Activities Outdoors

Shakespeare in the Squares returns to London for summer 2026 (and it might be the prettiest theatre night out in the city)

If your idea of a perfect summer evening involves a picnic, wine and doing something vaguely cultural without it feeling too serious, this one’s for you.
A musical performance in a garden setting featuring actors in colourful costumes, with one musician playing a guitar and others dancing, while an audience sits in front.
Shakespeare In The Squares

Shakespeare in the Squares is returning to London this summer for its 10th anniversary season, bringing open-air performances of Love’s Labour’s Lost to some of the city’s prettiest parks, garden squares and hidden green spaces.

Running from 3 June to 12 July 2026, the not-for-profit theatre company will perform across more than 30 outdoor London locations; from leafy Chelsea and Kensington garden squares to spots including Crystal Palace Park, Camden Square, Fulham and Chiswick House & Gardens.

This year’s production is Shakespeare’s Love’s Labour’s Lost, a playful comedy packed with romance, chaos, mistaken intentions and plenty of humour. Directed by Toby Gordon, the production promises a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere complete with music inspired by 1960s and 70s rock and pop.

The concept is simple: bring a picnic blanket, snacks (or wine), sit outdoors and watch Shakespeare in some of London’s most beautiful settings as the sun goes down. Think theatre, but considerably less intimidating. Locations this year include The Charterhouse, Leinster Square, Montagu Square, Queen’s Park, Kensington Gardens Square and Chiswick House & Gardens, with performances tailored to each venue.

Whether you’re a theatre person or just looking for a slightly different London summer evening plan, this feels like one of those very London experiences worth romanticising.

📍Across London
📅 3 June – 12 July 2026
🎟️ Tickets and locations via Shakespeare in the Squares

Visit our events and activities area for more ideas of things to do with kids in London this season or have a look at our theatre and dance page to see our selection of family friendly shows.