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The best things to do this weekend

The best things to do this weekend, 31 July – 2 August

Our top picks of the best things to get up to this weekend: open-air theatre at Kew Gardens, dining in a hot air balloon in the Surrey Hills, a family day out at Wisley, an exhibition at Morden Hall Park, and vintage shopping in Wimbledon!

Main image: Balloon Dining at Beaverbrook

Open Air Theatre

Jack and the Beanstalk

Kew Gardens

Presented in a relaxed picnic theatre style with all the charm of a classic pantomime, this delightfully interactive, laugh-old-loud production invites audiences of all ages to join the adventure.

(c) Ben Fon

Food

Balloon Dining at Beaverbrook

Richmond

If you love the romantic notion of a hot-air balloon but the idea of floating hundreds of feet in the air fills you with vertigo, Beaverbrook has an elegant compromise in its Balloons in Bloom experience. Six beautifully dressed balloons rise gracefully above The Italian Gardens, each with its own private basket, offering a wonderfully whimsical dining experience while remaining firmly tethered to the ground.The menu reflects Beaverbrook’s signature approach, combining Japanese influences with seasonal ingredients.

Days out

Brick Explorers

RHS Garden Wisley

Set out on an expedition in the RHS gardens where creativity and nature collide this summer. Explore the biodiversity of the garden as you hunt for brick-built sculptures tucked among the greenery.

Credit: RHS

Exhibitions

A Little Walk on the Wild Side

Morden Hall Park

Inspired by walks in Morden Hall Park and along the River Wandle, this exhibition features 27 paintings by long-time Merton resident Stephen Bushe.

Shopping

Goldsmith Vintage X Wimbledon Quarter Kilo Sale

Wimbledon Quarter

The hip vintage fashion retailer is landing in Wimbledon Quarter this weekend. Goldsmith has become a cornerstone of pre-loved style, so expect to find all your favourite brands from Levi’s to Stone Island. A perfect chance to get some great finds for the rest of summer.