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31 best things to do in London this weekend: 12 - 14 April 2024

By Connor Sturges

When searching for the best things to do in London each weekend, it’s hard not to end up more confused and indecisive than when you started. While it’s never a bad idea to secure a booking at one of the  best restaurants  in the capital, spend an evening in one of the latest  innovative bars  on the scene, or even explore an iconic  London attraction , we’re always on the lookout for new, exciting pop-ups, openings and events. Each week, we get the inside track on exciting things to do in  London  for the upcoming weekend to help us discover a new area of the city or explore a new address in a neighbourhood we (thought) we’d already uncovered.

31 best things to do in London this weekend

1. Sip on Italian-inspired tipples

Dream of Italy from the cosy confines of Mama Shelter London Shoreditch as the hotel celebrates the arrival of summer with Malfy Gin. The Italian-inspired cocktail pop-up sees the brand bring a selection of speciality cocktails to one of East London’s coolest hangouts, from zesty belli lemons to the punchy Italian cherry. Visit between 5pm and 6pm, Monday to Thursday, to enjoy complimentary light bites alongside drinks.

Address: Mama Shelter London Shoreditch, 437 Hackney Road, London E2 8PP Website: mamashelter.com Dates: Until Tuesday 30 April

2. Take to the rooftops

Rooftop season is back, and Yasmin has some of the hottest tables in town right now. The restaurant is located atop 1 Warwick and, after opening to members in March 2023, is open to the public for the first time this season. Executive chef Tom Cenci’s menu features seasonal small plates inspired by the sunnier climes of the Middle East; think sumac cured salmon, sesame-smoked duck, and charred flatbread to mop up bowls of hummus. Cool down over chilled cocktails and baklava ice cream sandwiches on the pretty 64-cover terrace before the hoards find out about it.

Address: Yasmin Soho, 1 Warwick Street, London W1B 5LR Website: 1warwick.com Dates: Opens Tuesday 9 April

3. Get green-fingered

Petersham Nurseries Urban Green Workshops are some of the most wholesome tickets in town right now. City gardeners are descending on Petersham Nurseries’ tranquil floral courtyard, rolling up their sleeves, and getting to grips with spring . The theme this Friday is ‘A Celebration of Blossom and Branches’; create romantic hand-tied bouquets with the finest blossoming branches and seasonal blooms sourced from Petersham Nurseries’ network of British growers before taking them to display.

Address: The Petersham Wine Bar & Deli, 31 King Street, London WC2E 9DS Website: petershamnurseries.com ; sevenrooms.com Price: £95 per person Dates: Friday 12 April; more classes online

4. Savour Mediterranean flavours

Following the success of Carmel Queen’s Park since its opening in 2021, Brothers Josh and Paul Katz, with Mattia Bianchi, open the doors to the new Fitzrovia site this week. Set to be the hottest place for Mediterranean flavours in the leafy suburbs this summer, the 95-seat restaurant feels a world away from bustling Oxford Street – in reality, it’s just a stone’s throw. The menu features a selection of raw and cured dishes, including monkfish crudo and lamb tartare, to start, plus sharing plates including whole sea bream with Calabrian hot honey, lemon butter, fennel and Kalamata olive. Swing by in the morning to pick up a freshly baked pastry or secure a spot for a leisurely lunch or supper.

Address: Carmel, 7-8 Market Place, London W1W Website: carmelrestaurant.co.uk Dates: Opens Monday 8 April; reservations open now

5. See top-tier comedy

Laugh the night away at Spencer Jones’ latest show Making Friends when it arrives at Soho Theatre this week. Spencer’s comedy has seen him nominated for two Edinburgh Comedy Awards, so expect hilarious tales about his post-lockdown relocation from London to Devon and much more – including a “vicious feud”... with a chicken.

Address: Soho Theatre, 21 Dean Street, London W1D 3NE Website: sohotheatre.com Price: From £14 Dates: Wednesday 10 - Saturday 20 April

6. Bake with the best

Learn how to bake from the best in the game at CORD restaurant by Le Cordon Bleu on Fleet Street. This Friday’s two-and-a-half-hour course sees experts lead fans of the humble bun through the process of creating an enriched dough, transforming it into a range of delicious hot cross buns, cardamom buns and apple buns. Take the bakes (and all the credit) home after a three-course meal in the restaurant.

Address: CORD by Le Cordon Bleu, 85 Fleet Street, London EC4Y 1AE Website: cordrestaurant.co.uk Price: £195 per person Dates: Friday 12 April

7. Join a panel discussion

Sex Talks returns to The London EDITION this week, led by broadcaster and writer Emma-Louise Boyton. The monthly series sees Emma invite thought leaders from across the sex and wellness industries to share their insights with a live audience. Listen to the panel discussion before anonymously aiming questions at the experts – this week’s guest is Anna Whitehouse (aka Mother Pukka ).

Address: The London EDITION, 10 Berners Street, London W1T 3NP Website: editionhotels.com ; eventbrite.co.uk Price: From £15 Dates: Wednesday 10 April

8. See Olympians in action

The brand new Supertri E World Triathlon Championships arrive at London’s Aquatics Centre this weekend, set to be a thrilling day of e-sport for all the family. Settle into the stands and see Olympians in action ahead of the Paris games this summer, including triple Olympic medalist Jonny Brownlee and GB’s most successful female triathlete, Georgia Taylor-Brown.

Address: London Aquatics Centre, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London E20 2ZQ Website: supertri.com Price: From £15 Dates: Saturday 13 April

9. Visit an artist in residence

The Mandrake ’s latest collaboration in its Artist in Residence Programme sees Scottish artist, director and multi-instrumentalist Magnus Westwell take over the hotel’s Masha Hari Theatre. The space is Magnus’ personal laboratory for sound and movement, and the exhibition showcases archival artworks, photography and video footage of the creative’s work. Email directly to meet Magnus at the open studio session this Sunday.

Address: The Mandrake, 20-21 Newman Street, London W1T 1PG Website: themandrake.com Dates: Until Sunday 14 April

10. Enjoy a lunar-inspired supper

Chef Mauro Colagreco will bring his three Michelin-starred restaurant Mirazur to Raffles London this Wednesday and Thursday for a series of special lunar-inspired suppers to celebrate his new book Mirazur, Under the Sign of the Moon . Each evening, diners tuck into a seven-course meal made up of dishes from Mirazur’s acclaimed Universe Menu in the comfort of new restaurant Mauro Colagreco at Raffles London at The OWO .

Address: Mauro Colagreco, Raffles London at The OWO, 57 Whitehall, London SW1A 2BX Website: raffles.com Price: £225 per person Dates: Wednesday 10 - Thursday 11 April

11. Tuck in at a supper club

There's certainly no shortage of new restaurant openings in the capital right now. However, London's most discerning of foodies often crave something with a little more community feel from time to time. Look no further than the city's supper club scene . Food markets and event spaces fill up every week with hungry Londoners as chefs take residence in kitchens to cook up a storm. Sign up to all the relevant newsletters to stay in the loop – these events sell out at breakneck speed.

12. Savour street food favourites

For every Michelin-starred hotspot in London, there are a dozen delicious street food stalls selling their wares. After days of exploring London’s attractions or visiting the latest exciting pop-up, head to Seven Dials Market for slices of pepperoni drizzled in honey from Bad Boy Pizza Society or indulgent burgers from Truffle. Alternatively, explore all Camden Market offers, or pick up picnic treats from Borough Market and lounge by the river. Other honourable street food menus from our team now include Juma Kitchen, Duck Frites, and Gyoza Guys.

13. Rate London's roast dinners

The French have haute cuisine; the Japanese embrace Omakase – in London, it’s all about the battle of the Sunday roast . Securing a coveted spot in one of the city’s best restaurants for a hearty plateful is one of our favourite pastimes. Head to The Midland Grand Dining Room in King's Cross for an opulent dining experience, tuck into truffle cauliflower cheese at The Laundry in Brixton, or unwind over a glass of red at Hicce Hart Islington. In addition to the classics, there are a few new roasts on the scene this winter. The Montagu Kitchen and Lounge , found within the Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill in Marylebone, has launched a new offering created by executive chef Carlo Martino, and slow-cooked roast joints sourced from the Ethical Butcher change each week. Elsewhere, Elliot Cunningham recently announced his brand-new Sunday ‘roast’ offering at Lagom , where the menu celebrates open-fire cooking and his Swedish heritage.

14. Reach for the rooftops

While open-air drinking venues shut up shop in many seasonal European cities, London’s rooftop bars aren’t just for summer. Many become cosy havens where hours fly past, eyes out on the sparkling skyline. Florattica ’s eye-catching interiors and delightfully botanical cocktails make it a favourite of those working in the city, while 12th Knot at Sea Containers remains a year-round favourite.

Charlotte Davey

Arati Menon

Connor Sturges

CNT Editors

15. Try the capital's latest cocktails

Before dry January comes the indulgence of party season, and there are still many new venues and menus to try this season. Chocolatier Pierre Marcolini oversees the mouth-watering menu at Marylebone Hotel’s 108 Brasserie . Velvety ‘choctails’ include the Marcolini Mocha, a combination of Diplomatico Rum and steamed hot chocolate, and Gingerbread Dream, a non-alcoholic steamed chocolate with swirls of vanilla, gingerbread, and cinnamon syrup. Some of the latest cocktail bars to open their doors in the capital include Lowcountry , a cocktail bar inspired by the American South below Joe Laker’s debut restaurant counter 71 in Shoreditch, and Dover Yard , a sleek, sustainable watering hole inside 1 Hotel Mayfair.

16. Take to the ice

While many of the ice rinks close down in early January, Canary Wharf ice rink stays put until the last week of February – ideal for February half-term fun. For a year-round space to practice on, check out Streatham Ice and Leisure Centre .

17. Mamma Mia the Party

It may be party season up and down the land, but there’s one that is never short on RSVPs – and it’s a kaleidoscopic extravaganza featuring all the ABBA classics. Mamma Mia! The Party sees the sell-out West End tale given a new lease of life, performed in a Greek courtyard complete with a pyrotechnic water fountain and restaurant tables that performers must navigate. While the three-course dinner is truly delicious, the focus is the immersive show, which works its way around the taverna between courses. It’s an unforgettable evening of napkin-waving, feet-stomping and, of course, lots of singing.

18. Cook up a storm

Cooking classes are ideal for groups of friends or a date night idea, and there’s always something special sizzling away in London. Pasta Evangelists’ Pasta Academy is best for hungry Italophiles, where passionate chefs instruct clueless cooks on the dos and don’ts of homemade pasta making. Many events have a theme, so check the website and decide whether you want to learn the Roman methods, try a taste of Tuscany , or see how Puglia does it. For something a little more in-depth, head to Sauce by The Langham , where leading chefs such as Michel Roux Jr. lead the way – cocktail masterclasses and kid-friendly courses are also regularly held.

19. Dine on a heated terrace

Even when temperatures in the capital plummet below freezing, you'll find Londoners tucking in at the city's prettiest outdoor restaurants – albeit draped in faux fur blankets under heaters. The Maine in Mayfair is an elegant dining spot tucked away beside Hanover Square, ideal as spring edges ever closer. Casa do Frango has heated terraces for fiery chicken feasts, Brat's greenhouse-style dining space is one for the bucket list, and Bentley’s Oyster Bar in Mayfair is one of the most indulgent spots to slurp under the heaters.

20. Get zen at a sound bath

First, there was yoga, then came acupuncture, reiki, breathwork, cryotherapy and the Headspace app. But now, busy Londoners are seeking respite from city life over sound baths . The different frequencies emitted by gongs, chimes and Tibetan bowls work to soothe the mind and heal the body, stimulating the brainwave frequencies associated with total relaxation and switching on the nervous system's repair mode. Clementina Jackson

21. Pick a park for an adventure

The best way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city is to embark on a wintery stroll through one of the many parks , commons, and other green spaces London has to offer. Head for the southwest and amble through Wimbledon Common, picking up piping-hot coffees and sweet treats at the Windmill Cafe; extend the walk into Richmond Park and the leafy suburbs of Richmond-upon-Thames if time permits. North of the river, head for Hampstead Heath and the swimming ponds, or scout out ponds, pretty views and planetariums in Greenwich Park before warming up over lunch in one of the historic pubs nearby.

22. Let loose in a live music venue

London’s live music scene is one of the most eclectic in Europe, and there’s always a superstar act or up-and-coming performer to be found. Soho ’s notorious music venues, such as Ronnie Scott's and 100 Wardour Street , host musicians and singers that span endless genres, while Camden’s pubs hosted artists, including Adele and Amy Winehouse, before their names became known worldwide. Check out the newly renovated Koko Camden for evenings of live music and late nights of dancing, or discover something new at a Sofar Sounds gig – where rising stars take to the stage in unique venues announced just before the event.

23. Treat yourself to something sweet

We Londoners like a sweet treat, so it’s a good thing there are so many bakeries in the capital to choose from. There’s nothing better than picking up freshly-baked almond croissants from Pophams on a Sunday or popping into Fabrique for brunch -ready sourdough. Bakery-mania is evolving, though, and the most exquisite bites can be found in patisseries such as The Connaught Patisserie by Nicolas Rouzaud and Maison Bertaux . Lastly, a moment for doughnuts – cast your eyes on the designer desserts at Donutelier and consider yourself a convert.

24. Try and escape

If being locked in a room with a ticking clock and dozens of clues is your idea of fun, you’re in luck in London. The escape room craze continues, and there are many places to chase an adrenaline fix. See gory scenarios from the SAW movies played out by live actors under flickering lights and the gaze of Jigsaw at Saw: Escape Experience – make it out alive and sip themed cocktails in the cosy cocktail bar. Control Room B in Battersea Power Station is another fun adventure: solve mind-bending puzzles, decipher cryptic clues and unveil the mysteries that lie in wait.

25. Get theatrical

Think of London, and any culture vulture’s mind instantly wanders to the theatrical opportunities across the West End. Celebrate the music of Queen at We Will Rock You , bop to ABBA classics at Mamma Mia! , or get all the family involved at Matilda: The Musical . Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it in one of the historic theatres – and sometimes for less than you’d expect. Fully-grown thespians, check out TodayTix for discounted last-minute tickets to the classics and fringe shows.

26. Buff up on your London history

London’s history dates back more than 2,000 years, and there are London attractions detailing everything the capital’s ancient riverbanks have witnessed. Uncover gruesome details of how prisoners were treated in the Clink Prison close to London Bridge , or take a tour of the Tower of London , guided by a beefeater, as they surprise and delight with fascinating nuggets of the royal residence’s history. Go even further back in time at the London Mithraeum – the ancient Roman temple dedicated to the god Mithras, found under the Bloomberg headquarters.

27. Sweat it out somewhere new

Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, there’s always a unique way to get sweaty in the capital. Start the day by stretching towards the sunrise at Sky Garden , where yoga and pilates sessions occur throughout the summer. Joining the likes of Boom Cycle and SoulCycle recently is the new Psycle site in Victoria, complete with a 50-bike ride studio and state-of-the-art barre and yoga space.

29. Check out a new exhibition

There’s no shortage of captivating exhibitions in London , and the schedule is particularly strong this winter. Turn It Up: The Power of Music at the Science Museum is an excellent option for an interactive family day out. Learn how music impacts our emotions, psychology and wellbeing, and see if you can tell the difference between songs written by humans and machines. Elsewhere, Wildlife Photographer of the Year at the Natural History Museum is a captivating showcase – catch it before the end of June.

30. Build up the book collection

No, we’re not talking about the bookstores everyone knows and has on their high streets – but no judgement for picking up those holiday reads on the go. London is full of charming independent bookstores worth exploring on those drizzly summer afternoons. Gay's The Word on Marchmont Street is the UK's oldest LGBTQ+ bookshop, set up in January 1979 by gay socialists as a community space that funnelled all profits back into the business. Alternatively, hodophiles feel most at home in Stanfords , the world’s largest map and travel book retailer in Covent Garden .

31. Have a nose around London’s new hotels

In true Traveller style, one of our favourite hobbies is exploring the hot new hotels opening their doors in the capital. Best of all, there’s no need to stump up the eye-watering fee for a dazzling suite. The Peninsula is home to myriad bars and restaurants, from Cantonese restaurant Canton Blue to Brooklands, the Modern British hideout with fabulous views. The BoTree is now open on Marylebone Lane: step inside for supper at the brasserie or enjoy a mixologist-led evening at the teal-marble bar, which curves across the space, while trying out the bar menu curated by chef Stefano.

23 Fantastically Fun Things To Do In London This Weekend (April 12–14)

This weekend, we've got a ton of free activities, a neon sip and paint session, a tasty discount on Mexican dishes, and much more; here's your handy guide of the best things to do in London this weekend.

Not sure what’s on in London this weekend? Whatever the weather, we’ve got you covered. From cocktails , to brunches , markets to gigs , there’s something for everyone on our list of things to do in London this weekend!

