Visiting London this winter? Keep an eye out for the best things to do in London in March so you don't miss out on any exciting events. London always has brilliant things going on whatever the month. Whether it's a public holiday, food carnival, exhibition of live music nights, there will be something for you. We keep this article updated each month so you can keep checking back here for your visits to the Big Smoke. We've rounded up the best things to do in London in Feb, so you're covered if you're visiting the city this spring.
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March 2020
Pancake Day!
5th March
Who loves pancakes? Shrove Tuesday, better known as Pancake Day is one of our favourite foodie days of the year. If you can’t be bothered to make them yourself, why not check out some of London’s best pancake spots. They’re all FLIPPING amazing.
International Women’s Day 2020
8th March
It’s International Women’s Day on March 8th. Why not get your gal pals together and go on a night out to celebrate each other? If you’re keen on attending a talk or conference, there are some great events taking place around London for International Women’s Day.
St Patrick’s Day
17th March
The Irish know how to throw a party and when the year draws near to St Patrick’s Day, they’re gonna go all out. Irish street food, plenty of Guinness and a loud, lively and a very green parade is what you can expect in Trafalgar Square for Paddy’s Day celebrations. Round up your mates and get ready for London’s centre to turn into a sea of green.
These are the
Earth Hour 2019
28th March
Between 8:30pm and 9:30pm GMT on Saturday 30th March, WWF will invite people to switch off lights as a way of raising awareness for climate change. A small step but in the right direction! This annual event is now one of the world's largest grassroots movements for the environment, where millions of people in more than 180 countries take part.
Head of the River Race
Saturday 21st March
Make your way down to the Tideway as over 400 eight-man rowing boats take part in a race down the river from Mortlake to Putney. The highly anticipated annual Head of the River Race sees national and international crews storm the 4.25 mile stretch to win the race and be part of its history. Arrive there early to get a spot along the river, all you’ll need to pay for is a picnic and some (very British) Pimms - what a jolly good day this is going to be.
Last of Kew Gardens’ Orchid Festival
Until 8th March
The botanical gardens at Kew put on some of the most spectacular floral events in Europe, and this one cannot be missed. Running until the 8th March, the annual Orchid Festival is back again to inject a pop of colour into your life. Soon the Princess of Wales Conservatory will be transformed into a tropical, Colombian paradise and the best part is that it doesn’t cost anything more than entrance to the gardens. This eye-popping event will be the Instagram opportunity of dreams…
Vegan Life Live London 2020
14th and 15th March
Are you a vegan or trying to eat more sustainably? Then the Vegan Life Live London 2020 is the perfect event for plant-based lovers (and even meat-eaters) who want to try the best of vegan street food in London. This event takes place in Alexandra Palace and a day ticket costs £10.
Mother’s Day
22nd March
Sunday 22nd March marks Mother’s Day - and London is the perfect place to take your mum out and shower her with love. Whether you head to one of London’s best affordable Sunday roast spots, quirky bars in the city or riverside pubs for a cocktail overlooking the water, there are plenty of things to do in the Big Smoke for Mother’s Day.
Steve McQueen at the Tate Modern
Until 11th May
Love contemporary art? You can catch the Steve McQueen exhibition at the Tate Modern gallery up until 11th May 2020. The famous British artist and film director who is also famous for the 2013 film 12 Years a Slave, is being honoured at the Tate with its first exhibition dedicated to McQueen’s artwork in the UK over the past 20 years. Tickets cost £13.
February 2020
Lightopia Festival
22nd January - 1st March
Head to Chiswick House for the 2020 Lightopia Festival . The stunning gardens of this beautiful manor house in West London will be playing host to an immersive light and lantern festival, one of the first of its kind in the UK and Europe. With interactive installations, designs and colourful projections on the the beautiful mansion, you can book tickets online for £20 per person.
Brixton Winter Carnival
22nd February
Looking for a fun music event to attend in London in February? Brixton Winter Carnival is a carnival-inspired festival hosted by BBC 1Xtra (Rampage Sounds). Located at Electric Brixton at the Town Hall Parade, expect an awesome line-up of musicians bringing a full carnival experience to the venue. DJ’s, costumed dancers and the UK’s biggest Mas band, this party is one for all carnival lovers.
Valentine’s Day
14th February
In London with your loved one for Valentine’s Day? Or going bar-hopping in the city with the girls for Galentine’s? Either way, the city is packed with romantic spots and fun things to do to make it one to remember! London’s restaurants will have Valentine’s menus and deals so keep a lookout for any good ones.
London Fashion Week
14th - 18th February
London Fashion Week Festival is all about giving the public a real feel of the British fashion industry, allowing access to catwalk shows, talks from the experts, and the best part - amazing shopping.
Go to a theatre show
London’s West End is theatre heaven. Not all of the shows are as expensive as you’d expect. Check out our on London’s West End in February. Pretty Woman: The Musical is one we’re particularly excited about.
London Comic Con
29th February - 1st March
Comic Conis the ultimate convention for comic and movie fans. Held in West London’s Olympia, a day ticket costs £18. You’ll get to meet your favourite stars, get their autographs and take photos.
Go to a concert
There are some awesome concerts taking place in London throughout February. The Jonas Brothers will be performing at Wembley Stadium, Mabel is hitting up the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith and Madonna will be putting on a few shows at the London Palladium. The Kaiser Chiefs will also be playing in February at The 02! Lots of amazing talent in the British capital this month...
Kew Gardens: Orchids Festival
8th February - 8th March 2020
Kew Gardens will be celebrating its 25th year by hosting a stunning orchid exhibit inspired by the plant life of Indonesia. With rare flowers, a tropical greenhouse, volcanoes and a rainforest, The Prince of Wales Conservatory is being transformed to reflect Indonesia’s diverse landscape (through sight, sound and smell). This is one of the garden’s most spectacular displays so don’t miss out.
Pancake Day
25th February
Going to be in London on Pancake Day? This yummy British tradition (also known as Shrove Tuesday) is celebrated all over the country, so if you’re looking for somewhere to get your pancake fix on the 25th February, check out our article on
January 2020
New Year’s Day parade
Head to London’s West End on 1st January 2020 to kick off the new decade with the biggest street parade in the city. Marching bands, dancers, acrobats, historic vehicles and way more will take to the old London streets to bring a festive cheer, representing local boroughs and countries from across the world. Make your way to the Piccadilly and Trafalgar Square area of central London to see it all in action.
Lightopia Festival
22nd January - 1st March
Over in West London at Chiswick House Gardens, the Lightopia Festival will be putting on a spectacular show from the end of January through February. Stunning handmade lanterns and incredible light installations will take over the house and gardens along with live music, food stalls and a real festive atmosphere. Buy your ticket online in advance for £20.
Chinese New Year
25th January
It’s coming up to the Year of the Rat, and London’s one of the best places in Europe to celebrate it! Head to Chinatown to witness and be part of the Chinese New Year London parade - the biggest celebration outside Asia.
