Planning to visit London? The best things to do this summer

SUMMER in London is a truly spectacular affair; there is no better time to visit the capital than when its streets are filled with summer haze.

If you plan to visit London in the coming months, or are a resident of the city and want to know more about what’s happening in the capital this summer, then do not fear. Simply read on to find out what you could be attending during these warm summer months.

England’s capital is known worldwide for its exciting cultural happenings, and if you visit London then you must check out the dynamic art scene, boasting dozens of events every week. Aptly named Love Is What You Want, one of the UK’s most controversial artists Tracy Emin has a new exhibition showing through the summer at the Southbank Centre’s Hayward Gallery.

The exhibition includes work from her early career as a Royal Academy graduate right up to the present and, provocative as ever, Emin has put on an innovative and thought-provoking show. Running until 29th August, tickets are a bargain at £12, while concessions are available for students, children and senior citizens.

For those who are more interested in nature and wildlife, one London museum worth visiting is that of Natural History. Displayed until early October, the Sexual Nature exhibition has attracted plenty of visitors so far this year, with its detailed study of the sexual habits of the animal kingdom. Housing around 70 million plant, animal, rock and mineral specimens, the Natural History Museum is full to the brim with exciting collections. If you go once and love it, you can always go again and joining as a member is hassle-free. You’ll be rewarded with special invitations and discounted visits for the remainder of 2011.

For first-time visitors to the UK capital, make sure you pick up a London map or join a sightseeing tour to make the most of your time in this most wonderful of cities. You can also purchase London Pass cards that give you access to 55 top London attractions.

If you fancy trying something new and sophisticated this summer, it's recommended that you get yourself a couple of tickets to one of the Royal Opera House’s summer screenings. Starting on 13th July, Cinderella is a great one to begin with for those who want to ease themselves into the opera scene. You’ll be transported to a magical world of evil sisters and theatre magic.

If you find yourself stuck for something to do on 23rd July, make sure you get yourself down to Trafalgar Square to indulge in an animated film with a screening of the Tate Movie Project’s Itch of the Golden Nit. The film, masterminded by thousands of UK children, is a free activity and guests can take part in animation workshops and meet the producers.

You can always rely on London when in pursuit of the biggest and the best attractions. If you’re looking for the most extravagant street festival in Europe, make sure you visit the Notting Hill Carnival during the bank holiday weekend on 28th and 29th August. Parts of the city will become awash with colour as a rich tapestry of cultures comes together to throw a brilliant party.

Alternatively, you could head to one of London's top football clubs for the start of the 2011-12 season. One of the biggest fixtures to look forward to is Arsenal versus Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium in north London on 20th August, as up to 60,000 football fans descend on the capital to watch the Premier League kick off.

With all this and more to do in London this summer you will be spoilt for choice. So, make sure you embrace the erratic British weather by making the most of all the capital has to offer.