The city is finally coming back to life, and here is some of the London news you may have missed last week.
It’s been a while since we’ve had actual things to look forward to in London (besides virtual events and lockdown easing news). Now, slowly but surely, the city is waking up from a year-long slumber to bring us new restaurants, rooftop bars, pop-up events, and much more. Here is some of the latest London news you may have missed last week:
1. All lockdown restrictions in England end today
Health Secretary Sajid Javid has confirmed that ‘Freedom Day’ will go ahead as planned today, putting an end to social distancing measures, mandatory mask wearing, and legal limits on social contact in England. The relaxing of restrictions marks the “start of a new phase of continued caution while we live with the virus and we manage the risks”. Find more info here.
2. Masks will remain compulsory on Tubes and buses after July 19, Sadiq Khan says
Despite the easing of restrictions in England, Londoners will still be required to mask up on public transport. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has asked TfL to keep face coverings as a condition of travel when catching buses, Tubes, and TfL trains in London, so as to continue protecting passengers from Covid-19. Read more here.
3. There’s going to be a four-day Tube strike in August
Bad news for anyone currently commuting to the office: there are going to be four days of Tube strike action in August, which will affect every London Underground line. The Rail, Maritime, and Transport (RMT) Union has called for Tube strikes on August 3, 5, 24, & 26, and instructed its members not to book any shifts from noon those days until 11:59am the following day. More info here.
4. A futuristic fairground with musical dodgems has opened at Somerset House
Somerset House’s iconic courtyard has been transformed into a fairground with a twist, and entry is free for all! At Dodge you’ll find interactive bumper cars, art installations, tasty treats, outdoor seating booths and a few surprises along the way. This fairground is just what we need after the rollercoaster year we’ve all had, and you can find more info here.
5. This naughty French dessert trend has arrived in London
The newest waffle trend is no longer bubble- or flower-shaped — people now like their waffles willy- and fanny-shaped, dipped elegantly in chocolate and sprinkled with toppings. These ‘sexy French waffles’ are available in Covent Garden, and you can feast your eyes on some more of them here.