the finest produce deliver a gastronomic experience to savor.

The interior of Chakra resonates style and comfort. Furnishings in shades of biscuit-cream, with chandeliers, crisp napery and padded, dimpled walls create a sophisticated vibe. The service team is clad in siren-red outfits, which adds fiery glamour.

Chef Andy Varma aims to re-create this Artisan and traditional way of ‘running’ the food from pan to table. With a unique menu designed to share, it combines seven schools of cooking, each containing recipes that have evolved throughout the centuries. Typically, 1 or 2 dishes should be ordered to share from each section, to try different cooking preparations and different techniques or ‘schools’ of Royal Indian origins.

Chakra, has 75 covers in the restaurant, with knowledgable staff on hand to take care of your dining experience. The restaurant is open for lunch service at the weekend from 12-3pm. Dinner service, Monday–Saturday is 6-11pm and Sunday 6-10.30pm. It is closed for lunch Monday-Friday.

If you love good food.. you will love Chakra!

Death: Southbank Centre’s Festival for the Living

Southbank Centre

26^th and 27^th of January

Southbank’s Festival for the living, defies taboos, exploring the unknowable uncertainty of death from many angles. This four day festival is a variety of music, talks, literature, art, performance and poetry and explores the human attitude to death. Events at the festival are led by philosophers, artists, musicians, scientists, undertakers, doctors, psychiatrists, artists, theologians, anthropologists and broadcasters.

Festival day passes £12 but lots of events are FREE

http://ticketing.southbankcentre.co.uk/find/festivals-series/death-southbank-centres-festival-for-the-living

Chinese New Year 2012

Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue

Sunday 29^th January

This Sunday sees the arrival of the Chinese New Year 2012! Celebrations will run from 10.15am- 6pm in locations all across London. 10.15am will see a parade of colourful Chinese floats parade through Chinatown, Shaftesbury Avenue, Charing Cross Road ending in Rupert Street. Streets will be lined with stalls selling Asian arts and crafts across the West End. An official opening ceremony will be held in Trafalgar Square from 12pm with speeches from special guests including Mayor of London Boris Johnson, Lord Mayor of Westminster Councillor Susie Burbridge and the Chinese Ambassador to London, Mr. Liu Xiaoming. The festival will culminate at 5.40pm with a spectacular fireworks display!

http://www.chinatownlondon.org/news/chinese-new-year-sunday-29th-january-2012/48/324

Sense the City Photography Project

London transport Museum

Until March the 18^th

This exhibition explores the overwhelming invasion of new technologies and media in contemporary society. This invasion altering the way we access and experience London. The exhibition compares contemporary society with past visions of the future, exploring integration of the new technologies in everyday life, work and travel in the city. Sense and the City has been organised in partnership with Royal College of Art (RCA), and is supported by the Centre for Advanced Spatial Analysis at University College London, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Clear Channel and Native Design.

Tickets are £13.50

http://www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/exhibitions?utm_source=LTM&utm_medium=HomepageBanner&utm_campaign=SenseandtheCity

Words, Words, Words at Selfridges

Selfridges

Until February the 29^th

Selfridges celebrates literature this month with Words Words Words! Words Words Words will see a 15,000-book library in store, with unique celebrity contributions. This weekend Words Words Words will be hosting a Handwriting analysis session on Saturday afternoon (12.30pm- 4.30pm) and a storytelling session on Sunday from 12pm-2pm hosted by Rachel Rose Reid.

http://style.selfridges.com/whats-on/words-words-words-takes-over-selfridges

Walk London: Winter Wanders 2012

Various venues!

January the 28^th and 29^th

Struggling with New Year resolutions? Walk London are running 50 free guided walks around London this weekend! Tours vary in length (anything from a mile to 10 miles!) and start at different locations around London. Walk London is not only a healthy way to spend your weekend; it’s a great way to explore our great city. An adventure whether you’re a family group or with friends!

FREE

http://www.walklondon.org.uk/

London Comedy Film Festival

BFI Southbank

January the 26^th- 29^th

The London Comedy Film Festival celebrates the art of comedy film making!

‘Through screenings, education, outreach, curatorship and funding, we champion the craft of comedy film-making.’

The festival encompasses a variety of events all working to champion comedy film making as a craft! For more information and a full list of events visit the Loco Film Festival website!

Various times and prices!

http://locofilmfestival.com/festival-2012/

The Royal Academy of Arts

Opening Saturday the 21^st of January

The Royal Academy of Arts opens the first major exhibition of new landscape works by David Hockney  RA this Saturday. The exhibition, inspired by the East Yorkshire landscape, explores Hockney’s return to his childhood home. Featuring giant multi-panel paintings created especially for the Royal Academy of Art’s gallery space, Hockney has enlarged 50 iridescent iPad drawings and produced a series of new films using 18 cameras which are displayed in the gallery using multiple screens creating a moving split screen experience!

Tickets- £14

http://www.royalacademy.org.uk/

London Art Fair

Business Design Centre

18^th- 22^nd of January

The London Art Fair presents works from galleries around the UK and overseas!   The collection exhibits the great names of 20^th century British art and contemporary work from leading figures and emerging talent!

Tickets £16

http://www.londonartfair.co.uk/Content/London-Art-Fair/1/

Pajama Men- In the Middle of No One

Charing Cross Theatre

January the 9^th- March the 3^rd

‘Oddball, seriously deranged and cleverly funny…. a must-experience event’- 4 Stars- Evening Standard. A Soho Theatre sell out the American duo have transferred to the West End.  ’In the Middle of No One’ is a quirky comedy thriller about love, alien abduction and the spirit of adventure. It makes no sense whatsoever, but the pair’s performances are utterly marvellous.

Tickets- £21.50/ £25.50

http://www.charingcrosstheatre.co.uk/

Quentin Blake- As Large as Life

Foundling Museum

Until Sunday the 15^th of April

Exhibiting more than 60 of famous illustrator Quentin Blake most recent works create for four hospitals. Hanging alongside Blake’s work will be paintings by William Hogarth and his contemporaries who donated paintings and sculptures to the Foundling Hospital in the 1740s. The Museum’s art collection, spanning more than four centuries, will provide visitors with an unexpected and resonant backdrop; one that situates Blake within a tradition of great artists creating work for hospitals.

Tickets £7.50

http://www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk/events/view/quentin-blake-as-large-as-life/

The Unilever Series: Tacita Dean

Tate Modern

Until Sunday March the 11^th

FILM is an 11-minute silent 35mm film projected onto a gigantic white monolith standing 13 metres tall at the end of a darkened Turbine Hall. It is the first work in The Unilever Series devoted to the moving image, and celebrates the masterful techniques of analogue film-making as opposed to digital. The work evokes the monumental mysterious black monolith from the classic science fiction film 2001: A Space Odyssey. The film feels like a surreal visual poem, including images from the natural world among others, with the epic wall of the Turbine Hall showing through, in a montage of black and white, colour, and hand-tinted film.

FREE

http://www.tate.org.uk/modern/exhibitions/unilever2011/default.shtm

London Ice Sculpting Festival

Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf

January the 12th- 14^th

This annual event returns to Canary Wharf this January the 12th-14^th. The event will involve two professional ice sculpting competitions, a free ice sculpting masterclass, a snow pit and a variety of stalls with seasonal drinks and snacks! The sculpting competition involves an ice battle between two professional sculpting teams on a 2 metre block of ice- a fantastic way to end the festive season!

FREE

Friday 9am – 7pm / Saturday 8am – 6pm

http://www.londonicesculptingfestival.co.uk/

Spielberg’s War Horse

Released January the 13th

Spielberg’s film adaptation of this iconic story hits the screens this weekend! The film, based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo, tells the story of a bonds between man and his steed during the First World War. Exploring themes of bravery, loyalty and friendship the film promises to take the audience on a thought provoking journey!

http://www.odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_info/m13022/War_Horse/

War Horse

New London Theatre

Until February the 16th 2013

War Horse is not new to the stage but with the royal premiere of Spielberg’s film adaptation last Sunday we are all feeling the hype around this fantastic story! The stage version uses life size puppets to tell this unforgettable story of bravery, loyalty and friendship during the First World War. The production has won an incredible five Tonys for its performance so far, so is without a doubt worth a viewing if you haven’t already!

Monday-Saturday 7.30pm

Tickets- £15-55

http://warhorselondon.nationaltheatre.org.uk/

London International Mime Festival

Various events around London! Venues include Soho Theatre, Southbank Centre, Barbican, Roundhouse and Royal Opera House!

Until January the 29th

This annual visual theatre festival returns to London this January with a variety of visual theatre events! Events will encompass mime, acrobatics, mask work, circus skills, animation and puppetry!

Ticket prices vary depending on the event!

http://www.mimelondon.com/index.html

Grayson Perry: The Tomb of the Unknown

British Museam

Until February the 19th

The exhibition is an installation of Turner Prize winning,Grayson Perry’s new works alongside objects made by unknown men and women from the British museam’s collection. Exploring a range of themes from connected to craftmanship, the sacred, shamenism, magic, to identity and contemporary culture.

Tickets £10

Open 10am-5.30pm daily

http://www.britishmuseum.org/whats_on/exhibitions/grayson_perry/introduction.aspx

The London Vintage Fashion Textiles and Accessories Fair

Hammersmith Town Hall

Sunday the 15th  January

100 vintage fashion dealers from around the UK and abroad travel to London’s East End this Sunday for this expansive fashion fair! The fair will sell an array of vintage clothing, bags, textiles and jewellery dating from 1800s-1980s! If you are into your vintage this sounds like the place to be this Sunday!

Open 8am- 5pm

Tickets- £10 (before 10am) and £5 after!

http://www.timeout.com/london/shopping/event/249884/the-london-vintage-fashion-textiles-accessories-fair

Damien Hirst- The Complete Spot Paintings 1986-2011

Gagosian Britannia St

January the 12th to February the 18th

Opening on January the 12^th the Gagosian galleries worldwide are going dotty! The galleries are displaying more than 300 of Damien Hirst’s Spot Paintings on loan to the exhibition from private individuals as well as public institutions. The exhibition will be accompanied by a comprehensive catalogue of all the Spot Paintings!

Open Tuesday- Saturday 10am-6pm

http://www.gagosian.com/exhibitions/damien-hirst–january-12-2012

Jacqueline Hurst-  NLP Hypnotherapy

Clinical Hypnotherapist & NLP Master Practitioner Jacqueline Hurst is one of the UK’s leading specialists in Advanced Structured Hypnotherapy – helping clients achieve their true potential.
Since all our thoughts, behaviour and beliefs are guided by our subconcious mind, it is there that the root cause can be determined and beneficial change can begin with the aid of Advanced Structured Hypnotherapy.

Many clinical studies have shown hypnotherapy is a successful method helping people to lose weight, stop smoking, manage stress and anxiety, remove phobias and fears and the list goes on.

Jacqueline can show you how to stop the cycle of body hatred and yo-yo dieting, how to stop the ‘fad diets’ because diets don’t work and teach you how to get off the hamster wheel and learn to love yourself again. With over 20 years life experience, She is the one person who fully relates, understands who has compassion and complete empathy.

She helps remove your self limiting beliefs and change the way you think about food and weight once and for all.

With a huge celebrity following, the results will speak for themselves. Guaranteed.

You have nothing to lose…..Except unwanted weight! Book your sessions Now!

www.jacquelinehurst.com

JP- Personal Training

Jean-Pierre De Villiers, JP, to those in the know, is a reshape coach and a rapid fat loss expert.

With a unique 12 week intense body transformation programme devised by JP himself, a target is set, whether it be to lose X amount of pounds, tone up or become healthier in both body and mind, JP uses his programme to reshape his clients’ minds and achieve their goals.
JP is not just any personal trainer, looking only at physical exercise, but also focuses on nutrition and lifestyle whilst addressing his clients’ mindsets and the way they think. JP knows how important it is to concentrate on the mind and not solely on the physical aspect. If you organise the mind, the body will follow. Offering martial arts inspired Personal Training, he takes a holistic approach to fitness and hence the lavish and intensive programme.

JP’s Reshape programme provides the following,
5 Day Detox
3 x Personal Training sessions per week
4 x Health and Fitness tests and assessments at week 1, week 4, week 8 and week 12
12 x BioSignature body fat tests and assessments

And a free copy of JP’s book

www.reshapecoach.me.uk

Coldpress Fruit Juice

Everyone wants to give themselves a huge new year health kick but don’t have the time to join a gym. Sometimes one little change can have a huge effect on your wellbeing. Getting all the daily nutrients your body needs can give you that extra kick you need to feel great! A new fruitjuice has just hit our shelves that can give us that healthy new year feeling- Cold press.

Coldpress provides a more thirst quenching, better tasting juice that is much high nutrition value than it’s competitors. By using a cold pressure as opposed to boiling the juices the brand retains a lot of its existing aromas and textures that the heated juices do not hold.
Coldpress is available in seven flavours that include – Pink Lady, Golden Delicious, Valencia Orange, Apple & Lemon, Apple & Passionfruit, Apple & Raspberry, Apple & Strawberry.

Available at Waitrose.

No 1 Bootcamp

Some people like a quick sharp shock to get their fitness regime going and we have found the perfect London solution!

Dip your toe in and join one of the great fitness bootcamp sessions in one of London’s most scenic parks- Regent Park!

No 1 Bootcamp exercise camps in the park provide a great opportunity for people interested in Boot Camp exercises, loosing weight or kick starting their fitness routine, to enjoy a fun boot camp session packed full of various fitness exercises and boot camp training.

