This August, Devonshire Square is delighted to host Staycation in Aldgate, in partnership with Aldgate Connect, bringing a taste of summer holiday spirit to the heart of the City through three days of live music, relaxed outdoor spaces, interactive experiences and opportunities to connect with the local community.
From Wednesday 26 to Friday 28 August, Devonshire Square’s Central Courtyard will be transformed into a summer retreat, inviting visitors, occupiers and the wider Aldgate community to take a break from the pace of the working day and enjoy a little holiday atmosphere without leaving the City.
Delivered as a collaboration between Devonshire Square and Aldgate Connect, Staycation in Aldgate celebrates the people, businesses and experiences that make Aldgate such a vibrant destination, while creating a welcoming space for the local community to come together.
Whether you are joining us during your lunch break, meeting colleagues or looking for somewhere to unwind after work, the three-day activation offers plenty of opportunities to relax, enjoy live entertainment and discover more of what Aldgate has to offer.
Live music, lunchtime to early evening
Music will take centre stage throughout the three-day programme, with a line-up of talented performers bringing energy and character to the Square across lunchtimes and early evenings.
On Wednesday 26 August, South London singer, songwriter and guitarist Sherika Sherard will open the programme from 12.30pm to 2pm, followed by acclaimed singer-songwriter and guitarist Natalie Shay, performing from 5.30pm to 7.15pm.
Thursday 27 August brings award-winning electric violinist Alleya Weibel to the Central Courtyard from 12.30pm to 2pm, before pianist and vocalist Matt Ryan – Oh Piano Man takes over for the early evening.
The programme concludes on Friday 28 August with acoustic guitarist and vocalist Paddy Phelps performing over lunchtime, followed by high-energy saxophonist Ash Wood from 5.30pm to 7.15pm.
All performances are free to enjoy, making it easy to drop by and experience the atmosphere for yourself.
A summer setting in the heart of the City
Alongside the music, Devonshire Square will be transformed with beautifully styled pergolas, comfortable deckchairs and an interactive Peep-Thru photo opportunity, creating a relaxed summer setting designed for memorable moments.
It is a chance to step away from the pace of the working day and enjoy Devonshire Square from a different perspective. Grab a deckchair, meet a colleague, listen to some live music and make the most of the summer atmosphere right here in Aldgate.
Join us for the Summer Drinks Reception
To mark the launch of Staycation in Aldgate, we will also be hosting a Summer Drinks Reception on Wednesday 26 August from 5.30pm to 7.30pm in the Central Courtyard.
The evening will feature complimentary refreshments courtesy of Sir Devonshire Hotel, a live performance from Natalie Shay and an opportunity to connect with businesses and members of the local Aldgate community.
It is the perfect way to begin three days of summer-inspired experiences at Devonshire Square.
The Summer Drinks Reception is free to attend; however, registration is required as availabiliy is limited. You can book your place here.
Send a postcard, win a staycation
In keeping with the holiday-inspired theme, visitors will also have the opportunity to send a little piece of Aldgate to someone special.
Throughout the activation, bespoke Aldgate postcards will be available to collect from event staff or the Sir Devonshire Hotel reception. Write your message, leave it with the hotel and they will take care of the postage for you.
There is also the chance to win a Staycation for Two at Sir Devonshire Hotel. Simply leave your details with the hotel to be entered into the prize draw*.
*Competition terms and conditions apply. The staycation can be booked on a date of your choosing, subject to availability.
Discover more of Aldgate
Staycation in Aldgate is about more than three days of entertainment. It is an invitation to discover the people, places and experiences that make Aldgate such a vibrant part of London.
Keep an eye out for exclusive local offers being announced as part of the activation, providing even more reasons to explore the neighbourhood and make the most of your time in Aldgate.
Your summer starts at Devonshire Square
With live music, laid-back outdoor spaces, interactive experiences and plenty of opportunities to connect, Staycation in Aldgate brings a little holiday feeling to the working week.
So, whether you are visiting for a lunchtime performance, joining us after work or simply passing through, come and experience Devonshire Square in summer mode.
Staycation in Aldgate
Wednesday 26 – Friday 28 August
Devonshire Square Central Courtyard – EC2M 4YE
Live performances: 12.30–2pm & 5.30–7.15pm
Come for the music. Stay for the atmosphere. Discover your own summer escape at Devonshire Square!
If you have any questions about the Staycation in Aldgate activation, please contact the Aldgate Connect team via the enquiry form on their website. The team will be delighted to assist you.
Image Credit: @Aldgate Connect