1. Nab a 50% discount on Mexican food at Wahaca’s newest outpost

Wahaca will open its newest outpost – the first in seven years – in Paddington at the end of the month. It’s billed as the most sustainable site yet, and will serve up a reimagined menu of their classic Mexican dishes , plus some delightful new additions.

During the restaurant’s soft launch period ( April 12–28 ), you can try the food for a tasty  half-price discount , so we suggest you be one of the first through the doors for Lamb Barbacoa, Chimichurri Cauliflower, and more…

2. Take on a new(ish) 15-mile walking route through the capital

The temperatures are slowly climbing here in the Big Smoke, so it’s time to shed our big jackets and venture outside once again. If you feel inspired by the athletes taking on the London Marathon later this month, why not set yourself a long-distance challenge of your own? Strap on your trainers and walk (or run) The Green Link Walk , a 15-mile route taking you from Peckham to Epping Forest.

3. Indulge in a high-fashion afternoon tea at a London hotel

Feeling fancy this weekend? Make a beeline for Kensington hotel The Franklin  for an afternoon tea inspired by their V&A neighbours. In celebration of the Chanel exhibition currently showing at the Victoria and Albert Museum, the five-star hotel offers a selection of sweet and savoury treats inspired by elegance, fashion, and creative designers. How does a bite of a fig mousse and orange sable sheath dress sound? What about a red chocolate lipstick?

4. Celebrate cherry blossom season with a free origami class

Cherry blossom season is in full bloom, and the Japanese food halls Japan Centre and Ichiba are marking the occasion with a range of in-store activations. One such event is a free cherry blossom origami workshop  taking place at Ichiba Westfield London White City . Drop in between 12pm and 4pm on Saturday afternoon (April 13), learn the traditional Japanese craft, and make your very own cherry blossom origami.

5. Browse previously unseen illustrations at a free Quentin Blake exhibition

Another of the must-visit free activities in London this weekend is the Quentin Blake Papers  exhibition, located at Cromwell Place in South Kensington. The free exhibition will run April 10–28, and features a selection of over 60 unseen illustrations, created by the famous artist of our childhood tales.

6. Dance the night away at a newly launched DJ night

Wacky Wombat , a quirky underground bar in Soho, has now launched regular DJ nights, taking place every Friday and Saturday. From 10pm until 1am, you can dance your cares of the week away, sipping on a selection of signature drinks inspired by the founder’s travels to Australia. A selection of genres await.

7. Feast on Japanese and Mexican fusion dishes at a rooftop restaurant

Los Mochis opens its second outpost near Liverpool Street this week (April 11). Head to the ninth-floor rooftop of Broadgate Circle to check out the new Tokyo-meets-Tulum restaurant space, which comes complete with an Agaveria bar and lounge, and an outdoor terrace. Be sure to order mezcal-based cocktails and the make-your-own tacos, complete with Wagyu-grade steaks.

8. Stroll through a field of over 500,000 tulips

You’d be forgiven for mistaking it for Amsterdam, but this rolling field of tulips is actually at Tulley’s Farm , located just over an hour from London in West Sussex. Hop on one direct train from London Bridge, Victoria, or London Kings Cross this weekend for a few hours of gorgeous tulips, delicious Dutch-inspired delights, and plenty of photo ops.

9. Unwind with a hotel stay that’s switching up its approach to wellness

A hotel in the heart of the West End may not initially scream ‘serenity’, but W London  is flipping that notion on its head. Their ‘Intentions Stay’ comprises a holistic approach to wellness, stretching from the sixth-floor spa down to the first-floor restaurant, with specific products to enjoy in your guest room in between. I took a visit to try it out: read my review of the Intentions Stay at W London here .

10. Get creative at a unique paint and sip night

It’s really popping off in Kensington this week, eh. Get creative under the cover of darkness with the fabulously fun Paint In The Dark experience. At this adults-only evening, you can let your artistic inhibitions run free as you sip on beer and wine, and create a masterpiece in neon paint.

11. Embrace family fun with the little ‘uns

Easter may be over, but the Easter holidays prevail for London’s young people. Whether you need to keep your own child occupied, or are tasked with entertaining nieces, nephews, or family friends, plenty is going on in the capital. We’ve pulled together a handy list of over 30 things to do with kids in London , from obstacle courses to browsing LEGO® artwork.

12. Be wowed by a world-famous LEGO® art exhibition in London

Following success in over 100 countries, Art Of The Brick: The Exhibition is now open on Brick Lane (lol); be wowed by the works when taking a visit this weekend.

At this exhibition, you’ll find over 150 works of art, each created out of individual LEGO® bricks . Some pieces reimagine the world’s most famous artworks – Klimt’s The Kiss and Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, for example – while there is also a 20-foot dinosaur skeleton, again, made purely out of LEGO® bricks.

13. Check out rare artefacts at a hugely successful Disney exhibition

Disney100: The Exhibition should be top of the list of things to do in London for Disney fans this weekend. Originally billed for a limited run in London, this exhibit then re-opened at London’s ExCeL, thanks to phenomenal demand. Here, you’ll find 10 astounding themed galleries, filled with Disney props and costumes (plus artefacts from newer additions to the Disney family, like Pixar, Star Wars, and MARVEL).

14. Be transported to the streets of Seoul at a multi-media exhibition

If a plane to South Korea is out of the question this weekend (pretty likely, eh), make your way to Borough Yards instead. Here, you’ll find Delight: Media Art Exhibition . The works, all produced by Korean artist Gyoungtae Hong, explore a range of topics, including the artist’s heritage, traditions, and culture. Thanks to floor-to-ceiling projections and the 360-degree installations, you’ll almost feel as though you’re within the artworks themselves.

15. Admire photography shot in the style of Wes Anderson

Are you a fan of Wes Anderson’s distinctive visual style? If so, then it’s high time you take a visit to Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition  – if you haven’t already. The exhibition in South Kensington shines a spotlight on over 200 places worldwide that could be straight out of the iconic director and producer’s masterpieces, taken by many photographers.

16. Immerse yourself in a historical live experience

The Gunpowder Plot Experience in Tower Hill Vaults brings the pivotal events of 1605 to life; immersing you in the story of Guy Fawkes and the conspiracy that sparked our annual Bonfire Night. Using a combination of virtual reality, live actors, and themed cocktails , you’ll truly feel you’ve stepped back in time for a couple of hours.

17. Embark on one of the most efficient sightseeing tours of London

Fancy being a tourist in our beloved capital this weekend but short on time? Redditor ‘magulagie’ has created the ultimate London sightseeing map for those in a hurry. Spanning just over five miles long, his route will take you past a ton of London’s most iconic landmarks, and will take you around two hours (if you avoid going inside any of the places you pass, that is).

18. Grab a pint at one of the oldest pubs in London

Bored of your local? Drink in some of the capital’s history alongside your beer this weekend at one of London’s oldest pubs. Better yet, if you’re up to it, you can even make a historic bar crawl out of our handy list (though traipsing from Holborn to Hampsted does seem a little far-fetched…)

19. Scoff scones and sip champers at an awesome afternoon tea

A “weekend afternoon tea” encompasses everything from a flamboyantly fancy day out to a simple natter over scones and sweet treats. Grab a pal, and a glass of bubbles, and indulge in one of London’s wonderful afternoon teas this weekend.

20. Save some money and still get outside with some of London’s free things to do

Pinching the pennies this weekend? Considering it feels like 50 quid evaporates from our bank account the minute we step outside, we don’t blame you. We’ve compiled a handy list of 200(!!) of the best free things to do in London , and they’re not all ‘go for a walk in the park’ – promise.

21. Enjoy a feast for the eyes and stomach at one of the capital’s prettiest restaurants

Treat yourself to a meal out in one of London’s prettiest restaurants this weekend – you’ve worked hard all week, you deserve it! From muted pastel tones or wildly OTT décor, we’ve compiled a handy list of the prettiest restaurants in London to save you the research time.

22. Browse one of London’s many other thought-provoking art exhibitions

From its major galleries to its museums, London is bursting at the seams with art exhibitions . Take a leisurely stroll around the likes of the Tate Britain, the V&A or the National Gallery this weekend. We’ve compiled a list that encompasses everything from classic works to cutting-edge modern pieces and even free exhibits.

23. Grab the little ones and enjoy some family-friendly activities

In a city of nine million people, you can guarantee that you’ll find something for everyone to enjoy, no matter how old you are. If you need to entertain the kids this weekend , check out some of the best family-friendly activities in London this weekend.

For more brilliant weekend ideas, check out the most awesome things to do this April in London.

Also published on Medium .

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Events In London This Weekend

Theatre shows this weekend, music & comedy this weekend.

• Art & Museums this weekend
• Family & Kids this weekend
• Food & Drink this weekend
• Royal & Religious this weekend
• Political & Military this weekend
• Guided tours this weekend
• Sports matches this weekend
• Day trips this weekend

What’s on in London this weekend? – Things to do this Saturday and Sunday include seeing artworks from the court of Maharaja Ranjit Singh at the Wallace Collection, and catching Michael McIntyre's Magnificent show at the O2 Arena

Long Days Journey Into Night with Successions Brian Cox Until 8 Jun 2024 Brian Cox from TVs Succession will be starring in Eugene ONeills Pulitzer Prize-winning play

Sister Act Musical with Beverley Knight & Alexandra Burke Until 31 Aug 2024 Whoopi Goldbergs classic comedy has been turned into a West End musical

MJ - The Michael Jackson Musical Until 7 Dec 2024 A jukebox musical celebrating the life of the legendary King of Pop Michael Jackson

The Duchess of Malfi at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse Until 14 Apr 2024 A revenge tragedy about a Duchess wanting to remarry against the wishes of her controlling brothers

Standing At The Skys Edge (music by Richard Hawley) Until 3 Aug 2024 A new musical that follows three generations living on a Sheffield housing estate

Sarah Snook in Oscar Wildes The Picture of Dorian Gray Until 13 Apr 2024 Succession star Sarah Snook will be taking on all 26 roles in Oscar Wildes The Picture of Dorian Gray

Shakespeares Othello at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse Until 13 Apr 2024 Shakespeares tragedy about love and paranoia is back at the candlelit Sam Wanamaker Playhouse

Netflixs Stranger Things: The First Shadow Until 15 Dec 2024 A supernatural thriller based on the hugely popular Netflix TV series

Austentatious - Improvised comedy novel by Jane Austen Until 22 Jul 2024 A riotous comedy where the cast improvise a lost Jane Austen masterpiece

Mrs Doubtfire Musical - Robin Williams comedy classic Until 16 Feb 2025 The hilarious new musical adaptation of Robin Williams smash-hit comedy Mrs Doubtfire

The Choir Of Man - with a real working bar on-stage Until 29 Sep 2024 Enjoy a lock-in at this musical homage to the pub complete with an on-stage bar

Cabaret - See Cara Delevingne in Berlins Kit Kat Club Until 1 Feb 2025 An electrifying production set inside a recreation of Berlins famous Kit Kat Club

The Book of Mormon by the creators of TVs South Park Until 10 Aug 2024 A fearless religious comedy written by the guys behind the anarchic South Park 3

Moulin Rouge - Musical based on Baz Luhrmanns movie Until 28 Sep 2024 The legendary cabaret club in Paris has been brought to life at the Piccadilly Theatre

Harry Potter & The Cursed Child - JK Rowlings New Story Until 2 Mar 2025 A new story by JK Rowling which catches up with Harry Potter and his son in later life

SIX - Henry VIIIs wives as modern pop princesses Until 3 Nov 2024 Henry VIIIs wives have discovered girl power and take to the stage to tell their Tudor tales

Les Miserables at the Sondheim Theatre Until 28 Sep 2024 An epic story of passion and injustice set against the backdrop of the French Revolution

Roald Dahls Matilda The Musical - Music by Tim Minchin Until 25 May 2025 Roald Dahls childrens story about Matilda teaching the grown-ups a lesson 2

Exclusive prices Wicked - The untold story of The Wizard of Oz witches Until 15 Dec 2024 Meet the witches before they met Dorothy on the Yellow Brick Road 1

Agatha Christies Witness For The Prosecution Until 30 Mar 2025 Watch Agatha Christies gripping crime drama from the jury box of a real court room

Disneys Frozen - Let It Go at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane Until 8 Sep 2024 See Elsa Anna and Olaf in the musical version of Disneys animated classic

Mamma Mia - ABBAs smash-hit West End musical Until 28 Sep 2024 Based on the hit movie about three dads turning up to a Greek island wedding 4

Exclusive prices Back To The Future Musical at the Adelphi Theatre Until 22 Dec 2024 Marty McFly and Doc Browns time-travelling adventures have been turned into a musical

Hamilton - American revolutionary musical Until 29 Mar 2025 The Tony Award-winning musical about George Washingtons right hand man

Disneys The Lion King Musical (with songs by Elton John) Until 19 Oct 2024 The story of Simba and his Serengeti adventures with amazing animal puppetry 3

TINA - The Tina Turner Musical at the Aldwych Theatre Until 31 May 2025 The story of Tinas life from her humble start in Nutbush to becoming a global superstar

Andrew Lloyd Webbers Phantom of the Opera Until 28 Sep 2024 One of Webbers most memorable scores and some of the most spectacular sets in the West End

Save up to 36% The Play That Goes Wrong at the Duchess Theatre Until 4 May 2025 Will Cornley Drama Society crack under the pressure of putting on a new show? 2

Save up to 42% Agatha Christies The Mousetrap at St Martins Theatre Until 1 Mar 2025 The worlds longest-running play will keep you guessing whodunnit until the very end

ABBA Voyage - A virtual concert with ABBA avatars Until 25 Nov 2024 See Agnetha Bjorn Benny and Anni-Frid back on stage as digital projections 3

West End Boogie Shoes Silent Disco Walking Party Every Sat Don the magic headphones and strut your stuff around the West End and Londons most famous landmarks

Elvis dinner cruise with Presley impersonator Matt King Until 11 May 2024 A river cruise and 3-course meal with the award-winning Elvis tribute artist Matt King

Mamma Mia The Party - ABBA meal at the O2 Arena Until 15 Jun 2025 Visit the Greek taverna from the ABBA movie in an evening of eating singing and dancing

Sofar Sounds secret concert in a surprise location Every day Get hold of an invite to a secret concert held in a surprise venue somewhere within London

Stand-Up Comedy at Wonderville Leicester Square Every Thu & Sat A line-up of award-winning comedians that will make your sides hurt with laughter

Floating Comedy Club aboard the Tattershall Castle Until 27 Aug 2024 Live comedy show aboard a paddle steamer with a bar and after-show nightclub

City Comedy Club downstairs at the Trapeze Bar Until 28 Dec 2024 A hilarious line of up-and-coming comedians and big name comics from the TV

Stand-Up Comedy at Seven Dials Covent Garden Every Fri & Sat A line-up of hilarious stand-up comedians right in the heart of Londons West End

Thames Evening Jazz Cruise with Wine & Canapes Until 10 May 2024 Enjoy some live jazz with sparkling wine and canapes as you take in the sights along the river

Soho Comedy Factory above The Blue Posts Pub Until 29 Dec 2024 Cheap comedy night watching stars of tomorrow and comedians from the TV

Magnificent - Michael McIntyre at the O2 Arena 5, 6, 12 & 13 Apr 2024 Michael McIntyre is back at the O2 Arena for another run of four nights with his new stand-up show Magnificent

Art & museum exhibitions this weekend

Ranjit Singh: Sikh Warrior King at the Wallace Collection Until 20 Oct 2024 19th-century artworks and jewellery from the court of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh

Portraits To Dream In at the National Portrait Gallery Until 16 Jun 2024 Francesca Woodman and Julia Margaret Cameron were two of the most influential women in photography

Van Gogh: The Immersive 360-degree VR Experience Until 19 May 2024 Step inside Van Goghs paintings as theyre projected onto the walls through the magic of VR

Angelica Kauffman exhibition at the Royal Academy Until 30 Jun 2024 See some of Kauffmans finest celebrity portraits and history paintings

Courtauld Gallery: From the Baroque to Today Until 27 May 2024 A collection of drawings and prints acquired by the Courtauld since 2018

The Time is Always Now – Artists Reframe The Black Figure Until 19 May 2024 An exhibition that explores how the Black figure has been represented in contemporary Western art

Sargent & Fashion exhibition at Tate Britain Until 7 Jul 2024 Sixty portrait paintings by John Singer Sargent highlighting his use of fashion

Yoko Onos Music Of The Mind at the Tate Modern Until 1 Sep 2024 Key moments from Yoko Onos career including her years with John Lennon

Frank Auerbachs Charcoal Heads at the Courtauld Until 27 May 2024 Frank Auerbachs drawings will be shown together for the first time as a group