The park sessions are hosted by a top military physical training instructor who will ensure that the emphasis is as much on fun as it is on hard work.

The park sessions run from 10am to 4pm with an hour lunchbreak.

Prices start from £65 per person

www.no1bootcamp.com

The Pure Package

The Pure Package is all about you and what you want your body to be. Whether you wish to lose weight or increase your energy levels, The Pure Package takes away the need for you to plan, shop and cook the meals you want. With their professional diet delivery in London, they let you get on with your life.

Based on the principles of the ‘Perfectly Balanced Diet’ and portion control, The Pure Package is the leading UK company of its type to offer freshly prepared, ethically sourced and convenient meals direct to your door.

Your food will be delivered every morning between midnight and 6am in a temperature controlled black bag. In most cases they leave the bag on your doorstep. If the temperature controlled bag cannot be delivered directly to your front doorstep, they can arrange alternative options for you (for example they can leave the bag with a door/security man). They can also deliver to your workplace, partner’s address or even your gym. They will do everything within reason to ensure convenience.

An example menu of the weightloss programme is-

Breakfast: Tomato, Avocado & Cottage Cheese on Organic Rye Bread
Cottage cheese and ripe avocado served on rye bread with a roasted plum tomato.

Morning Snack: Black Grapes & Cashew Nuts
By consuming the nuts at the same time as the fruit will help slow down the release of the fruit sugar and therefore give you more constant energy.

Lunch: Thai Chicken Noodle Salad
Shitake Mushrooms, coconut rice noodles, mange tout and free-range chicken served with an Asian cocounut dressing.

Afternoon Snack: Fruit, Nut & Seed Bar
Their home-made bar is packed with dried fruit, nuts and seeds.

Dinner: Spiced Kingfish with Black Bean Salsa
Coriander and lime marinated kingfish served with mange tout and a black bean, tomato, chilli and onion salsa.

www.purepackage.com

London’s International Boat Show

Excel Centre
January the 6th- 15th

The International boat show returns to the Excel centre this January! There is something for everyone, hundreds of exhibitors will display a huge variety of boats and the visitors have the chance to watch or try a variety of watersports in the Watersports Action Pool, catering for those that are seriously into watersports or just starting out!!

Open from 10am- 7pm
Standard one day tickets £20

http://www.londonboatshow.com/2012/home.aspx

Chihuly Exhibition

Halcyon Gallery
Until Tuesday February 28th

A spectacular contemporary glass exhibition by internationally celebrated artist Dale Chihuly. Dale Chihuly is credited with elevating the medium from craft to fine art!

Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm.

http://www.halcyongallery.com/

The Extended Olympic Walk

Meet at Leyton Underground Station
Saturday and Sunday at 13.45hr

Its 2012- London’s year! Why not celebrate by taking a walk around the developing Olympic site? Organisers are now offering and extended walk around the Olympic Park with great views of the different venues! Visitors will be guided by Blue Badge tourist guides.

http://www.toursof2012sites.com/

Cirque du Soleil: Totem

Royal Albert Hall

Until Sunday 5th February

The Cirque du Soleil returns to the Royal Albert Hall. ‘Totem’ promises to be another spectacular Cirque du Soleil experience! Totem explores ‘the journey and evolution of mankind’ through expertly polished circus acts!
Tickets £20-90

http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/welcome.aspx

The Harry Potter Walking Tour

Starting at London Bridge.
Until April the 1^st

Looking to get fit for the new year? Happen to be a Harry Potter fan? The walking tour by Muggle Tours explores all the film locations and inspirations for the books! The walking tour promises to be magical for all the family with props and trivia along the way!

Tickets £12 and £8 for under 12s

http://www.muggletours.co.uk/

Fancy a party…?

Zebrano Bars present The Hangover this New Year’s Eve

14-16 Ganton Street, 18 Greek Street, Soho, London

Zebrano Bars will be hosting The Hangover this NYE! The Greek Street venue will be transformed into Las Vegas and Ganton Street into Thailand, with poker table supplied by Fox Poker! The night will begin with a glittering drinks and canapé reception from 7-9pm and guests will party the night away until 5am!

So join the Wolfpack at Zebrano this New Year’s Eve and have your own crazy ‘Hangover’ blowout! ‘What Happens in Zebrano, Stays in Zebrano!’

Tickets £15, Double Bubble tickets (Guests can visit both venues) £25

7pm-5am, Over 18s

http://www.zebrano.uk.com/

Something traditional…?

London’s Official New Year’s Eve Firework Display 2011

London Eye

The obvious choice for many this New Year’s Eve, 2011’s fireworks heralding the beginning of 2012, London’s year, are bound to be particularly spectacular! London’s firework display usually attract a crowd of around 250,000 people so we recommend you arrive early and plan your journey! The prime vantage points are the Victoria Embankment, north of the Thames, and the bridges, Waterloo, Westminster and the eastern Jubilee footbridge; the Millennium Bridge has only a partial view of the Eye.

http://www.london.gov.uk/nye

Something lavish…?

New Year’s Eve Cruise

Savoy Pier

Looking to splash the cash this New Year’s Eve? Why not book a cruise aboard the Silver Fleet’s Silver Surgeon! This (extremely expensive) New Year’s Cruise will begin with a champagne reception, followed by a four course dinner designed by Jamie Oliver! Booked required!

This lavish cruise will set you back £360! (Ouch!)

http://www.silverfleet.co.uk/

Something different…?

The Candlelight Club New Year’s Eve Bash

A secret London Location!

The Candlelight Club is a pop up cocktail bar that will be appearing in a secret London location this New Year’s Eve! The party will be a 1920s theme, with a bespoke cocktail menu, jazz music to create the vintage theme!

“The Candlelight Club really is the closest you’ll find to an authentic Jazz Age experience in central London. Its unique ambience, fuelled by hundreds of candles, is truly a scene to behold.” —Time Out

http://www.thecandlelightclub.com/

Something spectacular…?

The Royal Festival Hall New Year’s Eve Party

Royal Festival Hall

Royal Festival Hall New Year’s Eve Part will be a unique night of live music, DJs, silent discos, entertainment and all manner of fun! Shortly before midnight the party will move outside to an exclusive terrace overlooking the Thames, where you can enjoy London’s fireworks away from the crowds! Then head back inside to give one final hurrah for 2011 and welcome 2012 in spectacular style. Check the website as we announce the entertainment for the evening.

The party is a fancy dress theme- ‘Gods and goddesses – Hollywood glamour across the ages.’

£80

http://ticketing.southbankcentre.co.uk/find/dance-performance/tickets/new-years-eve-party-62171

Something glamourous…?

Stompin’ at the Savoy New Year’s Eve

The Savoy Hotel

The Savoy Hotel’s New Year’s Eve bash promises to be the most exclusive, glamourous New Year’s Eve party going! The party will be hosted by Patrick Kielty, who is joined by Paloma Faith, Beverly Knight, Tony Christie and Buddy Greco! The evening will have champagne following, a four course dinner and a champagne toast at midnight whilst watching the fireworks! However, this kind of glamour doesn’t come without a hefty price tag, tickets are a whopping £1000!!!

Tickets £1000 (Ouch!)

http://www.stompinatthesavoy.co.uk/

Zebrano Greek Street Boxing Day Party Open till 3am!

18 Greek Street, Soho, W1D 4DS

Looking for somewhere to continue your Christmas festivities? Why not try Zebrano Bar on Greek Street, Soho!?! Zebrano Greek Street will be open till 3am this Boxing Day to accommodate all of your Boxing Day festivities! Free to get in and a great Christmas atmosphere Zebrano Bars is an ideal spot for a Boxing Day party!

Open till 3am, Free Entry

http://www.zebrano.uk.com/greekSt/index.asp

Slava’s Snow Show

Royal Festival Hall

The multi-award-winning international sensation Slava’s Snowshow has delighted and thrilled audiences in over 80 cities around the globe! This dreamily anarchic clowning spectacular returns to the UK for the first time in three years, pitching up at the Royal Festival Hall for a Christmas season! This Christmas experience culminates in a breathtaking blizzard leaving you literally knee-deep in snow!

17^th December – 8^th January

£20-£60

http://ticketing.southbankcentre.co.uk/find/dance-performance/tickets/slavas-snowshow-59988

Hidden City- Time Out’s Cryptic Christmas Trail

Around London starting at Serpentine Bar & Kitchen!

Why not try a unique family adventure around London this Christmas? Time Out’s Cryptic Christmas Trail will lead you around the wintry seasonal streets and parks of our great city.

Time Out says- ‘HiddenCity is a mobile game where you solve a trail of clues sent to you by text message. Bring your mobile phone and a map and get ready to discover a London transformed by Christmas. It’s a fantastic way to see a side of the city that you normally wouldn’t.

This is a special Christmas trail in conjunction with Time Out. The trail will lead you through wintry parks, uncover hidden streets and stop by cosy caverns.
 Once you’ve signed up (see below), head to the Serpentine Bar & Kitchen. The first clue will unlock a free winter-warmer – either alcoholic or non-alcoholic.

Each clue is sent to you by text message. Send the correct answer back and get the next clue. There are no premium text message charges.

The difficulty of the trail has been graded by Hidden City as ‘easy-to-medium’, so don’t worry about getting stuck. And if you do get stuck, you can request a hint.

The trail is ideal for two to four people per team, and if there are more of you then split up into multiple teams and compete against each other. All venues en route are suitable for families.’

Start the trail between the following times: Mon-Sat 11.30am-4pm, Sun noon-3pm. Closed Dec 25 (Dec 24 11.30am-noon, Dec 26-30 11.30am-2pm, Dec 31 noon-1.30pm, Jan 1, 2 noon-3pm)

£16 per team (teams can include any number of people). Places available each day to Time Out readers at www.timeout.com/hiddencity

http://www.timeout.com/london/feature/1966/time-outs-cryptic-christmas-trail

Enchanted Palace

Kensington Palace

This spectacular exhibition merges fashion, art and theatre to tell the stories of the palace allowing you to immerse yourself in the lives of its most famous princess inhabitants – Mary, Anne, Caroline, Charlotte, Victoria, Margaret and Diana!

Oct-Feb 10am-5pm daily; last adm one hour before closing. Closed Dec 24-26. Closed Jan 4-Mar 25 2012

£13.75, £12.10 concs, £6.90 under-16s, free under-fives, £34 family ticket (2 adults, up to 6 children)

http://www.hrp.org.uk/KensingtonPalace/stories/Palacehighlights/EnchantedPalaceintroduction

Christmas Past

Geffrye Museum

Christmas Past at the Geffrye Museum is a historical exhibition of 400 years of seasonal traditions in English homes. The exhibition includes 11 period rooms capturing the magic of ‘Christmas past’ showing how Christmas has been celebrated by the English over the last 400 years! Throughout the exhibition, festive food will be served in the restaurant and visitors can hunt for Christmas gifts in the shop!

10am-5pm Tue-Sat, noon-5pm Sun and bank holiday Mons. Closed Dec 24-26 & Jan 1-2 (open from noon Dec 27)

http://www.geffrye-museum.org.uk/whatson/christmas-past-2011/

Sat Dec 17 Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, London, SW7 5BD

The museum’s ‘Dino Snores’ sleepover becomes ‘Dino Claus’ in December, bringing together a seasonal programme of activities to allow visitors to investigate the museum at night, including a torch-lit tour led by Santa’s elves and a chance to snuggle down for the night in the Central Hall, in the shadow of Diplodocus. Each booking must include a minimum of five children to be accompanied by a maximum of three adults. Visitors should eat before attending and take a snack for later in the evening. Breakfast is provided. Age 8-11. Any little child who is a massive fan of dinosaurs would love this unusual treat.

7pm- 9.50am.  Dec 17- Dec 18

£46 per person

www.nhm.ac.uk

The Secret Emporium Pop-up Christmas Market

Sun Dec 18 Village Underground, 54 Holywell Lane, London, EC2A 3PQ

Masterminded by the indie peeps behind summer festival ‘The Secret Garden Party’, this market features a range of alternative wares, from jaunty hats by St Saviours to bonkers ceramics by Yas-Ming. Roaming cabaret acts, buskers and a special live performance at 8pm completes the bill. We will be taking a visit this weekend.

www.villageunderground.co.uk

London International Horse Show

Until Mon Dec 19 Olympia, Hammersmith Rd, London, W14 8UX

Equestrian competitions in dressage, jumping and, new for 2011, ‘extreme driving’ (Dec 15, 16), as well as displays – featuring the Lusitano Quadrille and others. Also the Shetland Pony Grand National, the Kennel Club Dog Agility competition and the Christmas Finale, as well as a shopping village with around 200 retailers. For full details see www.olympiahorseshow.com

£21-£55

XFM WINTER WONDERLAND:

Wed Dec 14  Brixton Academy, 211 Stockwell Rd, London, SW9 9SL

Now in its eighth year, Xfm’s Yule-time knees-up pulls out another party popper, featuring Leeds’ post-Britpoppers Kaiser Chiefs, anthemic indie rockers The Maccabees, garage-goths cum experi-punk electronicists cum epic synth popsters The Horrors and more.

7pm

adv £25

http://o2academybrixton.co.uk

There is always a scrum at the door as customers cram in to wait for tables or a takeaway, but the meat-packed display proves an incentive to patience, as does the compelling sight of the chef behind his smoky charcoal grill expertly flipping skewers.  The best seats are at the back, where things are somewhat calmer.