Canary Wharf Winter Lights
16th - 25th January
Towards the end of January, get a look at the spectacular interactive light installations and sculptures in Canary Wharf, London’s bustling banking district. Innovative artists from all over the world have contributed to the light experience, not to be missed if you happen to be in London from the 16th Jan. The Canary Wharf skyline will be glowing more than ever before!
The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture 2020
Brent is the winner of London’s Borough of Culture 2020, and so this year you can join them to celebrate through their programmes and events beginning in January to showcase why they were picked for this special, annual award.
Burns Night
Saturday 25th January
Celebrated all over Scotland, Burns night is enjoyed in London too and consists of a delicious supper (and party) in celebration of the life and poetry of the poet Robert Burns, the author of many famous Scott poems. Many pubs and restaurants around London will be hosting their very own Burns night celebrations where you can tuck into a feast, drink whisky and have a jolly good time. Time Out has listed the best places to head to on Burns Night - pick one, book your table and have fun! We recommend the whisky tasting Burns Night at Bourne and Hollingsworth .
London Short Film Festival
10th - 19th January 2020
Presenting the very best of the UK short-film talent is the 17th London Short Film Festival. If you’re a massive movie fan, and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into making films make sure you get your tickets to one of the LSFF days, where you can watch several short films.
Hogwarts in the Snow
Until 26th January
This month is your very last chance until next year to experience Hogwarts in the Snow at the Warner Brother Studios in Watford. Experience the J.K Rowling books-made-movies real on screen sets transformed to Christmas magic. The festive fun is not over yet, get your last January dose of it here.
Natural History Museum Ice Rink
Until 12th January
Try your hand on the ice at the Natural History Museum during its final days of the season. The iconic South Kensington building makes for an idyllic backdrop before an indulgent hot chocolate once you’re done gliding around the huge Christmas tree.
Catch a West End show
January is one of the chilliest months of the year, so escape the cold and cosy up inside some of the most famous theatres in Europe to watch a fantastic West End show. Whether it’s Come From Away at the Phoenix Theatre or an ongoing classic like Les Miserables or Wicked, you can get tickets for decent prices if you risk it and buy on the day.
December 2019
See London’s famous Christmas lights
London is a great city to get you in the festive spirit. Make the most of the city in December and start off with the famous Christmas light installations which have popped up all over London, ready for the season. This year’s Carnaby Street lights are one of the most extravagant, going with the theme of One Ocean, One Planet in aid of the conservation charity Project 0. Regent Street, Oxford Street, Covent Garden and more famous areas of London are now switched on, ready for the flocks of visitors looking for some festive cheer.
Check out
Ice Skate beneath an iconic London landmark
Is there anything more Christmassy than gliding along an open-air ice rink in the winter? In London, you’re spoilt for choice with the number of stunning Christmas ice rinks that are set up for the season. Skate around the Christmas tree below the Natural History Museum, glide in amongst the history at the Tower of London or in front of an iconic building like Somerset House.
Check out the
Experience London’s Christmas markets
When in London in the lead up to Christmas, you simply have to make time to visit at least one of the city’s famous Christmas markets. Whether it’s a big, busy one like Winter Wonderland or a more quiet, offbeat one like Greenwich Christmas Market, you’re guaranteed to leave feeling ready for the festive season.
Check out the
Enter into the Great Christmas Pudding Race
7th December
Ever seen a huge group of people in fancy dress running around with a plate of Christmas pudding? We don’t mean your crazy aunt on Christmas Day, this is Cancer Research UK’s festive charity fun run! Ahead of 7th December, you can sign yourself and a team up for a race around Covent Garden dressed in your best fancy dress while trying to balance a Christmas pudding on a tray through obstacles and inflatables.
Watch a festive show on the West End
Buy tickets to a pantomime or a wintry West End show in the lead up to Christmas. This year, the multi-award winning hit ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’ will be switching it up for Christmas to become ‘Peter Pan Goes Wrong’ for the season. Nativity! The Musical is another hit show that’s coming back for December, but you’ll have to book soon as it’s very likely to be a sell out. A Christmas Carol, The Snowman, White Christmas, Mary Poppins - all these feel good classics will also be on stage in London for the end of 2019.
Hotboozapalooza
5th December
Warm your cockles at Time Out’s Hotboozapalooza in Vinegar Yard, London Bridge. On 5th December, Vinegar Yard will be hosting an anti-mulled wine party, serving up plenty of delicious hot cocktails and other toasty drinks (just not of the wine variety). For £20 you’ll get entry to the event as well as 4 tasty hot cocktails throughout the night along with good music and great street food.
‘Wave’ at Eccleston Yards
Until 11th January
Immerse yourself in Belgravia’s “alternative” Christmas light show at Eccleston Yards. The artist group Squidsoup have created a huge light installation using 500 multicoloured suspended orbs. Get there for that Insta opportunity before it’s all taken down on 11th January .
Belushi’s Christmas Parties
Christmas parties at Belushi’s are always wild. For those that want good food, good music and loads of fun, festive vibes, Belushi’s bars make the perfect host! There are 5 of them dotted around London, in London Bridge, Camden, Hammersmith, Shepherd’s Bush and Greenwich. Book a table for your party for a buffet or a 3-course feast and plenty of drinks throughout the night!
New Year’s Eve
It’s time to get thinking of your New Year’s Eve plans if you’re in London for December 31st. Whether you want a spot for the epic fireworks over the London Eye, or you’re planning a big night out, there’s something in London for everyone.
Look around the department stores
London’s world-class department stores go all out at Christmas. We don’t all have the money to splash out in these shops, but they’re still great for some mindless window shopping. Harrods have their wintry wonderland of Christmas World, plus their incredible, enormous food hall. Liberty has some of the most magical window displays in the city for Christmas, and Selfridges’ Christmas lights are always top class.
Backyard Cinema
Nab one of the final tickets to this year’s Backyard Cinema extravaganza. This year the Backyard venue is bigger than ever at a new space in Wandsworth. Venture through the back of a wardrobe into a Winter Night Garden, or wade through a magical river into the Snow Kingdom. Watch some of the best classic Christmas films like the Holiday, the Grinch, White Christmas, Elf and more or a new release like A Star is Born or the Greatest Showman.
November 2019
Bonfire Night
5th November
5th November is Guy Fawkes night in England (also known as Bonfire Night), a day where the whole country illuminates with firework displays, sparklers and big bonfires. This occasion marks the capture of an evil mastermind Guy Fawkes who planned to blow up the Parliament Buildings in 1605 - but he didn’t quite succeed. Want to see the fireworks for bonfire night? Here are
Hogwarts in the Snow
16th November - 26th January
Are you a Harry Potter fan? Then make sure you get tickets to The Warner Bros. Studio Tour where you can walk through Harry Potter sets from the much-loved films and learn top secrets from behind-the-scenes. November is the start of Hogwarts in the Snow where the Studio transforms into a winter wonderland for the cold season. Board the Hogwarts Express, try butterbeer, walk into Dumbledoor’s office and stroll through the Forbidden Forest.
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland
Opens from 21st November
Winter Wonderland is the biggest Christmas market in London - and it’s more than just a market. Essentially a giant winter fun fair, Winter Wonderland has roller coasters, rides, games, an ice bar, a Bavarian beer tent, street food, ice skating and rustic fire pit where you keep warm while watching live bands. The perfect place to come to feel the Christmas spirit!
