It’s the start of a brand new year, and there’s plenty to look forward to in the fantastic cultural and sporting events that we celebrate each year here in the UK. Here’s our pick of the best, so start filling your diary…

1. The Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race

When: 27 March 2016

Where: Putney to Mortlake

Take your place on the banks of the Thames to watch the formidable rowing teams of Oxford and Cambridge Universities battle it out for the ultimate rowing trophy. As of last year, the women’s and men’s races take place on the same day, so there’s double the action awaiting spectators.

2. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show

When: 24 – 28 May 2016

Where: Royal Hospital, Chelsea, London

Cutting edge garden design takes centre stage at the enduringly popular Chelsea Flower Show, where this year’s highlights include The British Eccentrics Garden by Diarmuid Gavin and an acoustic garden inspired by percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie. Join the Queen and other members of the Royal Family at this wonderfully civilised event.

3. The Hay Festival of Literature

When: 26 May – 5 June 2016

Where: Hay-on-Wye, Wales

Novelists, poets, scientists, comedians and everyone in between will be in attendance at one of the country’s most culturally enriching festival experiences. Founded in 1987 and a must for bookworms, the Hay Festival has been called “Woodstock for the mind”.

4. Trooping the Colour

When: 11 June 2016

Where: Horse Guards Parade, London

There’s no better demonstration of good old-fashioned British pageantry than Trooping the Colour, the annual military parade marking the Queen’s official birthday. Apply in writing for tickets for the best view, or take your place on the Mall on the day.

5. Royal Ascot

When: 14 -18 June

Where: Ascot, Berkshire

The biggest event in the racing calendar, Royal Ascot is a prestigious and glamorous event, but there’s as much fun to be had in spotting unusual hats as there is in watching the races themselves. If you only ever attend one race meeting, make it this one.

6. Wimbledon

When: 27 June – 10 July 2016

Where: London

Pimms, strawberries and cream are all on the agenda at the world’s greatest tennis tournament. Whether you’re watching the action on Centre Court or sunning yourself on so-called ‘Murray Mound’, Wimbledon is one of Britain’s favourite summer sporting events.

7. The BBC Proms

When: 15 July – 10 September 2016

Where: The Royal Albert Hall, London

This two-month celebration of music gives you the chance to see all manner of classical music performed by internationally renowned orchestras – for just £5 a ticket. The famous Last Night is the most popular, but throughout the festival you’re sure to find a performance that appeals, whether you worship Mozart or favour contemporary composers.

8. The British Grand Prix

When: 8 – 10 July (subject to possible change)

Where: Silverstone, Northamptonshire

Will Lewis Hamilton claim victory at Silverstone for a third year running? There’s only one way to see the action unfold, and that’s by attending this iconic race in person. Single or three-day tickets are available, and the Grand Prix After Party is worth a look-in as well.

Get there in style

Make your day even more special by travelling to your event in the style and comfort of our executive chauffeur-driven cars. We’ll pick you up from your doorstep and take you home after the event, so you can relax and make the most of the day for a truly memorable experience.