Once seated, order the mixed meze – it will arrive in minutes with a free basket of superb warm freshly made bread – while you mull over the mains- (I always go for the chicken shish- best grilled chicken North of the river) Remember, pretty much everything that comes off those coals is of outstanding quality. We also especially rate the spicier minced lamb kebabs, such as adana köfte and beyti; also good is cubed chicken with tomato and yoghurt sauce.

The restaurant doesn’t serve alcohol but they encourage you to ‘Bring Your Own Booze’ which makes it a magnet for groups, so it’s not the place for a quiet meal. Service is always friendly- the waiters often remember your name and what you like to order which is always good- you may even see a few familiar faces- its a firm favourite with ex-mayor of London Ken Livingstone… Well, if its good enough for him… check it out!

10 Arcola Street

0207 275 8981

www.mangal1.com

Until December the 30^th

London Coliseum

The traditional Christmas ballet returns this year! Wayne Eagling’s ‘Nutcracker’, which premiered last year, gets a second outing from English National Ballet. Set in foggy Edwardian London, it’s a far cry from the bright and buzzy versions that have been popular in recent years. It’s family friendly fun and the English National Ballet has plenty of excellent dancers to make the movement sing!

Tickets are on sale now £10!

http://www.eno.org/see-whats-on/productions/production-page.php?itemid=1437

Nicholas Kirkwood sample sale

8^th of December- TONIGHT!

The Music Room, 26 South Molton Lane, Mayfair, W1K

This year saw Nicholas Kirkwood steal the footwear thunder of Louboutin and Blahnik with his distinctive architectural designs! Get to this sample sale early and you could have your own towering pair of Kirkwoods from just £25. Be warned it will be brutal – so sharpen those elbows!

http://www.samplesaleslondon.co.uk/Nicholas-Kirkwood–pID-9523.htm

The Dock Christmas Market

8 December: 6-9pm; 9-10 December: 10am-6pm; 11 December: 11am-4pm

Portobello Dock, 344 Ladbroke Grove, W10

Tis the season to… shop! London has plenty of fantastic Christmas markets to satisfy all your Christmas shopping needs! Why not check out the Dock Christmas market overseen by Tom Dixon the market offers a choice of food and wine and bespoke wrapping paper!

http://www.tomdixon.net/news/the-dock-christmas-market

Office Party

Until January 21

Product Solutions Head Office, Islington, N7 9EF

Attend a show that is also a party! The audience takes the part of party guests at this unique night out! The show includes 7  rooms and 14 actors. Immerse yourself in the surreal world of Product Solutions Head Office and let your Head of Department take you on a wild night out of outrageous comedy and cabaret- a unique experiential theatre experience!

£30-£35

http://www.officepartyshow.com/

The Chocolate Festival

December the 9th-11^th

Southbank Centre

Why not visit this delicious  festival featuring chocolatiers and chocolate companies, with dozens of stalls selling chocolate-related products including cakes, chocolate-infused savoury treats and kits to make your own chocolate. In the Chocolate Cookery Theatre there are baking demonstrations and tutored tastings with the likes of chocolatier Willaim Curley and luxury chocolate company Valrhona chef Andrew Gravett, who will be making hot chocolate and a marshmallow and chocolate tart.

www.festivalchocolate.co.uk

Traffic Free VIP Christmas Shopping!

10th-11^th December

Oxford Street, Regent Street

Oxford Street and Regent Street offer a weekend of traffic-free Christmas shopping. A VIP experience for Very Important Pedestrians!

http://www.westendvip.com



What is your favourite area of London?

I love to say that I think Knightsbridge is the heart of Europe and am proud that I own a business here. The area of London I most enjoy is Farringdon – all around that way (Hoxton and Shoreditch), it’s a cool area. What I love about it is that it is 24 hours, it’s almost like Soho. A lot of tourists have heard about East London and they’re all starting to descend on that area. Obviously Knightsbridge closes down at a particular time so then everybody spills to Shoreditch. That’s my area at the moment and what I love about it is that you can shop around and find decent restaurant for a reasonable prices. You do not have to eat for a certain price.

What is your greatest London memory?

My greatest London memory has to be getting my MBE. I was driven through the main entrance of Buckingham Palace, and was escorted through to the room where people receive their MBE. Usually you hear these stories about visitors enter the Palace through the side or the entrance way at the back near Pall Mall. But I got to go in like the diplomat, like one of the Royal family so for me, that was incredible – my greatest London memory by far.

What is your favourite Theatre Show?

My theatre show, and I’ve been to see it a couple of times, is Blood Brothers. Blood Brothers got me really emotional – I was crying my eyes out! I’ve also seen Legally Blonde because Sheridan is one of my clients so to see that was amazing. I’m generally not into musicals too much

What restaurant would you recommend?

My favourite restaurant is, without sounding pompous  and upper class, is Peitite Masion, it just behind Claridges. It’s French and is amazing. If you want food that just melts in your mouth – this is your place! I also love Scotts. I can say that the food is consistent all the time.

Do you feel London is leading in comparison to other big cities?

We are absolutely leading. London is the hub of everything. It’s the inner core. The Earth’s core is very hot and has a pull, a magnetic field and that is what London has. I see London as a mentoring city because you come here to be the best chef, the best designer, best hairdresser…it’s endless. Look at Kelly Hoppen, came to London from South Africa to study hair and now is one of the best interior designers. London has something. People come to London to educate their children. The list goes on – it’s a big list.

How has winning a London Lifestyle Award made you and your colleagues feel?

We’re fortunate to win Hairdresser of the Year at the London Lifestyle Awards 2011.  It’s an award I’ve heard about and because the concept of the awards is about celebrating London, is a great thing to be a part of. People speak about the awards very highly and so we are thrilled to be a winner! Winning an award has done a lot for us – it’s linked us more to London. The Errol Douglas company and brand is very English and winning this award has cemented that. I love supporting London and inner London things and for us to win and be associated with that has made us even more “London”. We’re in a good place.

Apart from winning an award, what was your highlight of the ceremony?

What I loved about the awards was going into the drinks reception, looking through the windows in the Thames Suite at the Riverbank Park Plaza and seeing the grand Houses of Parliament. It was also great to mingle with everyone else and seeing the celebrities. It was really really good.

How do you differ from your competitors?

We differ from everybody in our industry as we are a very international salon and we pride ourselves on technical excellence. We have people come from all over the globe to experience what we do. We specialise in colour and extensions, we have a in house restaurant where guests can enjoy some food and drinks. I feel my list can go on and on. What I love about the salon it’s very individual. Our windows for example, are National Heritage, 108 years old, we can’t touch the window frames which face Motcomb Street. I love that especially about our salon.

What do you love most about London?

The most iconic thing about London is the people, it’s what makes London. I think if you say a landmark, everyone knows the Big Ben, the rivers, the bridges, but I think what makes London London are the people who are Londoners. I think London is about food, it’s about South and East. I’m a East Londoner living in West London. There are so many pockets in London. It’s like the 50 American states. America  very different, it’s is like a different country within a different state. If you really experience London, it’s similar to the American geography. It has such diversity. The west end isn’t like North London. A lot of people that come to London think they have experienced London by only visiting the West End but London has more than that.

What is the one London thing you cannot live without?

The one thing I cannot live without in London, is the diversity of bars and people which makes London. I am a social person and London is a social place so what makes London so cool is all the bars and all the restaurants. We are the most serious nation when It comes to food; we are a foodie Capital. We are supported by Hotels and when people visit London, they want a good hotel, a good restaurant and a great Hairdresser. In that order, which is quite interesting. They want to know what is the hip place. Croatia and Moscow are not a destination places. But London is a place you go to. The hotel will tell you were to go.

Visit Errol’s website

Nominations for 2012 are due to open in February so if you are a business owner, a PR and Marketing professional or are simply recommending one of your favourite lifestyle businesses or venues, send us an email info@londonlifestyleawards.com and we’ll pop along and see what makes it great! Let’s start getting excited and spreading the word… London Lifestyle Awards 2012!

Nov 26-Dec 24

London Zoo, Outer Circle, Regent’s Park, London, NW1 4RY

London’s very own reindeer herd takes up residence at London Zoo’s new Reindeer Lodge in the run-up to Christmas. Rudolph, Dancer, Prancer and Blitzen will be taking a daily walk around the zoo and visitors will be able to pet the reindeer in their enclosure. Other wintry attractions include feeding time for 70 penguins at Penguin Beach and a chance to meet Santa. Reindeer Lodge tickets must be purchased in addition to zoo admission.

http://www.zsl.org/

Skate at Somerset House

Until Jan 22 2012

Somerset House, The Strand, London, WC2R 1LA

The grand courtyard at Somerset House provides this 900-metre-square ice rink with one of the most impressive skating backdrops in town. The skate school offers lessons for beginners and there are special sessions for children and disabled people, as well as late-night skates and club nights (Thur-Sat) with DJs. Big Ice Dance workouts, led by English National Ballet, are a chance to warm-up off the ice before taking part in an ice dance lesson. The Christmas tree is again decorated by Tiffany’s, this year taking its inspiration from carousel animals, and hosts family storytelling sessions with children’s authors on selected days in December. There’s also the Tiffany shop, selling festive cakes and sweets, as well as ornaments and gifts. Tom’s Skate Lounge, a rinkside bar and lounge open to both ticket and non ticket holders, serves drinks and snacks throughout the day.

Daily 10am-10pm

£10.50-£15, children £7.50-£8.50; see the website for details of club nights and other events

www.somersethouse.org.uk

Aldwych Underground Station Tour

Nov 25-Dec 4

London Transport Museum, Covent Garden Piazza, London, WC2E 7BB

A rare chance to tour the disused Aldwych underground station. Originally named Strand, the station became a public air raid shelter during the Blitz and is now mostly used for training and as a location for films such as ‘Atonement’ and ‘V for Vendetta’. The station has no working lift and 160 stairs to the platform. Not suitable for children under 16 or anyone with breathing or walking difficulties. Booking essential.

10am-3.30pm

£20, concs £15 (includes day pass to London Transport Museum)

http://www.ltmuseum.co.uk

Free From Food Festival

Nov 25-27

Southbank Centre Square, Belvedere Rd, London, SE1 8XX

A new food festival promoting ‘free from’ food specialists and artisan producers who create products that are free from gluten, wheat, dairy, sugar and egg. Producers are on hand to give talks and demonstrations. There’s also Christmas produce for sale.

Fri, Sat 11am-8pm, Sun 11am-6pm

www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Winter Wonderland- Hyde Park

18.11.11-03.01.12

Hyde Park will be full of various rides and attractions including a Giant Observational Wheel and two circuses – ‘Christmas Circus’ and ‘Cirque Extreme’ – from the family-friendly Zippos Circus and Winter Wonderland’s ice rink. While some activities are ticketed, it’s worth noting that entry to the site is free!  There is a bar/restaurant, the Spiegel Saloon, with live entertainment every night.

http://www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/attractions

Leonardo da Vinci: Painter at the Court of Milan

Until 05.02.12, National gallery

The exhibition will be the most complete display of Leonardo da Vinci’s rare surviving works. This unprecedented exhibition – the first of its kind anywhere in the world – brings together sensational international loans never before seen in the UK. While numerous exhibitions have looked at Leonardo da Vinci as an inventor, scientist or draughtsman, this is the first to be dedicated to his aims and techniques as a painter. Inspired by the recently restored National Gallery painting, The Virgin of the Rocks, this exhibition focuses on Leonardo as an artist.

http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/

The Enchanted Woodland

Nov 18-Dec 4- Syon House

Guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit! The arboretum is decked with coloured lights, creating an atmospheric winter path which can be walked in around an hour, past many species of trees and a frosty lake. Refreshments are on sale in The Refectory in the Garden Centre.

http://www.syonpark.co.uk/

Postmodernism: Style and Subversion 1970-1990

Until Jan 15-V&A

Of all movements in art and design history, postmodernism is perhaps the most controversial. This era defies definition, but it is a perfect subject for an exhibition. It was visually thrilling, a multifaceted style that ranged from the colourful to the ruinous, the ludicrous to the luxurious.

http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/exhibitions/postmodernism/

Warren Ellis: Captured Ghosts

To promote the UK premier of the film ‘Warren Ellis: Captured Ghosts’ a Patrick Meaney film the cult writer, Warren Ellis makes a rare public appearance on Saturday the 12th of November at the Bishopsgate Institute where he will be interviewed by Lenny Henry before the premiere of a documentary about his life & writings. Tickets are available for £8.

12.11.11- 7pm onwards Bishopsgate Institute, 230 Bishopsgate, London

Lord Mayor’s Show and Fireworks

The Lord mayor’s show is going ahead as usual this year, with a small change to the route due to protest camp at St. Paul’s Cathedral. The Lord Mayor’s procession sets off from Guildhall at 11am and travels down to Mansion House then crosses the City via Bank and St Pauls to deliver the new Lord Mayor to the Royal Courts of Justice on the Strand at about 12.40. While the Lord Mayor pledges loyalty in the ancient ceremony, the procession re-forms for the return leg, which sets off down the Embankment at 1pm and finishes back at Mansion House around 2.30. At 3pm The City of London’s Guide Lecturers are providing free walking tours of the area. They set off from Number 1 Poultry, which is at the end of Cheapside and very near Mansion House, and they will deliver you to the river in plenty of time for the fireworks.

12.11.11- 11am onwards!