The Life of Forms at the Hayward Gallery Until 6 May 2024 A group exhibition by 21 different artists spanning 50 years of contemporary art

Entangled Pasts - Art Colonialism and Change Until 28 Apr 2024 An exploration of arts role in shaping the narrative of our colonial past

East London Street Art Tour + Spray Painting Session Until 30 Dec 2024 See some graffiti in the East End and then attend a spray painting workshop

Legion: Life in the Roman Army at the British Museum Until 23 Jun 2024 Learn what life was like as a soldier in the Roman army at the edge of the empire

Cute - Embankment Galleries at Somerset House Until 14 Apr 2024 Explore the irresistible force of cuteness in contemporary culture

The Cult of Beauty at the Wellcome Collection Until 28 Apr 2024 Delve into the notion of beauty across time and cultures and reflect on its meaning

Love & Legacy: Handels Will at the Foundling Museum Until 30 Jun 2024 See a page from Handels will and a musical score for his masterpiece Messiah

Dressed to Deliver - Uniforms at the Postal Museum Until 1 Sep 2024 An exhibition on the history of postal uniforms from the Victorian-era to the present day

Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competition 2023 Until 30 Jun 2024 100 of the best nature photos from this years prestigious wildlife photography competition 2

Fashion City exhibition at the Museum of London Docklands Until 14 Apr 2024 The stories of Londons Jewish designers who dressed rich and famous celebrities

El Anatsui: Behind The Red Moon at the Tate Modern Until 28 Apr 2024 A monumental new installation housed inside the Tate Moderns Turbine Hall

Turner & Bonington: Watercolours at the Wallace Collection Until 21 Apr 2024 A small display of ten watercolour landscapes of Yorkshire Normandy and Venice

Astronomy Photographer of the Year Competition Until 7 Aug 2024 See the best entries from the annual space photography at the National Maritime Museum

Injecting Hope: The Race for a Covid-19 Vaccine Until 31 May 2024 Learn about the race to develop a Covid-19 vaccine to combat the global pandemic at the Science Museum 1

Samson Kambalu sculpture - Trafalgar Square Fourth Plinth Until 31 Aug 2024 The fourth plinth art project currently houses a statue of Baptist preacher John Chilembwe

Yayoi Kusamas Infinity Mirror Rooms at the Tate Modern Until 28 Apr 2024 Installations that transport you into a boundless universe and a space of endless reflections

Family & kid’s events this weekend

AIM Spy Heroes - Family-Friendly Escape Room Game Every day Save your friend from his arch-nemesis by using his high-tech gadgets and gizmos

Sherlock: The Official Live Escape Room Game Until 30 Jun 2024 Play detective in this fiendishly clever escape room game based on the TV show Sherlock

The Art of the Brick: An Exhibition of LEGO Artworks Until 9 Jun 2024 Over 100 amazing artworks and sculptures created out of millions of LEGO bricks

Ride the IFS Cloud Cable Car from the O2 Arena Every day Ride a dangling cable car over the River Thames between the O2 Arena and Excel Centre 16

Turn It Up: The Power of Music at the Science Museum Until 6 May 2024 Discover the science behind music in this family-friendly interactive exhibition

Disney100: The Exhibition - Movie props costumes & artworks Until 30 Apr 2024 An exhibition of Disney props costumes and memorabilia to celebrate 100 years of The Walt Disney Company

The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience Until 30 Apr 2024 Enter the world of Richard OBriens 1990s TV show and complete for crystals to buy time in the Crystal Dome

Monopoly Lifesized - Immersive board game Until 1 Sep 2024 A brand-new way to play the worlds favourite game on a giant board with physical and mental challenges

Wallace & Gromit: The Wrong Trousers turns 30 Until 16 Apr 2024 Discover how the classic animated movie was made and see some original artifacts

Immersive events this weekend

AIM Hotel Of Horrors Escape Room Game Every day Can you escape from Londons scariest hotel before the evil spirit takes your soul?

AIM Psychopaths Den - Horror Escape Room Game Every day Escape from a serial killers blood-spattered torture room by solving puzzles

AIM Patient Zero 2150 - Zombie Escape Room Game Every day Enter a top secret facility to try and stop humankind turning into zombies!

Mr Foggs Murder Mystery at his Mayfair residence Every Sun Piece together the clues and help to solve a baffling Victorian murder mystery

The Mind of Moriarty: Live Escape Room Experience Until 30 Jun 2024 Enter the diabolical mind of Sherlock Holmes arch-nemesis Moriarty in this exciting escape room game

James Bond For A Day: Tour & Shooting Experience Until 29 Dec 2024 Enter the spy world of 007 with a chauffeured tour and vodka martini

The Murder Express Immersive Dining Experience Until 29 Dec 2024 A comedy murder mystery and 3-course meal set onboard a luxury train carriage

Escape Room Experience - Trapped With A Zombie Until 24 Jul 2024 Youre trapped inside a room with a rabid zombie and have to solve all the puzzles to escape

The Gunpowder Plot - Immersive VR Experience Until 29 Sep 2024 Witness the Gunpowder Plot first-hand in this 360-degree live action experience

Drinking events this weekend

Clapham Pub Crawl from Simmons Bar Every Fri & Sat Visit five of Claphams best pubs and clubs whilst enjoying cheap drinks and party games

The Original Shoreditch Pub Crawl Every Fri & Sat Visit some of the pubs and clubs in Shoreditch whilst enjoying cheap drinks and party games

Camden Party Pub Crawl starting at Belushis Bar Every Fri & Sat Explore the pubs and clubs around Camden whilst enjoying some cheap drinks and party games

London Gin Craze - The Ultimate Gin Tasting Experience Every Fri & Sat Visit four of Londons finest gin palaces and sample some in the company of an expert guide

London Party Pub Crawl around West End bars & clubs Every day Join a crowd of party people for a fun night out in the West Ends liveliest bars and clubs

Beer Bike Tour around Piccadilly and Soho Every day Pedal a 15-seater beer bike around London while enjoying some sights and drinks

Forbidden Nights: Ultimate Girls Night Out at Infernos Every Sat A high-octane show that will get your pulse racing followed by an after-party until 3 AM

The Chocolate Cocktail Club - A Bar For Chocoholics Until 28 Dec 2024 Sample one of the heavenly drinks from the UKs first chocolate cocktail bar

Food & Cocktail Tour around Soho and the West End Until 2 Oct 2024 Soak up the atmosphere while sampling some food and drink in Sohos cafes pubs and restaurants

The Case Of The Poisoned Chalice (Cocktail Experience) Until 29 Jun 2024 Take on Moriartys right-hand man and mix the perfect cocktail creation

Food events this weekend

London Cheese Crawl around Mayfair & Covent Garden Every Sat & Sun Sample the finest fromage in this tour of Londons best cheese shops and markets

Thames Cruise with 4-Course Dinner & West End Tunes Every day Treat yourself to a 3-hour cruise with a 4-course meal and West End show tunes

Magical Brunch Experience at The Last Talisman Every Sat Enjoy a brunch and bottomless cocktails as you marvel at the skills of their resident magician Yollin

Sherlock Holmes-themed Boozy Afternoon Tea Until 30 Jul 2024 Enjoy an afternoon tea whilst taking part in a Sherlock Holmes-themed mini mystery

Cutty Sark: Afternoon tea beneath the ships hull Until 29 Dec 2024 Enjoy some fine teas and sandwiches whilst sitting underneath the Cutty Sarks hull

Traditional Afternoon Tea - Rubens at the Palace Hotel Until 2 Oct 2024 Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea with scones and clotted cream at the Rubens at the Palace Hotel

Faulty Towers Dining Experience - Two hour chaotic comedy dinner Until 28 Apr 2024 A chaotic comedy dinner with lashings of laughter served up by Manuel Basil and Sybil at the President Hotel

Afternoon tea onboard a panoramic sightseeing tour bus Every day Tuck into a traditional English afternoon tea while sitting on the top deck of a sightseeing bus 2

Jack The Ripper Tour + Traditional Fish & Chips Until 28 Apr 2024 Have some fish and chips and then explore Jack the Rippers old haunts with an experienced Ripperologist

Royal & religious events this weekend

Holbein At The Tudor Court - Queens Gallery Until 14 Apr 2024 An exhibition of Holbeins drawings paintings miniatures and book illustrations

Have a professional photoshoot outside Buckingham Palace Every day (except Sat) Treat yourself to a professional photoshoot outside the palace for an amazing souvenir

Early access to the Tower of London & Tower Bridge Until 24 Oct 2024 Skip the lines to see the Crown Jewels and the Towers opening ceremony by the Yeoman Warders

Walk & Royal Tea in Kensington Gardens Pavilion Until 2 Oct 2024 Take a pleasant walk through Kensington Gardens and then enjoy an afternoon tea outside the palace

Choral service in Hampton Court Palaces Chapel Royal Every Sun (except summer) Enjoy a choral Sunday service in Henry VIIIs Chapel Royal at Hampton Court Palace 4

Choral Matin at the Tower of Londons Chapel Royal Every Sun (except during Aug) Attend a Sunday service at the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula in the Tower of London 2

Choral Evensong service at Westminster Abbey Every day (except Wed) Sit by Westminster Abbeys 1000-year-old altar and listen to a beautiful choral Evensong service 9

Choral Evensong service at St Pauls Cathedral Every day If you attend a choral Evensong at St Pauls Cathedral then you can see a small part of the Cathedral for free 5

Political & military events this weekend

Westminster Walking Tour + Churchill War Rooms Every day Walk past Downing Street and Parliament and then enter the Churchill War Rooms underground bunker

Shakespeare and War at the National Army Museum Until 1 Sep 2024 Discover how Shakespeares words have inspired soldiers and rallied the nation

Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London Every night The traditional locking up of the Tower by a Yeoman Warder has been taking place every night for over 700 years 6

Changing the Guard ceremony at Horse Guards Parade Every day Changing the Guard at Horse Guards is similar to Buckingham Palace but a lot less crowded 4

Dismounting Ceremony (4 OClock Parade) Horse Guards Every day A daily ceremony of Foot Guards and cavalry that takes place in the courtyard at Horse Guards 7

Guided tour to see Changing the Guard at the palace Every Mon, Wed, Fri & Sun Watch the soldiers marching after forming up outside St Jamess Palace

Speakers Corner - Listen to speeches on Sunday Every Sun Visit Speakers Corner at Sunday lunchtime and hear the public giving political speeches on a soapbox 5

Changing the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace Every Mon, Wed, Fri & Sun Changing the Guard at the palace is one of Londons must-see sights 10

Spies Lies and Deception at the Imperial War Museum Until 14 Apr 2024 100 years of intrigue from the First World War and Cold War to the present day

Tower of London Tour + Meet & Greet with a Beefeater Until 19 Sep 2024 Have a private audience with a Beefeater and then see the Crown Jewels and inside the White Tower

Foe to Friend - The British Army in Germany since 1945 Until 1 Sep 2024 The National Army Museum will explore the lives of soldiers serving in Germany after WWII

Transport tours in London this weekend

Beatles Tour - Three hours in a London black taxi Every day Ride an iconic London black taxi around the places associated with The Beatles including Abbey Road

Jack The Ripper & Sherlock Holmes Bus Tour Until 30 Oct 2024 After-dark tour around the streets of London to see famous crime scenes ending at the Sherlock Holmes pub

Private tube tour of the London Underground Every day A two-hour tour of the London Underground including a journey from Paddington to Sloane Square

Private chauffeur-driven tour around Londons landmarks Every day Create your own tailor-made route around London in the comfort of a chauffeur-driven car

Black Taxi Tour - Private sightseeing tour around London Every day Enjoy a 2-hour tour around Londons most famous landmarks in the back of an iconic black taxi cab

No26 – Londons cheapest sightseeing bus past lots of famous landmarks Every day A cheap alternative to riding those expensive open-top sightseeing buses 28

Secrets of the London Underground walking tour Every Tue, Thu & Sun Travel around on the tube and learn some interesting history about the London Underground network

Romantic scenic helicopter flight with glass of champagne Until 19 Sep 2024 Treat your loved one to a helicopter sightseeing flight over London with a glass of champagne

Big Bus Tours London - Open-Top Sightseeing Bus Every day An open-top sightseeing bus taking in all the best landmarks with a river cruise and walk included 5

35-minute sightseeing tour of London by private helicopter Until 19 Sep 2024 From Redhill Aerodrome fly across the Surrey countryside and over central Londons landmarks

The Tootbus Tour - London sightseeing bus Every day The Tootbus Tour is one of Londons most popular sightseeing buses and a great way to see all the landmarks 7

Walking tours in London this weekend

Agatha Christie walking tour around London Until 27 Oct 2024 See the places that inspired the Queen of Crime Agatha Christie to write her murder mystery novels

Doctor Who walking tour around 15 London locations Every Sun A guided tour around 15 city locations that featured in the legendary TV show during the last fifty years

Guided walk along the banks of Londons river Every Sat This walk will take you along a stretch of the Thames to learn its history and see some of its most famous landmarks

Rock N Roll History Tour + Abbey Road Crossing Until 31 Oct 2024 A fully guided minibus tour through Londons rock n roll history including The Beatles Abbey Road

Wizards Walk - Harry Potter London Locations Tour Until 30 Dec 2023 Walk in the footsteps of JK Rowlings Harry Potter and see some of the famous locations from the books and movies

Guided walk around Roman Londinium Every Thu & Sun Walk through the streets of Londinium and see the remains of the city walls and the site of old temples and bathhouses

Gangster London - Walking tour with actor Vas Blackwood Every Sat Explore Londons criminal underworld with the actor from Lock Stock & Two Smoking Barrels

Paddington Bear walking tour around London Until 8 Mar 2025 Visit the Paddington Bear shop and see Mr Grubers antiques store and the Browns home at Windsor Gardens

Harry Potter walking tour - Locations from the books & movies Every day Visit some of the famous locations that featured in JK Rowlings Harry Potter books and movies

Jack the Ripper Walking Tour with Ripper-Vision Every day Walk the nighttime streets of Victorian London where Jack the Ripper committed his crimes

Halloween Haunted Adventure - with Ghost Equipment Every day Walk through dark alleyways and darkened parks to see some of Londons most haunted buildings

Palaces & Parliament walking tour around Westminster Every day See 20 of the most famous landmarks in Westminster in the company of a knowledgable guide

James Bond Walking Tour Until 28 Sep 2024 Walk in the footsteps of the worlds most famous secret agent and see some film locations from the James Bond movies

London Bridge Ghost Tour - Two mile guided walk Every Sat Explore the dark streets and area around London Bridge and hear some spooky ghost stories and learn about its terrifying history 2

Scavenger hunt - Self-guided walking tour of London Every day A fun walking tour around ten of Londons most famous landmarks - solving clues and riddles on a mobile app

Sherlock Holmes Tour - London locations from the novels & movies Until 25 Sep 2024 Walk in the footsteps of the worlds greatest fictional detective and Arthur Conan Doyle

See London In One Day - Bespoke Private Guided Tour Until 19 Sep 2024 Hire a personal tour guide to drive around London on a bespoke itinerary you created yourself

Greenwich Ghoulish Ghost Tour Every other Sat Explore some of the creepy streets around Greenwich and hear stories about ghoulish crimes and haunted pubs

Outdoor Adventure Game: The Case of Colombias Finest Every day Discover some of the citys most curious locations in this self-guided outdoor adventure game

Sports events this weekend

Watch an Arsenal football game at Emirates Stadium Until 19 May 2024 Watch Arsenal play a home game at the Emirates including a match day programme

Skateboard exhibition & Skate ramp at the Design Museum Until 2 Jun 2024 Book a skate session on a ramp inside the Design Museums Skateboard exhibition

Day trips from London this weekend

Day trip to see Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace Until 22 Sep 2024 See the State Rooms at Windsor Castle and the Tudor palace at Hampton Court

Visit Downton Abbey (Highclere Castle) & Bampton Village Until 1 Sep 2024 Visit Highclere Castle where the TV show Downton Abbey was filmed and the village of Bampton

Cotswolds Blenheim Palace & Downtown Abbey village Until 30 Oct 2024 Drive through the Cotswolds to Churchills birthplace and the village seen in Downton Abbey

Day trip to Oxford & Harry Potter Film Studios Until 31 Dec 2023 A coach trip to the university town of Oxford followed by a tour of Harry Potters Warner Bros Studios

Have lunch in the Cotswolds - Day trip from London Until 26 Sep 2024 Take a day trip to the pretty little villages and countryside scenery of the English Cotswolds

Oxford & Cambridge - Day trip from London by coach Until 24 Sep 2024 Visit the ancient university towns of Oxford and Cambridge on a luxury air-conditioned coach

Visit Stonehenge The Cotswolds Bath & Stratford-upon-Avon Until 25 Sep 2024 Visit four of Englands top attractions in one day on a coach trip from central London

