⭐⭐⭐⭐ “A Kate in the hand is worth two in the Butch.” Kate Butch swaps songs and audience interaction for a more traditional stand-up hour packed with puns, silliness and sharp observations. From meal deals and Duolingo to Drag Race, homophobia and online backlash, Butch delivers plenty of laughs. The real magic comes in the ad libs and audience interaction, where their quick wit shines. Hilarious, cheeky and full of personality.

The best magic show in Edinburgh by a Royal Mile! Ben Hart’s “The Labyrinth” is a truly magical experience and a Fringe highlight. Staged in the atmospheric Palais du Variété, this creative show combines clever predictions, stunning revelations, cards, clocks, mirrors, shadow play and an astonishing finale. The audience gasped throughout, particularly during the incredible house-key trick. Atmospheric, original and jaw-dropping — I can’t recommend it more.

A masterclass in comedy and pathos. Michael John Ciszewski’s “Mother Superior” is a beautifully crafted hour of laughter, love and heartbreaking storytelling as he attempts to canonise his mother. From 9/11 and the HIV/AIDS crisis to his childhood, sexuality and comedy career, Michael holds the audience spellbound. Hilarious, moving and deeply personal, this is a show that deserves to be sold out every day.

A joy to behold. Alex Franklin’s “Kiss Me x” is a mischievous, heartwarming and very funny rollercoaster of silliness, storytelling, songs, PowerPoint and audience comedy. She embraces her transformation, dating and the abuse she faces with brilliant, poignant humour. A talented songwriter and pianist, Alex delivers one-liners, ad libs and wonderfully quirky songs. A joyful, high-energy hour that I highly recommend.

Zog is a roaring, soaring success! This delightful musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved book is packed with catchy songs, colourful staging, puppets, slapstick and plenty of poo and fart jokes. The talented cast had the young audience singing, clapping and laughing throughout. My two-and-a-half-year-old grandson Reuben loved every minute and simply said “More!!” afterwards. A wonderful first taste of theatre for little ones.

ubversive, imaginative, vulgar and gloriously bizarre, Fanny Bleach is a late-night Fringe treat! A fast-moving parade of freakish characters, outrageous sketches and brilliantly creative ideas, with plenty of audience participation and some unforgettable surprises. Not every sketch hits the mark, but there are far more hits than misses. Original, enduring and, most importantly, very funny — well worth seeing!

Think classy fun fair by the Thames and you're on the right track. Electric Summer at Battersea Power Station combines nostalgic rides, pétanque, roller skating, giant prize-winning games, food trucks and a riverside bar in one of London's most iconic locations. Best of all, entry is free, so you can simply soak up the atmosphere or pay as you go for the attractions.

A 60th birthday lunch at The Cocochine proved every bit as special as we'd hoped. Impeccable yet genuinely warm service, beautifully executed French-led cooking with subtle Sri Lankan influences, and thoughtful personal touches – from a signed birthday card to fascinating stories behind the ingredients – made this elegant Mayfair restaurant one to remember.

We saw Dystopia 26: The Rock Opera ahead of its Edinburgh Fringe run, and it proved to be a bold blend of live rock music, political satire and immersive theatre. Visually striking and powered by exceptional musicianship, the production delivers memorable original songs and energetic performances, although its political messaging felt rather too heavy-handed for my taste.

Hit Machine is an intelligent and entertaining new play that blends family drama with the realities of the music industry. Josh Radnor and Noah Galvin impress, but it's Khalil Madovi who completely owns the stage, delivering a magnetic performance that captures every aspect of his superstar status. A compelling world premiere with heart, humour and plenty to say.