London in 2012: 7 reasons to visit

There are countless reasons to visit England’s capital, from West End shows to sporting triumphs, gourmet meals to bargain shopping expeditions, but 2012 looks set to tempt even more visitors than usual, thanks to it’s excellent line up of events.

Find out what could be drawing you to London’s doors next year in a list of the 7 best reasons to book a trip in 2012.With so many great events to enjoy in the capital, you’re sure to want to book your 2012 tickets now. Fly to Heathrow airport or Gatwick airport for an easy, express commute into town and start celebrating some of the excellent events planned for next year as soon as possible.

#1 The Olympics

In 2012, London will be the proud host of the Olympic and Paralympic Games and the capital has been pouring time, attention and money into making sure the experience is a spectacular one. Taking place throughout July, August and October, this is the ideal time to see some of your sporting heroes up close.

#2 London 2012 Festival

Capitalising on the global attention brought by the Olympics, London is set to be showing off its best and brightest in this festival of arts and entertainments. Dance, film, performance and photography exhibitions are lined up for this jam-packed programme.

#3 Queens River Pageant at Battersea Park

Enjoy this family friendly festival to celebrate the diamond jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. There will be over a thousand decorated boats and barges taking to the Thames in a stunning flotilla.

#4 Wireless Festival

See Rihanna perform her only UK show of 2012 at the Barclaycard Wireless Festival. Taking place over the first three days of July, this is a chance to catch artists from Pulp to the Black Eyed Peas, Aphex Twin and the Chemical Brothers.

#5 World Shakespeare Festival London

Celebrate the bard with a huge variety of events honouring the work of the most popular playwright in the English language. Expect international collaborations and lavish productions. Events will also be taking place in Stratford-upon-Avon and Newcastle.

#6 Picasso at the Tate Modern

A collection of over 150 of Picasso’s work, gathered from all around the world, will be on display at the Tate Modern between 15 February 2012 and 15 July 2012. The exhibition will show Picasso’s work within a wider context, including his influence on Britain’s painters, making this an absolute must see for art lovers.

#7 Sundance London

Enjoy the buzz of film premiers and star studded screenings by booking a few movie tickets at the Sundance London Film Festival. Taking place in April, this is the first festival of its kind in London, and it’s the happy result of a collaboration between Robert Redford, the Sundance Institute and AEG Europe.

James writes for cheap flights specialists Skyscanner.net