SCENT

If you're looking for a reason to escape the city, make it In Bloom: How Plants Changed Our World at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford.

Exploring the extraordinary influence plants have had on art, science and everyday life, the exhibition is a reminder that scent has always shaped the way we experience the world. From the flowers we cultivate to the spices we treasure, plants have the remarkable ability to evoke memory, emotion and place.

If Oxford feels a little too far this month, we'd also recommend a visit to Benton End: A Paradise of Pollen and Paint at London's Garden Museum. Designed by the same curatorial team, it celebrates the garden of artist Cedric Morris, where flowers and creativity flourished side by side.

SOUND

Everyone talks about the Edinburgh Fringe in August, but we'd argue there's another festival that's just as inspiring.

The Edinburgh International Book Festival offers a slower, more thoughtful way to experience the city. Instead of rushing between venues, spend an afternoon listening to conversations that challenge perspectives and celebrate storytelling.

Our picks include Oyinkan Braithwaite discussing Cursed Daughters, Saara El Arifi and Nikita Gill exploring queens, myths and goddesses, and the ever brilliant Kae Tempest, who will be celebrating his new novel, Having Spent Life Seeking.

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TASTE

Pairing iconic films with menus inspired by what's happening on screen, Taste Films transport into the movie by serving every course arrives at exactly the right moment, creating an experience that blurs the line between dining and storytelling. It's immersive in the most delicious way and exactly the sort of experience we love to champion.

Closer to home, we're also excited by Bread & Butter, the tiny artisan bakery tucked inside the old cricket pavilion in Lloyd Park, Croydon. It feels like discovering a secret hidden amongst the trees. Founded by chef and entrepreneur Anna, the loaves are incredible and you’ll want to buy every single butter they have to offer. 

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SIGHT

We’ll most certainly be heading to the Tate Modern this month to see the Tracey Emin exhibition. 

Celebrating her extensive 40 year career, Emin invites us to experience her deeply personal work of painting, sculpture and installation.

Th exhibition promises a deep dive into the raw and confessional approach of the art and how she poses profound questions on love, trauma, and autobiography.

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TOUCH

This August, Celebration of Makers at Two Temple Place throws open the doors to one of London's most extraordinary buildings for four days dedicated to craftsmanship. 

Expect live demonstrations of wood carving, stone carving, gilding, stained glass and conservation, with the opportunity to try many of the traditional techniques for yourself. Alongside the demonstrations, you'll find creative workshops, talks, behind the scenes stories about the building's remarkable craftsmanship and an independent makers market showcasing beautiful work from contemporary designers.

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