January/December Festivals
Ceremony of the Keys: this ancient ritual has taken place every evening for the last 700 years at the Tower of London. The event begins at precisely 21.53 as the Chief Yeoman Warder locks the heavy wooden gates of the Tower. January/February Festivals
Chinese New Year: the annual procession makes its way down Gerrard street every February, consisting of dances and masks to reflect whichever Chinese year is being ushered in. City of London Festival: this popular festival is held every June and contains an interesting mixture of art, music and film. It has a different theme every year and takes place in London's Square mile. Chelsea Flower Show: a spectacular display organised in the grounds of the Royal Hospital in Chelsea that attracts some of the top horticulturalists and gardeners from around the world. Held every June. Meltdown: organised by London's South Bank, this award-winning festival of contemporary music consists of acts chosen by a celebrity curator. Previous curators include David Bowie, Nick Cave and Robert Wyatt. September Festivals
The Great River Race: over 300 water craft take part in this event on the River Thames to find the UK's Traditional Boat Champion. The race starts at Richmond and finishes opposite the Cutty Sark in Greenwich. December Festivals
Peter Pan Cup Christmas Morning Race: if you happen to be visiting over Christmas, then pop down to Hyde Park's Serpentine Lido to watch brave swimming fans take part in the Peter Pan Cup. | 
