Quirky festivals and events in London

Residents of London are regarded as being a reserved group of people compared to their peers
in the likes of Spain, France and Italy. But that doesn't mean the capital doesn't go absolutely
bonkers from time to time. There are plenty of quirky events and festivals taking place in the
capital around the year. It's great fun to see people who wouldn't normally let their hair down
join in with the partygoers on the basis that (hopefully) nobody will remember that they were
there. Check out our list of places to be.

World Naked Bike Ride

Yes, it is as barmy as it sounds. Thousands of cyclists take to the streets in their birthday suits,
in what is both a protest against the oil industry and also a celebration of the human body. The
exact route takes cyclists past all the best central London landmarks, meaning tourists are in for
a shock if they don't know what's going on. Cycling without any clothes on at all is completely
optional, and there are body-painting stations for those who want to adorn themselves with
swanky symbols and hyperdelic swirls. It's free to attend, and those who participate it have
claimed it to be an extraordinarily liberating experience. If you don't feel like joining in, then it's
absolutely fine to stand at the sidelines and cheer.

Hot Tub Cinema

Another quirky event that sees you getting naked with complete strangers, Hot Tub Cinemas
does exactly what it says on the tin. Showings include movies both new and old, with recent
releases advertised alongside classic cinema. As such, you're bound to find something to your
taste. Choose your night, pack your bathing suit and turn up at the advertised event location -
these also vary and include interesting undiscovered places such as warehouses and rooftops.

Rooftop beach

London is not exactly known for being beach central - the Thames doesn't make a good
swimming spot and the closest you'll come to golden sand is a small stretch of dirt that appears
at low tide near Embankment. A few years ago, a bar in Camden decided to change this image
problem, adding plenty of sand, a paddling pool and a coastal atmosphere to its rooftop. People
converge here throughout the summer, but you have to get here pretty early in the day to bag a
sunbed.

West End Bares

Yet another event that involves naked flesh, but this one is for a very good cause. Once a year,
the stars of London's world famous West End shows strip off for charity in a themed late-night
event that is known for being risque and fantastic fun. The actors - usually starring in a variety of
top productions such as Wicked, Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables and Miss Saigon - put
their performance skills to excellent use in enthralling the audience in an altogether different
way. Don't miss out on this one. West End Bares is usually held in the winter and tickets are
available on the internet.