As the warmer weather slowly arrives and the excitement of summer in London builds, King’s Cross is gearing up once more to embrace the long, hazy days reminiscent of one of Europe’s most fashionable destinations – the French Riviera.
From mid-June, King’s Cross will transform into an urban oasis by the water, where visitors will be able to unwind by the tranquil waters of the Regent’s Canal and enjoy the cooling effects of the Granary Square fountains.
Embracing the spirit of the Riviera for the second year, King’s Cross has created its annual programme of fun-filled summer activities – this year with some exciting new additions – which promise a unique seaside experience without leaving London (and mostly for free!).
Here’s how to get involved…
KX Souvenir Shop – 25 July to 8 September New for 2024 and set to swing open its doors on 25 July, King’s Cross is introducing its limited-edition French-Riviera-meets-British-seaside themed Souvenir Shop. Visitors to King’s Cross will be able to take home a memento of their time in London’s hippest summer haunt, with one-of-a-kind souvenirs created in collaboration with the city’s coolest artists and designers. From classic Riviera stripes to kitsch slogan art prints and keyrings, memories can be captured and bottled in a single souvenir.
Official Team GB King’s Cross Fanzone – 26 July – 11 August
Just in time for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Lewis Cubitt Square will be transformed into an Official Team GB Fanzone, giving fans at home the chance to celebrate alongside the athletes themselves and join the crowds cheering on Team GB’s star athletes in Paris. Each day from 10am, visitors to the free Fanzone can watch sporting events on the big screen, enjoy live music, try their hand at Olympic-themed activities and participate in a jam-packed programme of onstage entertainment, including Q&As and medal celebrations with Team GB’s returning athletes.
The return of KX Pétanque – 19 June to 1 September After last year’s success, King’s Cross is bringing back the boules and rolling out the candy stripes for KX Pétanque. This fun and FREE activity invites visitors to have a go at King’s Cross’ take on Provence’s most beloved game. With two 15-metre pétanque courts in Pancras Square, this is the perfect opportunity to grab your friends, family or colleagues for a game or two this summer. Whether a casual game or for some friendly competition, KX Pétanque offers a lively backdrop for fun summer memories.
King’s Cross Summer Sounds – 15 to 26 August London’s favourite FREE music festival, King’s Cross Summer Sounds, returns this summer from 15 to 26 August, with 12 days of music, dance, and performances from across the globe. This year takes an even more community-centric approach than ever, with local businesses and organisations playing a pivotal role in co-curating the events. Festival-goers can look forward to an exciting programme of folk, jazz, classical and experimental musical performances, alongside dynamic dancers and sensational local talent.
Markets, markets and MORE markets! – July – end of summer King’s Cross is well known for hosting some of the best markets in town and from this July, it will be hosting the summer of all markets! Whether you’re on the hunt for a new must-have illustration from London’s freshest artist-led, Illustrators Fair or something fun and crafty at Crafty Fox (13 and 14 July), the variety of markets provide something for everybody. And if you’re a bit of a wine buff, then look no further than the Wine Car Boot (20 July), where you can indulge in a rich and earthy Bourdeaux or a tart and spicy Tuscan Chianti.
Fancy a film? – 1 July to 18 August If this all sounds too energetic, you might just want to lay back and enjoy the warmth of a lazy summer evening catching a film with some mates at London’s most scenic outdoor cinema, Screen on the Canal which is back from 1 July-18 August. More than 150 films will be screened, from big stand out blockbusters and family favourites, to some of the best cult classics out there – not to be missed. And don’t forget, you can catch the Wimbledon Tennis Championships too!
Chrissy Cullen, Related Argent’s Place Marketing Director at King’s Cross, said: “Our summer lineup promises an unforgettable experience for all, from bespoke souvenirs capturing the essence of our urban oasis to friendly games of boules at KX Pétanque. With music festivals, markets brimming with creativity, and scenic outdoor cinema nights, there’s no shortage of reasons to make King’s Cross your go-to destination this summer.”
King’s Cross will announce further additions to its summer programme in the following weeks. In the meantime, please visit www.kingscross.co.ukfor more information.