Cosy winter Pop Ups
London is brimming with fun pop-ups during the winter. From cosy pop-up bars, to winter events at London’s famous attractions, get wrapped up and head to one of the exciting seasonal activities in the city. We recommend Coppa Club (a trendy bar in London Bridge where you sit in igloos overlooking the river), Pergola Paddington (a rooftop bar that turns into a winter paradise), Christmas at Kew Gardens (a magical botanical garden) and Winterland (an alpine experience in Fulham).
Diwali on the Square
Diwali is an Indian celebration, also known as the Festival of Light. London is home to a large Indian community so there are always cultural events taking place throughout the city to celebrate. While Diwali actually falls on Sunday 27th October, you can join the Trafalgar Square Diwali celebrations which will take place on Sunday 3rd November right in the heart of the city. The colourful programme involves an opening dance ceremony, garba dance, live bands, Bollywood entertainment, Indian food and more!
NFL
3rd November
If you’re a fan of American football then don’t miss the NFL games taking place at Wembley Stadium on 3rd November. Watch the Houston Texans go up against the Jacksonville Jaguars. If you want to watch all the action, head to Belushi’s sports bars in London where the game will be screened on HD Tvs. Or better yet, buy tickets to the game and watch it from the stands at Wembley.
Lord Mayor’s Show
9th November
This 184 year old tradition is an outdoor parade that takes place in the City of London. From 11am onwards, the streets will come alive with the Lord Mayor’s Show where a procession will run from Mansion House (at Bank Junction) to the Strand - and then back again. Made up of military bands, air forces, floats and cadet bands, there’s nothing more British than this. Try and get there early to get a good spot. The new Lord Mayor will also be announced.
Ice skating in London
As winter approached, the ice rinks start opening up in London from November. Fancy a glide on the ice? The British capital plays hosts to some spectacular ice rinks this year including at the Natural History Museum, Somerset House and Winter Wonderland. Check out the
Christmas Lights
There’s nothing more magical in London than the atmospheric Christmas lights that light up the capital every year. There are different light switch-ons throughout November where you can experience the unveiling of London’s awesome arty displays. The famously un-traditional Carnaby Street Christmas Lights will be switched on the 7th November, flaunting a ‘One Ocean, One Planet’ theme in support of the ocean conservation charity Project 0. The Covent Garden lights will be switched on for 12th November and the Regent’s Street Lights will turn on at some point on the 14th November. You can see the beautiful Christmas lights at any time throughout the festive season.
Southbank Winter Festival
8th November - 5th January
If you’re looking for a cosy Christmas market in London (that’s a little more traditional than Winter Wonderland), then make sure you get your festive feels at the Southbank Winter Festival. With Christmas markets, twinkly fairy lights, comedy shows and delicious street food, this is one of our favourite Christmas markets in the city. Enjoy some mulled wine, international cuisines and mouth-watering festive treats along the river!
October 2019
Things to do in autumn
October means one thing - time for leaves to fall from the trees and for pubs to become the regular Friday night hangout. Check out our list of , from coffee crawls to pumpkin patches and the best parks for an autumn walk. Find out what makes this season in London so perfect…
London Cocktail Week
4th - 13th October
Want some of the best cocktails in London for a fraction of their original high prices? Grab a London Cocktail Week festival pass for £10 online, and you’ll get delicious cocktails in over 300 of the swankiest bars in London for just £6 each! With your pass you’ll even get unlimited access to the Cocktail Village where you’ll find bar pop-ups, street food stalls and DJs.
Natural History Museum Ice Rink
From 19th October
It’s that time of year already! One of the best ice rinks in London will be opening up once again on 19th October. Skate alongside the home of the dinosaurs and beneath the giant Christmas tree at the Natural History Museum, open until the middle of January. It’s never too early, so get your skates on now and book a slot in advance.
Halloween in London at Belushi’s
When you’re in London for October, you’ll need somewhere to party for the creepiest night of the year. Halloween at Belushi’s Bars across London is always huge, with people going all out with fancy dress and making the most of the insanely affordable drinks deals. Dig out your freakiest outfit and book a slot at Belushi’s for October 31st…
Take a Jack the Ripper walking tour
Be transported back to the 1880s when one of the world’s most infamous criminals went on his killing spree of London… The Ripper Vision tour takes you through the most famous spots during the time of Jack the Ripper, telling fascinating stories while projecting it onto a wall to make the story come to life!
London Oktoberfest
Unable to make it to Munich’s big Bavarian beer fest this year? Well London’s got you covered, with Oktoberfest-ivities taking over in Canary Wharf in Millwall Park on 3rd to 6th and 10th to 13th October. Expect rows and rows of long tables and benches, plenty of lederhosen, beer, pretzels, live music and loads more - you’ll barely realise how far from Munich you really are!
World Zombie Day
5th October
Unleash your inner zombie and register online for World Zombie Day 2019. For ten years, zombies have been parading the streets to raise awareness of homelessness. To be part of it, all you have to do is register online for free and turn up to the starting point dressed as your most realistic zombie. Just make sure you have a read of the rules before you go.
London Film Festival
2nd to 13th October
Discover the best new films from across the world at the London Film Festival 2019. Hosted by BFI London, this is one you film buffs have got to check out. Over 300 films, short films and documentaries will be screened at venues across London, giving ticket holders the chance to watch movies that may not have been shown in the UK otherwise.
NFL in London
Any NFL fans going to be in London and need a place to watch the games? Belushi’s sports bars across the city have you covered with live coverage of NFL on huge HD projectors and tasty pre-match grub. Sticky wings, fat burgers and draught beers, spirits and cocktails - can you think of a better way to watch the NFL’s 100th season? If you want to book ahead of the Superbowl make sure to do it quickly; Belushi’s throws the biggest Superbowl party in London. You can find a Belushi’s Bar in Hammersmith, Shepherd’s Bush, Camden, London Bridge and Greenwich.
September 2019
Last of Underbelly Festival
Until 29th September
London’s summer Southbank Underbelly Festival is busy celebrating their 11th round of festive fun, but it’s all coming to an end at the end of September. All summer long London’s locals and visitors have been enjoying delicious street food and a festival atmosphere right by the River Thames. Head down for an al-fresco tipple under London’s early evening sunshine or catch a quick show there, weather its comedy, magic or short sketches.
Totally Thames
1st - 30th September
Totally Thames is an annual celebration of the most famous river in the country. See magnificent installations and fun activities during the day or at dusk all down the river, such as the Ship of Tolerance at Millenium Bridge or foraging for lost treasure on the riverbanks. Check out the Totally Thames website for a full breakdown of the 2019 programme.
Open House London
21st - 22nd September
Get free entry to over 800 of London’s best buildings for 2 days only this September. Open House London is the city’s biggest architecture festival, showcasing only the most impressive buildings from all corners of the city. If you love architecture and always wonder what’s inside some of the most intriguing buildings in London, this is the festival for you.