Discover Dogs

Discovery Dogs is held on the 12th and 13th of November at Earls court. The exhibition allows visitors to meet and greet over 200 breeds of dogs, learning all about the different personalities, traits and appearances of different breeds and have the opportunity to chat to their knowledgeable breeders. The exhibition also provides a variety of dog related shopping opportunities!

Earls Court- Sat-Sun 10am-5pm, £11 adult, £8 Children

Opening of the Covent Garden Christmas

The 10th of November marks the opening of Covent Garden Christmas. The market building will be decorated with giant red baubles and mirror balls, with festoon lighting illuminating the market arches. The market will be bookended by a British-grown Christmas tree on the West Piazza and a 15-foot-high topiary reindeer on the East Piazza. On Saturdays from 12pm till 5pm London choirs will sing traditional Christmas carols and visitors can meet the reindeer!

10.11.11-4.01.12

Opening of The Dazzle Exhibition

Dazzle exhibition is the oldest and largest jewellery show case in Europe featuring a huge selection from a variety of European designers to promote new talent. The Dazzle exhibition will open on the 7th of November at the National Theatre in South Bank and will exhibit exciting new designers as well as some familiar faces. Dazzle is offering a 15 per-cent discount on purchases to anyone born in 1981 to mark its 30th anniversary!

Opening times are from 9.30am-10pm Monday-Saturday

BATTERSEA PARK

Join the crowds for the Battersea Park fireworks display at one of London’s flagship fireworks events.

Marvel at an impressive display of fireworks at Battersea Park on Saturday 5th November 2011, promising Bonfire Night festivities for young and old in one of South London’s most picturesque parks. Expect traditional Guy Fawkes fun all evening at a first rate fireworks display event.
A programme of entertainment and activities will feature at the Battersea Park fireworks display, with plenty in store to keep the crowds entertained. Battersea Park will be alive with activity during a night of stunning pyrotechnics, family fun, a bonfire and traditional attractions.
The 2011 Battersea Park fireworks display promises something special for visitors of all ages, lighting up the skies of Battersea Park with a dazzling show of light and colour. Expect huge crowds on the night in one of London’s biggest and most popular annual events. Food and drink is available to buy on the night and a licensed bar is also on the premises for a drink or two.
If past events are anything to go by this year’s Battersea Park fireworks display is guaranteed to be one to remember, promising spectacular sights and sounds during an evening of Guy Fawkes fun. Londoners are welcome to visit Battersea Park and get involved this November.

The Battersea Park fireworks display takes place on Saturday 5th November 2011 with the bonfire lit at 7.30pm and fireworks due to start at 8pm.

Advance tickets cost £6.00 for adults, while kids under 10 years old go free. Admission on the gate costs £10.00 for adults.

BROCKWELL PARK

The Brockwell Park fireworks display promises to deliver something special for 2011 in one of south London’s biggest firework display events.
Locals from Brixton, Herne Hill and surrounding areas will be out in force to celebrate Guy Fawkes in traditional, festive style. Join the crowds for lively firework fun and prepare for some serious oohs and aahs as things go off with a bang.
Following last year’s event at Clapham Common, the Brockwell Park fireworks display is the 2011 free display being organised by Lambeth council. All are invited to turn up and enjoy the show this November at what is sure to be a memorable 2011 Guy Fawkes event.
Visitors to the Brockwell Park fireworks display will be treated to a suitably spectacular show of pyrotechnics, setting the skies ablaze in traditional Guy Fawkes style. Children and adults can make the most of a perennially popular fireworks event this year.
The action will be kicking off at Brockwell Park in November, giving you the chance to gear up for a night of firework fun and games on November 5th itself. Prepare for an evening of top flight firework action in the heart of south London.

Brockwell park fireworks display takes place on Saturday 5th November 2011. The funfair and food stalls are available from 4pm, and the display itself starts at 8pm.

CRYSTAL PALACE

Celebrate a time honoured tradition at the Crystal Palace fireworks display, as the night sky is lit up with crackling and sparkling pyrotechnics for the 406th Bonfire Night.
Get ready for fizzes, bangs and pops at the Crystal Palace fireworks display, which actually features not one but two fireworks events for young and old alike. While the main fireworks display starts at 8.30pm, there’s a smaller display earlier on at 7pm for young children who might not be old enough to burn the midnight oil just yet.
As well as the two fireworks displays, Crystal Palace Park is also playing host to a family funfair where kids can try out a variety of exciting rides. Traditional food and drink is also available at the Crystal Palace fireworks display, including autumnal treats such as a hog roast.

The Crystal Palace fireworks display takes place on Saturday 5th November 2011. The family funfair runs from 5pm – 10pm, the children’s fireworks display starts at 7pm and the main display begins at 8.30pm.

Adult tickets cost £5.00; children aged 5 – 13 cost £3.00, and kids under 5 go free. There is limited car parking at the Crystal Palace fireworks display, although visitors are advised to use public transport if possible.

SOUTHWARK

Get your sparklers at the ready as the Southwark fireworks display explodes onto Southwark Park in a cacophony of sights and sounds. With free entry and a family friendly atmosphere, the Southwark fireworks display is always one of the most popular London displays so if you’re nearby and looking for somewhere to go this is a great Bonfire Night choice.
The Southwark fireworks display is nicely traditional too, as it actually takes place on Bonfire Night itself, November the 5th. In addition to the host of Roman candles, waterfalls, comets and mortars, the Southwark fireworks display will have family entertainment that includes a little funfair that’s sure to keep the kids well entertained. The event will also have plenty of food stalls too, making sure you’re kept well fed and warm for when the display starts.
Possibly the best thing about this display is that those lovely people at Southwark Council have ensured it remains free of charge for another year. So dig out those hats and gloves, wrap up warm and head to a great fireworks display knowing full well you won’t be charged on the door. The event starts at 6pm, but the fireworks don’t start until 7pm so make sure you’ve picked yourself a prime spot by then – you won’t want to miss any of the great show.

The Southwark Fireworks Display takes place at Southwark Park. The entertainment starts at 6pm, with the fireworks display beginning at 7pm. Admission is free. The nearest tube is Canada Water.

***The Thirteen Ghosts of Gruesome Greenwich ***

Two evenings of Halloween-inspired performance by Phantasmagoria Events, taking in ghost hunting with London Paranormal, haunted history walks, The Original London Ghost Festival, Revolting Skoolz walks, Theatre of Blood shows and living history performances, taking place in an atmospheric Jacobean mansion. The event is unsuitable for under-12s.

www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk

***Halloween Screamings at the Round chapel, Hackney***

From the creators of the Rooftop Film Club comes a brand new film experience especially for Halloween! Prepare to be scared as they unleash three classic horror movies in a real life church! It is time to get seriously spooked and feel the suspense as we screen the Holy Grail of horror movies; a film which claims to be the scariest movie of all time ‘The Exorcist’ on Friday, then the satanic ‘The Omen’ on Sunday and then the grand finale on Halloween night itself with the 1978 classic ‘Halloween’!

http://www.experiencecinema.com/

***Buried Alive Ball***

Try being in a better location than the tombs at London Bridge this Halloween. This immersive event takes in performers, cabaret, an unlimited bar, a banquet and more and is centred around the theme ‘The Deadly Seduction of The Orient’. Plus stay on late to experience their extreme after-dark experience, Photophobia, with their own take on the ‘Human Centipede’. Just horrible. Proceeds go to the London Bridge Experience Foundation.

www.buriedaliveball.com

*** 2.8 Days later***

This participatory Halloween zombie chase game starts from a secret location near Tower Bridge, where those taking part will be given the first location to hunt for clues, encountering marauding zombies along the way. Each subsequent location gets participants one step closer to Resistance HQ – and the Zombie Disco

2.8hourslater.com

***Halloween Haunted house Party***

The ghouls and ghosties of the spirit world are descending on downtown Soho Zebrano Bars this Saturday night for the ultimate haunted house Halloween party. Best fancy dress wins an £100 bar tab. Do you dare to join us?

http://www.zebrano.uk.com/

Preparations for the awards started back in February and we have been working hard for all our nominee’s ever since.

On the day of the awards Team LLA headed down to the River Bank Plaza. Job one of the day was goody bags!

We had an amazing team of interns helping us to make up 500 goody bags for all our guests. The lovely Boohoo.com kindly provided us with bags and our star team of interns made a glam production line to fill them to the brim with treats.

After a spot of lunch which included a bucket full of chocolate, sweets and crisps the girls were put into ‘teams’ that included Celebrity team, Goody Bag Team, Team AV and Trophy team.

The rest of the day consisted of sound checks with our host Greg Burns, and celebrity run through of the awards and presenters with the celebrity team. We had to ensure everything was perfect.

When every detail was prepared and perfected it was time to chill and get glam! (Whilst eating pizza!) Nine girls getting ready in one room makes for A LOT of hairspray and bronzer!

At 6.30pm all teams took their places ready for awards to start. Guests and celebrities started to ascend into the hotel lobby and were escorted up to the Thames suite for a cocktail and champagne drinks reception… ready to be seated for a mouth-watering 3-course dinner.

Once everyone was seated; dinner was served. Guest tucked into a Tomato & Basil tart with goats cheese to start, followed by Oriental Five Spice Duck Breast with noodles, vegetables and a sweet chilli jus, topped off with a chocolate and raspberry tart with vanilla cream for dessert.

Once dessert was eaten, our host Greg Burns took the stage…It was show time!

After all the awards had been presented to all our deserving winners it was party time, Contemporary Pianist Clifford Slapper was accompanied by the Hackney Heroine Pauline Pearce who sang her heart out to Wonderful World, followed by a DJ set by Rusty Egan who set the tone for the after-party.

Once guests had grabbed their goody bags they bundled into cabs to our official London Lifestyle Award After Party in the heart of Soho at Zebrano Ganton Street where they danced until dawn to celebrate the City we love.
Team LLA finally called it a night at 3am and were back in the office bright eyed and bushy tailed at 9am ready to start planning next years event.. With the help of bacon sandwiches and a few alkaselters to hand.

We would also like to thank Roger Constant Lemaire Champagne who provided our special guests with gorgeous ice cold bubbly that tickled our taste buds in our Thames suite drinks reception.

Our guests also were treated to a bag full of goodies at the end of the evening. We’d like to thank Boohoo.com for supplying the goody bags, Danmade Party Sparklers, Quick Beverages shots, Tea pigs, Pure Package Vouchers for meal diet, Skinny Water, Organic Energy Drink, Kinder Bueno, Chocoholics chocolate bar, OK Magazine, McQueens friendship cards, 77 Ways To Reshape your life’ by Jean- Pierre De Villiers, Elite Club members card, Pure Package vouchers, The London Company stickers and Magnets, 4711 Cool Sticks, Sweet Breath and Trevor Sorbie Beautiful Volume Dry Shampoo.

Also included in the bags were vouchers for use on LyncMeUp a fantastic daily deals site that gives great offers to Londoners and those living in the United Kingdom.

Finally a massive thank you to everyone that joined us for this special evening to celebrate a city that we all know and love so well!

Congratulations to all our deserving winners.. see you next year!

Green Contribution to London
WINNER: Barclays Cycle Hire
Runners Up
Go Green Car
Green Tomato Cars

London Fashion Retailer of the Year
WINNER: Bolongaro Trevor
Runners Up
Mark Powell Bespoke Tailoring
Jeffery West
Lucy in Disguise

London Coffee Shop of the Year
WINNER: Benugo Café and Deli
Runners Up
Bar Italia
The Haberdashery

London Hotel of the Year
WINNER: Sanctum Soho Hotel
Runners Up
The Dorchester
Rafayel Hotel and Spa

London Cultural Attraction of the Year
WINNER: Victoria and Albert Museum
Runners Up
St Paul’s Cathedral
Regent’s Park Open Air Open Theatre

London Sports Attraction of the Year
WINNER: MINT Polo in the Park presented by Captive Minds
Runners Up
Lords Cricket Ground
Urban Golf
All England Lawn Tennis Club

London Health and Fitness Facility of the Year
WINNER: The Third Space
Runners Up
River Wellbeing Spa
Soho Gyms

London Live Music Venue of the Year
WINNER: Hootananny
Runners Up
The o2
Dover Street Restaurant Jazz Wine Bar Club

London Theatre Show of the Year
WINNER: The Lion King
Runners Up
Wizard of Oz
Mamma Mia

London Hairdresser of the Year
WINNER: Errol Douglas
Runners Up
MACS Salon
Stuart Phillips
Ian Carmichael at Royston Blythe

London Restaurant of the Year
WINNER: Searcys Portrait Restaurant
Runners Up
Quo Vadis
Aqua Nueva

London Concierge Company of the Year
WINNER: Quintessentially
Innerplace
Bon Vivant

London Bar of the Year
WINNER: McQueen
The Hoxton Pony
Artisan & Vine

London Club of the Year
WINNER: PUBLIC
Merah
The Roof Gardens

London Member’s club of the Year
WINNER: Home House
Morton’s Club
Eight Members Club

Outstanding Contribution to London
WINNER: Christopher Moran
Really Useful Group
The o2

London Beauty Salon and Spa of the Year
WINNER: Taylor Taylor London
Independent MindBodySoul
MACS Salon

London Personality of the Year
WINNER: Caroline Monk
Nick Ede
Zoe Griffin
Daniel Priestly

1) Why do you love London?

