31 things to do in London this weekend: 26-27th October

A guide to 31 things to do in London this weekend, from festivals and West End shows to brand-new openings and last-chance-to-see events and exhibitions.

Sightseeing & Festivals

Diwali

Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated by millions worldwide. It marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil and is typically celebrated over five days. In London, visit the riverside villa Marble Hill to create your own lantern, learn bhangra dancing and watch the light parade down to the banks of the Thames (26 Oct). The following day, Trafalgar Square will be the scene for an exciting programme of music and dance, plus workshops, food, arts and crafts (1pm-7pm). www.english-heritage.org.uk; www.london.gov.uk

Ice Rink Canary Wharf

London’s longest-running winter ice rink reopens at Canary Wharf this weekend and will remain open for a whopping 17 weeks (26th Oct-23 Feb). Located in Canada Square Park, the 875 sqm ice rink allows skaters time on the ice throughout Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day. Also returning this year is the ice rink’s transparent roof, complete with a sparkling disco ball, to ensure the winter weather doesn’t stop you from getting your skates on. Children aged 4-12 years must be accompanied by a skater who is 13 years old or over. Skate aids are available. Find out more at www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk

Gaia at Southwark Cathedral

Measuring seven metres in diameter, Gaia by British artist Luke Jerram features detailed imagery of the Earth’s surface. Visitors can stand beneath and walk around the artwork, admiring our planet floating in three dimensions. It is accompanied by a surround-sound composition specially made by BAFTA award-winning Composer, Dan Jones. Gaia will be at Southwark Cathedral until 30 October; tickets from £5. Another installation by Jerram will land in London in a few weeks. Find out more here.

Medieval Women: In Their Own Words at The British Library

More than 140 extraordinary items have been gathered in this exhibition that reveals the rich and complex lives of women in the Middle Ages, and their artistry, resourcefulness, courage and struggles. Visitors will encounter a range of personalities who tell the story of medieval womanhood and discover stories familiar to women today, from the gender pay gap and harmful stereotypes, to access to healthcare and education, as well as challenges faced by female leaders. Some highlights include The Book of the Queen by Christine de Pizan, the first professional woman author in Europe; a 12th-century ivory cross owned by Sibylle, Countess of Flanders, who went on Crusade to the Holy Land; a 15th-century birthing girdle and a rare surviving painting from a medieval English nunnery. Find out more.

Cutty Sark Concert: Fairport Convention

Fairport Convention is an English folk rock band which has been entertaining music lovers for more than half a century since it formed in 1967. During that time the band has seen many changes, but their passion for performance has remained the same. This weekend, watch the band beneath the copper hull of Cutty Sark as they present a mix of long-established Fairport favourites and some surprises from albums old and new. The band features founding member Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Dave Pegg on bass guitar and vocals, Ric Sanders on violin, and Chris Leslie on bouzouki, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, and vocals. Find out more.

[New] Autumn Half-Term Trail at Ham House and Gardens

Ham House and Garden in Richmond is said to be one of the UK’s most haunted houses. Opening this weekend, the Autumn Half-Term Trail (26 Oct-3 Nov) is themed around magical potions. Set around the 17th-century manor gardens, it’s free for visitors and perfect for kids. Colouring-in sheets will also be available and the Orangery Café is open for delicious warming treats and lunches. Find out more.

[Last chance] Untold Lives: A Palace at Work at Kensington Palace

From pages to cooks, from wet-nurses to seamstresses, a host of workers from all walks of life worked tirelessly behind the scenes to maintain, protect and promote the monarch and the palaces. Closing on Sunday 27 October, it’s your last chance to see a unique collection of objects – some of which have never been on public display before – that explore the lives and contributions of these forgotten figures for the first time. Encounter William Timms the Waterman, who served four monarchs over 46 years, and Mehmet von Könsigstreu who was Keeper of the Privy Purse for King George I. Find out more.

Halloween at Kew Gardens

Brand-new this year, an after-dark Halloween trail has transformed Kew Gardens. Created by the producers of the ever-popular Christmas at Kew lights trail, this new spooktacular adventure takes visitors on a winding journey through the illuminated haunted woods teeming with neon cobwebs, ghastly ghouls, larger-than-life spiders and other surprises. Enjoy sweet treats, hot toddy, devilishly decadent hot chocolate and more at the food stalls, and toast marshmallows at the s’mores station. It’s the perfect way to experience the magic of Kew if you’re not around for the Christmas extravaganza. Adult from £17; child from £12. Find out more.

Bloomsbury Festival

Inspired by the Bloomsbury Set of artists and writers who lived in the central London quarter in the early 20th century, Bloomsbury Festival (18-27 Oct) returns this year to celebrate its past, present and future cultural footprint. The annual festival brings together a kaleidoscope of creative forces from emerging talent to artistic icons in events hosted in the garden squares, museums and other buildings of the vibrant university district. Visitors can join walks, talks, and craft classes and witness the latest from London’s art scene at City Lit Gallery as the New Wave: Art Prize 2024 winner is crowned. There will also be performances at the Charles Dickens Museum and sculptures by Joe Duggan in Senate House and Russell Square. Find out more.

Dreadflix at The London Bridge Experience

At the award-winning London Bridge Experience, descend to the vaults of the world-famous landmark for an immersive trip through 2,000 years of history. You’ll meet some of the Bridge’s most gruesome characters including William Wallace and Jack the Ripper. Enter the London tombs, if you dare. The scare maze features some truly terrifying characters. Don’t miss this year’s Halloween special, Dreadflix(24-26 Oct, 30-31 Oct & 1-2 Nov), where the silver screen ‘morphs into your nightmare’. The high-intensity, adult-only scare show brings infamous characters from ’80s and ’90s horror films to life. Find out more.

