THE SEASON

Essential dates for one’s diary

■ 23 APRIL –ST GEORGE’S DAY

Dust o those red-andwhite ags to celebrate the feast day of England’s patron saint. A host of performers will take part in an a ernoon of live events in London’s Trafalgar Square, but why not celebrate with a luxurious English a ernoon tea at e Savoy, a feature at the hotel for more than 130 years.

■ 23 APRIL – LONDON MARATHON

Returning to its traditional springtime slot, a er being staged in October for the past three years because of Covid-19, the London Marathon will see thousands of people running 26.2 miles from Blackheath to e Mall. As well as taking in many of the capital’s most famous landmarks, the event raises huge amounts for charity : a record £66.4m was raised through the 2019 event –the last one before the pandemic.

■ 26 APRIL–1 MAY – SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL

What better way to taste, discover and invest than by visiting some of Speyside’s world-famous whisky distilleries. From whisky school to tours and tasting, this festival o ers everything to entice the whisky connoisseur. Book a room at historic country house hotel Blervie House to enjoy a touch of luxury in the Scottish Highlands.

■ 30 APRIL – AZERBAIJAN GRAND PRIX

Get ready for 51 laps of adrenaline as the fourth race of the F1 season takes place in Baku. With Max Verstappen and Red Bull maintaining their stranglehold, with wins in Bahrain and Australia already this season, can anyone knock them o pole position? Book the Ultra Grand Prix package to be a guest of Aston Martin Red Bull Racing and experience pit-lane walks, meet the drivers, and enjoy accommodation at the ve-star Hilton Baku.

■ 26 APRIL–13

MAY – RICHARD III

A er the success of her production of Richard II at Shakespeare’s Globe (pictured), outstanding actress Adjoa Andoh takes on the role of one of the Bard’s most iconic villains, Richard III Staged at the Rose eatre in Kingston, London, this production is sure to be one of the hottest tickets in town this spring.