Nothing compares to London, it’s such an active and alive place. When I was recovering from Breast Cancer the chemotherapy made me have sleepless nights, to deal with this I’d just jump on a bus and go somewhere. London is so welcoming, it’s a peoples place and I love it!

2) What is your favourite area of London?

I’m originally from Hertfordshire, however I moved to Hackney seven years ago for love. I used to visit Hackney when I was younger, and was drawn to the musical connections. I have also found that Ridley market is the best place ever; it’s a working man’s market, full of great characters. It’s a place where everyone talks to everyone and full of the friendliest people I’ve ever come across.

3) What is your favourite London memory?

It was on my 18^th birthday and my Mum and Dad took me to Sheppard’s Bush for a day of shopping. I remember we went to an ice-cream parlour and I tasted tutti-frutti flavoured ice-cream for the first time! It was delicious! When we got back home to Hertfordshire, we all sat by the TV with these huge tubs of ice-cream. It was like dying and going to heaven.

4) What is your favourite meal?

I have a favourite Turkish restaurant in Mare Street where they serve the best chicken kebab ever! Although I enjoy cooking myself and my signature Jamaican dish is Callaloo Fritters which all my family and friends simply can’t live without! The foundation of Callaloo Fritters is green leaves and vegetables such as Indian Kale or ordinary spinach.

5) If you were Boris for the day what would you do?

If I were Boris for the day, I would come to Hackney and see the results of the riots. Hackney is the poorest borough in London, and we haven’t had anyone come and visit us, which I find disrespectful. David Cameron said let’s “hug a hoodie” however there has not been any hugging going on here since the riots. Therefore if I were Boris, I would focus on, what I call the “baby Mothers and baby Fathers.” These are the people who are seen as “outside” who have been brought up in difficult social environments and therefore need looking after. I would introduce programmes for these people who, although they cannot read or write, are still very skilled people. We need to nurture uneducated people to keep them out of trouble.

6) What is your favourite London landmark?

It has to be the London Eye although I’m scared of heights, however one day I’ll conquer my phobia. I am also a water person so love the back water canals in East London. It’s the part of London that reminds me of Hertfordshire, I cannot describe what I see and how I feel when I am there. The sky turns into a thousand different colours which truly takes me breath away.

7)  What thing about London could you not live without?

That’s a hard question, there are so many things I can’t live without. However I’ll have to say Ridley Market in Hackney is one place I could not live without. You can pick up a whole outfit for £5 and it’s brand new. I love the place.

Aqua Spirit
Artisan & Vine
Gherkin
McQueen
Paramount
Proud (Camden)
Purl London
Quo Vadis
The Rooftop at The Sanctum
St Pancras Grand Brassiere & Champagne Bar
The Dover Street Restaurant & Bar
The Hoxton Pony

Club

Altitude
Bond
Embassy
Movida
McQueen
Merah Club
Public
The Box Club
The Roof Gardens

Members Club

Adam Street Private Members Club
Eight Members Club
Home House
Marton’s Club
Quo Vadis
Crazy Bear
The Hospital Club
Union Club

Restaurants

Aqua Nueva
Bennett Oyster Bar
Cinnamon Kitchen and Anise
Daphne’s
Geales Restaurant
Grand Brasserie and Champagne Bar
Kyashii Restaurant, Brasserie and Lounge
Layalina
McQueen
Paramount
Quo Vadis
The Rivington Grill
The National Portrait Gallery, Searcys

Coffee Shops

Bar Italia
Benugo cafe & Deli
Jack’s Tea & Coffee House
Konditor & Cook
Napket
PATISSERIE VALERIE
Wafflemeister
The Haberdashery Fashion Retailer

Ad Hoc
Gieves and Hawkes
Jeffery West
Quontum
Udeshi
Twenty8Twelve
Lucy In Disguise
Mark Powell
Bolongaro Trevor

Hairdressers

Errol Douglas
Leticia Haute Coiffure
MACS Salon
Stuart Phillips
Ian Carmicheal
Taylor Taylor London

Hotels

The Dukes Hotel
The Goring
Rassison Edwardian Hampshire Hotel
Hotel Rafayel
The Sanctum Soho
The Dorchester
W Hotel

Beauty Salon

Antara Salon
Independent Mindy|Body|Soul
Leticia Haute Coiffure
MACS Salon
Taylor Taylor London

Theatre

Billy Elliot
Dirty Dancing
Jersey Boys
Les Miserables
The Lion King
Priscilla Queen Of The Dessert
We Will Rock You
Wicked
The Wizard Of Oz
Mamma Mia

Concierge

Bon Vivant
Cushion The Impact
The Fixer Concierge
Ten Lifestyle
Elect Club Ltd
Personal Time Saver Ltd
Innerplace
Quintessentially
Sincura

Outstanding Contribution

Open Air Theatre Regents Park
Notting Hill Carnival (M2K)
The o2
Barclay Cycle Hire – TFL
The Big Issue
Cameron Mackintosh – Theatre Producers
Really Useful Group
Shaftesbury PLC
Capital FM’s Help a Capital Child.
Christopher Moran Sports Attraction

The Docklands Sailing & Watersports Centre
Mint Polo in the Park
Lord’s Cricket Ground
The Hurlingham Club
Twickenham Stadium
All England Club
Urban Golf

Health & Fitness

Club Kensington
Good Vibes Fitness
Soho Gyms
Spa at Hotel Rafayel
The Chelsea Club
The Third Space

Cultural Attraction

Kensington Gardens (Historical Royal Places)
Notting Hill Carnival (M2K)
Open Air Theatre
Southbank Centre
St Pauls Cathedral
The Tower of London
Trafalgar Square
Victoria & Albert Museum

Music Venue

Hootananny Brixton
The Dover Street Restaurant & Bar
Koko
McQueen
Ronnie Scott’s
Proud (Camden)
The Borderline
The O2
C.A.M.P

Personality Of the Year

Caroline Monk
Zoe Griffin
Daniel Priestley
Eric Yu
Mark Fuller
Rick Parfitt Junior
Mark Powell
Boris Johnson
Henry Conway
Nick House
Nick Ede
Guy West

Green Contribution

Barclay Cycle Hire – TFL
Food From The Sky
Green Tomato Cars
Pod Food
Go Green Cars
London Bio Packaging

1.       Why do you love London?

I’m a West Londoner through and through and am so proud I was raised in one of the greatest cities in the world. I felt included and at ease especially as I was first generation of my family to be born here. I love London’s eclectic mix of cultures and nationalities.

2.       Which is your favourite area of London?

I like different areas for different reasons. My gran often used to take me to Shepherds Bush market on the 207 bus to get her West Indian food and provisions. It was exciting and fun hearing the market stall owners cry out for business and hear her haggle for a better price. I also spent a lot of time around South Kensington and Hyde Park with friends. And then I was obsessed with Notting Hill and Portobello Market for clothes and nik naks.

3.       What was your earliest London memory?

My granddad and mum took my sister to the Science museum when we were little. What I remember mostly was the excitement of being on the Underground system and standing on the escalators! Mental. Since then I love London transport especially when the trains are working properly! I have an oyster card and like the fact I do my part to protect the environment!

4.       What was your favourite London meal?

London has some of the greatest restaurants in the world and I love Hakkasan by Tottenham Court Road and also The Wolseley by Green Park.

But at the end of the day to get a great meal in London you don’t have to pay top dollar! Ochi in Shepherds Bush is amazing for takeaway Caribbean food and I always catch a few jokes with the customers and staff when I go in there. I remember one occasion when I was taken to the famous Wong Kei’s restaurant in Soho years back – food was great but the waiters are so rude its funny!

5.       What was your favourite London night out?

My best friend Ortis (Gadget Show) and I used to go to 10 Rooms every Monday and shock out to all the latest RnB and Dance tunes! It was wicked! Club CC was also a favourite. Man we used to party!

6.       What is your favourite London memory?

My mum was so strict and didn’t let my sister and I do anything but we’d often sneak out with an alibi and go and see our friends all over London.

I think I’ve been to nearly every single underground station in London. I loved it the first time I went to the Notting Hill Carnival though. I wanted to be on a float so bad!

7.       What would you do if you were Boris for a day?

I’d properly live the life of a struggling working-class family for a day (and night) and THEN go back to the office and formulate policy.

8.       Which is your favourite London landmark?

Houses of Parliament. Bit random but I did work experience there when I was younger and my dad works there now.

There’s so much history about the place and love going in there for events and to meet my dad for lunch on the odd occasion!

9.       What advice would you give to visitors to London?

There’s so much to see so you’ll need to come back for more than one visit. You can’t do it all in trip.

Maybe I should be part of London’s economy team!

10.   Where do you find to relax in London?

Richmond Park is great for relaxing. I’ve run around the park 100’s of times in training for the London Marathon and numerous half marathons.

On a hot summers day it’s great for walks and deer spotting. Another reason why I love London – you can enjoy the hustle and bustle but at the same time find pockets of peace when you want it!

11.   Which fashion shop could you not live without?

Question Air in Wimbledon Village. I love the guys who run the store and I always leave with a new purchase!

12.   Describe your perfect day in London?

Early morning walk around Richmond Park, breakfast at Mr Toms in Notting Hill, Bit of shopping at Westfield Shopping Centre, afternoon tea with friends at my house then a bit of a rest and then Nobu for dinner finished off with non-alcoholic cocktails at The Mayfair Hotel. Please bear in mind I’m pregnant and I write this knowing that my tastebuds change everyday and this is what I feel like as I type! Ask me tomorrow and it could be a different story!

Written by Nick Ede

I am a huge fan of eating out in London and have over the years begun to really enjoy trying out lots of different venues. My favourite place to eat for an intimate dinner is Andrew Edmonds – the food is delicious, rustic and it just has a brilliant atmosphere. Geales in Notting Hill is a real favourite of mine as I am a Fish and Chip fanatic  – the service, ambience and fish are fantastic and I make sure I have an excuse to go there as much as possible. Its owned by the brilliant Mark Fuller who is a dear friend, he took it on a few years ago but the premises has been around since the early 1900’s ( a bit like me and Mark!)

I do have to mention Babylon at the Roof Gardens in Kensington. Not only does it have perfect views of London but the food is delicious and the club is one of the best in London. I went there with Sarah Harding and Tom Crane and we have had so much spotting the flamingoes and the cocktails are too good!

London has so many brilliant places to eat and too many for me to name by name but when you live somewhere like Shoreditch there is a whole host of eateries just waiting to be discovered. On a Sunday you can find me at my local – The Cat and Mutton, its a brilliant gastro pub just off London Fields and I go there most Sundays for the best roast in London!

My final favourite has to be the Gilbert Scott which is at the St Pancras Hotel, Michael Winner recently blasted the cuisine but  I went there for dinner with Mel B to celebrate her getting the Australian X Factor job! Marcus Waring is a culinary genius and on the night the venue was packed with A Listers including Stephen Fry, Ricky Gervais and Sir David Frost so I fitted in perfectly! The Kendal Mint Cake desert is something from Heaven!

So all in London is quite simply the best place to eat cuisine from all over the world. Every week a new eaterie is popping up and this makes it exciting and surprising at the same time. With the Olympics around the corner im sure more and more will be opening …..and that means more tasting for me…..

Last night saw the finalists of the 18 awarding categories brought together all in one place for our ‘Shortlist Drink Soiree’. Held at the Yacht Member’s Club on Temple Pier, the shortlisted businesses and personalities got together to network and sip personalised ‘London Light’ Miller’s Gin cocktails.

The shortlisted candidates smoozed together and shared their love for London whilst taking in the breathtaking river views of our fabulous city.

London Lifestyle Award cupcakes satisfied even the sweetest of tooth and a ’do it yourself’ Pick and mix provided a cheeky sugar rush for all those onboard.

This exclusive party was just a taster of the main event to crown THE best businesses and personalities in London to be held in the glamorous River Bank Plaza on the 6^th October.

All shortlisted companies and our celebrity friends are snapping up exclusive award tickets fast but you too can join us to celebrate and experience this dazzling evening of celebration and entertainment. Click here to purchase tickets now!

http://londonlifestyleawards.com/london/buy-tickets.html

My name is Caroline Monk but everyone calls me Monkey. I love London to bits and have done since I moved here. I arrived here in 2000 after a 5 year stint in Ibiza and find them both very similar. What I really appreciate is a diverse mixture of really adventurous, creative, fun people all living together to create a really exciting buzz. The opportunities here are amazing. I’ve worked as a Showbiz and Music PR and Closer Magazine columnist and had the most incredible experiences (some I can’t mention:-) I’ve worked as Elvis’s PR although he was dead at the time and the gigs I’ve been to have been awesome. The Roundhouse has gotta be my favourite venue at the moment and seeing Alice Cooper there last Halloween was top of my list.

I now work as a Celebrity Liaison Manager for The Variety Club’s Children’s Charity in vibrant Camden and get to meet all the cool celebrities that give up their time to help others. My favourite haunts to go celebrity hunting are Home House Members Club, Sanctum Soho, The Ivy Club and Soho House as well as my local pubs in Primrose Hill and Hampstead like The Engineer, The Landsdowne and The Stag.

You can never get bored of anything in London. There are so many amazing restaurants to try. My favourite kind of night would be meeting friends at Zilly Fish for dinner and some gorgeous wine followed by a few cocktails in Home House’s garden and then ending up on the rooftop of Sanctum Soho till the early hours rocking out with bands.

