Here we go, here we go, here we go: it’s a World Cup weekend. And if you really can’t stand the sight of Beckham and Ljungberg running around in shorts, there are plenty other diversions.

READ
Fat, 40 & Fired
What: Hilarious novel by British father of four who loses his job and goes to Sydney to find himself.
Why: Someone else’s mistakes are always funny.
When: Soon. Everyone’s onto it.
Where: Online at amazon.co.uk.

EAT
Bedford & Strand Wine Room and Bistro
What: New restaurant serving fine wine and honest food (steak tartare, crème brulee).
Why: If only for the glorious interior — the chairs are old church pews.
When: Mon.-Sat., noon-midnight.
Where: 1 Bedford St., WC2 (020 7836 3033).

Villandry World Cup Food Nights
What: Taste regional delicacies from countries participating in the World Cup, then watch a match on the 50-foot screen at the bar.
Why: It beats sitting in a smoke-filled pub.
When: Thurs. & Fri., 5-8 p.m.
Where: Villandry, 170 Great Portland St., W1 (020 7631 3131).

BUY
Nanette Lepore
What: New UK flagship store selling Lepore’s signature feminine clothing, shoes and accessories.
Why: The label’s huge in the States.
When: Mon.-Wed., Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.
Where: 206 Westbourne Grove, W11 (020 7221 8889).

Gharani Strok Sample Sale
What: Up to 80 percent off spring/summer clothing, beachwear and accessories.
Why: You can’t wear that Zara kaftan every day.
When: Thurs.-Fri., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Gharani Strok, block b, unit 3c, Long Island House, Warple Way, W3 (020 8749 5909).