Sunday June 16, in case you were wondering! Father’s Day often creeps up suddenly on the calendar, so we’ve put together a few ideas to give the big man a wonderful weekend in the middle of the month. There’s something for all ages here – and not a single mention anywhere of buying him some new socks. London is a great place to celebrate any event, so why not do something extra-special in the city with your Dad this year?
Give him something to talk about
Dads of all ages love to regale you with their achievements, don’t they? While no man becomes a father without venturing out on life’s most incredible journey, reaching the occasional other notable achievement certainly can’t hurt his pride.
London is jam-packed with talking-point tourist hotspots and incredible culture, but at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is something a little different that he might enjoy talking about for years. The ArcelorMittal Orbit is the world’s longest tunnel slide, and presents an experience worth nattering about for anyone brave enough to take the plunge.
Provide him with a challenge
On a similar theme, but far more challenging than simply allowing gravity to do the work, is the exhilarating climb atop the O2 Arena. Providing a panoramic 360° view of the city, this climb isn’t for the faint-hearted – and neither is snorkelling with sharks at SEA LIFE London. While Dad may have watched the odd Shark Week documentary on the Discovery Channel over the years, being there and in the water with the giant beasts is a different challenge altogether.
Immerse him in culture
If your father has never been to London or hasn’t visited the city for some time, there are galleries and museums galore for him to explore all day long. The Science Museum, London Transport Museum and Natural History Museum are all incredibly popular amongst many, and men of a certain age may love a visit to the wonderfully preserved Churchill War Rooms, at the Imperial War Museum between Lambeth and Elephant and Castle.
See the city in full bloom
June is the perfect time to visit the likes of Kew Gardens and London’s many Royal Parks. Living outside of the city, it can seem like the whole place is a bustling urban metropolis of noise and people. However, while this is true, there are many surprisingly vast swathes of luscious green across the city. Any father with a love of nature would enjoy strolling through these natural retreats this June.
Make him laugh
Central London boasts an incredible number of nationally lauded comedy clubs, which nightly serve up an eclectic collection of stand-up comedy and hilarious sketches. If Dad has a penchant for a particular comedian or brand of comedy, be sure to check who’s on beforehand and book early – or simply turn up on the night and see who takes to the stage. Close to this city centre gaggle of comedy clubs are a variety of luxurious City of London hotels for you and Dad to relax in at the end of every day.