I’m really proud to be a Londoner. I live and breathe this place and know there is so much more I haven’t yet experienced so bring it on…

Caroline Monk

Celebrity Liaison Manager

Variety Club Children’s Charity

Follow me on Twitter

After the recent days of rioting, we’ve seen people who love London fight back by picking up their brooms for the London Clean Up project. If you couldn’t make it, why not show your support and head down to Carnaby Street on Saturday 13^th August from 10am – 2pm? Our film crew will be talking to you all about why you love London. We have a few of our celebrity friends popping along to tell us why they Love London- come and tell us why YOU do too..

Written by guest blogger Zoe Griffin

When I tell people I am a showbiz journalist, the second question they ask me is ‘what cool parties have you been to’? The first question is always ‘who’s the most famous person you’ve met’?

Both these questions are subjective – I have a soft spot for David Hasslehoff but nobody else seems to care that I’ve met him numerous times. I’ve met Brad Pitt a couple of times but I have to admit he’s not as gorgeous as I imagined him to be. For me, the coolest non-Baywatch related people are musicians. Nothing beats the thrill of watching a gig in an iconic London venue – whether that’s Proud or The Brixton Academy or The o2 and then being invited to party with the band afterwards.

The Brit Awards are good because you can choose from numerous after-parties but everyone knows there are media around so they never completely relax. The Ivor Novello Awards are better because they’re at lunchtime and daytime drinking relaxes everyone and makes us all forget our inhibitions. But I will always remember MY NIGHT WITH PRINCE. (I’m still so excited about this that I want to shout it in capital letters).

It was the final night of Prince’s 21 day residency at the o2 in September 2007. I watched the gig from a private box, which is an experience in itself. Even a Steps concert would be bearable if you had a box at the o2! There were a few cool famous people in the box including Naomi Campbell and Matthew Williamson but we were all transfixed to Prince. In fact, I’ve rarely seen Naomi smile so much!

After the show, I found myself following the gang to Prince’s dressing room where he shook my hand and said thanks for coming. He thanked ME? In the corner of the room, Amy Winehouse had her back to the room and was doing some vocal warm-ups because she was performing at the official after-party. I have to hand it to Amy, RIP, when she was focussed she was focussed.

Prince’s gang sorted a table for us at the after-party and by 2am I was prepared to leave after losing my voice trying to sing along to Amy. But Prince announced he wanted to stay out. We all jumped into cars that were magically booked and waiting and arrived at Boujis nightclub for 230. Sadly the music was too loud for me to do anything other than smile at the musical legend sitting inched away from me, but how many people can say they’ve sat on a small nightclub table with a man that has the power to entertain a packed audience of 20,000 people just hours earlier?

The voting stage for the 2011 London Lifestyle Awards has   begun. Committee member Sinitta was the first to     celebrate London and cast her vote by stepping into the voting cab to pick her favourite London businesses and people in categories ranging from Best Bar to Outstanding contribution in London.

Sinitta said, “I am very excited to be on the committee for the London Lifestyle Awards and was delighted to be the first one able to cast my votes for the 2011 awards.  We live in such a fantastic city which offers a great lifestyle environment and over the years I have grown increasingly proud and appreciative of the range of lifestyle London has to offer.  The shortlist is full of great businesses and people who deserve our recognition that work so hard to keep the London Lifestyle one that should be celebrated. ”

Have your say and contribute towards the celebration of London and VOTE HERE

After a successful star studded evening held at the Riverbank Park Plaza last year, no one can wait to return for the 2011 award’s which will be held on October 6th.

The ceremony is a must for everyone’s social calendar! Who could blame them knowing that the opportunity to socialize with famous faces and business successes at a delicious drinks reception held in the luxurious Thames Suite. The glorious views of the River Thames and the city skyline only add to the magic of the evening. Following in true London style all guests are guided to the superbly elegant Riverbank Ballroom where a luscious three course dinner is just the start of an evening of nail biting suspense and excitement. Tickets are now available at tickets@londonlifestyleawards.com call 020 7160 2055.

See our committee on www.londonlifestyleawards.com/london/judges

Haven’t we been busy!
We have been absolutely delighted by the public’s response to nominate their favourite London lifestyle business or personality. At last count we had just touched 4,000 nominations trouncing last year’s total! Yet again the London public are really passionate about the businesses and people that make a huge difference to their own London lifestyle and make this the best city in the world to live in. In these difficult economic times it is massively important that the lifestyle in large cities and economic centres is the best it possibly can be in order to keep its public happy. These businesses provide aspirational experiences for us, where we can spend our hard earned money.

Congratulations to all who have been nominated…you all deserve the success and acknowledgment.

Everyone is aware of the historical landmarks that help to frame the London identity, but what of the contemporary attributes that may be overlooked by the history books? What of the shops, the bars and restaurants, the beauty salons and hairdressers, the theatres and coffee shops that are passed every day, never to be fully appreciated for what they bring to this magnificent city? This is the motivation behind the London Lifestyle Awards. So that the people of London can admire and honour the London businesses and landmarks that have helped London grow into what this city is today!

Because you’ve entered over 4500 nominations, we believe you agree too that the London lifestyle should be celebrated!

We are still accepting entry forms until 8^th July which can be downloaded from our home page . Our lovely committee members have started debating and deciding on the shortlist. On the 28th July the lucky few will be declared on www.londonlifestyleawards.com. Then it’s down to you to vote, vote, vote!

Our very own Emily Pain talks to Mark in the London Lifestyle Awards magazine about his life in London.

Covering our awarding categories – the Archant Life and London Lifestyle Awards contributors can finally pat themselves on the back and celebrate!

Over 300,000 magazines will be printed and circulated around London so make sure you put the kettle on and enjoy London and it’s lifestyle.

Special thanks go to the creator of the London Lifestyle Awards – Jason Gale, committee member Akashia Hoosein, Emily Pain, Archant Life’s Sharon Kirby, Mark Kebble and Olivia Wakefield, Personal Trainer – Jean – Pierre De Villiers and BBC’s London’s Joanne Good

Judging starts 15th June until 10th July

The Shortlist will be announced 28th July

Public Voting begins 28th July – 22nd September

Committee Members Review 15th July – 30th September

The London Lifestyle Awards 2011 will be held 6th October 2011 at the Riverbank Park Plaza

Cameron Mackintosh announced the full casting for the NEW MUSICAL COMEDY BETTY BLUE EYES, based on the Handmade Film “A PRIVATE FUNCTION” by ALAN BENNETT and MALCOLM MOWBRAY. BETTY BLUE EYES is the first original musical Cameron Mackintosh has produced in ten years.

Preview prices will be an austere £10 – £40 (£10 – £50 on weekends) and available from the Box Office 0844 482 5170 or www.bettyblueeyesthemusical.com

Joining the previously announced SARAH LANCASHIRE, who will play ‘Joyce’ and REECE SHEARSMITH who will play ‘Gilbert’ are ADRIAN SCARBOROUGH as ‘Wormold’, DAVID BAMBER as ‘Swaby’, JACK EDWARDS as ‘Allardyce’, ANN EMERY as ‘Mother Dear’ and MARK MEADOWS as ‘Lockwood’ and of course Betty the pig in the title role.

Adrian Scarborough can currently be seen in the critically acclaimed film “The King’s Speech”. Over Christmas he starred as ‘Mr Pritchard’, the butler in the BBC’s “Upstairs Downstairs”. His other television credits include ‘Pete’ in “Gavin and Stacey” and ‘Charlie’ in the latest series of the BBC’s “Miranda”. His other film credits include “Vera Drake”, “Notes on a Scandal”, “The History Boys”, “The Madness of King George” and “Gosford Park”. His extensive theatre credits include most recently lead roles in “After The Dance” and “The Habit of Art” at the National Theatre as well as many roles at the Almeida Theatre. David Bamber has also featured in “The King’s Speech” and he recently played Adolph Hitler in the film “Valkyrie”. His many stage credits include ‘Guy’ in “My Night With Reg” for which he won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor. His television credits include ‘Mr Collins’ in the hugely successful “Pride and Prejudice” and ‘Marcus Tullius Cicero’ in the HBO/BBC2 epic drama “Rome”. Jack Edwards was most recently seen in “Sweet Charity” at the Haymarket Theatre. His other West End theatre credits include ‘Nicely-Nicely Johnson’ in “Guys and Dolls” at the Piccadilly Theatre. Ann Emery is currently the West End’s longest running leading lady. Now in her ninth decade she has just completed 5 ½ years as the original ‘Grandma’ in Stephen Daldry’s “Billy Elliot”. In her fabulous career, she has also appeared at the National Theatre and featured in many West End shows as diverse as “My Fair Lady” and the original production of “Cats”. Mark Meadows recently appeared in “Mary Poppins”. His other theatre credits include “The Three Musketeers”, “High Society” and “White Christmas”.

Since playing the loveable ‘Raquel’ in “Coronation Street”, Sarah Lancashire has starred in many TV dramas. For the BBC she has appeared in “Clocking Off”, “Cherished”, “Five Daughters”, “Murder Most Horrid” and most recently “All The Small Things”. For ITV she has appeared in three series of “Where The Heart Is”, two series of “Rose and Maloney”, “Seeing Red”, and “The Cry”. For Channel 4 she played ‘Mary Miles’ in “Skins”. Sarah last appeared in the West End as ‘Miss Adelaide’ in “Guys and Dolls”. Reece Shearsmith first came to prominence by co-writing and starring in “The League of Gentlemen” on TV, film and stage. He is also co-writer and star of the BBC’s “Psychoville”. He has appeared as ‘Leo Bloom’ in “The Producers” and “Art” in the West End and was most recently seen in “Ghost Stories” at the Duke of York’s Theatre.

The company also includes Rachael Archer, James Barron, Dan Burton, Ian Conningham, Holly Dale-Spencer, Neil Ditt, Victoria Hay, Kirsty Hoiles, Chris Howell, Howard Jones, Robert Kershaw, Rebecca Louis, Andy Mace, Claire Machin, Laura Medforth, Annalisa Rossi, Hollie Taylor and Gemma Wardle.

Cameron Mackintosh said “I first read this musical about a year ago and immediately felt it was one of the funniest and most original pieces I had come across in years. I was already a great fan of Alan Bennett’s hilarious film “A Private Function” so I could see how brilliantly the American writers Ron Cowen and Daniel Lipman had adapted and extended the original, incorporating a joyously infectious score by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe.

When I agreed to produce “Betty” I certainly didn’t imagine that this unique musical tale set in 1947 would be so topical. From its opening number “Goodbye Austerity Britain”, with a Government mantra of “Fair Shares For All”, greedy local Councillors lauding it over a hungry belt-tightened population on rations, the worst winter in living memory and even a Royal Wedding (Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s!) time seems to have stood still. But most great stories are timeless and this one revolves around an adorable pig called Betty who is secretly being raised to be the main course at a very private function to celebrate the Royal Wedding. To find out what happens you need to trot to the Novello Theatre.”

Adapted from Alan Bennett and Malcolm Mowbray’s hilarious comic film “A Private Function”; a tale that centres around Betty, an adorable pig who is being illegally reared to ensure that the local dignitaries can celebrate the forthcoming Royal Wedding with a lavish banquet while everyone else makes do with Spam. This utterly British musical, full of eccentric characters, has a deliciously witty score by Stiles and Drewe, a marvellous cast of great British actors and, of course, Betty as Herself.

BETTY BLUE EYES has a book by Ron Cowen and Daniel Lipman adapted from an original story and the Alan Bennett /Malcolm Mowbray/Handmade film “A Private Function”. Music is by George Stiles and lyrics are by Anthony Drewe. It is directed by Richard Eyre with musical staging by Stephen Mear. Designed by Tim Hatley with lighting by Neil Austin and sound design by Mick Potter. The musical director is Richard Beadle, musical supervisor Stephen Brooker and orchestrations are by William David Brohn.

Goodbye winter, Hellooo Summer!!

Which businesses do you want to give a big hug to but simply never get round to doing it? Now is your chance to right that wrong. Nominate great lifestyle businesses in London that make your life in ‘the big smoke’ more relaxed, cultured, happier, tastier, funnier, sexier, hotter and simply MUCH more amazing.

Take a look at the categories and say thank you by nominating those special businesses. Then tell them all about it next time you visit them. We bet they love you right back. Spread the love.

Nominate by emailing emily@londonlifestyleawards.com or checking out venues on View London

London Bar if the Year

London Club of the Year

London Member’s Club of the Year

London Restaurant of the Year

London Hotel of the Year

London Fashion Retailer of the Year

London Coffee Shop of the Year

London Live Music Venue of the Year

London Beauty Salon / Spa of the Year

London Hairdressing Salon of the Year

London Health and Fitness Facility of the Year

London Sports Attraction of the Year

London Theatre Show of the Year

London Cultural Attraction of the Year

London Personality of the Year

London Concierge Company of the Year

Green Contribution to London

Outstanding Contribution to London

Cast your votes by emailing emily@londonlifestyleawards.com

See the London sights…

Book a trip on the London Eye with their special romantic packages including their Red Rose Experience where you will enjoy a 30 minute experience on the London Eye after dark, watching the London skyline as it lights up. The package also includes a romantic red rose and two luxury Charbonnel et Walker chocolates per couple.

Dine out in style…

The classic Valentine’s Day treat is to take your loved one for a nice candlelit dinner and London doesn’t disappoint for this. Our favourite options are

Gordon Ramsey at Claridge’s – arguably one of the best chefs in the country and the menu here doesn’t disappoint.

Le Café Anglais – Classic and affordable French cuisine in swanky surroundings in Bayswater.

