Summer on Oxford Street: top things to do

05 July 2023

Summer is here! And with it comes a host of unmissable experiences on Oxford Street. From free-flowing brunches and alfresco dining to pop-ups and new store openings, there’s something for everyone. Sun, fun, food and fashion, here we come…

 

Celebrate Aperitivo season at Willows on the Roof

Celebrate National Prosecco Day at the Aperol Spritz x Willows roof terrace on Sunday, 13 August! Get ready for a live DJ from 2-7pm and learn more about the refreshing Italian tipple from a professional storyteller. Looking for more places to get your fix of fresh air, fine food and cocktails? Add these top outdoor dining spots to your list. From rooftop restaurants (hello Alto by San Carlo) to revamped terraces (we’re looking at you Swingers), the options are endless. So grab your date, pals or co-workers and raise a glass to summer.

 

Scoop up summer at John Lewis & Partners

The Häagen-Dazs pop-up on the third floor of John Lewis will be serving up treats to keep you cool this summer. Indulge in much-loved classics and exclusive flavours that aren’t even available in the UK (think fruity sorbets and an elevated cookie dough). Fill with toppings and sauces to create your very own ice-cream masterpiece and enjoy in-store or outside in the sunshine.

 

Step inside the new Under Armour store

Iconic sports brand Under Armour has opened on Oxford Street and we couldn’t be more excited! The store is the third owned and operated brand house in London and a testament to the brand’s global expansion. Get ready for the ultimate shopping experience: think smart fitting rooms that give you the chance to feel, try and learn about the products and, of course, sought-after collections such as RUSH, Iso-Chill, HOVR, FLOW and many more.

 

Book a pamper pitstop

Who says you need hours of free time for some self-care? Pop into Primark’s RAWR beauty bar for a quick facial or pedicure in between shopping sprees or visit Dyson Beauty Lab for a styling sesh complete with bubbles and a pro wash and blow for £35. Slots get filled up fast, so be sure to book ahead. For the gents, award-winning Pall Mall Barbers has just opened inside Intimissimi Uomo offering hair styling, beard grooming and shaving. Ted’s Grooming Room is also just seconds from Oxford Street with bespoke manis and even a VIP lounge for those looking for that Turkish barbering experience.

 

Explore the new entertainment district

The latest addition to Oxford Street’s cultural scene is none other than Outernet where you can expect an exciting schedule of music, art and culture using the latest video technology and talented metaverse creators. Discover free immersive experiences every day at the Now building and check out their two live venues that play host to some of the biggest names in live music and emerging talent.

 

Source vintage treasures at Wornwell and Beyond Retro

Primark has recently teamed up with Wornwell to offer handpicked, vintage clothing from around the globe. Think denim jumpsuits, printed sweaters and crazy patterned shirts from the 70s, 80s and 90s. You’ll also find Beyond Retro, the largest vintage retailer in the UK, just a stone’s throw from Oxford Street. Pick up pre-loved fashion that’s fun and will make you feel good without the guilt of a hefty carbon footprint. So, whether you’re after a one-off tee or a classic denim jacket, you’ll be sure to find something you’ll adore.

 

Time for a tea party at John Lewis & Partners

Looking for ways to keep the little ones entertained over the holidays? John Lewis has got you covered with a series of themed tea parties over three weekends in August. The 45 minute sessions are perfect for children between the ages of 2 and 7 years and include a story and group craft activity. Little ones get a snack and plush toy, while parents can enjoy a hot drink and slice of cake. Tickets cost £15 per child and £5 per adult. They’re selling fast so get booking! And if you’re in search for more family-friendly fun, check out these activities for the young and young at heart.

 

Visit Oxford Street’s Instagrammable cafés

Time to refuel after a spot of shopping? The options are endless. Visit Tasty by Greggs inside Primark and sit on their famous sausage roll swing or step into Lush‘s vegan café for the matcha oat milk latte. For a sweet treat inside Oxford Street’s iconic department stores, there’s Dolly’s Café inside Selfridges and Huffkins Café inside John Lewis. And if you’re after a high tea in a hotel setting, Bond St. Tea Rooms serves up an afternoon tea experience with a Mediterranean twist.

 

Snap up the summer sales 

Ready to bag yourself a bargain? Dicover the summer sales where you’ll find holiday wardrobe essentials, occasionwear, sports gear and much more at a fraction of the price. Need a little inspiration on what to choose? Check out the top trends for summer and the key staples for your holiday capsule.

 

Ready. Set. Shred at Selfridges 

Did you know there’s a place to skate right in central London? Tucked away on the first floor of Selfridges is an enclosed skate bowl (!) catering to intermediate and advanced skateboarders. Book a one-on-one lesson (£20 per hour) if you’re an intermediate skateboarder wanting to up your skills or join a free open skate session with other advanced boarders.

 

Enjoy themed brunches and games at Boom Battle Bar

If you’re looking for a bottomless brunch with a difference, head to Boom Battle Bar. Expect 90 minutes of free-flowing drinks, a street food feast and a game of crazy golf every Saturday with sittings at 12pm and 2pm. Each month offers a new themed brunch: get ready for Afrobeats in July and old-school hip-hop classics in August. Spaces fill up fast so be sure to book!

 

Pound the pavement with Asics

Calling all newbie runners and seasoned athletes! Ready to lace up your shoes and get running fit this summer? Join the Asics Run Club for free weekly runs every Wednesday and Friday tailored to suit all levels. And if you need some help finding the perfect pair of running shoes, step into Asics and be guided by the experts.

 

Save the date for the Freddie Mercury exhibition

This summer, all 1,500 items from Freddie Mercury’s private collection will be revealed for the first time in a month-long exhibition at Sotheby’s, a short wander from Oxford Street. Every inch of the gallery space will be dedicated to celebrating the singer’s extraordinary life. You’ll see working drafts to iconic Queen hits, 20th-century masterpieces and even his much-loved Adidas high-top sneakers. This free exhibition opens on 4 August and runs until 5 September. See you there!

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