Silverstone celebrates 75 years of Formula 1 this weekend. The famous Northamptonshire circuit has received more than 800 entries to the many and varied races it’s hosting. Off-track, there’s going to be live music from Natasha Bedingfield, Craig David presents TS5, and Ministry of Sound Classical. The Fan Zone offers immersive activities for all ages, while kids under 16 go free. Camping options are available for those looking to make it a full weekend experience.

Silverstone Circuit, Northamptonshire, NN12 8TN; 22nd-24th August

Visit Silverstone.co.uk

The Barbican’s concrete courtyard is once again turning into one of London’s best outdoor cinemas, complete with deckchairs, cocktails and a line-up that swings from cult classics to award winners. Screenings include David Lynch’s Dune, Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr. Fox, Thai masterpiece Uncle Boonmee, and even Little Shop of Horrors. Expect gourmet hot dogs, mezze platters and craft drinks from the on-site vendors. If the weather holds, this is one of the capital’s most atmospheric ways to catch a film before autumn rolls in. Tickets start from £18.

Barbican Centre, Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS; until 31st August

Visit Barbican.org.uk

Carousel’s {PAIRED} series has become one of London’s most exciting mash-ups – and this weekend it heads to Tate Modern for its biggest event yet. The format is brilliantly simple: one world-class DJ and one Michelin-starred chef come together for two nights that will never be repeated. This Friday and Saturday, it’s French techno legend Laurent Garnier on the decks, while Alexis Bijaoui, fresh from Paris’s three-star L’Arpège, serves a boundary-pushing dinner. After the final course, the lights drop and the party begins. Book the full evening or just the after-dinner session. Tickets are £125 for the dinner and party, or £30 for the party only. 

The Corner, Tate Modern, SE1 9TG; 22nd-23rd August

Visit Tate.org.uk

Battersea Park is hosting three nights of music to soundtrack your bank holiday weekend. Saturday kicks off with Symphonic Disco, a full orchestra reworking classic dance anthems; Sunday celebrates movie scores with A Night At The Movies; and Monday closes on a high with Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra. With food stalls, bars and plenty of space to spread out, it’s a quintessential London summer event (as in, pray for sunshine, but bring a waterproof just in case). Tickets are £48.50.

Battersea Park, Queenstown Road, SW11 4NJ; 23rd-25th August

Visit BatterseaParkInConcert.com

Here to help you get into the bank holiday spirit, All Points East is taking over Victoria Park with its mix of live music, street food and summer festival vibes. The multi-day event is known for pulling in huge headliners across indie, hip hop and electronic music – this year there’s Barry Can’t Swim, Doechii, Raye and CMAT – alongside a strong food and drink offering. Tickets start from £70.

Victoria Park, E3; 22nd-24th August

Visit AllPointsEastFestival.com

It wouldn’t be the August bank holiday in the city without Notting Hill Carnival. Europe’s biggest street festival draws millions to west London for three days of music, food and dance. Saturday is Family Day with ticketed entry, while Sunday and Monday see the full parade take over the streets. Count on elaborate costumes, steel pan bands, booming sound systems and food stalls serving jerk chicken, patties and rum punch. Whether you’re following a float, dancing at a sound system or people-watching from the side, it’s the most joyful party of the summer.

Notting Hill, W11; 23rd-25th August

Visit NHCarnival.org

On Saturday, London Spirit face Southern Brave at Lord’s (Women 14:30 / Men 18:00). On Monday, Oval Invincibles take on London Spirit in a local derby at the Kia Oval (Women 15:00 / Men 18:30). BBC Introducing artists BombayMami and Common Goldfish will keep the energy high between overs. Perfect for families, tickets start from £28 for adults and £5 for under-16s. Children under three go free. 

Various venues; 23rd & 25th August

Visit TheHundred.com

PLUS OUR STAPLES

Here’s where we spotlight some of London’s tried-and-tested hangouts. From top-drawer boozers to cultural icons, these are the classic spots worth having on your radar this weekend…

A rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city, Forza Wine is the spot for sundown drinks. Expect spritzes and negronis alongside small plates like mozzarella sticks and chicken parm nuggets, with soft serve to finish.

Visit ForzaWine.com

Hidden inside the Brutalist landmark, the Barbican Conservatory is the city’s second-largest glasshouse. It’s a lush, tropical space filled with over 1,500 plant species – a perfect low-key cultural detour on a Sunday.

Visit Barbican.org.uk

One of London’s leading contemporary art spaces, Victoria Miro showcases works from both established and emerging artists. With thoughtfully curated exhibitions and striking installations, it's the perfect cultured afternoon.

Visit Victoria-Miro.com

This London institution is hard to beat for all-day dining. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick espresso, a steak tartare at lunch or a post-theatre martini, it’s consistently spot on.

Visit TheWolseley.com

A refined cocktail bar and whisky haven, Dram serves expertly crafted drinks in a cool, understated Soho setting. From rare single malts to inventive cocktails, it’s a go-to spot for a sophisticated night out without the fuss.

Visit DramBar.co.uk

With sofa-style seating, a sharp drinks list and cult film programming, Everyman makes a night at the cinema feel elevated. Belsize Park is one of the originals – and still the cosiest.

Visit EverymanCinema.com

Still one of the city’s finest restaurants, The River Café pairs Italian cooking with a prime riverside setting. Book ahead for wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta and a wine list that’s second to none.

Visit RiverCafe.co.uk

A striking Palladian villa surrounded by landscaped gardens, Chiswick House is ideal for a weekend stroll or casual exploration. The blend of history, architecture and greenery makes it a quintessential London escape.

Visit ChiswickHouseAndGardens.org.uk