Watch class acts…

Les Miserables – a moving masterpiece and a great one to win over your lady as romance is high.

Legally Blonde – every girl’s favourite if you want to miss the tear-jecker romance of other musicals…expect lots of pink!

Skate to love…

Somerset House ice rink – a favourite of the stars and perfect date night for this Valentine’s Day.

And on the other side of town the Naked Cowboy swapped the streets of New York for London City. Busking and providing entertainment to Londoners, the Naked Cowboy also bought along New York Bagels to snack on during the New York experience.

Now there really is no reason to leave London Town

People will be travelling from all over the globe to see the precious city of London. The boardwalk will bring a totally new experience, in taking in our breath taking surroundings, bringing a whole new relationship between the infamous Thames and our city, just like a magical experience of walking on air but water instead.

Although not yet funded, I wonder how the London Lifestyle Awards could help, especially since the international architecture firm, Gensler were shortlisted for best conceptual project prize at the Mayor’s London Planning Awards. Hmmmm keep a look out for what the team thinks.

Established artists were invited to create 20 second silent films to inspire and uplift commuters as part of the campaign. An open competition attracted some incredible and impressive submissions from aspiring film-makers to those already established. A video to note and look out for is ‘Maze’. The Maze stars The great British, Keira Knightley who acts in an adaptation from a film installation by Stuart Pearson Wright. He portrays an Elizabethan courtier trying to reach his lover, played by Keira, in a maze.”

A bit of joy to add to the day however is, not only is the wedding date an official Bank Holiday, now we have been told that pubs will be able to extend their licensing until 1am for 2 nights over the Royal Wedding – that means hours more fun for us all to get together and partake in the national celebration. London will be a busy day on April 29^th and we are proud to play host to William and Kate.

Our very own shortlisted “London Club of the Year 2010″, Maya reopened on Thursday 9th December. Located in 1a Dean Street, MAYA London is one of the capital’s most glamorous clubs and is located in one of the most desirable West End locations and we love it! But be careful, a friendly yet strict New York style door policy ensures that if you don’t look the part, you won’t get in. Lucky for us, we were dressed smart and rearing to enjoy a fantastic evening.

Covent Garden is boasting a fantastic bar launch as it saw the opening of Adventure Bar and Lounge which is a chain of bars attracting a young and friendly crowd. They offer a wide choice of cocktails and a lively, upbeat atmosphere. The music is for those who love to dance to party tunes – which we do!

We also found another little gem in Marylebone. Situated over two floors, The Grazing Goat offers a food menu of British dishes made using seasonal produce – delicious! A variety of beers, guest ales, world wines and cocktails are available to complement your meal – definitely worth a visit.

Now that’s why we love London…

We send a massive congratulations to these inspiring women whose work is making a contribution to London and its lifestyle.

EggMag is the free quarterly magazine that takes greener living ideas to the heart of London (and Brighton’s) popular culture. Needless to say, EggMag is printed on recycled paper using vegetable inks, by a low-alcohol, Carbon Neutral printers. The electricity supply to the EggMag office comes solely from renewable sources. You can also view EggMag content online – making it even more “greener”.

Rewardrobe is all about re-organising; they will empty your wardrobe and start from scratch. They’ll show you how to edit your clothes by sections and colours, how to fold and hang garments to preserve their shape, how to keep seasonal items in groups so that they are ready to find and easy to style – plus a whole lot of storage and product advice for your new natural and sustainable wardrobe management.

We feel proud that these two businesses were shortlisted for “Best Green Contribution to London” at the London Lifestyle Award in 2010! Well done ladies!

London holds the dominant force with some of the best theatre shows around the globe. Our “Theatreland”, which has over forty venues, is considered to represent the highest level of commercial theatre in the English speaking world.

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET, is the award-winning new musical that tells the electrifying story of the night in 1956 when Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis came together to make music and ended up making history. It will open at London’s Noel Coward Theatre on 28th February 2011 with previews from 8 February 2011.Tickets will go on sale at 10.00am on 4th December 2010.

Currently playing on Broadway and in Chicago, MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET is inspired by the actual event that took place on 4th December 1956 at Sun Records in Memphis and features over 20 of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll, R&B and country hits ever written including: Blue Suede Shoes, I Walk The Line, Fever, Great Balls of Fire, Hound Dog, Folsom Prison Blues and Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’. On

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET is a story of fame, friendship, discovery, divided loyalties, professional jealousy and incredible music as four of the music industry’s most extraordinary talents, all in their creative prime, made music together for the first and only time in their careers.

A must see…

Have you seen the social pages in any of the Archant Life Magazine this month? The London Lifestyle Awards post event full page review is featured in 10 titles around London; The Green. The Grove, The Hill, SW, Angel, The Resident, The Guide, Living South, North West and Westside

The London Lifestyle Awards Network is a collection of forward thinking businesses and entrepreneurs who are working in the London lifestyle sector and actively celebrating London.

This new networking club is aimed at all of you; the good and the great of the lifestyle industries in London which allows leaders in the lifestyle area to work together and celebrate London all in one room. One person from each supplier industry can join whilst any number of night clubs, bars, theatres, restaurants, gyms and retailers can sign up and integrate with one another, looking at the prospective businesses in and around the London area.

Promoting the combined interests of all our lifestyle businesses, these informal meetings will take place every month and provide a platform for you to make new friends and build great business contacts.

Watch this space for more information…

With the huge success of the inaugural London Lifestyle Awards this year, the LLA team are proud to announce that we will be creating a London Lifestyle Awards Magazine for 2011 – watch this space for more details!

The 7^th October was the launch of the annual London Lifestyle Awards and what a fabulous evening it was!

On the night 500 guests, journalists, paparazzi, celebrities and the great and the good of the lifestyle industry turned up like a Tour de Force to help celebrate all the greatest achievements that London has to offer within the lifestyle sector.  The awards, presented by View London, were located within the plush surroundings of the Riverbank Park Plaza Hotel at Embankment and presented by Capital FM Drive Time DJ, Greg Burns. 

What made this award ceremony unique and unrivalled is that the nominations were made solely by the public for all the sixteen categories, much to the admiration of all the wonderful businesses and foundations that were shortlisted. 

London is the most exceptional, creative, diverse and inspirational cities in the world and the London Lifestyle Awards epitomized exactly that. With such a wide spectrum of awarding categories from London’s Best Hotel to Outstanding Contribution to London it highlighted how much London and its people have to offer and why it should be celebrated.

Following a selection of Tanqueray Gin’s sumptious cocktails at the drinks reception, dinner was served in the grand ballroom. It was three courses of sheer bliss on a plate. We started with a seafood terrine with fennel confit and balsamic essence. Main was noisettes of lamb with dauphinoise potatoes, roasted butternut squash and courgettes surrounded by rosemary and redcurrant jus. And to end was a trio of cassis and passion fruit parfaits with white and dark chocolate mousse. To wash it all down we sipped a selection of specially selected white and red wines. Guests were also treated to a glass of Ron Zacapa Centenario- a rum of impeccable quality and complexity which is regarded as one of the finest in the world. This rounded off the culinary segment rather nicely!

Gorgeous girl band Candy Rock thrilled guests after dinner with a wonderful set as did London Busker of the Year, Jamie West  and Anna Withers with her remarkable amalgamation of burlesque meets ballet performance.

The fantastic Rusty Egan provided a mix of club classics until the early hours at the after party at Zebrano on Ganton Street which was super fun albeit a little excessive.

All in all it was a huge success, many thanks to all those who contributed to LLA’s gorgeous goody bags.  Bags provided by Vita Liberata and filled with products from Archant Life, Beautcamp Pilates, Bio-Synergy, Clipper Teas, The Crazy Bear Group, Drink Neuro, Energya Salon, Freederm, Jergens Naturals, Linwoods Healthy Superfoods, London Talent, Mosho, Niki Yoga, NIP + FAB, OK! Magazine, Power Plate, Purity Organic Skincare, Rescue Remedy, Reshape, Starbucks, Tea Pigs, This Water, View London and Zebrano.

Next year we shall be back celebrating the greatest city in the world…London.

16 thrilled businesses picked up a London Lifestyle Award on 7th October 2010. They were honoured and celebrated at this special cermony for their contribution to the London lifestyle.

The winners of 2010 are:

1. London’s Men’s fashion Retailer of the Year

Presenter: Jason Gardiner (Fashion guru and Dancing on Ice Judge)

Top 3 : Rokit, Jeffrey West, Sefton
Winner: Jeffrey West

2. London Beauty Salon/Spa of the Year
Sponsored by Vita Liberta

Presenter: Alyson Hogg from Vita Liberata

Top 3: Bliss, K West, Macs
Winner: Macs

3. London Coffee Shop of the Year

Presenter: Michael Underwood

Top 3: Sacred,Bar Italia, Flat White
Winner: Bar Italia

4. London Hotel of the Year
Sponsored by Mosho

Presenter: David Erasmous – Mosho
Top 3: Intercontinental, Blakes, Sanctum soho hotel
Winner: Sanctum Soho

5. London Food Market of the Year

Presenter: Julian Bennet

Top 3: Marylebone Farmers Market, Borough Market, White Cross Street Market
Winner: Borough

6. London Cultural Attraction of the Year

Presenter: Kate Walsh

Top 3: London Eye, Elephant Family, The O2
Winner: Elephant Family

7. London Sport Attraction of the Year

Presenter: Antony Costa

Top 3: Polo in the Park, Wembley, Wimbledon
Winner: Polo in the Park

8. London Health and Fitness Facility of the Year
Sponsored by Re-Shape

Presenter: JP from Re-Shape

Top 3: Gymbox, Good Vibes, The Third Space, Fitness First,
Winner: The Third Space

9. London Live Music Venue of the Year

Presenter: Mark Fuller

Top 3: Proud Camden,o2, Ronnie Scotts,
Winner: o2

10. London Theatre Show of the Year

Presenter: Liz McClarnon

Top 3: Les Miserables, Lion King, Priscilla Queen of the Desert,
Winner: Les Miserables

11. Best Green Contribution to London
Sponsored by Seymour Valentine

Presenters: Cevat Riza from Seymour Valentine and Imogen Thomas

Top 4: Pod Food, London Bio Packaging, Recycle for London, Egg Mag,
Winner: Recycle for London

12. London Restaurant of the Year
Sponsored by London Talent

Presenters: Akashia Hoosein from London Talent and Giles Vickers Jones

Top 3: Theo Randall, Aqua Neuva, Crazy Bear, The Square, Trinity
Winner: Crazy Bear

13. London Women’s Fashion Retailer of the Year

Presenter: Angellica Bell

Top 3: Oasis, Sefton, Miss Selfridge
Winner: Sefton

14. London Bar of the Year
Sponsored by View

Presenter: Mark O’Donnell from View London

Top 3: Callooh Callay, Aqua Spirit, Dover Street, Pix,
Winner: Aqua Spirit

15. London Night Club of the Year (including Members’ Clubs)
Sponsored by Metropol

Presenter: Paul Nagel from Metropol

Top 3: Movida, Jalouse, Crazy Bear,
Winner: Crazy Bear

16. Outstanding Contribution to London Lifestyle
Sponsored by Archant

Presenters: Johnny Hustler MD Archant Life and Caprice

Top 6: The London eye, The London Evening Standard – The dispossessed campaign, The o2, 95.8 Capital FM’s Help a London child, The Elephant Family, Nick Ede
Winner: 95.8 Capital FM’s Help a London Child

With over 3,000 nominations for businesses across the capital, our judging committee then shortlisted just over 100 finalists between the 16 categories and then over 100,000 votes to determine those who came out on top. Londoners pulled together in the masses to celebrate and credit those who are striving to make London the great city it is and to provide a fantastic lifestyle for Londoners and visitors alike.

16 thrilled businesses picked up awards on the night and were honoured and celebrated for their contribution to London and its lifestyle:

London Men’s Fashion Retailer of the Year – Jeffery West (Presented by Jason Gardiner)

London Beauty Salon/Spa of the Year – MACS Salon (Presented by Joe Calzaghe)

London Coffee Shop of the Year – Bar Italia (Presented by Michael Underwood)

London Hotel of the Year – Sanctum Soho Hotel (Presented by David Eramus)

London Food Market of the Year – Borough Market (Presented by Julian Bennett)

London Cultural Attraction of the Year – Elephant Family (Presented by Kate Walsh)

London Sports Attraction of the Year – Polo in the Park (Presented by Anthony Costa)

London Health and Fitness Facility of the Year – The Third Space (Presented by JP from ReShape)

London Live Music Venue of the Year – The O2 (Presented by Marc Fuller)

London Theatre Show of the Year – Les Misérables (Presented by Liz McClarnon)

Best Green Contribution to London – Recycle for London (Presented by Cevat from Seymour Valentine and Imogen Thomas)

London Restaurant of the Year – Crazy Bear (Presented by Akashia from London Talent and Giles Vickers Jones)

London Women’s Fashion Retailer of the Year – Sefton (Presented by Angellica Bell)

London Bar of the Year – Aqua Spirit (Presented by Mark O’Donnell from View London)

London Club of the Year – Crazy Bear (Presented by Paul Negal from Metropol)

Outstanding Contribution to London lifestyle – 95.8 Capital FM’s Help a London Child (Presented by Johnny Hustler from Archant Life and Caprice)

Jason Gale says of the success of the inaugural awards, “Last night saw the first of many London Lifestyle Awards and I am extremely pleased with how they went. I am so proud that everyone got together and celebrated the amazing city which is London, one I believe is the greatest in the world. Over the last couple of years the lifestyle industries have had to work even harder to secure their futures and provide a great lifestyle but they are constantly achieving this and are successful.”

