4 Bucket List Adventures That Start in St James’s

There’s something about summer that unlocks the adventurer in all of us. Sleeping under the stars, long walks and sunny weekends that tempt you into one more adventure before the nights draw in.

But the best adventures don’t begin in the wilderness, they begin in St James’s. Home to an abundance of specialist stores and craftspeople, the neighbourhood should be your first stop for pulling together everything from camping essentials and all-weather hiking gear to elegant luggage and Riviera-ready outfits. No matter where you’re heading, we’re here to help you prepare for all the adventures that lay ahead.

1. Camp Under the Stars

Nothing says wild and whimsical more than a night sleeping under the stars. Whether it's nestled amongst the trees in the Lake District, a coastal spot in Cornwall or a back garden special with the family, spending a night immersed in nature remains one of life's simplest pleasures.

Before you set off, be sure to pay a visit to Snow Peak at 16A Regent Street St James's. The Japanese outdoor brand has built a strong following thanks to its beautifully designed camping equipment, which is engineered to help you enjoy the outdoors in maximum comfort. Their camping bundles in particular are a great starting point, with all the essentials curated in one handy package.

2. Take the Scenic Route

Some of the best adventures begin simply with the willingness to explore somewhere new. From the rolling hills of the South Downs to the dramatic peaks of Snowdonia, our little island offers no shortage of spectacular landscapes to discover.

For those planning to spend the summer exploring these, Arc'teryx is a perfect starting point. Renowned for its technical performance and innovative design, the brand’s clothing has become a favourite among hikers, runners and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Although it’s summer, we are talking British summer here, so pick up one of their weather-resistant jackets just to be on the safe side.

3. Book a Spontaneous City Break

Few things feel quite as exciting as booking a trip on a whim. With the whole of Europe at our fingertips, there are no shortage of opportunities to visit art galleries in Florence, canals in Copenhagen and pick up some pasteis de nata in Lisbon.

Chic city stopovers demand accessories to match, so make a stop at Carl Friedrik before you go. Known for its elegant luggage and travel accessories, the brand creates pieces designed to accompany modern explorers wherever they’re heading. With a special carry-on range, those airlines with their pesky baggage restriction policies don’t stand a chance.

4. Find an Excuse to Dress Up

If summer is the season of adventure, it's also the season of occasion dressing. The calendar fills up quickly… a wedding here, a garden party there, and before you know it you're searching for something worthy of the event. St James's tailors have been helping people rise to the occasion for generations but we have Aspinal's handcrafted accessories, Dunhill's impeccable suits and Luisa Spagnoli's elegant womenswear for those with more modern tendencies.

Sometimes the fun is in making the excuse to dress up - so if you're still looking for one, allow us to help. Afternoon tea at The Ritz or Fortnum & Mason is one of our neighbourhood’s very best traditions and demands a sense of occasion, or a Michelin-starred dinner at Fallow followed by a show at the Theatre Royal Haymarket is equally as glamourous. After all, adventures don't always require hiking boots... sometimes all you need is a pot of tea and a natter with your favourite people.

St James’s has a whole itinerary of summer adventures lined up right here in our neighbourhood, so if you’re looking for something a little closer to home, visit our list of 7 things to do. We can’t wait to spend the season with you.