London summer evenings

* On the artistic front both the Tate Britain and Modern have late night openings: pop along to the Tate Modern on a Friday or Saturday night and view all their exhibitions until 10pm, or the first Friday of every month at Tate Britain (www.tate.org.uk), the ‘Lure of the East’ exhibition is particularly recommended by the country life team! Similarly The V & A is also open on the last Friday of every month with evenings including music and workshops (www.vam.ac.uk). The Hayward Gallery also opens late on Fridays with exhibitions including ‘Psycho Buildings’ amongst others.

* If you’re on the South bank already then why not pop into The Royal Festival Hall, with an exciting programme of events this summer, ranging from The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra to jazz, soul and folk guitar from Terry Calliar, there’s something here for everyone, call their ticket office on: 08716632500 (www.southbankcentre.co.uk).

* If it’s the outdoors you’re after then why not try Shakespeare’s ‘Globe Theatre’, with an exciting programme including ‘King Lear’ and ‘A Midsommer Night’s Dream’ it’s an experience not to be missed. Call their box office on: 02074019919 where tickets are from £15. Or alternatively try ‘The Open Air Theatre’ in Regent’s park, again with a host of Shakespearean plays and other productions such as Lerwer and Loewe’s ‘Gigi’ call their box office on: 0844 826 4242 (www.openairtheatre.org).

* A stone’s throw from London there’s the majestic ‘Henley Festival’. Set on the banks of the river Thames, this is truly a fantastical evening. This year’s programme includes performances from Hayley Westenra and Lesley Garrett, and for those in a party mood: ‘The Proclaimers’. This is a wonderful evening abundant with art, food, comedy and music…and much like the regatta (the previous week) part of the fun is competing for the best home made picnic in the car park beforehand!