Visit Stonehenge Windsor Castle and Bath on a day trip Until 26 Sep 2024 See the Royal Familys home at Windsor the Roman remains at Bath and Stonehenge

Day trip to Canterbury Cathedral & White Cliffs of Dover Until 3 Dec 2023 Visit Thomas Beckets Canterbury Cathedral and walk along the top of the White Cliffs of Dover

Day trip by coach to see Windsor Castle and Stonehenge Until 23 Sep 2024 Visit two of Englands most popular attractions in a single day on a luxury air-conditioned coach

Visit Stonehenge and the Roman remains at Bath Until 26 Sep 2024 Visit the prehistoric stones at Stonehenge and the beautiful Georgian city of Bath with its Roman remains

Coach trip to Windsor Castle Oxford and Stonehenge Until 25 Sep 2024 Combine three of Londons most popular day trips into a single day with this coach trip

Visit Stonehenge on a half-day coach trip from London Until 25 Sep 2024 Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site on Salisbury Plain on a coach trip from central London

Shakespeares Stratford-upon-Avon & Cotswolds Day Trip Until 22 Sep 2024 Drive to the Cotswolds to see Shakespeares birth-place and Anne Hathaways cottage

Day trip to Oxford Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle Until 26 Sep 2024 Visit Oxford and William Shakespeares Tudor home and the medieval Warwick Castle

Drive through the Cotswolds and visit Blenheim Palace Until 25 Sep 2024 Explore Winston Churchills birthplace and the beautiful countryside of the Cotswolds

Day trip to Leeds Castle Canterbury & White Cliffs of Dover Until 19 Sep 2024 Visit three of southern Englands most popular attractions with a full-day coach tour

Other Events this weekend in London

Up At The O2 Arena - Climb to the top of the dome Until 3 Nov 2024 Climb to the top of the O2s roof and enjoy a 360-degree view of Londons skyline

Book a professional photoshoot at Tower Bridge Every day Treat yourself to a professional photoshoot in front of Tower Bridge for an amazing holiday souvenir

The famous Portobello Road Antiques Market Every Sat Portobello Road has a world famous market where 100000 people browse hundreds of antique stalls every Saturday 1

Scenes In The Square - Cinema statues in Leicester Square Every day Walk around an interactive trail of bronze statues and try and find all the film stars hiding in Leicester Square

See the stars at Hampstead Observatory Until 13 Apr 2024 See the stars from the little observatory by Hampstead Heath which houses a six-inch refractor in a rotating dome

The best things to do this weekend in London

London is bursting at the seams with incredible experiences and things to see and do, from galleries and museums to street food markets and pop-up events. Whether you're looking for the next best foodie event or want to hit up an art exhibition, there's bound to be something happening in the city to suit what you're looking for. Here are the top things to do in London this weekend, and don't forget to check back every week for a fresh batch of weekend highlights!

• Get your caffeine fix at the London Coffee Festival – All things coffee
• Learn the art of foraging on a Flavour Led walk – Learn the art of urban foraging
• Enjoy a slice of Taiwanese culture and creativity – The work of 30++ Taiwanese artists
• Stock up on blooms at the Garden Museum – One for the gardeners
• See more than 300 pieces by one of Italy's greatest designers – spanning Mari's 60-year career
• See Ramadan lights illuminate up the West End – & Europe's first major light display honouring Eid al-Fitr
• Discover vibrant Brazilian art from the 1950s–70s – Some May Work as Symbols
• Explore Yoko Ono's Music of the Mind – A massive Yoko Ono retrospective
• Take a leap back to ancient Egyptian times – The Horizon of Khufu
• Enjoy an exhibition: Entangled Pasts, 1768–now – A journey through history and culture
• See Stranger Things: The First Shadow – A blockbuster adventure in the Upside Down
• Boogie at Mamma Mia! The Party – An ABBA-filled night
• Prepare for symmetry at Accidentally Wes Anderson – Dreamy imagery
• Pop to a free exhibition: Spies, Lies and Deception – Spy with your little eye
• Take a walk on the moon with Tom Hanks – The Moonwalkers: A Journey With Tom Hanks

Things to do in London this weekend

Here's what's on in London this weekend.

Get your caffeine fix at the London Coffee Festival

All things coffee.

The London Coffee Festival, held at The Truman Brewery in Brick Lane, is the world's top coffee event spotlighting London's buzzy coffee scene. With over 23,500 visitors in 2023, it showcases the city's speciality coffee culture and stellar hospitality industry. Featuring 250+ brands, the festival offers tastings, barista demos, workshops, food, cocktails, music, and art, as well as the global barista tournament Coffee Masters™ and experiential additions like the Latte Art Live performance and cocktail masterclasses.

• Date:  11 Apr-14 Apr
• Price:  varies
• Read more on Thatsup

Learn the art of foraging on a Flavour Led walk

Learn the art of urban foraging.

Enjoy a lush and informative exploration of urban foraging with Flavour Led Walks by expert forager Flavour Fred. Lasting around 2.5 hours, these leisurely strolls offer insights into wild ingredients found in the city. Fred shares rules, identification tips, folklore, and historical anecdotes. Learn about seasonal ingredients, preservation methods, and crafting tasty treats while sampling along the way. 

• Date:  24 Feb-26 May
• Price:  £40

Enjoy a slice of Taiwanese culture and creativity

The work of 30++ taiwanese artists.

Bringing Taiwan's heritage to London, the Taiwan Festival at Notting Hill's The Coronet Theatre showcases the work of over 30 Taiwanese artists, musicians, and dancers, many making their UK debut. The programme covers diverse themes like colonial history, identity, politics, and sexuality, featuring highlights such as artist Cheng Tsung Feng's bamboo installation and singer-songwriter Yujun Wang's album launch. Tickets are available for individual shows or as a season pass, offering access to all events.

• Date:  12-27 April

Stock up on blooms at the Garden Museum

One for the gardeners.

The Garden Museum is preparing to host expert growers and specialist nurseries from across the country at their latest Spring Fair, showcasing their best blooms for London's gardening enthusiasts. Year after year, the Garden Museum Spring Plant Fair brings together experts in the realm of gardening, who not only showcase a wide selection of top-quality garden plants for visitors to browse but also offer their gardening expertise, tips and tricks so that your garden can bloom in full force.

See more than 300 pieces by one of Italy's greatest designers

Spanning mari's 60-year career.

London's Design Museum has opened an exhibition honouring Enzo Mari, one of the most influential Italian designers of the 20th century, renowned for his multifaceted career as an artist, teacher, and theorist and his commitment to socially responsible design. The extensive retrospective spans Mari's 60-year career and features over 300 works, including furniture, children's books, and conceptual installations, complemented by archival insights into his design philosophy and tributes from contemporary London-based designers.

• Date:  29 Mar-9 Sep
• Price:  from £8.16

See Ramadan lights illuminate up the West End

& europe's first major light display honouring eid al-fitr.

Ramadan 2024 has begun, with Muslims globally embarking on a journey of reflection, prayer, fasting, and community bonding until April 9th. Mayor Sadiq Khan lit up London's streets on March 7th with 30,000 lights from Piccadilly Circus to Leicester Square. Edgware Road joins in with a new 2.9-meter crescent moon installation. Funded by the Aziz Foundation, the 'Sundial' exhibit symbolises the transition between suhoor and iftar. It greets Ramadan with "Happy Ramadan" and switches to "Happy Eid" as Eid approaches, marking Europe's first major light display honouring Eid al-Fitr.

• Date:  7 Mar-16 Apr
• Price:  free

Discover vibrant Brazilian art from the 1950s–70s

Some may work as symbols.

This exhibition at Raven Row in Spitalfields delves into the vibrant and varied styles of Brazilian art from the 1950s to the 1970s, a period of flourishing post-modernist movement. It features a range of artistic expressions, from the abstract works of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro's concretists and neo-concretists to the Afro-Brazilian symbolism rooted in spiritual practices. This collaborative effort with the Museum of Modern Art of Rio de Janeiro showcases pieces from four major Brazilian museums and private collections, some displayed in the UK for the first time.

• Date:  7 Mar-5 May

Explore Yoko Ono's Music of the Mind

A massive yoko ono retrospective.

The UK's most extensive exhibition of Yoko Ono's work features over 200 pieces that span her seven-decade career as an artist and activist. The exhibition, in collaboration with Ono's studio, includes a diverse range of works such as instruction pieces, installations, films, and music, delving into themes of peace, feminism, and the everyday, often using the sky as a symbol. This exhibition redefines Ono's legacy beyond her Beatles association, affirming her as a trailblazer in conceptual and participatory art.

• Date:  15 Feb-1 Sep
• Price:  £22

Take a leap back to ancient Egyptian times

The horizon of khufu.

Embark on a time-travelling journey without having to leave London with "The Horizon of Khufu" virtual reality adventure. Transporting you back 4,500 years to Ancient Egypt, delve into the mysteries of the Great Pyramid of Giza at this unique AI event in Stratford. Led by renowned Egyptologist Peter Der Manuelian, experience mummification ceremonies, Nile voyages, and Pharaoh Khufu's funeral rites.

• Date:  21 Feb-30 Apr
• Price:  £18-£21

Enjoy an exhibition: Entangled Pasts, 1768–now

A journey through history and culture.

Experience a profound journey through history and culture at the Royal Academy of Arts this spring. Over 100 contemporary and historical artworks, spanning themes of empire, enslavement, resistance, abolition, and colonialism, will be showcased. Featuring prominent British artists from diverse diasporas, including Sonia Boyce and Frank Bowling, alongside works from the past 250 years, this exhibition promises to provoke reflection and dialogue. Informed by research into the RA's colonial history, it engages over 50 associated artists on migration, identity, and belonging.

• Date:  20 Feb-28 Apr

See Stranger Things: The First Shadow

A blockbuster adventure in the upside down.

“Stranger Things: The First Shadow,” a prequel to the popular Netflix series, is making waves in London's West End as a major theatrical hit. The play, unfolding the backstory of the series' villain Henry Creel, is co-directed by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin, and has been praised for capturing the essence of “Stranger Things” as well as putting on an astounding visual feast.

• Date:  14 Dec-25 Aug
• Price:  from £20

Boogie at Mamma Mia! The Party

An abba-filled night.

Head on a Greek journey to the island of Skopelos for an unforgettable evening of dining and dancing at this Mamma Mia-inspired event. As the sun sets, discover yourself at Nikos' family-run taverna, feasting on a tasty four-course Greek meal, including dishes like Greek mezze, salad, confit lamb shoulder, and slow-cooked beef with garlic-roasted potatoes. A live band will play iconic ABBA tracks throughout the night, ensuring the dance floor stays lively with their best hits. 

• Date:  ongoing
• Price:  from £99

Prepare for symmetry at Accidentally Wes Anderson

Dreamy imagery.

The hotly-anticipated exhibition "Accidentally Wes Anderson" landed in London in December. Developed from a popular Instagram account that shares images that look like they're straight out of a Wes Anderson film, visitors have the chance to see the photographs, discover more about these real locations, and take their own on-theme photos. The show takes place at 79-85 Old Brompton Road.

• Date:  8 Dec-12 May
• Price:  from £11

Pop to a free exhibition: Spies, Lies and Deception

Spy with your little eye.

A free exhibition at London's Imperial War Museum, “Spies, Lies and Deception” takes you behind the curtain to learn about the spies who changed history – and how they managed it. Covering the past century of espionage and intrigue, the exhibition features spy gadgets and tricks that would make even James Bond green with envy, along with fascinating stories about the people and operations that shaped the history of the world without anyone being the wiser.

• Date:  29 Sep-14 Apr

Take a walk on the moon with Tom Hanks

The moonwalkers: a journey with tom hanks.

Lightroom, an immersive art gallery in King's Cross, has unveiled “The Moonwalkers: A Journey With Tom Hanks”. This immersive experience, narrated by Tom Hanks, uses advanced projection and audio to explore the historic Apollo missions and the current Artemis programme for manned lunar exploration. Co-written by Hanks and Christopher Riley, the experience also features interviews with Artemis astronauts, offering a unique perspective on this new chapter of space exploration.

• Date:  6 Dec-9 Jun
• Price:  from £15

36 Hours in London

By Desiree Ibekwe Updated Dec. 22, 2022

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To the casual observer, London may present itself as a capital wedded to traditional and, at times, perplexing institutions, particularly over the past year, from the rotating cast of prime ministers to the choreographed schedule of mourning following Queen Elizabeth II’s death. In actuality, London is a complex knot of old and new. It is also an almost insurmountable task to try conquering the city in one weekend. This itinerary — which traverses an 1800s wine bar loved by a new generation, a night out in South London’s Caribbean heart, centuries of British art under one roof and riverside strolls — is here to help you unlock some of the city’s sprawling, youthful and diverse nature.

Recommendations

• Tate Britain is a museum in Millbank that charts centuries of art created in Britain.
• E Pellici is a 122-year-old traditional “caff” in East London.
• Gay’s the Word , established in 1979, is considered the oldest L.G.B.T.Q. bookstore in London.
• Brick Lane Vintage Market is a subterranean thrifter’s bazaar, selling vintage and independently made clothing and accessories.
• Gordon’s Wine Bar , established in 1890 and thought to be London’s oldest wine bar, is situated next to Victoria Embankment Gardens.
• Cafe TPT and Four Seasons are beloved restaurants in Chinatown, in the city’s West End, known for their roast meats.
• Speedboat Bar is a new Thai-Chinese fusion restaurant and bar in Chinatown.
• Fish, Wings and Tings is a South London restaurant serving Caribbean cuisine in Brixton Village market.
• Negril is a small Caribbean restaurant on Brixton Hill.
• The Old Queens Head is a pub in Islington, in North London, serving a hearty Sunday roast.
• The Quality Chop House is a modern British restaurant in Farringdon, in Central London, with an impressive Sunday set menu.
• Hootananny is a music venue in Brixton with diverse live acts and D.J. sets.
• Skoob Books and Judd Books are secondhand bookstores with buckets of charm in Bloomsbury.
• London Review Bookshop is a store connected to the literary magazine London Review of Books with a much-loved cafe.
• Spitalfields Market in East London is home to independent sellers, food stalls, restaurants and boutiques.
• Rajmahal Sweets is a cornucopia of treats on Brick Lane where you can get everything from jalebi and Turkish delight to bhajis and pakoras.
• Atika is a vintage store that spans two floors off Brick Lane; it also sells independent art.
• Jen’s Plants and Florist is a small, Black-owned plant store off Brick Lane.
• Queen’s Walk is a walking route that stretches along the South Bank of the River Thames. Highlights on the walk include Shakespeare’s Globe Theater and the Southbank Center.
• Regent’s Canal is a scenic waterway that stretches for almost nine miles.
• London’s Tube network is the best way to navigate the city. Many lines run a 24-hour service called the “ Night Tube ” on Fridays and Saturdays. You can also hail a black cab in most areas, or order a car with ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt.
• London’s outpost of The Standard is sleek and stylish with a perfect location — it’s a two-minute walk from King’s Cross Station and a short train ride into Central London. A double room hovers around £349 a night, or about $425.
• For those after amazing views of the Thames, Sea Containers on the South Bank is an excellent option. A double room starts at £261 a night.
• The Zetter Townhouse , a 13-room Georgian townhouse in Clerkenwell, is full of charm and eccentric decor. Rooms here start from £249 a night.
• For those on a budget, rooms at the trendy Mama Shelter in Shoreditch start at around £100 a night, while Assembly in Covent Garden puts you at the center of the city without breaking the bank (rooms start at £100).
• Shoreditch in East London can be ridiculously hip, but it is a perfect, slightly off-the-beaten-track location for short-term rentals. Marylebone is also a good option for those who want to be closer to the center of town.

More From 36 Hours

Have a weekend to explore a destination we’ve got the perfect travel itinerary..

Paris: A different side of the French capital reveals smaller museums, under-the-radar spots in Montmartre and a diverse performance scene .

Montreal : Climb a mountain, wander the waterfront and enjoy a smoked-meat sandwich  in a city with a surprise around every corner.

Cartagena: With a limonada de coco in hand, explore two walkable neighborhoods over a weekend  in this coastal Colombian city.

Glasgow:  Take in Gothic architecture, green riverside walks and a global banquet  in Scotland’s largest city.

Chicago:   ​​ Cycle miles of urban trails, tour a restored Frank Lloyd Wright masterwork and catch golden hour  along Lake Michigan.

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Posted on 19th December 2023 Categories Things to do

By: Author Alastair Reid Schanche

15 Best Things to Do in London This Weekend (22nd – 24th December)

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Looking for something to spice up the Christmas Eve weekend? We’ve totally got you covered. 

Whoever you are, this weekend is a biggun. It’s the blowout before Christmas . Naturally London is offering you more wonderful ways to get into the Christmas spirit than you could feasibly attend. In order to make things easy for you in this oh-so-busy time, we’ve curated the best of them right here. 