BBC Proms in the Park
Until 14th September
Buy tickets to BBC 3’s Proms in the Park, taking place once again in London’s famous Hyde Park. You have until 14th September to get down to the greatest classical music festival in the world, so get tickets soon before they sell out.
Summer Streets 2019
It’s the last month of Regent Street’s Summer Streets, where on set Sundays during the summer months the length of the road is all pedestrianised. From Oxford Circus tube station down to Piccadilly Circus tube, the Sunday Summer Streets bring fun pop-ups, food stalls, activities and entertainment. Head to Regent Street on 15th September for the festival atmosphere in central London.
The Great River Race
14th September
The 21.6 mile boat race from the Isle of Dogs in the east of the city to Ham House in Surrey is on 14th September this year. The river marathon is spectacular! Head to the banks of the Thames to watch the competitors race past - the atmosphere is amazing year on year with activities and stalls going on all along the most famous river in Britain.
‘Thank You For Having Us’
7th September
Watch the newest creative performance by French street theatre company Generik Vapeur put on a thought-provoking show on Cheapside near St Paul’s. Taking you through the journey of global warming and the effects of plastic, Generik Vapeur and Gorilla Circus - a Grant Volant Flying Trapeze group - have a jaw-dropping show in store for you. Head to Cheapside for 8pm on Saturday 7th September to see it.
Japan Matsuri
29th September
Love Japanese culture? London’s very own Japanese festival will be taking over Trafalgar Square on Sunday 29th September. Expect martial arts performances and other cultural entertainment such as drumming, kagura (theatre based on Japanese mythology), dance and, of course, traditional Japanese street food stalls. Japan Matsuri Festival is the biggest Japanese festival in England, so join expats and local lovers of the country’s culture for a unique day out with some of the best cuisine in the world!
London Design Festival
14th - 22nd September
London’s annual Design Festival is returning for 2019, welcoming art and design-lovers from all over the world. Dotted all across the city in some amazing exhibition spaces, and hosting some of London’s most renowned and best up-and-coming designers, this is a festival that art-lovers must go and check out .
London Wing Fest
7th - 8th September
Chicken wing lovers get yourselves down to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Stadium in Stratford to help the pros hunt down the best buffalo wings in the city. Taste some of the tastiest chicken wings in London from the likes of Wigmans, Buffalo Joe’s Thunderbird, Drums and Flats and Lord of the Wings - then vote for your favourite! Along with buckets upon buckets of spicy wings, there’s be chilli beer pong, foosball and barbecue demos. Buy tickets via their website.
AUGUST 2019
NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL
25th - 26th August
The highly anticipated Notting Hill Carnival is back this summer taking place for two days over the August Bank Holiday around the streets of Notting Hill. A massive celebration of Carribbean culture, this colourful carnival is your chance to experience calypso dancing, Caribbean music, vibrant parades, street performers and delicious Carribbean food (think hot jerk chicken and plantain). Londoners come together to join the massive street party. Sunday is Family Day whereas Monday is more of a party atmosphere.
OUTDOOR CINEMAS
Screenings throughout August
Need a plan for a summer’s evening in London? The open air cinemas in the city are open throughout August, perfect for a Date Night or a fun movie night with friends. Head to the Rooftop Film Club which has two locations in London including Bussey Building in Peckham and the Hoxton in Shoreditch which are both located on the rooftop. The Rooftop Film Club shows all the latest films as well as the much-loved classics and legendary chick flicks.
SERPENTINE PAVILION, HYDE PARK
Until October 6th
If you’re interested in art, architecture and innovation then get yourself to Hyde Park to see the Serpentine Pavilion, an incredible structure designed by Japanese architect Junya Ishigami. Every summer, someone is commissioned to design an experimental structure for the Serpentine and it’s free to enter! This year, Junya has used slate to create a sweeping masterpiece.
ANNUAL SUMMER OPENING OF BUCKINGHAM PALACE
20th July - 29th September
July marks the re-opening of the Queen’s residence so that the public can step inside the iconic Buckingham Palace. Explore 19 magnificent State Rooms that are used throughout the year for private events and Royal functions, see some of the Queen’s handpicked art collection and walk through the Palace gardens. This year for the opening, it’s your chance to see the Queen Victoria’s Palace exhibition. An amazing experience for lovers of all things Royal.
UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL
Until 29th September
London’s summer Southbank Underbelly Festival will be even bigger and better than usual as this year they celebrate their 11th round of festive fun. All summer long you can enjoy delicious street food and a festival atmosphere right by the River Thames. Head down for an al-fresco tipple under London’s early evening sunshine or catch a quick show there, weather its comedy, magic or short sketches. Keep an eye on their website so you don’t miss a good one! You can enter the grounds of the festival for free!
LONDON CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL
9th - 11th August
Head to the Tobacco Dock in London’s East End for a weekend of fun and booze. The London Craft Beer Festival is an awesome summer event on the roof where you can expect amazing street food, flowing craft beer and live DJs to get the party started. Featuring 80 breweries from around the UK as well as almost 500 different beers on tap, if you’re a beer lover then you won’t want to miss this one. A one day ticket is £40.
REGENT'S PARK MUSIC FESTIVAL ON THE BANDSTAND
Until September 8th
Regent’s Park is one of London’s most beautiful Royal Parks and this August the green space is playing host to a Music Festival and live bandstand until September 8th. Get yourself down to the park for a picnic and enjoy some free concerts from 12.30pm to 5.30pm. You can catch some music on Saturday June 22nd and Sunday afternoon and Bank Holiday Monday from June 23rd until September 8th.
SW4 FESTIVAL
24th - 25th August
SW4 Festival (South West Four) is a fantastic music festival in London that takes place bang smack on Clapham Common for 2 days. The perfect place to spend a summer weekend day partying, drinking and enjoying some great music. The festival hosts some amazing music and this year the headliners are Tinie Tempah, Craig David, Sigala, Martin Jarrix, Plan B, Disciples and more amazing artists from London and beyond. Tickets for this festival cost £57.50 for a one day ticket.
LONDON DESSERT FESTIVAL
Got a bit of a sweet tooth? Can you never say no to dessert at the end of a meal? Well, this may just be your festival of dreams. Get tickets to the London Dessert Festival on the weekend of 17th or 18th August for a sweet experience like no other. Held at the trendy Old Truman Brewery in Shoreditch you’ll get to see and taste some of London’s most fancy, Instagrammable dessert creations. Tickets from £12.95.
LONDON’S PARKS
Where better to relax on sunny days in August than London’s beautiful Royal Parks. Woodland walks, picnics in the sun, pedalo on the lakes and incredible nature and wildlife awaits in the city of London and the best parks in the city. These are the .
JULY 2019
PRIDE OF LONDON
6th July 2019
Don’t miss one of the biggest events on London’s calendar. Pride 2019 is a massive celebration of the LGBTQ community with the main parade taking place on 6th July. Starting at 12pm, the colourful parade will leave from Portland Place and move down Oxford Circus ending at Whitehall at 5.30pm.