He continues, “We had an amazing turn out last night and I’d like to give thanks to everyone that came and supported our first London Lifestyle Awards!”.

With over 400 attendees a great night was had by all with live entertainment and a nail biting awards ceremony for all to enjoy. Celebrities that graced the red carpet, sipping on Tanqueray Gin’s sumptuous cocktails, included actor Leslie Phillips, Liz McClarnon, Anthony Costa, Jason Gardiner, Meg Mathews, Julian Bennett, Zoe Salmon, Michael Underwood, Angellica Bell, Imogen Thomas, Joe Calzaghe, Lee Latchford-Evans, Cleo Roco and the host for the night was 95.8 Capital FM’s Drivetime DJ, Greg Burns.

The exclusive after-party for the London Lifestyle Awards was held at Zebrano Ganton Street in Soho where our celebrities and attendees danced to the early hours.

Public voting closed over the weekend and the response has been amazing with over 100,000 votes cast! Now the judging panel are getting together to review the votes. The business with the highest number of votes in each of the 16 categories will win a London Lifestyle Award.

Tickets are selling out fast so make sure you don’t miss out! Email emily@londonlifestyleawards.co.uk or call 0207 160 2055 if you want to be at the London Lifestyle Awards ceremony, presented by View London, mixing with a host of celebs and lifestyle industry leaders and celebrating the finest that London has to offer.

As it gets ever closer to the inaugural London Lifestyle Awards, it really is shaping up to be quite the glamorous affair. The night is set to be jam packed with 500 industry insiders, special guests and famous faces attending; Caprice, Celebrity MasterChef Winner Atomic Kitten star Liz McClarnon, fashionista and co-owner of fashion brand Twenty 8 Twelve Savannah Miller, Joe Calzaghe, Sophie Anderton and X Factor’s Brian Friedman to name-drop  just a few. The special night is also going to be hosted by London’s very own Capital One presenter Greg Burns.

The lucky guests will be entertained by the very talented and award winning London busker of the year Jamie West and gorgeous girl group Candy Rock. Also, stand-up comedian and Capital FM Drive time DJ Greg Burns has been announced as your host the night.

It’s going to be red carpet all the way, a swanky affair to celebrate all the great things about London, where the lucky lot will sip champagne, tuck into a sumptuous three course dinner and mingle with the stars out to congratulate Londoners’ fabulous lifestyle and achievements!

As it gets ever closer to the inaugural London Lifestyle Awards, it really is shaping up to be quite the glamorous affair. The night is set to be jam packed with 500 industry insiders, special guests and famous faces attending; Caprice, Celebrity MasterChef Winner Atomic Kitten star Liz McClarnon, fashionista and co-owner of fashion brand Twenty 8 Twelve Savannah Miller, Joe Calzaghe, Sophie Anderton and X Factor’s Brian Friedman to name-drop  just a few. The special night is also going to be hosted by London’s very own Capital One presenter Greg Burns.

The lucky guests will be entertained by the very talented and award winning London busker of the year Jamie West and gorgeous girl group Candy Rock. Also, stand-up comedian and Capital FM Drive time DJ Greg Burns has been announced as your host the night.

It’s going to be red carpet all the way, a swanky affair to celebrate all the great things about London, where the lucky lot will sip champagne, tuck into a sumptuous three course dinner and mingle with the stars out to congratulate Londoners’ fabulous lifestyle and achievements!

Celebrate London with the an eclectic mix of faces such as the likes of Lesley Phillips, Robin Gibb, Liz McClarnon, Kelly Hoppen, Brian Friedman and Sinitta to name just a few. And the great thing about this award is that you, the public, can book a ticket to join in the celebration of all things London!

Jason Gale, London Lifestyle Awards Committee Member and creator of the Awards says, “I’m delighted with the response we’ve had so far with these awards with 40,000 votes cast from Londoners in the last week. This is such an exciting and crucial time as voting is being cast by the public and they themselves will decide on who wins.”

Jason continues, “We’ve had an overwhelming amount of interest with people wanting to attend the awards, I just know it’s going to be massive. I just hope we manage to fit everybody in!”

The award ceremony will announce the overall winners of each category and will be attended by 500 influential industry, press and celebrated faces that shape the lifestyle of Londoners. 

The public can vote online at www.londonlifestyleawards.com as well as book their ticket to be front row at one of London’s most exciting award ceremonies. 

The London Lifestyle Awards 2010 presented by View London, is a celebration of London and the lifestyles within. The aim of the Awards is to honour those whose work has made an outstanding contribution to ‘London lifestyle’, and who continue to make London what it is by redefining the standards of excellence and diversity throughout London.

So the London Lifestyle Awards team have been hitting the streets of London, travelling North, East, South and West so they can pop in and say “CONGRATULATIONS” to all of our shortlisted finalists.

We’ve been to gorgeous restaurants, divine cocktail bars, quirky coffee shops, swanky hotels, admirable sports attractions, funky fashion retailers, respectful eco-green projects, proud cultural attractions, superb live music venues and clubs who’s decor has the WOW-factor!

If you see a “We’re on the Shortlist” window sticker, be a good sport and cast your vote. It’s still up to you guys to celebrate London and decided who is the best of the best in each of our 16 awarding categories for 2010.

Become part of the inaugural London Lifestyle Awards  by simply casting your votes for your favourite or most worthy businesses. We all have reasons why we love living in London and why we enjoy everything this beautiful, diverse city has to offer.

After two long weeks our judges finalised a shortlist of finalists for each of our 16 awarding categories. The London Lifestyle Awards team are leaving it up to you, the public, to decide the fate of the winners! Take a look through the list on our voting page and vote for your favourites. You can only vote once, so make sure you choose your winner in each category.

Think about it. Every. Single. Day. Someone and their business helps you to love this city just a little bit more. Which of these shortlsited coffee shops do you stand in line for before the tedious work week starts? Where do you shake your money maker? Which exceptional spa do you turn to in a beauty crisis? What is the “must see” attraction that you have to take your family to see? Which of our live music venues finalists do you go to to see your favourite band?

Which of our shortlisted businesses do you want to give a hug to but simply never get round to doing? Now its your chance to right that wrong. Vote for your favourite London business across our 16 awarding categories that make your life in the “big smkoe” more relaxed, cultured, happier, tastier, funnier, sexier, hotter and simply MUCH more amazing.

Take a look at our voting page and say thank you by voting for these special businesses. Then tell them about it next time you visit them. We bet they love you right back. Spread the love. It takes 3 minutes.

I was fortunate enough to be invited to accompany my friend Sinitta to meet Bill Clinton a little while ago.  I have always thought Bill Clinton an incredible man and as a President did and continues to do  a huge amount of good.  It was amazing to meet him and for the first time probably ever I was quite star struck (If the truth be told so was Sinitta!). Anyway I had been thinking about creating the London Lifestyle awards for a while not only because I love London and everything it offers but London at the time was still in the grips of credit crunch gloom. It seemed a great deal of moaning and complaining was interfering my usual positive outlook.  Let me tell you: When Bill speaks, people listen, and I certainly was no different.  Glued to every word, he spoke about what a great city London is, how much he really enjoyed coming here and the connection he felt with it.  You could feel he was absolutely genuine and that he has a real love for the city. He honestly did think it was one of the best in the world and thought we should celebrate that.

Walking back to the car my thoughts whirred with his words and I made my mind up: We ARE a great city and I am going to take action right now with the London Lifestyle Awards. Thanks Mr President!

Jason Gale

Creator London Lifestyle Awards

Imogen Thomas – former Big Brother contestant and model – spent a few hours with the London Lifestyle Awards team and headed to quirky Carnaby Street and then onto popular tourist hotspot the South Bank to ask its residents about their favourite London attractions, restaurants, bars, experiences and more. As expected we received an array of answers and amusing anecdotes!

We also asked our lovely interviewees to try and put their finger on exactly what it is that they love about London. Answers included London’s energy, fashion scene, its ‘pulse’, ‘buzz’ and the amazing people themselves! Our favourite came from a particularly insightful young man in Carnaby Street… ‘Oscar Wilde once said, “when a man is bored of London, he becomes bored of life”’.

The LLA team took a sneaky peek at the Riverbank Park Plaza Hotel, where the glamorous awards ceremony will be taking place on 7th October. Here we talked to Jason Gale, creator of the LLAs. He explained his vision of bringing together the lifestyle industries in celebration of London, how he defined the awarding categories, and how grateful and surprised he has been at the public’s amazing response.

The LLA team also met View London’s Mark O’Donnell to talk about how their shared love, appreciation, and understanding of London’s industries make them ideal partners for the awards ceremony. We also met the amazing people of Zebrano, who discussed their involvement as a sponsor of the awards, and Akashia Hoosein of London Talent who told us about her position on the all-important Judging Committee.

All in all, it was a busy day! We hope you enjoy watching as much as we enjoyed making!

Watch our videos:

1. Jason Gale - Creator of the London Lifestyle Awards and Handmade UK
2. Lucy Taylor – Toptable.com
3. Nick Valentine – Entertainment News, serial venue owner/ operator
4. Angellica Bell – TV presenter
5. Savannah Miller – Twenty8Twelve
6. Zoe Salmon – TV presenter
7. Mark O’Donnell – View London
8. Akashia Hoosein - London Talent
9. James Simpson – JK Media and Online Bookings Group
10. Michael Underwood – TV Presenter
11. Jessica Koravos -  AEG Live
12. Jimmy Lahoud - White Star Line Group and serial restauranteur

From the 9^th August 2010, the Committee will spend two weeks choosing which of the 1500 nominated businesses will be shortlisted in each of the sixteen categories. So, you all still have a few weeks to submit your nominations to emily@londonlifestyleawards.com!

Jason Gale, founder of the London Lifestyle Awards

 

1.  What was your original inspiration for the London Lifestyle Awards?

“As a proud Yorkshire man, I never thought that I would love a Southern city as much as I do London. I moved here 12 years ago and still get excited today about the fantastic life that London offers. Working in the lifestyle PR sector, I felt as though the industry should be celebrated and those businesses that make a fantastic contribution to London should be recognised. The best way of doing this was creating the London Lifestyle Awards.”

2. So do you believe that London leads the world with our lifestyle businesses?

“I don’t proclaim to be the world’s greatest traveller but I have spent time in other great cities around the world such as New York, Paris, Milan, Madrid, Barcelona and Bangkok, and in my opinion, London certainly comes out top. We excel in entertainment with the best ‘theatre land’ in the world and also our gastronomic offering has never been better. The standard of drinking venues we now have here in London certainly leads the way. Yes, I think London does lead the world.”
 

3. How do you think the economic downturn has affected the offering of many of the businesses you are talking about?

“In many ways the economic downturn has help improve the businesses we will be celebrating on Thursday 7th Oct. I believe this is because the businesses have realised and did realise that going into the economic downturn they were going to have to work harder for their pound. This insured that the quality of product our lifestyle businesses offer was the best it could possibly be.”

4. One of your awarding categories is “Best Green Contribution to London” why did you include this?

“As government and leaders of our great cities have said if we don’t start looking after the planet and, of course, our cities our general lifestyle will deteriorate. We need to insure that we celebrate businesses that are doing more than their fair share when it comes to helping us become ‘more green’. Also initiatives such as the ‘London Cycle Hire Scheme’ are recognised to be rewarded so we can continue to enjoy this great city.”

5. Ok Jason, you obviously love London very much, if you could be Boris for the day, what would you improve?

“My haircut… No I’m only joking. I think improvements in London are being made all the time and it’s certainly a better city now than it was 12 years ago. I understand the complications of the tube closing down for a certain number of hours a night for maintenance work but if we could get round this problem and have a tube system which ran until the early hours we would truly have a 24 hour city which is probably the improvement I would like to see.”

6.The London Lifestyle Awards has 16 categories, how did you decide on the 16?

“When I worked on the concept with my team, we came up with 32 categories that would all deserve a place on the London Lifestyle Awards. However, as this is the first year of the awards, we felt 16 categories was the correct number to have. The 16 that we chose we felt gives the opportunity for most lifestyle businesses in London to fit in to one of the groups. We have had lots of suggestions from industry leaders for additional categories which we have been delighted to receive and we will consider for next year’s London Lifestyle Awards. ”

7. You are soon to announce the committee, what type of people are on the committee and what are they doing for the London Lifestyle Awards

“The committee is made up of industry leaders and high profile consumers of products and services with the lifestyle industries in London offer. It is important to establish a great committee to insure that out of those 15,000 (so far) nominated businesses we developed a short list which was fair in giving the best businesses every chance of success. The committee will also decide who wins the “Best Green Contribution to London” and “Outstanding Contribution to London Lifestyle”.

8. So from the shortlist, do the public then vote for the winner?

“Yes will be producing the shortlist by the end of August where the public will choose the winner for each category. They will be able to do this by going to the voting page on www.londonlifestyleawards.com.”

9. What are you most looking forward to on 7th October?

“The London Lifestyle Awards has been planned in my head for 3 years and I’m so excited about sitting there in a room with 500 people, rewarding and celebrating some great businesses. But most of all, I’m looking forward to London as a whole recognising that we do have exceptional bars, restaurants, theatres, coffee shops, and generally an amazing lifestyle.”