That’s everything from festive sip and paint sessions to haunting walking tours around Ebeneezer Scrooge’s real-life hangouts. 

Saturday is the shortest day of the year and there are chances to bring a little colour to the gloom with wreath-making classes or at the wild strobe-lit interior of a classic London venue hosting none other than Korean superstar DJ Hunee. 

It’s not all go though. If you need a chance to chill out, you’ll find a festive meditation session that should do the trick (as well as our tips for how best to spend the big day). Let’s make this weekend count…

And most importantly, happy Christmas everybody!

The Best Things to Do in London This Weekend 

Explore the natural history museum with mulled wine and mince pie in hand .

Kensington 

Friday 22nd 

If you want to combine a little mental stimulation with a good bit of festive fun, The Natural History Museum will be open late this Friday night. 

The night is going to see the museum packed out with festive activities and games suitable for people of all ages. There’s also going to be a special prize (what that is remains a closely guarded secret) for the best Christmas outfit. 

Not only that, they’ll be serving up mulled wine and mince pies to really ease you into the evening. Trust us when we say you’ll need that wine. The famous T-rex has been decked out in Christmas gear and if you thought that was a scary sight before, wait till you see it now. 

More information here

See Christmas Hits Sung by Candlelight 

London Bridge 

Candlelight have been busy in the build-up to Christmas. Last week they were holding carol service in stunning churches, this week they’re taking things modern with all your favourite festive pop hits. 

The numbers they’re covering have got some serious vibes to them, think Mariah Carey and Wham! Covers, faithful renditions of Santa Tell Me by Ariana Grande, Beiber’s Mistletoe and heaps more, all performed by an orchestra in a setting that will likely leave your jaw on the floor. 

More info and tickets here

Do a Festive Sip and Paint

Holborn 

The creativity (and boozin’) don’t stop for Christmas folks. If you want to carry on a bit of both over the Xmas weekend you can with Pop Up Painting . 

They’ve been running classes all over the country for years now so they really know what they’re up to, delivering fun-filled (and prosecco-fuelled) events that provide no end of laughs as well as a good chance to socialise with some fellow arty types. 

For this event they’re laying on a playlist of festive classics and Christmas-themed treats with all the art supplies you need to get going. All you have to do is show up. 

Celebrate a Decade of RnB at Village Underground 

Shoreditch 

It’s not just the birth of Christ we’ll be celebrating this weekend. RnB crew So Fresh So Clean are also turning ten. 

If you’ve not been to any of their parties in the past decade you’re missing out. They kicked things off in Ladbroke Grove looking to spice up the RnB scene and went on to collaborate on nights with stars from The Wu-Tang Clan, Pete Rock, Eve, and Ms Dynamite. 

This Friday they’re taking over Village Underground with Children of Zeus, Shola Ama and US DJ/producer/legend Harry Love behind the decks. Fans of the genre or people after a big night out don’t want to miss this, trust us. 

Book tickets here

Make a Festive Wreath 

Shepherd’s Bush 

Saturday 23rd 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Malina’s Plants & terrariums (@malinas_plants_terrariums)

The 22nd of December is the shortest day of the year, traditionally this gloomy period is kept at bay by the introduction of a little greenery into the household in the form of a festive wreath. 

This weekend Malina’s Plants and Terrariums are holding a wreath-making class where you can design and construct a wreath of your own. 

They’ve got some experts on hand to show you how to do it and provide all the greenery, ribbons and decorations you need to run wild. 

More information and booking here

See a Killer Korean DJ at Koko 

Camden 

Saturday 23rd

It looks like Christmas has come early for electronic music fans. Korean DJ (and one of our faves in the biz) Hunnee is coming to London. He’s going to be playing at one of the city’s coolest venues too…

That would be Koko Electronic, the new(ish) nightclub section of the venue that’s staged legends from Charlie Chaplin to The Rolling Stones. He’s going back-to-back with Amsterdam-based DJ Antal, also a bit of a legend in his own right. 

It’s going to be a biggun – but if ever there was an occasion for it, the last Saturday before Xmas might just be the one. 

Tickets here

Get Boozed up on a Festive Pub Crawl 

Covent Garden 

Christmas (for us at least) often becomes a time of wild boozing. Rarely though, does it get as wild as this: a fully organised and solidly planned pub crawl around central London. 

These guys have a route through five of the most popular bars and pubs in the area and you get free shots and drinks at each. On top of that, when you’ve drunk your free booze dry there are discounts on whatever else you want. 

They also lay on a photographer to document the madness (queue the embarrassing photos the morning after), and as it’s Christmas they’ve promised to dish out plenty of festive freebies along the route. 

Don your Santa hats and let’s get going!

See Handel’s Messiah Performed at a Famous London Church

Temple 

Until the advent of Mariah Carey and Nat King Cole, Handel’s Messiah was probably one of the most famous bits of Christmas music there was. 

It’s a three-movement piece that conveys through music the story of the life of Christ from his birth to his death, and finally his resurrection. You might recognise it from the sound of a choir singing hallelujah at the top of their voices. 

For Christmas, you’ve got a special chance to see it performed at the grand St Mary Le Strand Church – probably one of the finest places for it. If you want to be wowed, you’ll want to be here.  

More info and bookings here

Get Festive with a Christmas Cabaret

Until Saturday 30th (except Christmas Day) 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Phoenix Arts Club (@phoenixartsclub)

Any regular readers of this London x London will know we love a good bit of over-the-top theatre. If you’re the same, the Phoenix Arts Club will probably already be on your radar. They’re pretty much the go-to spot for a bit of cabaret in London

For a couple of weeks over the festive season, they’re running a festive cabaret special. It’s a mix of comedy, burlesque and drag shows strung together to make an evening of serious fun. 

Their shows are a hoot at the best of times, but with the added energy of this magic time of the year, we’re expecting them to be going into overdrive. 

Hear Christmas Carols at What Might be the Most Impressive Venue Possible 

Westminster 

Saturday 23rd + Sunday 24th 

If you want to sink into the Xmas holidays in a big way, you can’t do better than Christmas carols . And as carols go you can’t do much better than this: the annual festive service at Westminster Abbey. 

They’re running service throughout the weekend but we’ve got our eye on the 23rd and 24th as (at the time of writing) there were still tickets available. We doubt that will last long though so hop on this ASAP if you want to go. 

You’ll be a party to the abbey’s choir doing all the anthems and the priest reading passages from the bible. It’s about as traditional as it gets. We love it. 

More info and booking here

Pick Up your Christmas Meat at the Return of this Great Xmas Tradition

Farringdon  

Have you heard about the return of the Smithfield Market Christmas meat auction? It’s one of our favourite things that happens in London at this time of year, a tradition that dates back to a time before fridges when meat needed to be bought as close to the date of consumption as possible. 

It’s also a spectacle. Butchers yell prices and cuts over a manic crowd of cash-waving bargain hunters. Your purchase is then (no joke) linged to you over the top of the crowd. We assure you, you’ve never seen anything like it.  

More info here

See The Snowman Performed Live 

Until December 30th 

Since we were children The Snowman has been an integral part of our Christmas festivities. This year it’s going to be holding the very same place in our hearts in a special run of shows at The Peacock Theatre. 

They’ve reproduced the beloved book (and animation) in what’s always a beautiful performance (we aren’t ashamed to admit we will probably shed a tear) under the direction of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s highly talented Bill Alexander. 

The performance is a staple of the Xmas period, now in its 26th year. If you’ve not seen it yet and you love The Snowman as much as us, you should go. 

Take a Dickensian Christmas Carol Walking Tour

The City of London 

Sunday 24th 

For generations, A Christmas Carol has been impressed on the imagination of children at Christmas time. Dickens’ tale of ghostly Christmas happenings is nothing but a classic. 

This Christmas Eve you can follow in the footsteps of the man himself and the characters that populate his pages on a special A Christmas Carol walking tour. 

It’ll take you through The City of London visiting the real-life places where Ebeneezer Scrooge lived and worked with an expert on the history of the time, and Dickens’ work as your guide.

Do Some Meditation 

Walthamstow 

As much as we love it, the Christmas period can become pretty stressful. There are always so many people to see and last-minute presents to pick up, the turkey to get in the fridge and visiting relatives to welcome. 

It’s a wonder you ever find a moment to breathe. If you need a good excuse to take a couple of hours of downtime, Lees Spiritual Healing are running a special Christmas Eve meditation class to help you get zen before Christmas. 

It’s only £5 and it promised to blast any Xmas stress right away. 

Attend Midnight Mass at St Paul’s

St Paul’s

If you want something to really put the magic into your Christmas, don’t miss the Midnight Eucharist at St Pauls – it’s about as magical as it gets, but for a church service in the UK’s most famous Cathedral we suppose magic isn’t exactly hard to come by. 

The service begins at 11:30pm and brings Christmas day in with readings from the story of the nativity and choir singing. It’s a very traditional affair, they even offer out communion to the congregation in the form of bread and wine. 

In the true spirit of Christmas, it’s also free to attend.

And If You’re Looking for Something to Do on Christmas Day…

Citywide 

Monday 25th 

So there you have it, heaps of events to keep you busy for the build-up to the big day. The fun doesn’t entirely stop there though. 

While many venues will shut their doors for the day, some places keep open and in full swing, offering sumptuous Christmas feasts for those who don’t want to cook and plenty of festive drinks to get the day’s spirit in full swing. 

We’ve written a guide to all the best places open on Christmas Day 2023, and a few tips of our own for making it a magical one in London. You can read that below. 

Read More: Christmas Day In London 2023 Guide: Fabulous Restaurants and Things to Do

What’s Hot in London Right Now? 

• TodayTix are offering a £10,000 annual theatre passes to ten people rich enough to afford them. The tickets get you premium Band-A seats at any West End show you want to see for the whole of 2024. Theatre lovers, get gathering your pennies. 
• The National Theatre has announced its new Artistic Director. Filling the fabled role will be Indhu Rubasingham, previous AD of the Kiln Theatre. She’s a big name in the business and has previously directed plays at the National Theatre. We’re excited to see what she’d got up her sleeve going forward. 

Need More Inspiration for Your Weekend? Read these Guides

• Christmas Carols and Concerts in London For Festive Singalongs
• Unmissable Christmas Pantos in London: 2023 Guide
• New Year’s Eve in London – Ideas for How to Celebrate in Style
• Christmas Restaurants in London for Fully Festive

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We delve into the cool, interesting and quirky spots that make London such a dynamic city, telling you the best things to do, eat and drink along the way. 

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27 Best Things to Do in London

By Sonya Barber and Ramsay Short

London: the city that has anything and everything you could possibly want in a vibrant, world-class capital. Your only real problem is working out what you can miss. With over 170 museums, 3,000 parks, 3,500 pubs and an ever-changing number of restaurants, there’s almost too much to see, do and eat—even for a life-long Londoner.

Truly, the city is too large, and too rich in options, for you to get to it all in one visit; you'll have to make some hard choices. Which incredible food or clothing-market to browse? Tate Modern or the British Museum? Where should you pick for a perfect, full-English breakfast? Where's the best afternoon tea ? How do you pick from all the abundant pubs ? And don't get us started here on the best restaurants . Thankfully, our locally led list of the best things to do in London is here to help you decide—just don’t try to do it all in one day.

Read our complete London travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Tower of London Arrow

Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, this uncompromising slab of a building has been many things—including the site where Henry VIII ordered the execution of two of his wives. Now the Tower is most famous as the home of the Crown Jewels. Come, take a tour from one of the Beefeaters (offered every half hour), and gawp at the sparkling and the frightening alike.

Kew Gardens Arrow

A spectacular 500 acre garden in west London, Kew boasts one of the biggest and most diverse botanical collections in the whole world. There’s been a botanic garden here since the 18th century when it was a royal palace; today it’s not only a UNESCO World Heritage site with over a whopping 50,000 plants, it’s also just a really lovely place to visit. You can spend a whole day gently wandering along the winding paths through the lawns, trees, lake, Japanese garden, rhododendron dell, rose garden and kid’s play area, as well as popping in and out of the grand glasshouses. It’s a calming and tranquil place (as long as you avoid the playground on a school holiday) but you can also learn plenty about plants along the way.

Tate Modern Arrow

This former oil-fired power station sits smugly in the center of the South Bank, knowing that you’re interested in what’s going on inside. It’s filled to the rafters with paintings and sculptures by the likes of Picasso, Dali, Warhol, and Rothko, all set off perfectly by that gritty industrial interior. It’s rare that any exhibition at Tate Modern is awaited with anything less than bated breath, whether they’re the paid shows across the mid-levels of the institution or the vast and clever commissions to take over the massive space that is the Turbine Hall. You’re pretty much bound to be blown away. 

The Globe Theater Arrow

In London, every building and street has history. And Shakespeare's Globe, although a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre—where many of William Shakespeare's plays were first staged and which burned down in 1613 during a performance of 'Henry VIII'—is no exception. The theater was rebuilt not far from its original site, using construction methods and materials as close to the original as possible, and to watch a performance here is to step back in time with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Charlie Hobbs

Maya Silver

CNT Editors

Coal Drops Yard Arrow

Ever since the Eurostar undersea rail link between Paris and London rolled into Kings Cross St. Pancras station, the formerly down-and-out neighborhood of Kings Cross has experienced a total transformation. Abandoned railway land with disused gas tanks now has been turned into new offices, shopping areas, fountains, apartments, green spaces, and more. There are posh supermarkets in converted train sheds, the coveted Central St. Martins London School of Art and Fashion, artisan restaurants like Hicce, and trendy ice cream shops like Ruby Violet. Granary Square, north of the station and surrounded by restored warehouses, has a 1,000-jet fountain that's great for kids, as well as canal-side, amphitheater-style seating. There’s also the gorgeous revamped Camley Street Natural Park, which is packed with stunning wildflowers and urban biodiversity. Google is building their London headquarters here, an office complex that is supposed to be so state-of-the-art it will reinvent everything we know about workplaces. Add starchitect Thomas Heatherwick's stunningly designed Coal Drops Yard, former coal sheds that are now a super desirable luxury shopping and eating indoor and outdoor destination space, and you no doubt want to hang out at this development in what was once a dark and dusty neighborhood.

South Bank Arrow

The South Bank is one of the London’s best bits. Generally located between the Westminster and London bridges, it offers about two-miles of excellent, largely state-funded arts and entertainment venues alongside breezy, traffic-free views of a succession of city landmarks (Big Ben, St. Paul's, the Tower of London) that lie on the north bank. No wonder it attracts over 14 million people per year. If you have limited time in the capital, South Bank is great because it has everything, including a selection of good restaurants and street food offerings.

Victoria and Albert Museum Arrow

South Kensington’s V&A is one of the world’s largest art and design museums, and it's arguably London’s most glamorous. (Just the building itself is well worth the visit: a glorious red-brick palace filled with sculptural details, extravagant tiling, and frescos.) The collection is helpfully broken down into topics—fashion, theatre, furniture, architecture—and all are comprehensive, usually spanning several hundred (if not thousand) years. Don’t expect to tackle more than one or two galleries per visit, and do check out the seasonal exhibition. The collection is helpfully broken down into topics such as fashion, jewelry, theater and performance, furniture, architecture, ceramics etc and all are comprehensive, usually spanning several hundred (if not thousand) years. Don’t expect to tackle more than one or two galleries per visit.

E Pellicci Arrow

Chances are there will be a queue for this beloved British ‘greasy spoon’ cafe. The Pellicci family has been feeding east Londoners since 1900 and still make some of the best fry ups in town. Stepping inside is like entering a time warp: there’s beautiful ornate art deco wooden paneling, stained glass windows, formica tables and a huge steaming tea urn. In fact, it’s such an icon that English heritage has awarded it grade-II listed status. It’s lively, chaotic, and always great fun. Whatever food you choose, always order a cup of strong "builder’s" tea. There’s coffee, milkshakes, beer, wine, and even limoncello on the menu but nothing goes better with a breakfast than a perfectly brewed cuppa.

Sir John Soane's Museum Arrow

This is, without a doubt, the city’s most atmospheric museum, packed to the rafters with hundreds of interesting and impressive artworks and artifacts. The collection is pretty much whatever took Sir John Soane's eye, positioned in the place it looked best—so don’t go looking for order. Instead, go curious, as the walls give way to secret rooms the unobservant might miss. It's not the unknown it once was though, so unless you go first thing in the morning you'll probably have to wait in line.

Columbia Road Flower Market Arrow

Weekly on Sundays, Columbia Road in East London's hip Shoreditch/Hackney neighborhood, transforms into a multicolored frenzy of stalls and flowers. This otherwise unassuming East End street is transformed into a swath of magnificent plant life, the air fragrant with blooms and the shouts of historic London's famous Cockney stallholders. It's as eccentric as it gets around here. You'll hear rushed deals and offers for a 'tenner' or 'fiver' (ten or five pounds) and because everything is so fresh, it's all gotta be gone by 2 p.m. 