LOVEBOX
12th - 13th July
This epic 2-day festival takes place in London’s Victoria Park, Tower Hamlets. Every year it’s packed with an incredible line-up of huge British artists. For 2019, acts include Loyle Carter, Brockhampton, Annie Mac and Fortet and as for the headliners, Giggs, Chance the Rapper, Solange, 2 Chains and Cypress Hill will be hitting the stage. The festival is a huge celebration of British music so Love Box is one not to be missed!
RHS HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW
2nd - 7th July
Attend the largest flower show in the world at Hampton Court Palace. Making for a lovely summer’s day out, this is essentially a massive garden festival showcasing the best flowers and plants but also music, food, workshops and competitions. An all day ticket to the event is £33.50.
ANNUAL SUMMER OPENING OF BUCKINGHAM PALACE
20th July - 29th September
July marks the re-opening of the Queen’s residence so that the public can step inside the iconic Buckingham Palace. Explore 19 magnificent State Rooms that are used throughout the year for private events and Royal functions, see some of the Queen’s handpicked art collection and walk through the Palace gardens. An amazing experience for lovers of all things Royal.
TUNES ON THE THAMES
23rd June 2019
Wanna party on the Thames? City cruises has just launched its music events for the summer and there are two Pride-themed Brunch events in July that sound absolutely amazing. Enjoy a brunch with DJ’s at the deck while cruising down the river and enjoying cocktails. A standard bruch ticket costs £49 and for that price you can enjoy a glass of Moët & Chandon champagne on arrival and buffet brunch
BST HYDE PARK
A massive party in one of London’s biggest parks, BST gets bigger and better each and every year. The festival is held over two different weekends. The 2019 line-up for Saturday 13th July and Sunday 14th will be bringing rock and pop fans together with headliners including Florence and the Machine, Robbie Williams, the Black Eyed Peas, Blood Orange and more.
WIMBLEDON TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS
If you’re a tennis fan don’t miss the Wimbledon Tennis Championships taking place from 1st - 14th July. Get your tickets to a Championships game and watch your favourite tennis players battle it out on court. Ticket prices range depending on where you want to be seated - from £25 up to £225.
ICC CRICKET WORLD CUP FINAL 2019
Sunday 14th July
Get your tickets to the Cricket World Cup Final in London held at Lords. Who will make it to the finals? That all depends on how the matches play out throughout June and July. You can also get tickets to watch Pakistan V Bangladesh at Lord’s on 5th July!
UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL
Until 29th September
London’s summer Southbank Underbelly Festival will be even bigger and better than usual as this year they celebrate their 11th round of festive fun. All summer long you can enjoy delicious street food and a festival atmosphere right by the River Thames. Head down for an al-fresco tipple under London’s early evening sunshine or catch a quick show there, weather its comedy, magic or short sketches. Keep an eye on their website so you don’t miss a good one! You can enter the grounds of the festival for free!
GREENWICH + DOCKLANDS INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL
Until 6th July
Head to the historic London Borough of Greenwich for the Greenwich + Docklands International Festival. There will be free theatre, performing arts, live music and all kinds of exciting things to enjoy at this outdoor festival. Plus, it’s free of charge!
NEED A HOSTEL IN GREENWICH?
JUNE 2019
JOSEPH AND THE TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT (PICTURED)
The incredible, colourful musical 'Joseph' is back in London for the summer at The London Palladium. Don't miss out on one of the best musicals of our time that tells the story of Jacob and his sons - in particular following the story of Joseph, his favourite son. Produced by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, book your tickets for June now.
TROOPING THE COLOUR
8th June
The Queen’s official birthday takes place in June and the whole city gets together to celebrate with Trooping the Colour, the Queen’s Annual Birthday Parade. The parade starts at Buckingham Palace and moves down The Mall so be sure to head down early and get a good viewing spot. Trooping the Colour has been a traditional in the country for the past 260 years of British monarchs.
MOVIES ON THE RIVER
From 4th June - 3rd August
Head to Aldgate for an evening of movies n’ chill whilst cruising down the River Thames on the topdeck of a boat. Movies on the River allows you to catch a movie under the stars screening classic films like Grease and Breakfast At Tiffany’s to more recent hits such as A Star is Born, The Greatest Showman and Bohemian Rhapsody.
FIELD DAY
7th - 9th June
London Field Day is an outdoor music festival in London held at the Drumsheds in Meridian Water. The two day event has some awesome artists scheduled to play over the weekend including Skepta, Jorja Smith, The Black Madonna, Diplo, Bonobo, Alfie Templeman and more. Get your tickets!
WORLD NAKED BIKE RIDE
8th June
June marks the 16th Anniversary of the World Naked Bike Ride where hundreds of nude cyclists will take to the streets of London on 8th June in a protest against car culture, the global dependency on oil and body freedom. The website states that it’s safe and legal and free to take part (although not sure we’re brave enough for it)...
OPEN GARDEN SQUARES WEEKEND
8th - 9th June
For one weekend only, London’s beautiful private gardens open its doors to the public. If you attend Open Garden Squares Weekend you’ll benefit from access to some of the city’s best green spaces that are usually closed off.
9 TO 5 MUSICAL
Want to see a feel-good musical in London? Get yourself to London’s Savoy Theatre to watch 9 to 5, where the music and lyrics are by country singer icon Dolly Parton. The West End Show is starring British stars Louise Redknapp, Amber Davies, Natalie McQueen, Bonnie Langford, Brian Conley and more.
ROYAL ASCOT
18th - 22nd June
Fancy dressing up, day drinking and placing some bets on horses? Then Royal Ascot may just be the event for you. Held at the Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, just outside of London, this event brings together people from all over the country to watch the races - and they turn up dressed to impress. Tickets are from £37-£90 depending on which enclosure you choose to sit in.
TASTE OF LONDON
19th - 23rd June
Calling all foodies. If you want to sample some of the best food in London, get yourself tickets to the Taste of London event in Regent’s park. Over 50,000 people flock to the park for Taste of London where some of the city's best restaurateurs and street food vendors will have pop-up serving delicious grub. Alfresco summer dining sounds good to us. Entry from £23.
ROOFTOP FILM CLUB
The Rooftop Film Club is back for the summer with its pop up cinema in three London locations. Grab a comfy deckchair on the rooftop of London’s Bussey Building in Peckham, Queen of Hoxton in Shoreditch or Roof East in Stratford. At any of these venues, enjoy some iconic movies from the sky. A rooftop experience like no other.
MAY 2019
REGENT’S PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE
Watch a classic play in the fresh spring outdoors at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Show up early with a bottle of wine or a few beers and soak in the sunny atmosphere that comes with every play this theatre puts on. This spring/summer you can see A Midsummer Night’s Dream or Hansel and Gretel (from June), or Our Town - Thornton Wilder's Pulitzer Prize-winning play from 16th May.
BANK HOLIDAYS
6th May and 27th May
London during the Bank Holiday is one of the best places in the world to be. Locals are buzzing about their free day off work, bars and pubs all over the city open up their beer gardens and pop-ups spring up left, right and centre. If you’re in the city this May, check out these great .
