Abracadabra! Here are four magic shows worth checking out this summer

Magic is in the air! London is brimming with spell-binding performances this summer from some of the world’s most acclaimed illusionists. 

Impossible

Impossible, a magical multi-discipline spectacular, includes grand illusion, death-defying stunts, mind-reading and sleight-of-hand. Noël Coward Theatre, until August 28.

The London Festival of Close Up Magic

If you prefer your illusions up-close and personal, the London Festival of Close Up Magic kicks off this Friday in the labyrinth of atmospheric tunnels beneath Waterloo station. The launch night offers up an exclusive magic-themed cocktail menu and an hour of world-class conjuring from just £16.50. Subsequent shows on July 28-30 showcase more sensational sleight-of-hand from Fringe favourites Dominick Zwolinski, Chris Dugdale and Kockov. The Vaults, July 22, 28-30. 

The Magic Hour

Strictly limited to just 45 seats per performance, The Magic Hour is an intimate close-up magic show in the old world grandeur of the Grand Royale Hyde Park, inspired by the opulence and showmanship of the old Victorian masters of magic. Perfect for date night, a £25 ticket gets you a seat and a pre-show cocktail.

Piff the Magic Dragon at the Just for Laughs Festival

Alternatively, Piff the Magic Dragon is a conjurer and comedian who performs in a dragon costume, aided in his magical endeavours by Mr Piffles the chihuahua. They’re performing together pre-Edinburgh Fringe as part of the Just For Laughs Festival, and there are still a few tickets left. The Mix, July 14-21 and The Camden Centre July 18-19.

In more magic news, check out this map that shows all the Harry Potter locations in London.