Dennis Severs' House Arrow

Fancy a trip back through time? Just around the corner from buzzy Spitalfields Market, there’s a beautiful old four story house in Spitalfields that is essentially a wonderful time warp. Eccentric American Dennis Severs bought the crumbling derelict building in 1979 and turned the whole thing into an amazing work of art, evocatively recreating the home life of different generations of a Huguenot family living from 1724 to 1919 (and living there himself at the same time!). Severs died in 1999 but the house is perfectly preserved and is one of the most incredible museums in London. This is quite a niche museum: one for history fans, interior enthusiasts and those into theatrical spaces, but truly anyone visiting will be instantly immersed into the bewitching experience. There’s only a small number of people allowed in at one time and everyone is respectfully tip-toeing around peering into chamber pots and studying the ghostly paintings.

Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason Arrow

This historic spot for afternoon tea has been an upper crust British favorite since it began importing leaves from Asia in 1707. It's no wonder the beloved tearoom was reopened in 2012 by the Queen after a sensitive refit. The room retains a fittingly regal affect, decorated in the store’s trademark eau de nil (take that, Tiffany). There’s often a pianist tinkling away in the corner of the airy elegant room in the afternoon. The tea itself will leave even the most discerning of tea snobs with their mouths open. There are 50 different blends and tea sommeliers to help you chose which one is for you.

St. Paul's Cathedral Arrow

One of the most famous cathedrals in the world, St. Paul's (finished in 1708) is the masterpiece of architect Sir Christopher Wren, and its towering dome is probably second on the definitive list of symbols of London after Big Ben. It's awe-inspiring, magical yet somber and reflective, a place for prayer whether you're religious or not. 

Royal Academy of Arts Arrow

The Royal Academy of Arts, or the R.A., as it's more fondly known, has been around for 250 years run by artists, and is home to an incredible collection of global art. The R.A.'s collection is vast, including sculpture, drawing, painting and architecture. There are numerous classic works on show as well as themed exhibitions from the collection, and varied and regular temporary shows that sell out quickly. Annually there is the annual Summer Exhibition featuring plenty of new work from up and coming R.A. students and alumni, and major icons in the art world; it's well worth seeing. You can come for a short visit and still get plenty out of the R.A.—the buildings themselves are worth checking out alone if you like seeing 19th-century and modern 21st-century architecture blended together.

Liberty London Arrow

This is truly one of the most beautiful shops in London. A Grade II-listed boutique department store with an iconic mock-tudor façade constructed from the timbers of two ships, it’s well worth a visit for the shop itself. Founded by Arthur Lasenby Liberty in 1875 who wanted an emporium to show off the treasures from his travels, today the wood-paneled light-filled atriums and cozy side rooms are stuffed full of goodies, new and old. It’s atmospheric, eclectic and unlike any other department store we’ve ever visited. A visit to the store must include a peruse of the impressive fabric department: the rolls and rolls of colorful, intricate and fabulous prints that will make you wish you’d paid more attention in home economics. If sewing isn’t your thing, you can get ready-made bags, cushions, bedding and even chess boards adorned with the delicate Liberty patterns.

The Shard Arrow

Western Europe's tallest building at 309.6 metres, or 1,016 feet, high, The Shard houses London's first Shangri-la hotel , private apartments, offices and three high-end restaurants—Aqua Shard, Hutong and Oblix. All good reasons to visit of course but arguably the main one is the viewing gallery aka The View. Located on floors 68-72 and 244 meters above London, you have an unobstructed 360-degree, 40-mile view across the city.

West End Theatreland Arrow

London's answer to New York's Broadway cuts across a swathe of the West End of the city in Covent Garden, Soho, and Picadilly.  From Shakespeare to contemporary comedies and dramas like Hamilton, as well as countless famous musicals of old and many new, London's West End has it all. Who doesn't want to feel again the infectious glee of musical theatre choreography and the sweating happiness of curtain calls. With the shows coming back after a long closure due to coronavirus, the Criterion Theater is offering a wonderfully quirky musical version of Amelie—the popular French movie of the same name—for more affordable prices than the big-name shows.

National Gallery Arrow

Set in London’s busiest open space, Trafalgar Square, this is the grandmother of galleries with more than 2,300 paintings spanning the 13th to the 19th centuries: Heavyweights include Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Velazquez's Rokeby Venus, and Constable’s six-foot long The Hay Wain . It gets packed at weekends, but its so large that you can usually find a quiet corner. You can download an audio tour covering the museum's highlights, but you can also curate your own by selecting the paintings you want to see before you arrive. The seasonal exhibitions are the only ones you’ll pay for, and as you'd expect, most are spectacular ranging from Lucian Freud to Titian.

Borough Market Arrow

The food hound's favorite London market (and the city's most atmospheric) occupies a sprawling site near London Bridge, both in a large covered area and spreading into the smaller maze of streets that surround it. Records show there’s been a market here since 1276 when it apparently caused traffic jams on London Bridge. What’s on offer? Gourmet goodies run the gamut and you’d be hard pressed not to find something you can’t get enough of and simply spend all day stuffing your face.

Highgate Cemetery Arrow

A graveyard is always a somber place, but Highgate is also a celebratory one. You’ll recognize parts of it if you’ve seen Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘Dracula,’ and you'll find the final resting place of writers like George Eliot and Douglas Adams, science pioneers like Michael Faraday and pop culture icons like George Michael (although his grave isn't named as such;  his Panayiotou family plot is in the West Cemetery next to Lucien Freud). And believe it or not, for somewhere with so many legendary men and women buried in it, Highgate Cemetery is one of the least visited of London’s landmarks. But those who come do it for both the ghostly mystery of the place itself, as well as the celebrity dead.

British Museum Arrow

You could spend several lifetimes in the British Museum, Britain’s largest museum, without running out of artifacts to ponder. The collection is one of the largest in the world, arranged by location (Ancient Egypt, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Greece and Rome), and the list of big hitters includes the Rosetta Stone and other finds from Ancient Egypt, Asia and the Middle East. Come early on a weekday for a less crowded experience, pick one gallery and stick to it, or go for a guided “eye-opener” tour.

Hampstead Heath Arrow

Forget the perfect lawns of London's Royal Parks, Hampstead Heath, the vast and, in places wonderfully overgrown, tract of countryside just north of the rock ‘n’ roll neighborhood of Camden Town is the wild heart of the city and an undisputed highlight, so much so it's said to have inspired CS Lewis’s Narnia. The Heath covers 791 acres of woodland, playing fields, swimming ponds and meadows of tall grass perfect both for picnickers and couples in search of privacy. It’s truly beautiful.

Portobello Market Arrow

Running through the center of the ever-fashionable Notting Hill neighborhood in West London, Portobello Road is know for everything from sixties models, photographers, artists and rockstars to rows of antiques stalls, hip pubs and Hugh Grant, but what we’re talking about is Portobello Market when the street is closed off Friday to Sunday and packed with people from far and wide. It’s that famous. Portobello is actually several markets rolled into one: There are antique and bric-a-brac shops, loads of food stalls and further up next to the Portebello Green arcade, emerging designers and vintage clothing shops.

Hyde Park Arrow

Hyde Park is big. At one and a half miles long and a mile or so wide, it's one of London's largest Royal Parks, originally appropriated from the monks at Westminster Abbey by Henry VIII to hunt deer, but now the sort of space where anything goes. Think gangs of roller-bladers on the paths, mad swimmers and chill boaters in the Serpentine Lake, rowdy protestors at Speaker’s Corner and kids aplenty riding horses and tipping their toes into the Diana Memorial Fountain.

Tayyabs Arrow

Most nights you’ll be waiting for at least half an hour before entering this famous, BYOB Punjabi diner in Whitechapel. Tayyabs is loud (and no one’s on a romantic date) but what you’re there for are the sizzling plates of meat. The main attraction is the lamb chops, served up spicy and marinated in a kadai masala with coriander, sliced onions, and chillies, and everything must be paired with freshly baked rotis, parathas, and naans. It’s a great spot for meat eaters and large groups looking for an affordable way to dine on exceptional Punjabi food.

Churchill War Rooms Arrow

This underground lair, just around the corner from 10 Downing Street, is where Churchill spent endless hours plotting Allied victory during the Second World War. Come for the Map Room, which looks exactly as it did when the members of the War Cabinet abandoned it at the end of the war, and the Transatlantic Telephone Room, where Churchill had secret conversations with U.S. officials. Entry is currently timed so you won't be crowded, and there are some pandemic restrictions still in place in terms of social distancing, but it's easy to get around and see everything. The audio guide comes with your ticket and provides an extra insight into the operations that went on during the war, including sounds and speeches of the time. The museum is also fully wheelchair accessible.

Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club Arrow

Nightlife institutions are institutions for a reason. And Ronnie Scott's, Soho’s premier jazz venue on Frith Street, never, ever disappoints. One rule: book your ticket in advance. Ronnie's is a concert venue, generally hosts two sittings a night—everyone from Nina Simone to Pharaoh Sanders has played here—and gigs get booked out quickly by tourists, aficionados and fellow musicians. You can, however, usually get into Ronnie’s Bar, a smaller more dance oriented venue upstairs, without advance notice, as well as into the 'late late' shows. The place itself is everything a jazz venue should be: dark, loud and enticing, romantic even, and so very Soho—you’ll probably feel like drinking whisky but Champagne always goes down better. When the music ends, and you fall out buzzing into the street, finish up with a bite at the legendary late-night favorite Bar Italia across the road. It’s just what's done.

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » England » London

Weekend in LONDON – INSIDER GUIDE (2024)

London is without a doubt one of the best places in the whole world to spend a weekend! It boasts some of the most iconic architecture in Europe as well as world-class theatre, sport, shopping and music. Basically there’s so much stuff going on that a single weekend in London is not enough and you’re guaranteed to return!

One bonus of spending a weekend in London is that many of the best attractions are free! So, despite the hefty exchange rate of the pound, a London weekend can be very reasonably priced.

With so many indoor activities on offer, it’s actually a fantastic city to visit year-round so don’t let the infamous British weather put you off. The museums are some of the best in the world housing global artifacts and technologically driven research. Public transport in London is also great   so you can easily get to all of London’s iconic landmarks in a single weekend!

Whether you’re a theatre-goer, a sports fan, a foodie or a raging partier, there’s lots to love about London.

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Insider Tips for an AMAZING Weekend in London

London nightlife guide, london food guide, sporting events in london, weekend cultural entertainment in london- music/concerts/theatre, london weekend travel faqs.

These tips will help you enjoy London at its best and help you avoid any unnecessary headaches, struggles or concerns. In this guide, we’ll look at the best hostels in London , what to do in London and how to find the best food in London!

Know Where to Stay in London

With only a weekend to spare, you’ll want to stay somewhere in central London in order to minimize travel time. London’s a large city, and some of the best things to do in London are spread out. It is therefore worth taking a look at the various different neighborhoods and working out which one is best for travelers with little time!

Covent Garden is possibly the ideal neighborhood for first-timers in the city. It’s close to some of the top London attractions, with a great dining and cultural scene. Public transport goes everywhere from here, and you can comfortably spend the day walking around.

Another great place to stay in is Soho particularly if you’re into London’s party scene.

If you do want to save some cash while travelling in a big group, you can find many cute cottages in London ‘s outskirts areas that are close to transport links to the city center.

Our Favorite Airbnb – Private room in central location

This massive room is great for travellers who visit London for the first time. The apartment is located in central Leicester Square. There are lots of great places, cafes, and restaurants around. You’ll also get free breakfast every morning. The main bathroom is shared, however, you’ll have a private toilet. If you’ve seen enough of the city, you can enjoy the free Netflix and Amazon Prime Video on your TV.

Our Favorite Budget Hotel – The Z Hotel Shoreditch

The Z Hotel Shoreditch is our favorite budget hotel in London!

• Quaint, boutique hotel with handcrafted beds
• Located in the hip, heart of London
• Great amenities and buffet breakfast available

This treasure is a quaint, lovely little hotel, reminiscent of 18th century London, set in a perfect location! The staff are great, and the beds are comfortable. The breakfasts, at a small extra cost, are incredible, and there’s unlimited coffee available to fuel your busy weekend. Basically have everything you need and more!

Our Favorite Splurge Hotel – Montcalm Royal London House

Montcalm Royal London House is our favorite splurge hotel in London!

• Spectacular views over the city, with rooftop bar
• Restaurants, bars, spa and indoor swimming pool
• Luxurious rooms with 24-hour room service and concierge

With large rooms and all the amenities you can dream of, this 5-star luxury hotel combines modern luxury with old-school class. It’s terrific for couples and the views over London are perfect. The staff is helpful and friendly, and the food is some of the best in the city. 

Our Favorite Hostel – Meininger London Hyde Park

Meininger London Hyde Park is our favorite hostel in London!

• Great location with easy access to public transport
• Vibrant, colorful and clean rooms
• Fun, comfortable general spaces

Located right next to Hyde Park, this hostel is perfect for those looking for something well-priced and comfortable. If you are looking to meet people then get yourself a drink in the bar or lounge and make some friends! The staff are friendly and helpful, and the vibrant rooms are clean with comfortable beds.

Meininger London Hyde Park is one of our favourites in London but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

With a London City Pass , you can experience the best of London at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Know How to Get Around in London

Getting around London is easy, despite the city’s size. Many of the attractions are close together, and walking between them allows you to get a real feel for the city! However,  there are also many public transport options should you need them.

You can catch the London Underground, the tram link, busses, railway, river services or the overground. With so many options, you’re able to get anywhere you want from wherever you are, fast.

Transport is quite expensive in London. It is a good idea to take some time to check if it’s going to prove cheaper to buy single tickets, or a weekend ticket, depending on your London itinerary . 

If you’re spending most of your time walking around and occasionally catching a tram or train then single tickets are probably your best bet. If on the other hand your itinerary means you’ll be needing a lot of transport get an Oyster Card ; an Oyster card allows you to load money onto it, and use it on all of the public transport systems.

The bright red London busses are iconic and are a great way to get around and explore London . The trains are incredibly efficient, but if you try to catch one during peak hours (between 8 and 9 am, and 4 and 6 pm), you’ll be packed like sardines against impatient strangers.

London has some amazing nightlife options!

Despite a number of high-profile club closures, London still has some of the best nightlife in the world. Check out these awesome options for some inspiration.

Piccadilly Circus

• Go pub-hopping until the early hours of the morning (many stay open until 4 am on weekends)
• Guaranteed great night out with some of London’s best nightspots and a vibrant atmosphere
• You can also go to an after dark museum, musical, or casino, for great alternatives to clubbing

Iconic enough during the night and day, Piccadilly Circus is an absolute must-see at night time! Neon lights contrast with historical buildings, and everyone is having a great time. For bar hopping, visit Irish-themed bar Waxy O’Connor’s, and Graphic, a gin palace with great DJ’s every weekend. For glitz and wild dancing, go to Cafe de Paris.

• A historic hub of London’s famous entertainment scene throughout the ages. 
• Bars, pubs and clubs line the street, catering to an incredibly wide variety of party styles
• Explore some of the area’s flamboyount gay bars or circus-themed clubs, like Cirque le Soir, for something totally out of the ordinary (but don’t bring your Mother!)

Soho is certainly one of the best nightlife scenes in London, if not the world! With a rich history and a diversity of clubs to match, you are bound to have a brilliant time. Ronnie Scott’s has some of the world’s top jazz and blues musicians performing in its basement club and other great options are Swift and the gay pub Admiral Duncan.

• Enjoy lively bohemian nightlife and night markets for something different
• Great place to find live music, quirky bars, and some very unusual people
• A long history of counterculture entertainment and alternative rock make for a night unlike any you’ll find elsewhere

Camden is a more offbeat but equally vibrant London nightlife destination. Leading the alternative rock & Indie scene, you’ll find great music and unique hair-styles in abundance here. For an old-school rock club experience, go to KOKO or Underworld. For a unique combination of the night market, club and casino, try out Electric Ballroom.

British food has a pretty bad reputation which is both undeserved and outdated. As you will see for yourself, London actually has one of the most diverse, cutting-edge culinary scenes in the world. Not only that, but you can find any type of cuisine in London, because it is so multi-culural and diverse. With so much to choose from at these stops, you’ll want to eat everything! And maybe you should…

Sunday UpMarket at Brick Lane

• A very different kind of Sunday Roast, with both street vendors and classic pubs like the Old Truman Brewery to dine with
• Great organic food options and authentic international cuisines
• Vendors let you try tasters, so you can taste everything before you decide on one option

Be sure to arrive with an empty stomach as you’re going to want all the space you can get! Here you can find traditional ethnic foods from across the globe, and quaint craft and vintage stalls to explore while you eat. A lively market with a fun vibe, this is the perfect place for adventurous foodies.