FA CUP FINAL
18th May
The likelihood is that you don’t have tickets (and if you do, you lucky thing) because this is the game of the year. Wembley Stadium will be hosting the FA Cup Final on 18th May and pubs all over the city will be putting the game on their screen. A top place to catch a game like this is at a Belushi’s bar around London where the drinks are cheap, the atmosphere is buzzing and the crowd is full of footy fans going crazy for their team.
GIN FESTIVAL AT BELUSHI’S
1st - 31st May
To celebrate the May Bank Holidays, Belushi’s will be hosting an entire month-long Gin Festival! Expect gins from all over the UK and the rest of the world to be stocked up behind the bar and going for insane prices. Just show up to your nearest Belushi’s (there’s one in Camden, London Bridge, Hammersmith, Shepherd’s Bush and Greenwich), get a loyalty card from the bar and collect stamps to earn the deals.
RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW
21st - 25th May
The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most renowned and prestigious floral events in the world. Tickets don’t come very cheap, but if you’re into gardening (or just amazing flowers), this show is the place to go to see cutting-edge garden design and some of the most breathtaking floral displays you’ll ever see.
LONDON WINE WEEK
13th - 19th May
Drink Up London is rearing its head again… Last time it was beer, this time it’s wine! Buy your £10 pass for London Wine Week and you’ll be treated to £6 wine tasting flights plus unique food pairings to go with it in over 125 of the city’s best wine bars. You’ll also get unlimited access to The Hub at London’s cool Flat Iron Square. Pop-up wine bars and al fresco parties will be setting up each day of this very special week of the year, too. Wine lovers don’t want to miss it!
BBQ CLUB BY SOUTH BANK
Londoners love a BBQ, and May’s looking like it’ll have the weather for it which calls for BBQ Club to pop-up for another year! From 3rd May, the foodie pop-up venue will be coming to London’s Southbank for a summer of delicious grilled burgers on the street food side and a more plush barbecue menu on the sit-down side. If the sit down option sounds like your kind of thing, make sure to book soon before all the insiders get in!
ALL POINTS EAST FESTIVAL
24th May - 2nd June
Festival season is making its way in, and one that’s kicking off London’s summer vibe is All Points East at Victoria Park. The 10 day music festival will be seeing Mumford and Sons, Bring Me the Horizon, Bon Iver, The Chemical Brothers, The Strokes and Christine and the Queen as the main headline acts, but there’s way more where that came from. Check their website for more details and buy your tickets soon before they all get sold out!
DRINKS AT A ROOFTOP BAR
When the sun’s out, what’s better than sitting up in a rooftop bar, overlooking epic London views with a cocktail in hand? London is full of high up, open-air bars with views to die for, you just need to know where to look. Head to Radio Rooftop for a fancy G&T, or Tobacco Dock’s rooftop for a beer with cool vibes and great views.
LUNA CINEMA
From 31st May
This outdoor giant cinema screen travels around the country bringing old classics and new films to the biggest parks and manor gardens in the UK. This year, the screen won’t be arriving in the capital until 31st May, but expect films like A Star is Born, Back to the Future, Bohemian Rhapsody, Jurassic Park and way more coming to a screen near you! Just be sure to book your ticket well in advance to enjoy one of your favourite films under the stars.
APRIL 2019
THE BOAT RACE: CAMBRIDGE V OXFORD
7th April
Get yourself to the award-winning rowing contest, known as the Boat Race which takes place on London’s River Thames. Rowing teams from Oxford University and Cambridge university battle it out on the water and you can watch all the action from the banks of the river. The Boat Race ends up being a lovely day out for spectators where they enjoy riverside drinks and cocktails!
The women’s race takes place at 2.13pm.
The men’s race takes place at 3.10pm.
APRIL FOOLS DAY
The first day of April is April Fool’s Day in the UK, where you’ll see plenty of pranksters fooling people around the country. Try not to fall for everything you hear or read on the 1st April. It probably isn’t true!
EASTER WEEKEND
20th - 22nd April
Easter bank holiday weekend is a fun time to enjoy London. If you need some inspiration on how to spend the weekend in the city (other than just eating chocolate), use our helpful guides.
COCKTAILS IN THE CITY
4th - 6th April
Don’t miss the Cocktails in the City event in London where 25 of the best bars around London come together at The Vaults, to compete for the Best Bar crown. Get yourself a ticket and sample some of the finest cocktails in London from the very best in the business who will set up pop-up stalls for you to enjoy. Tickets to the event cost £20 which includes one free cocktail. All other cocktails cost £7.50. The event completely sold out last year, so be quick.
LONDON MARATHON
Sunday 28th April
The London Marathon is always an enormous event and attracts thousands of spectators every year. If you plan on going to join in the fun from the sideline (and if you’re in the city for the 28th April, you should) check out the spectators’ map to see where the best pubs on the course are, so you can grab a drink as you cheer.
QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY
21st April
Did you know that the Queen’s official birthday is in June, but she was actually born on 21st April. At the Tower of London and Hyde Park, gunshots will go off in honour of her 92nd birthday so make sure you listen out.
UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL
From 6th April - 7th July
London’s summer Southbank Underbelly Festival will be even bigger and better than usual as this year they celebrate their 11th round of festive fun. All summer long from the 6th April you can enjoy delicious street food and a festival atmosphere right by the River Thames. Head down for an al-fresco tipple under London’s early evening sunshine or catch a quick show there, weather its comedy, magic or short sketches. Keep an eye on their website so you don’t miss a good one! You can enter the grounds of the festival for free!
GET THE BEST VIEWS
When the skies are more clear and bright in April, it’s a great time to get high up in London and experience some incredible views of the Big Smoke. We’ve rounded up the best places in Paris to get the best views. Life is better higher up, right?
MARCH 2019
PANCAKE DAY!
5th March
Mmm, pancakes. Shrove Tuesday is arguably one of the best days of the year, is it not? And what’s better than having someone else cook them for you? Follow our guide below to find out where London’s best pancake spots are hiding. Spoiler: they’re all FLIPPING amazing.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2019
8th March
It’s International Women’s Day on March 8th. If you’re into watching sport (or just drinking cocktails) Belushi’s bars across London will be doing their bit for the girls from 8th to 31st March. For every cocktail you buy at Belushi’s, they’ll donate 10p to Girls United , a football association dedicated to improving equality through football.
ST PATRICK’S DAY
17th March
The Irish know how to throw a party and when the year draws near to St Patrick’s Day, they’re gonna go all out. Irish street food, plenty of beer and a loud, lively and a very green parade is what you can expect in Trafalgar Square for Paddy’s Day celebrations. Round up your mates and get ready for London’s centre to turn into a sea of green.
LAST OF KEW GARDENS’ ORCHID FESTIVAL
Until 10th March
The botanical gardens at Kew put on some of the most spectacular floral events in Europe, and this one cannot be missed. Its annual Orchid Festival is back again to inject a pop of colour into your life. Soon the Princess of Wales Conservatory will be transformed into a tropical, Colombian paradise and the best part is that it doesn’t cost anything more than entrance to the gardens. This eye-popping event will be the Instagram opportunity of dreams…
LONDON COFFEE FESTIVAL
28th - 31st March
Coffee addicts should make a space in their itinerary for this. The London Coffee Festival at the Old Truman Brewery on Brick Lane is back again and will have over 250 artisan coffee and gourmet food stalls set up ready for tastings and demonstrations. The event will bring you all sorts of cool, quirky coffee stalls from latte art workshops to tasting sessions and even an espresso martini party! Along with music and a buzzing atmosphere, coffee lovers will be in their element.
