The summer holidays are here, and Waterloo is packed with things to see and do. Whether you’re looking for free family activities, live entertainment, outdoor screenings or somewhere to unwind with great food and drink, there’s plenty happening across the neighbourhood this month.
Summer Streets Comes to Lower Marsh
Summer is in full swing on Lower Marsh, with our Summer Streets programme bringing even more life to one of Waterloo’s favourite streets.
Expect outdoor dining, colourful planting, festoon lighting, community events and free cultural experiences throughout the month.
Don’t miss Lower Marsh Lates, our free outdoor cinema series. This month’s screening is the feel-good classic Mrs Doubtfire, so grab some dinner from one of Lower Marsh’s fantastic independent eateries, pull up a deckchair and enjoy a summer evening outdoors.
Tonight Josephine Reopens
Kick off August at Tonight Josephine Waterloo’s reopening party on Friday 1 August. From 1pm–2am, expect happy hour, bottomless brunches, DJs until late and plenty of reasons to celebrate. Whether you’re popping in for afternoon drinks or staying until the last song, it’s the perfect way to start the month.
Summer Holiday Fun at IWM London
Looking for free family days out? Imperial War Museums has a fantastic programme of activities throughout the summer holidays.
Families can get creative at What Makes a Home?, where children can build and decorate paper houses while exploring what home means during times of conflict. The activity runs until 23 August, with a special community display open from 25–31 August.
Young explorers can also enjoy the Story Seekers: Childhood in War trail, discover stories through the new Childhood in War Stamp Trail, or meet real veterans and eyewitnesses every Tuesday throughout August at We Were There.
There’s even more to discover with the Beauty and Destruction family stamp trail and the ever-popular Amazing Aircraft Top Trumps Trail, making IWM London the perfect destination for curious young minds this summer.
Theatre at The Old Vic
The Old Vic presents How the Other Half Loves (29 July-19 September), Alan Ayckbourn’s brilliantly funny comedy of misunderstandings, affairs and awkward dinner parties.
Experience Magic Like Never Before
Looking for something a little different?
Head to The Vaults for The Magicians Table, London’s only immersive close-up magic experience.
Taking place inside the private theatre of the mysterious Dieter Roterburg, this intimate production combines astonishing sleight of hand, theatre and live music, with the action unfolding just inches away from the audience.
Weekly Wine Tastings at Unwined
Wine lovers are spoilt for choice this August with weekly tasting evenings at Unwined Waterloo.
This month’s themes include:
- 4 August: BBQ Wines
- 11 August: Riesling Deep Dive
- 18 August: Rockstar Wines & Summer Cheese Pairing
- 25 August: Hello from England – celebrating English wine
Perfect whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking to try something new.
Thursday Nights at Vaulty Towers
Every Thursday, Vaulty Towers hosts Big Roy’s Big Thirsty Thursdays, bringing together current chart hits, old-school favourites and plenty of good vibes.
Traditional Irish Music Every Sunday
Looking for the perfect way to round off the weekend?
Head to Molly Mc’s every Sunday for their lively Traditional Irish Music Sessions, featuring talented musicians and a brilliant atmosphere.
Test Your Knowledge
Think you’re the smartest person in the pub?
Join Ben’s Quiz Night at The Albert Arms on the second Tuesday of every month for a fun evening of trivia, drinks and friendly competition.
Summer Wars at Sen Climbing
Calling all climbers!
Sen Climbing hosts Summer Wars -Team Battle on 15 August, where climbers will join one of two teams led by special guest captains visiting from Japan.
With coaching, competition and plenty of team spirit, it’s set to be one of the gym’s biggest events of the year.
An Evening of Piano at the 1901 Arts Club
On 19 August, 1901 Arts Club welcomes pianists Brendon Ireland, Sean Phillips and Joanna Mason for an evening celebrating stories through music, alongside the launch of Brendon Ireland’s new album 88wrongnotes.
Whether you’re entertaining the kids, catching up with friends over a glass of wine, discovering a new hobby or enjoying a free film under the stars, there’s plenty happening in Waterloo this August. We can’t wait to see you out and about!
