Glebe Place - Whats On

The Season is the name given to events during the year that make up the British social calendar. 

Most events take place between April and August and many take place in London or within easy reach of the capital.

They have all gained a certain social cachet by virtue of their association with the debutante season of times past.  This was the tradition, which lasted for more than 100 years, of using these events as an opportunity for young women to be introduced into high society.  Although this ceased to be the case in the middle of the last century many events still have an air of exclusivity.  However, with some forward planning all are now available to visitors who wish to enjoy themselves.

Many of the events during the Season are of a sporting nature.  This means that many are outdoors and subject to the unpredictability of the weather.  And yet, many still have strictly observed dress codes.  Events like the Royal Meeting at Ascot and Henley Royal Regatta and noted for both the sport and the dress of the spectators.

There are many occasions, concerts and events that can be included each year but the major annual ones are listed below.

The Boat Race – April

Annual rowing race along the River Thames in West London between crews from the universities of Oxford and Cambridge.

Chelsea Flower Show – May

Spectacular displays of plants and flowers at the Royal Hospital in Chelsea organised by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Royal Windsor Horse Show – May

Show jumping, dressage, carriage driving and other events involving horses held in the grounds of Windsor Castle

Trooping the Colour – June

The official birthday of the Sovereign is marked each year by a colourful and historic military parade and march-past on Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall.

Royal Ascot – June

Royal Ascot is the world’s most famous horse race meeting, steeped in history dating back to 1711.

Wimbledon – June to July

The world famous team championships at the All England Club in South London.

Royal Academy Summer Exhibition – June to August

The largest and most popular open art exhibition in the UK has been held in London since 1769.

Henley Royal Regatta – July

Rowing event held over five days in Henley on Thames in Berkshire.

Cartier International Polo Day - July

The Cartier Polo at Windsor Great Park is one of the highlights of the UK sporting and social scene. Some of the world's best players compete at Guards Polo Club.

Glorious Goodwood - July 

Horse racing takes place at Goodwood racecourse in the Sussex countryside and was once described by King Edward VII as 'a garden party with racing tacked on'.

The Proms - July to September

The world's greatest classical music festival with over 70 concerts at the Royal Albert Hall.

Click for listings of 2,286 events including Arts, Cinema, Clubs, Comedy, Dance, Music, Opera, Theatre, and Special Events.