EARTH HOUR 2019
30th March
Between 8:30pm and 9:30pm GMT on 30th March, WWF will invite people to switch off lights as a way of raising awareness for climate change. A small step but in the right direction!
ST DAVID’S DAY
1st March
Saint David is the patron saint of Wales. From Friday 1st to Sunday 3rd March, the Southbank Centre’s weekly food market has teamed up with True Taste to bring a touch of Wales to the city of London! Welsh cakes, chocolate, cheese and cider are just a few of the products that will be on offer all weekend long.
HEAD OF THE RIVER RACE
16th and 30th March
Make your way down to the Tideway as over 400 eight-man rowing boats take part in a race down the river from Mortlake to Putney. The highly anticipated annual Head of the River Race sees national and international crews storm the 4.25 mile stretch to win the race and be part of its history. Arrive there early to get a spot along the river, all you’ll need to pay for is a picnic and some (very British) Pimms - what a jolly good day this is going to be!
VAN GOGH AND BRITAIN AT TATE MODERN
From 27th March until August
This is an exhibition that every Van Gogh fan simply has to check out, as the Tate Modern will be displaying 45 pieces borrowed from around the world that show how Britain was such an inspiration to his work. Work including Shoes, Starry Night on the Rhone and Sunflowers are included.
MOTHER’S DAY
31st March
Treat your mum to a special day out in the capital with a gourmet meal, a scenic boat ride or delicious cocktails overlooking London’s skyline from one of the city’s top (literally) bars. There’s plenty of fun, exciting, relaxing and indulgent things to do with your mum for Mother’s Day, and there’s no doubt you’ll have a great time treating her, too!
FEBRUARY 2019
CHINESE NEW YEAR (PICTURED)
5th February
All of London’s biggest Chinese New Year celebrations will be taking place in Trafalgar Square for 2019. 5th February is when the main event will take place, when a parade of huge, colourful dragons and traditional dancers will take over the square bringing an incredible show of Chinese culture in the heart of London.
VALENTINE’S DAY
14th February
In London with your loved one for Valentine’s Day? Or are you taking a trip to the city with the girls for Galentine’s? Either way, the city is packed with romantic spots and fun things to do to make it one to remember! Not into the whole Valentine’s thing this year? Check out the Heartbreak Hotel festival which is on for the entire week leading up to the day.
KEW GARDENS: ORCHIDS FESTIVAL
Kew Gardens will be ‘celebrating the colours of Colombia’ by hosting a stunning orchid exhibit from February until March this year. Colombia is home to 4,270 orchid species and Kew’s Princess of Wales Conservatory will bring them all (or most of them) to life! This is one of the garden’s most spectacular displays so don’t miss out.
LONDON FASHION WEEK
15th - 19th February
London Fashion Week Festival is all about giving the public a real feel of the British fashion industry, allowing access to catwalk shows, talks from the experts, and the best part - amazing shopping.
HOT GIN ROOF
Until 17th February
On the roof terrace of London’s Ham Yard Hotel, celebrate all things gin up until mid-February as the Hot Gin Roof is back for another year. Open for just one month, the event costs £18 and includes a delicious hot gin and a cocktail, just make sure you book your ticket in advance.
CRAFT BEER RISING
21st - 23rd February
This event is made for beer lovers. Hosted in East London’s famous Old Truman’s Brewery, the Craft Beer Rising festival brings the best of the city’s craft beer together for both industry experts and beer fans to get a taste of. Buy your tickets on their website.
VIDEO GAMES EXHIBITION AT THE V&A
Until 24th February
For those intrigued by the backstory and behind the scenes creation of video games, this exhibition is fascinating. Set up at the Victoria and Albert Museum, the exhibition will cost to visit but it’s so worth it. Find out more about the design of games and have a go on some prototypes. Get your tickets online now to reserve your spot.
MANDELA: THE OFFICIAL EXHIBITION
From 8 February
The global touring Mandela exhibition will be landing in London on Waterloo’s Leake Street, and it’s set to be fantastic. Go on a journey through Mandela’s life to understand more about the world’s most iconic freedom fighter and leader, featuring artefacts and unseen film and photography of Mandela and his family’s life.
GO TO A THEATRE SHOW
London’s West End is theatre heaven. Not all of them are as expensive as you’d expect. Check out our favourite affordable theatre shows on London’s West End in February.
DIANA: HER FASHION STORY
Until 17th February
Displaying some of the most beautiful and widely remembered outfits and gowns that Princess Diana once wore, Diana: Her Fashion Story is certainly not one to miss. Located in Diana’s former home, Kensington Palace, buy your tickets online to avoid missing out.
JANUARY 2019
NEW YEAR’S DAY PARADE
1st January
Watch the giant annual New Year’s Day parade on January 1st, where an explosion of colour, music and fun winds through the city of London. Brass brands, over the top floats and incredible street performers all join in as thousands of members of the public look on at the brilliant beginning to 2019.
WINTERTIME AT SOUTHBANK CENTRE (PICTURED)
Until 6th January
Up until 6th January, the Wintertime Southbank Centre market will be keeping open to get all your post-Christmas feels. Catch a dazzling show, pick up some lovely wintry pieces and sample some street food before it all gets packed up to mark the end of another Christmas season.
BURNS NIGHT
25th January
The Scottish night of celebrating the poet Robert Burns is a huge annual event with haggis, whisky and dancing. Check out the events for Burns Night in London 2019 from live music in pubs to whisky cocktail specials.
LONDON SHORT FILM FESTIVAL
11th - 20th January
Said to be the best short film festival in the world, this one in January 2019 will be London’s 16th Short Film Festival in a row. Showcasing cutting edge short films both locally and internationally and produced by both emerging and established talent, there are films for everyone whether it’s comedy, animation, drama, documentary or experimental work. If you’re a lover of film and production, this is an event for you.
THE LONDON ART FAIR
16th - 20th January
Art lovers, the Business Design Centre will once again be hosting this year’s London Art Fair, a fair dedicated to showcasing the best in contemporary and modern art. Attend talks and have a look around the curated spaces including the annual photography exhibition, large-scale installations and much much more.
BUMPER CARS ON ICE
Until 6th January
You might’ve already tried your hand at ice skating at some point during Christmas, but have you ever heard of Bumper Cars on ice? At Elephant & Castle’s Castle Square, you can try exactly that while listening to awesome live DJs. It’s only going to be available up until 6th January, so get there quick.
CHIHARU SHIOTA: ‘ME SOMEWHERE ELSE’
Until 19th January
The eyecatching installation by Chiharu Shiota at the Blain|Southern gallery on Hanover Square is certainly one to visit. A huge, blood red net of wool, woven to drape from the ceiling, takes over the room by connection to the ground via a cast of Shiota’s feet. You could marvel at it for ages.