Camden Market

• Not only for the night-time crowd, Camden is also one of London’s best foodie scenes
• Camden’s famous market features an eclectic mix of cuisines from around the world
• Prices range from street food to gourmet, and you can find a taste of everything to either eat on the spot or take home. I recommend trying the Indian Paneer burger.

Truly, there is something to quench every craving and curiosity in Camden Market! Leading the race in vegan innovations is Nora and Nama, and providing delightfully meaty options to the punks and alternatives, is Roadkill. Come to Camden Market to try tonnes of food and stroll through the market, admiring the weird and wonderful wares on offer.

Bob Bob Ricard

• Iconic Soho restaurant serving delicious British-Russian cuisine and amazing cocktails
• Dining takes place in luxurious old-school booths with Art Deco style
• Every booth has a ‘press for champagne’ button, which is  the absolute epitome of British class

With a dress code of ‘elegant’, uniformed staff and art-deco surrounds, this restaurant is a one of a kind foodie stop! This luxury dining experience needs to be booked well in advance  but it is well worth it. Try either their Russian specialties or local favorites, and be sure to enjoy the glamor and great atmosphere.

London’s The Rubens at the Palace Hotel

• Iconic spot for afternoon tea , overlooking Buckingham Palace
• A quintessential afternoon activity for those who like to live a little lavishly
• Enjoy the best scones with clotted cream and jam in the city!

No London trip would be complete without taking time out for some afternoon tea, and the four-star hotel, The Rubens at the Palace Hotel, is one of the best places to enjoy this as it’s upper class and elegant, making for a fine afternoon affair. It’s also super romantic, if you’re travelling as a couple.

In England, Afternoon Tea is not just a term for drinking tea in the afternoon. It is usually accompanied by sandwiches, cakes, macarons, scones with clotted cream and jam, plus of course, tea. It can be a little pricey, but totally worth it – plus you actually get a ton of food, so it could count as a late lunch or early dinner.

With famous stadiums hosting popular British sports, there’s some great choices for sport lovers. 

See a Game at Wembley Stadium

• England’s national Football team is one of the most famous in the world – if you can, watch a match at the famous Wembley Stadium
• The venue for many memorable events, it’s incredible just to see Wembley stadium, never mind watching a match in it
• Wembley stages sports events and live performances every weekend with teams and performers from around the world.

There are several other football stadiums across London so be sure to pick up a ticket and come cheer on your favorite team!. You can even plan your London visit around your favorite sport and team! Just check out Wembley Stadium events .

Play Tennis at Regents Park

• Enjoy a game or two of tennis on beautiful courts across from a London park
• One of England’s few great pay-and-play tennis centers where you can book with minimal advance
• Fun, great exercise and perfect for couples, families, and friends

While you can’t play at the private Wimbledon arena, Regents Park is the next best thing for tennis enthusiasts!

Play England’s most elegant and popular sport on this lovely public field. You can book a drop-in session a day in advance. And of course, equipment is available to rent or buy, if you didn’t bring your own.

(Note – In the UK tennis is largely confined to the months of May – August when the weather is fair)

Try Flying Trapeze at Gorilla Circus

• Try something new and learn to fly trapeze in a two-hour lesson
• It’s a great outdoor activity and an opportunity to learn something new while you take a break from the stadiums
• Fun and great for all ages, it’ll get your blood pumping and you’ll leave with a sense of achievement

Do something a little different! You’ll find them at Kensington Gardens and Regents Park, so you’ll have great views while you fly through the air., This sport is a great way to soak up the sun if you are lucky enough to visit during the summer season.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Musical theatre and talent-filled plays are popular pastimes in London! Join the locals, and watch something incredible.

The O2 Academy, Brixton

• You can find the perfect performance at one of London’s leading music venues, nightclubs, and theatres
• Raised floor so everyone has a great view, and experiences fantastic acoustics
• Beautiful architecture and incredible live acts every weekend make it a very worthwhile stop

For some of the best international bands and coolest gigs, book a spot at the O2 Academy! The slope of the venue accommodates everyone, and the vibe is always brilliant. The Academy caters to all music tastes, as well as comedy, so be sure to check what’s on and book in advance before your weekend in London.

Apollo Victoria Theatre

• Beautiful old theatre with lots of character and beautiful decor
• Lovely campy fun, with bar service to your seat if requested, binoculars provided
• Great international acts every weekend (and during the week) – like the long-running musical Wicked

Opening as a cinema in 1930, the Apollo has a rich and interesting history in entertainment. With vibrant art-deco architecture and decor, there’s much to see without even watching a performance! But that’s not to say you shouldn’t – the musicals performed here are legendary, and there’s no better place to watch them than here.

English National Opera

• Experience something truly grand with a visit to the opera in one of London’s oldest theatres
• Modern versions of classic operas make them accessible to a wide audience, in English
• Enjoy performances bringing to life stories you’ve known since childhood, with incredibly talented casts and beautiful acoustics!

For another different experience (London is full of them), watch a show at the ornate and classic London Coliseum. One of London’s most luxurious theatres, it opened in 1904 and continues to awe its audiences today. The English National Opera brings classic opera to the modern audience. Experience London at its finest!

West End Theatre

• Enjoy a variety of musical and stage performances in several theatres in the West End.
• Family friendly shows and matinee performances available.
• One of the most popular attractions in this wonderful city!

For anyone wanting to see a show in London, the West End in Covent Garden district is the place to be. Covent Garden has 38 theatres, from family-friendly musicals such as The Lion King, to timeless classics like Les Miserables, or popular rock numbers such as We Will Rock You. There is a show for everyone in Covent Garden.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

11 Other Awesome Things to do in London This Weekend

There is so much more on offer in London! If you have more time, then try to squeeze in as many of these amazing attractions and landmarks as you can.

#1 – Buckingham Palace

When visiting London, I guess you have to see Buckingham Palace! Home to the British Queen, the palace is massive, opulent and beautiful. Be sure to come and watch the changing of the Guard at 11am to experience a long-standing, British royal tradition.

You can also explore the palace if you have more time, with either a guide or audio guide to learn more about the palace’s curious history . There’s quite a collection of artifacts and gifts from foreign dignitaries acquired over the centuries!

Arguably the most important landmark in England and a national treasure, this is a must-see.

#2 – National Gallery

Whatever your preferences, visiting the National Gallery will be one of the best things you do on your weekend in London! The gallery houses England’s great collection of art from the 13th to the 19th century.

They have most of the artworks you learned about in school, and it is an absolutely magnificent experience to be able to see so many masterpieces in one day. As an added bonus, it’s also free!

You can spend hours here without getting bored marvelling at the changes in art through the centuries.

#3 – Hop on the London Eye

This giant Ferris Wheel is Europe’s biggest, and one of England’s most popular tourist stops! Take a ride on it to see a brilliant view over London and the Thames river, or just take a photo with it.

The best way to see the city and all your favorite stops, you’ll have 30 minutes up in the air which is plenty. The surprisingly large and roomy capsule moves around, so you can get all the perfect angles from your seat, or you can walk around!

It’s open daily from 10 am to 9:30 pm. e suggest you book early as it’s an extremely popular attraction.

Just across the river, you’ll find Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. If you’re ever struggling for London weekend ideas, you’ll find plenty to do around this area.

#4 – Oxford Street

The biggest shopping street in the world, Oxford Street is a must-see when you’re spending a weekend in London! Go window-shopping, or find those brands you’ve always wanted to try on. It’s a shopaholic’s dream, but great fun for everyone.

Aside from shopping, the street is enjoyable for its beautiful architecture with a few modern buildings contrasting beautifully with the many old ones. There are also a few theatres and pubs.

Find something to snack on while you walk, and take in all the happy people and the activity. Our advice is to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid rush hour as it can get packed. This is one of the most popular things to do in London .

#5 – St Paul’s Cathedral

This immense, colorfully decorated cathedral is an important British site and one of the best places to visit in London . Built in 1666 after a fire destroyed its predecessor, the working Cathedral is an architectural marvel.

Visit one of the daily services, or with a tour, it’s five levels to experience the unique acoustics of the Whispering Gallery, and the panoramic views over London. The cathedral has staged many historic, state occasions, including royal weddings and the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill!

The church has a peaceful atmosphere that sets it apart from much of London. Be advised that there are a few areas you cannot explore though.

Book your full St Paul’s Cathedral tour here.

The Z Hotel – Shoreditch

Located in the trendy Shorditch district, this hostel offers top-notch accommodation right in the heart of the city.

• 24 Hour Reception
• Laundry Facilities

#6 – Leicester Square

Laid out in 1670, the pedestrian square is a cultural hub. One of the best parts of London’s West End, there’s something great for everyone including unique restaurants, vibrant musical theatres, and family fun. Stroll through the brightly lit streets at night to get the best of Leicester Square!

There are always street performers and a great vibe.. Whether you watch a play here, have dinner at one of the charming eateries, or just walk through the streets, it’s a great place to be in central London. Do be mindful of pickpockets and keep your wits about you.

#7 – Kensington Museums: Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Victoria and Allbert Museum

Discover scientific discoveries, classic artist pieces, and rich historical exhibitions and research at the incredible museums in Kensington. And, they are all free! For those even vaguely interested in nature, science or history, this is an amazing opportunity to learn more about life.

My personal favourite is the Natural History Museum. The most interesting exhibit you’ll find in the Natural History Museum is the dinosaurs exhibit (with real skeletons and facts galore), plus a life-size robot dinosaur! There are also exhibitions about human evolution and space exploration.

There are also lots of really cool night-time options for weekend trips, like a silent disco, murder mystery, or sleepover inside the museum! These are, of course, adults only (over 18) allowed.

Plus, for any royal lovers, Kensington Palace is just down the road, making Kensington a hot spot to visit for a weekend in London.

#8 – Take a Cruise on the Thames

Cruising down the Thames is one of the best ways to see London’s sights! You can choose between different types of cruises, but our favorite is the hop-on-hop-off day pass from South Bank. This is simply the best way to fit it around your own schedule, allowing you to stop at any of the landmarks you see.

On the tour you’ll see Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Greenwich, Tate Modern, the London Eye, London Bridge and Tower Bridge, and for Harry Potter Fans, the Millenium Bridge. All from the water!

Enjoy lively commentary, and a relaxing sightseeing experience. Be sure to bring your camera and a raincoat.

Book Your Thames River Cruise here!

#9 – The British Museum

This national museum exhibits over two million years of human history and culture! It holds world-famous ancient artefacts, such as  Egyptian mummies, and the Rosetta Stone.

With so much to see here, be sure to set aside a good few hours, and definitely wear comfortable shoes. The exhibits are extensive and educational, with a wealth of antiquities from around the world.

There’s nothing like seeing it in person to bring human history to life.

#10 – Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is one of London’s best-loved icons! The beautiful suspension bridge is a feat of Victorian engineering, with great views of London. Stroll along its pedestrian sides and marvel at the castle-like turrets.

This one is perfect for Instagram so get someone to take a photo of you at this iconic London landmark. You can also take the stairs or a lift to the top of a bridge tower where you’ll walk on glass floors and watch the action below you! You can join a tour to learn more about the bridge, or you can do it yourself.

#11 – Walk around Movie Sets in Notting Hill

Notting Hill has been the backdrop to many blockbuster movies, Bridge Jones, Love Actually, Paddington and of course, Notting Hill.

It’s also where you can pick up some sweet vintage items in the boutique stores and market stalls of Portobello road.

As you walk around Notting Hill, you are walking around the streets where the record labels live, giving birth to London rock Legends such as Jimi Hendrix, the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Sex Pistols, and Pink Floyd. Just a short distance away in St John’s Wood, you’ll find the iconic zebra crossing that became a Beatles album cover.

If you’re a fan of pop culture, you’ll love Notting Hill. Plus, you’ll get some cool shots here for your social media.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting London. If you know where you’re going and what you’re doing, it’s a great city to explore. But it can be a bit much for people who have no game plan! So check out these helpful FAQs.

What should I pack for a weekend in London?

– A sturdy raincoat and a warm jacket . London can get chilly and rainy all year round, and when you wake up you never know how the day will end. Yes, it may be bulky but a good thing to pack for your London weekend is some protection from the elements! – Comfortable walking shoes . This may seem like an obvious one, but many people visiting the great city focus on style over comfort. However, when you’re walking around and moving between some of London’s top attractions, you’ll want your feet to feel cozy and comfortable. Ditch those blisters! – A camera! If you have one, be sure to bring your camera along with you on your London weekend. The city is so full of beautiful and historic sights, you won’t want to miss an opportunity to capture them. And there are many friendly people you can ask to take a quick photo of you and your favorite landmarks. – Check out our packing list for London for more info about how to pack.

Can I get an apartment in London for the weekend?

You certainly can!  London is an expensive city  to live in and many of its residents rent out their homes over the weekend or during the week to make rent. So if you book early (preferably a few months in advance), you can find a place in the center of the city for a good price! There are also loads of  London bed and brekies  available if that’s more your scene! Apartments often feel more private, comfortable and ‘homey’ than a hotel. So if you’re looking for a party atmosphere or new friends from around the world, definitely find a hostel or laid-back hotel. But if you’re into your personal space, then an apartment is great! For families in particular, an apartment is ideal London accommodation. You can find one with a washing machine, a proper kitchen and multiple beds. This can help minimise eating costs y and is certainly less stressful than at a hotel not specifically kitted out for children and families.

Is London safe for a weekend trip?

London is considered reasonably safe  for all genders and cultures. That ‘reasonably’ is due to its being a typical large city with the usual crime issues. Stay alert for scams aimed at tourists such as selling fake tickets to different landmarks. Always make sure your ticket is from a trusted and well-known source! Pickpockets are also quite common and usually work in very busy places. So while you’re exploring popular landmarks, make sure your belongings are safe and insight or underhand. You can comfortably walk around busy areas at night, with the same considerations around pickpockets. Violent crime is a rare concern in London and as long as you take the usual city precautions mentioned here, you’ll have a great, safe trip!

Don’t Forget Your London Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Final Thoughts on a Great Weekend in London

While more time in this great city would be excellent, even spending a weekend in London will leave you with a mind full of memories and a big smile for weeks. There are just so many cultural and historical hubs, and great fun for everyone of all interests and ages. You cannot go wrong!

Be sure to book accommodation in the city center, and work out you favorite way to get around! Like with everything else in London, you have a wealth of choice.

So, find a cheap flight to London with your friends, or plot the perfect solo trip. With our London weekend ideas, you’ll be able to fill up your time with whatever your heart desires!

(Psssst –  If you’re planning a weekend in London as part of a wider England or the United Kingdom trip, then be sure to check out our backpacking UK travel guide .)

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sophie Steinebach

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11 Things To Do This Weekend In London

London is a pretty incredible city! There’s so much to do across all the areas of London . That being said, so much choice can make it hard to whittle down just a few things to do this weekend in London. After all, you want to make the most of your time in the city and see as much as possible.

Now, one of the best things about London is that it’s ever-changing. For instance, Quirky markets , new pop-ups, cool sporting events and new places to fill a grumbling tummy. Altogether, this makes the choices of things to do this weekend in London pretty tough.

This is exactly why I wanted to share some of my favourite things to do this weekend in London. I’ve tried to share a few places from all across the city. So, I’m really hoping a few will take your fancy. 

Best things to do this weekend in London

Take a look, below, at the best things to do this weekend in London. Have the most amazing time. 

1.) Stroll through Notting Hill

Notting Hill is not just famous for a lovesick Hugh Grant trying to win back his Julia Roberts (From the film, Notting Hill ). It’s also a vibrant neighbourhood filled with amazing eateries, shops and even farm-to-table restaurants that are just too yummy to ignore.

Once you’re here, check out some of the things to do this weekend in London that are art-based. for instance, Graffik Gallery on Portobello Road has a whole heap of changing shows and exhibitions. Afterwards, pop over to Electric Diner for a tasty brunch.

Their raspberry French toast is amazing. 

Read more: Resturants and cafes in Notting Hill

2.) Explore Shoreditch

Londoners seem to either love or hate Shoreditch . That being said, there’s a shed load of amazing things to do this weekend in London all around the neighbourhood, making it a good stop when exploring the city.

Once you arrive, make sure to pop into over to the rooftop Pillow Cinema, where you can snuggle up whilst watching some classic films that change each week. Oh, and make sure to check out Made In Shoreditch that detail some of the best events each weekend.

Alternatively, pop over to Ballie Ballerson which is a bar with epic cocktails and the biggest ball pit to enjoy! It’s amazingly fun.

Read more: Best bars in Shoreditch

3.) Gorge at Leadenhall Market

This Victorian hall is one of London’s most lovely markets to explore. Nowadays, many of the smaller stalls have gone but the building still remains with plenty of shops and eateries to enjoy. Make sure to gorge at the Lamb Tavern (for some tasty Welsh lamb) or head over to the M Bar for a little tipple.

