Britain, Britain, Britain, land of diversity... No one says it better than the madcap folk of Little Britain, and no city displays this quite as proudly as London. A city where retro meets regal, where you can join the crazy crowds of Camden or say how do you do to the oh-so-chic spots of Highgate Village and Primrose Hill, sift through vintage stores for fab old finds or shop it up in Knightsbridge - the mix of new trends and old tradition is intoxicating.

And summer's the time to make hay. Sip cocktails in Covent Garden, catch a show in Leicester Square, picnic in the parks, and if you're fired up by the glamour of the Dubai World Cup, put on your finest and make sure the Pimm's is at hand, for the Royal Ascot race meeting. What better excuse does a fashionable filly need to jet away for a city break?

While you're there

Where to stay
For classical style in the heart of trendy Mayfair, head to Rocco Forte's Brown's Hotel. Just minutes from Buckingham Palace, Green Park and the boutiques of Bond Street, take in the city's sights then take high tea at the hotel's chic English Tea Room. It's wonderfully posh.

Calling All Fair Ladies
Up there with Wimbledon, the Royal Ascot race meeting, running from June 17-21, is the society bash to be seen at.

Party with the stars
Brush shoulders with the likes of Posh and Madge at Nobu Berkeley, party it up with Peaches Geldof and pals at the Hawley Arms in Camden or Movida, Punk and Bungalow 8, or head to the Sugar Hut where you may end up having a right ripper of a night with Prince Wills and Harry.