MAKE THE MOST OF THE LAST OF THE ICE RINKS
It’s January, Christmas is over, and that sadly means it’s time to wave goodbye to London’s Christmas pop-ups. The city boasts some of the best ice rinks in Europe during Christmas and January is your last chance to have a go on the ice! Head to the Natural History Museum, Winter Wonderland, Somerset House (and more) before the rinks are taken down until Christmas 2019.
CHRISTIAN MARCLAY ‘THE CLOCK’
20th January
One of the Tate Modern’s current exhibitions, ‘The Clock’ by Christian Marclay has been a great success since September, but it’s your final chance to see it before it’s final showing on 20th January. This free exhibition has captivated people all over the world since 2010. It’s a 24-hour film using thousands of images from film and television of clocks at different times, in REAL time. You will be entranced.
SHOP THE JANUARY SALES
Make the most of January bargains and do a spot of shopping in one of the best shopping streets in the world, Oxford Street, or one of the hundreds of centres around the city.
DECEMBER 2018
WINTER WONDERLAND 2018
Nothing says Christmas in London like a trip to Winter Wonderland, so make sure you leave room in your itinerary for at least a few hours exploring the city’s biggest Christmas market. With fairground rides, gift stalls, festive food stands and a giant beer hall, there’s all the fun to be had for every Christmas lover.
SOUTHBANK CENTRE WINTERTIME FESTIVAL
Enjoy Christmas by the Thames at the Southbank Centre’s Wintertime Festival 2018. Wander around the markets and take in a real festive atmosphere in London along with awesome street food from all over the world, craft beers, mulled wine, artisan gifts and more. There’s also an incredible circus show on for the season, with unbelievable animal puppetry and sensational circus acts.
CHRISTMAS AT KEW
Christmas at Kew Gardens is one of the most wonderful things you can do at Christmas time in London. Over a million twinkling lights will bring a magical glow to Kew that will give you all the Christmas feels and get you straight into the festive spirit. New to this year, there will be a moonlit woodland and Laser Garden. Get your tickets ASAP as this event is always a sell out.
TRAFALGAR SQUARE CHRISTMAS TREE
Every Christmas since 1947, a tall, 20 metre high Christmas tree is gifted to London by the people of Norway as a token of gratitude for Britain’s support towards Norway during World War II. Each season it’s put up in Trafalgar Square and covered in twinkling lights. Visit after dark to see the tree at its grandest.
SEE THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
Nothing says “Christmas is coming” in the city than the huge annual switch-on of central London’s twinkling lights. Get down to Oxford Street on 6th November for the very first switch-on, followed by Carnaby Street on the 8th which will reveal their display of this year’s theme being the lyrics to Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody in lights!
ICE SKATE WITH A SCENIC BACKDROP
Back in the city of London for another year, skating in the idyllic ice rinks in front some of the city’s most iconic attractions are absolute musts if you’re around for Christmas. Skate in front of the classic Somerset House, glide within the courtyard of the Tower of London or twirl on the ice with the Natural History Museum as your backdrop. If you’re in London for the festive season, ice skating at any one of these places is an absolute must.
Check out the
PARTY AT BELUSHI’S
Our favourite place to party in London will be hosting Christmas parties all December long! With turkey and all the trimmings or giant buffet feasts on the menu for those who book a party package, followed by live entertainment and Christmas cocktails, you’ll have the best time ever.
WINTERVILLE
Winterville will be taking over London’s Clapham Common this Christmas for another festive fair that’ll put you right in the Christmas spirit. With Backyard Cinema bringing the festive films, a circus tent putting on epic shows and countless street eat stalls serving up tasty treats all season long, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
NOVEMBER 2018
BONFIRE NIGHT 2018
5th November
Things are gonna be popping off in London this Bonfire Night as fireworks displays all over the city make the city skyline burst into colour. Some displays however can be a little expensive, so check out the so you can save your pennies for a mulled wine or a fairground ride!
THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW
10th November
From 11am on 10th November, take stand anywhere between Bank, St Pauls and the Royal Courts to witness the longest and oldest civic procession in the world. The Lord Mayor’s Show has been a London tradition for over 800 years. It’s the newly elected Mayor of London’s journey to Westminster to swear their loyalty to the Crown before the start of their year in office. It’s a quintessentially British affair, so if you find yourself in London for 10th November it’s definitely an event to consider checking out.
REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY
11th November
This year’s Remembrance Sunday falls on the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. In London every year on the 11th November, a Remembrance Sunday Cenotaph Service takes place at 11am with The Royal British Legion forming the March Past. If you would like to take part in a countrywide 2 minute silence to remember those who fought in the war, head to Trafalgar Square before 11am for a special Silence in the Square.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON
From 6th November
Nothing says “Christmas is coming” in the city than the huge annual switch-on of central London’s twinkling lights. Get down to Oxford Street on 6th November for the very first switch-on, followed by Carnaby Street on the 8th which will reveal their display of this year’s theme being the lyrics to Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody in lights!
CHRISTMAS AT KEW
22nd November to 5th January 2019
Christmas at Kew Gardens is one of the most wonderful things you can do at Christmas time in London. Over a million twinkling lights will bring a magical glow to Kew that will give you all the Christmas feels and get you straight into the festive spirit. New to this year, there will be a moonlit woodland and Laser Garden. Get your tickets ASAP as this event is always a sell out.
WINTER WONDERLAND AT HYDE PARK
23rd November - 6th January 2019
One of the must-do activities in London for the past number of years is a trip to Hyde Park, especially when darkness falls and the lights go on. Winter Wonderland is the place to go for everything Christmas; pick up gifts from the countless stalls, eat a hot pork roll with apple sauce, indulge in a cup (or two) of mulled wine and see the top of London on one of the highest funfair rides in the park. There will even be a Bavarian beer tent for a German-style Christmas party.
SKATE AT SOMERSET HOUSE
From 14th November
Coming back to central London and kicking off Christmas 2018 is the annual ice rink at Somerset House. Buy your tickets online to skate on one of the city’s most idyllic ice rinks this winter, with the stunning Somerset House as your backdrop. It’s an absolute must if you want to experience the Christmas season in London the right way!
‘LONDON NIGHTS’ EXHIBITION
Until 11th November
Located in the Museum of London, ‘London Nights’ is one of the most brilliant cityscape photography exhibitions you’ll see this year. The nocturnal study of London after dusk showcases over 200 fantastic photos by 60 different photographers from back in the 19th century to now.
TASTE OF LONDON FESTIVE EDITION
15th-18th November
At one of east London’s hippest venues, Tobacco Dock, the Taste of London Festive edition will be a seasonal spread you won’t forget. A whole load of festive foodie activities will be on offer, as well as food cooked up by some of the city’s best chefs. If you love food, drink and a great atmosphere, Taste of London is always a good idea.
LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL
16th - 25th November
Jazz lovers, London’s biggest festival of jazz music will be gracing the city for 10 days this November. The annual event is known and loved for showcasing talent by established and up-and-coming artists who are unreal in the industry.