It’s a great place to grab a bite, smack bang in the centre of London. Better still, there are a good few places to just around Leadenhall Market, too. Head up to the top of the monument to the great fire of London and see a different perspective on this area of London. 

Read more: Best bars in Lonon

4.) Discover Greenwich

Greenwich is much more than just the O2 Arena and it’s well worth a visit on a Sunday afternoon jaunt to the older part of this Royal borough.

Make sure to visit the Royal Navy College that was built in the 19th Century, explore the Cutty Sark and dive right into the food stalls at Greenwich Market (a firm favourite of mine is the Ethiopian Stall… it’s so tasty).

Oh, and don’t forget to visit the Painted Hall which has just been lovingly restored. 

Read more: Best things to do in Greenwich

5.) Plod along the streets of Southwark

Southwark stretches quite far south from the River Thames banks and there’s always something going on here. For instance, make sure to check in at the Tate Modern for the newest exhibitions that change constantly.

Afterwards, head across the National Theatre and the Southbank Centre for a show and installations that are always different. 

Oh, and one of my favourite areas is in and around Bermondsey street, which is the perfect place to whisk away a Saturday in the city. Make sure to visit London Glassblowing to try your hand at the art itself, they hold regular taster events on particular days.

Read more: Secret Spots London

6.) Visit the Harry Potter Studios

Yup, any Harry Potter worth their salt will want to dash over to the Warner Bros Studios. Head here to experience the incredible Harry Potter sets, costumes and eerie goings-on in the Forbidden Forest.

It really is one of the best things to do this weekend in London if the rain starts to fall. Oh yeah, and for guaranteed entry, make sure to book your tickets online, especially on busier weekends. 

Alternatively, you can book this really fun Harry Potter walking tour around London. It’ll take you to some of the most iconic Harry Potter spots that you’ll love. 

Read more: Best bakeries in London

7.) Explore Covent Garden

Covent Garden is one of London’s most popular areas to visit but don’t let that put you off.

Head over to some of the neighbourhood’s best haunts like Clos Maggiore for some yummy French-inspired cuisine.

Head inside the old market to visit the Moomin Store and grab a tasty cocktail at The Escapologist or just chill out and watch a performance at the Royal Opera House which has new shows each weekend. 

Read more: Things to do in Covent Garden

8.) Stroll the Museums

One of the best things about London is that our museums are free. Head over to the world-class; Natural History Museum, The Victoria and Albert Museum and the incredible British Museum (to name a mere few).

Both Londoners and visitors totally love to wander the impressive collections, especially on a lazy weekend in the city. It really is amazing and the best things to do this weekend in London if you love museums.

Read more: How to visit London on a budget

9.) Visit Whitechapel

The infamous stomping ground of Jack The Ripper, Whitechapel has thankfully returned from his scary grips! Nowadays, we can all go and learn about the past in a dedicated Jack The Ripper Tour. 

If that doesn’t take your fancy, head over to the Whitechapel Gallery which showcases some of the world’s best up-and-coming artists (and changes constantly). It’s so amazing and totally one of the best things to do this weekend in London if you love art. 

If you’re feeling peckish, grab a table at Tayyabs, for some traditional Punjabi cuisine and the best curries in London . It’s one of the most famous in the area, so expect a queue.

Read more: Things to see in Whitechapel

10.) Wander the markets in Camden

Long gone are the horses of days gone by, nowadays, the Stables in Camden is a rabbit warren of cobbled streets, vintage stores and worldly food that you’ll struggle to resist. Don’t forget to visit Cyber Dog too – a 90’s neon rave store that is beyond funky.

It’s so much fun and the market is changing almost every day. 

Read more: Best things to do in Camden

11.) Find some secret spots

London has many nooks and crannies that are just begging to be explored. Even for us Londoners, it’s easy to overlook some of these hidden spots in the city. From the ears and noses scattered around Covent Garden, caves and much more.

London is a treasure trove of secret places to discover and sometimes it’s just good to find something a little different. 

Read more: Secret spots in London

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Rail passengers face rolling strikes but London Underground action called off

Aslef members start three days of 24-hour strikes from Friday but tube driver action cancelled

Rail passengers are bracing for travel disruption as train drivers bring some routes on the national network to a halt in a wave of strikes, but two days of similar action on the London Underground have been called off.

On Friday, members of the union Aslef start the first of three 24-hour strikes that will affect 16 rail operating companies in England as part of its 20-month dispute over pay.

However, on Thursday Aslef called off two daylong tube strikes planned for the following Monday and Saturday 4 May after receiving a proposal from Transport for London that it said resolved the key issues in the dispute.

The run of single-day national network strikes starts on Friday with drivers working for Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, London Northwestern Railway and CrossCountry. All five operators will run no services on the day.

On Saturday, strikes will take place on Chiltern, GWR, LNER, Northern and TransPennine, while on Monday services on Greater Anglia, GTR’s Great Northern, Thameslink and Southern/Gatwick Express, Southeastern, South Western Railway and SWR Island Line will be cancelled.

Passengers have been warned by operators to expect significant disruption, with most trains cancelled on the strike days. Services on the days before and after the strikes could also be affected. Drivers in Scotland and Wales are not on strike but cross-border rail services will be disrupted.

The strikes coincide with an overtime ban by the union for all operators, which runs from 4 to 6 April, and then 8 to 9 April. It is expected that it will make short-notice cancellations and disruption more likely when travelling on these days.

Announcing the cancellation of the London Underground strikes, an Aslef official said: “Management have confirmed that they have disbanded their ‘trains modernisation’ team and will not be implementing their plans to change drivers’ working arrangements without agreement. They have also agreed to reinstate annual refresher training stopped during the pandemic.”

Train drivers have already held 13 one-day strikes since the dispute started in 2022.

Speaking after the vote last month , Aslef’s general secretary, Mick Whelan, said: “Our members voted overwhelmingly – yet again – for strike action.

“Those votes show – yet again – a clear rejection by train drivers of the ridiculous offer put to us in April last year by [the train operators’ body] the Rail Delivery Group, which knew that offer would be rejected because a land grab for all the terms and conditions we have negotiated over the years would never be accepted by our members.”

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Aslef has said it would continue to strike for a better pay deal after the union rejected an 8% offer last spring.

A spokesperson for the Rail Delivery Group said: “We are sorry that this round of strikes called by the Aslef leadership risks disrupting journeys.

“While we are doing all we can to keep trains running and we will work with our industry partners to keep as many trains running as possible, unfortunately there will be reduced services between Thursday 4 April to Tuesday 9 April. Our advice is to check before you travel and follow the latest travel information.”

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “Aslef is the only rail union continuing to strike … Having resolved disputes with all other rail unions, the transport secretary and rail minister have ensured that a pay offer is on the table – taking train drivers’ average salaries from £60,000 up to £65,000.”

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The best weekend trips from London

We're having a heatwave and there's never been a better time to plan your next break from the city

London's teeming with stuff to do, but its endless array of museums, parks and attractions can lose their allure for even the most imaginative city dweller. So when that wanderlust hits (and you don't fancy booking a flight to Porto) here's where to go for an easy weekend away, full of the UK's best  restaurants , museums, shops, stunning scenery and hotels.

When you want to get out of London without any faff, look no further than these gorgeous getaways – from cosy rural retreats to proper city breaks.

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

RECOMMENDED: Stay nearer to home with  17 dreamy day trips close to London , or check out the very best  walks near London.

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Great weekend getaways from London

1.  Edinburgh

The Fringe in August is of course when the city comes into its own, but Edinburgh’s brimming with things to do and see during the other 11 months of the year. Climbing Arthur’s Seat is obligatory, as is trekking to Edinburgh Castle – then an evening picnic on the Meadows before hitting the dancefloor at small but legendary venue Sneaky Pete’s. Come bedtime, Rabble has gorgeous mid-century ‘rough-luxe’ rooms in the heart of the New Town, with a top-notch restaurant downstairs. While we’re on the subject of food: pop-up-turned-bricks-and-mortar-venture Ting Thai Caravan is well worth a visit to feast on street food to a soundtrack of, say, The Stooges. Still got itchy feet? Glasgow’s less than an hour away by train.

Get there  One hour and 20 minutes by plane; four hours 20 minutes by train from London King’s Cross; around eight hours by car.

2.  The Yorkshire Dales

It’s probably the UK’s most famous national park, and for good reason – the Dales has staggering good looks and drama in spades. A weekend gives you plenty of time to roam the vast Bolton Abbey Estate near Skipton and be wowed by the Ribblehead viaduct and the natural amphitheatre of Malham Cove (see if you can spot the pair of resident falcons). The Dales are heaven if you live to stuff yourself silly – it’s well worth touring the Wensleydale Creamery, home of the famous cheese, and nosing around Theakston’s brewery. Speaking of pints, The Black Bull near Sedbergh is in a class of its own, with a fantastic, modern kitchen. It's also an inn, so you can kill two birds with one stone and rest your head here after enjoying their finest food and drink. 

Get there: two hours 15 minutes by train from London King’s Cross to Leeds; around three hours 30 minutes by car.

3.  The Peak District

The Lake District’s slightly gentler cousin has loads to recommend it: pretty market towns like Bakewell (home of the tart!), miles of undulating hills and stately Chatsworth, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. If the weather’s fine you could spend a whole weekend exploring the Peak District National Park on foot or on two wheels (bikes can be found at Blackwell Mill Cycle Hire), stopping off at the likes of the Devonshire Arms at Beeley for real ale and venison pie. After all that yomping about you’ll want a comfy spot to lay your head, and The Peacock at Rowsley, a historic country house near Bakewell, the plush four-poster beds will do the job nicely.

Get there two and a half hours by train from London St Pancras; around three hours by car.

4.  Padstow

This pretty-as-a-picture port really is the cream of Cornish. It’s synonymous with everyone’s favourite seafood chef, Rick Stein – get to his fish-and-chip shop early to beat the queue. Or for a slightly less-trodden path, head to Prawn on the Lawn for the best shellfish you can stuff your mouth with. Mosey around the independent galleries and boutiques, before taking the Black Tor Ferry over the water to Rock for a pint at The Mariners, now co-run by chef Paul Ainsworth. Hire bikes and cycle the 18-mile Camel Trail to Bodmin, sign up for a lesson at Waves Surf School, or just take a kite for a spin on the beach. All that sea air means you’ll sleep like a log – book one of Georgian townhouse St Petroc’s cool, contemporary rooms, or a luxe tipi at Cornish Tipi Holidays if you have a car.

Get there  three hours 43 minutes by train from London Paddington to Bodmin Parkway, and a bus; around five hours 30 minutes by car. 

5.  The Cotswolds

Think of the English countryside and chances are you think of the Cotswolds: 750-odd ridiculously green and pleasant square miles straddling Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Somerset, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire. Each county has its own unique charm, but for a textbook weekend stick to Gloucestershire, land of Jilly Cooper, honey-coloured stone cottages and retired rock stars. Immerse yourself in nature: go leaf-peeping at Westonbirt Arboretum, take a clay pigeon-shooting lesson at the Cotswold Clay Club and coo over grazing cattle as you drive into Minchinhampton. Push the boat out with a stay at The Wild Rabbit in Kingham – a Pinterest board come to life – and don’t miss The Wheatsheaf Inn’s superlative Sunday roast.

Get there:  one hour 30 minutes by train from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh; around two hours 30 minutes by car.

6.  The Gower Peninsula

It’s official: this south-westerly chunk of Wales is one of the UK’s best-looking spots (in 1956 it became the first area to be hailed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). It’s very close to Swansea but much of its coastline feels pleasingly remote – beaches like pebbly Pwll Du, for instance, are only accessible by foot. Explore ruined Pennard Castle and Three Cliffs Bay, and if the waves are beckoning you sign up for a lesson at Progress Surf School near Llangennith. For a meal to remember, The Beach House at Oxwich Bay has a Michelin star and stunning seafood, while Surfside Cafe on Caswell Bay has been hailed as one of Britain’s best beachfront eateries. Come bedtime, head for award-winning barn conversion Slade Barn, which has beautiful Scandi-style interiors and a surfing beach a five-minute walk away.

Get there four hours by car. 

7.  Winchester

It’s always had the looks, but Winchester never used to have that much in the way of personality. Suddenly, though, this handsome cathedral city has become Hampshire’s coolest corner. The food’s fantastic, for starters: you can breakfast on cruffins at Hoxton Bakehouse, settle in for craft brews and tacos at Overdraft, then tuck into a chilli beef burrito pie while flipping through a vintage comic at Piecaramba. Winchester’s the perfect base to explore the rest of Hampshire from, too: nose around Jane Austen’s house in Chawton and join a tour at Hambledon, the UK’s oldest vineyard. Accommodation-wise, you’ll get the VIP treatment at Hotel du Vin – or try gorgeous boutique B&B Hannah’s.

Get there  one hour by train from London Waterloo; one hour 45 minutes by car.

8.  Bristol

The West Country’s undisputed foodie capital, Bristol’s got it all. From cheesecake at Hart’s Bakery to modern British plates in a shipping container at Box-E, you could easily spend 48 hours here doing nothing but eating. And then there are the sourdough toasties with a side of Gallic charm at Bar Buvette and Poco’s internationally influenced tapas (don’t miss the merguez with buttered kale at brunch). Make time to visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the gorgeously restored lido and Stokes Croft’s street art – and don’t forget to sip some legendary Exhibition cider in The Coronation Tap (it’s so strong it only comes in halves). Bed down in former merchant’s house Number Thirty Eight, or at the utterly lush Bristol Harbour Hotel.

Get there  one hour and 38 minutes by train from London Paddington or if you’re watching your wallet National Express coaches run from Victoria for just £3.90 one way; around 2 hours 30 minutes by car. 

9.  Oxford

Those dreamy spires are just the start of Oxford’s charms. As well as being an ancient university city with history in every brick, it’s a young, thriving cultural hub with plenty of great places to eat and drink (The Varsity Club's where it's at if you're after cool rooftop vibes). Tick off the Ashmolean and the Pitt Rivers Museum, then wander through Port Meadow and the University Parks, stopping off for burgers at The Rickety Press. Shop till you drop in the Covered Market, make like Inspector Morse with a pint of Wychwood Hobgoblin at The White Horse on Broad Street (one of the show’s filming locations), then turn in at boutique B&B The Glove House in Woodstock – or bunk up in the Artist Residence, a sweetly chic pub with rooms just outside the city.

Get there  one hour by train from London Paddington; one hour 30 minutes by car. 

10.  North Norfolk

With its vast skies and meandering waterways, North Norfolk has an eerie beauty all of its own. Start off with a visit to see the seals at Blakeney Point (the pups arrive in the winter), then head to Cromer, where you can tuck into the famous crab at The Jetty, stroll down the pier and stock up on local preserves at the farm shop. Make time to chuff along the North Norfolk Railway from Sheringham to Holt, and see if you can book a tour of Voewood House, an arts-and-crafts masterpiece. After all that fresh air, bed down at The Chequers Inn in Thornham, a gastropub with luxe rooms in a building that dates back to 1499. Or for a splurge, head inland to The Gunton Arms, a plush inn set in a deer park with a magnificently meaty menu.

Get there: three hours 30 minutes by train from London Liverpool Street to Cromer, with changes; around three hours by car.

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San Francisco Mayor London Breed set to visit China

S an Francisco Mayor London Breed is preparing for an official trip to China, looking for more business and maybe a couple of pandas.

The multi-city tour is supposed to increase tourism and boost business as many are leaving the city due to crime and lasting impacts from the pandemic.

"We see this as an extraordinary opportunity for San Francisco's future," Breed said Wednesday.

Breed's goal, she said, is to bring pandas back to the San Francisco Zoo, increase relationships with China, and boost tourism in an effort to be a driving force of innovation and economic leadership.

"Our goal is to enter into major agreements and make San Francisco significant to China and to let them know that we are open to the business relationship that could be developed as a result," Breed said.

The weeklong trip starts Saturday and will include a group of local Asian business and community leaders.

Breed was invited by Chinese President Xi Jinping during his visit last year to the APEC summit.

Breed said she’s also looking to expand airline routes to bring more visitors downtown, including Chinatown.

"We love to encourage them to come to Chinatown," The Wok Shop owner Tane Chan said. "We can also promote our Chinatown because we are the only largest Chinese community outside of China."

Chan has owned The Wok Shop in Chinatown for 57 years and said increasing tourism is critical to businesses surviving.

"We depend on that side from the local residents because we are a vibrant living community," Chan said.

Breed said she also wants international brands and tech to make San Francisco home.

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce is excited for any potential growth that could lead to lasting impacts.

"This is very good news," Harlan Wong with the Chinese Chamber of Commerce said. "As we all know, it's not just Chinatown but the city itself needs more economic growth."