While many shows, events and ticket booking can be done upon arrival, there are a few events worth reserving well in advance to avoid disappointment. Theatre Richard III The Old Vic’s artistic director himself, the legendary Kevin Spacey will play Richard in Shakespeare’s tragedy is directed by Academy Award winner Sam Mendes The Old Vic Theatre June 18- Sep 11 Tickets on sale now The Old Vic Theatre image: Paspro/flickr Opera Aida, Verdi’s dramatic tale of forbidden love The Royal Opera House 11 March – 15 April Book quickly, the least expensive seats are the first to go. Spring Event Chelsea Flower Show Chelsea Royal Hospital transforms its grounds into 11 acres of creative garden design each summer but it’s not all about the flowers. Shop, sip on champagne or Pimm’s and rub elbow’s with high brow Londoners. May 24-28 (first two days are for RHS members only) Purchase tickets without delay, it’s a sell out each year. Chelsea Flower Show image: alh1/flickr Music Kew the Music (formerly Kew Swing) Choose performances by Blondie, Buena Vista Social Club, Jools Holland, Bryan Ferry, Jamie Cullum at the annual summer concert series on the lawn in Kew Gardens. 6-11 July Tickets on sale March 7 Sport Test Cricket: England v. India Can England defeat the world’s no. 1 team? Perfect for novice fans, test matches are done & dusted in one day. Lord’s Cricket Ground 21 -25 July Reserve tickets now Cricket at Lord's Historic BuildingBuckingam Palace Summer Opening When the queen leaves the city each summer, the palace opens to the public. This year’s special exhibit included with the entry ticket and audio tour is the Royal Faberge Collection. 23 July – 3 October Tickets available to book The Queen's backyard at Buckingham Palace image: tobiashm/ flickr Continue reading...