 

Scared Shrekless at Shrek’s Adventure! London

Especially for Halloween, the witch has arrived at Shrek’s Adventure! London to surprise guests with tricks and treats. The fairytale walk-through experience sees guests whisked away aboard a magic bus to the enchanting world of Far Far Away. The exciting adventure features 12 fairytale-themed live shows featuring popular characters from the Shrek franchise, including Rumpelstiltskin, Sleeping Beauty, Muffin Man, Pinocchio and Cinderella, culminating in a meet and greet with Shrek himself. From 26 October until 3 November, see if you can snap a photo with the witch before she flies away. Find out more

Delve into the wonderful Wizarding World and experience Halloween as a Hogwarts student at the Dark Arts experience at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, where more than 100 pumpkins float above a spooky feast in the Great Hall, as seen in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Don’t be fooled though, it’s not all treats here. Keep your wits about you as Dementors will be roaming, and look out for the Death Eaters’ procession, showcasing the authentic costumes and sinister choreography seen on-screen. New for 2024, ominous Dementors will be floating in the Forbidden Forest, and the clown Boggart will also be on display next to the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom. Find out more.

Halloween at the Tower of London

This Halloween, the Tower of London offers a thrilling experience for visitors of all ages. You can explore the ancient castle by night, guided by eerie tales of its dark past, including ghost stories and the infamous legends of its prisoners. The chilling atmosphere is heightened with haunting sound effects, immersive storytelling, and special lighting, making it a perfect Halloween adventure. From exploring the Tower’s sinister corners to hearing about its grisly history, this event promises an unforgettable mix of fun and fright. Suitable for families, it’s a chance to see London’s iconic landmark in a whole new, spooky light​. Find out more.

Returning especially for the October half-term, this sightseeing cruise from the team behind Horrible Histories is a fantastic family activity. Climb aboard and prepare to hear the horrible history of the River Thames: tremble in terror at the Tower of London, be washed away at Westminster, lose yourself in Lambeth and get gobsmacked by the Globe. Tour guides will share stories of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Julius Caesar, Queen Boudicca, Jack the Ripper, Captain Kidd and more. Cruises are available 26 October until 2 November. Find out more.

Museums & Galleries

[New] The World of Tim Burton at The Design Museum

Step into the fantastical world of one of cinema’s most imaginative minds at the Design Museum. This highly anticipated exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the creative genius of the film-maker and artist, Tim Burton, showcasing more than 500 artworks including original drawings, paintings, sculptures and film props. From the eerie charm of Beetlejuice to the whimsical melancholy of Edward Scissorhands, this exhibition takes visitors on a journey through Burton’s darkly enchanting world, revealing the artistic process behind his films and the evolution of his distinctive and beloved style. Find out more.

 

[New] VOGUE: Inventing the Runway at Lightroom

A groundbreaking new immersive show opens at Lightroom in King’s Cross on 25 October. VOGUE: Inventing the Runway celebrates more than a century of Vogue’s influence on fashion through stunning projections and multimedia displays. Visitors will discover the magazine’s pivotal role in transforming the runway into a global spectacle, shaping trends, launching careers and capturing the essence of each fashion era. Diving into the magazine’s archives, the golden age of couture through to today’s cutting-edge designs are explored, featuring legendary photographs, editorials and behind-the-scenes moments from fashion’s biggest names. It’s a must-see for any fashionista. Find out more.

This exhibition at Arches London Bridge offers an intimate look at the life of Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe. Featuring more than 250 personal items, including love letters, diaries, silk robes, vintage fashion and make-up from the world’s largest collection of Marilyn memorabilia, this immersive display unveils the woman behind the legend. This limited-time exhibition offers fans a rare glimpse into her private world until Feb 2025. Find out more.

Theatre, immersive experiences and more entertainment

The Devil Wears Prada at the Dominion Theatre

It’s a story loved across the world, thanks to the 2006 movie starring Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway and Emily Blunt, but now The Devil Wears Prada is playing at the Dominion Theatre. Bringing a fresh, musical twist to the iconic tale of fashion, ambition and unforgettable one-liners, this new production takes the glitz and glam of the high-fashion world to new heights. Vanessa Williams takes the role of the formidable Miranda – not a far cry from her role as Wilhelmina Slater in Ugly Betty! The score for the musical production was crafted by singer-songwriter and all-round musical legend Sir Elton John. It is playing at the Dominion Theatre until 18 August – don’t move at a glacial pace if you are considering booking tickets (you know how that thrills Miranda). Find out more.

[Last chance] Fidelo at Royal Ballet and Opera

What begins as a domestic drama turns into a bold exploration of freedom, gender and the power of love in Ludwig van Beethoven’s only opera. Disguised as ‘Fidelio’, a young woman named Leonore embarks on a daring mission to free her husband, who has been wrongly imprisoned. But as time begins to run out – and the jailer’s daughter falls in love with her – Fidelio’s hidden identity and her husband’s fate are put in sudden peril. Beethoven based his opera on a play called Léonore written in 1793 by Jean-Nicolas Bouilly. That play was allegedly inspired by a real-life Revolutionary prison rescue that took place in the city of Tours. It closes on Saturday 26 October. Find out more.

Barcelona at the Duke of York’s Theatre

It’s 2009. A late night in Barcelona and an American tourist goes home with a handsome Spaniard. What begins as a carefree, one-night stand becomes a high-stakes clash of intention and desire, as the personal and political intertwine. Lily Collins, star of Emily in Paris, makes her West End debut with Álvaro Morte (Money Heist), also making his debut. Funny, sexy and surprising, Barcelona keeps audiences guessing. It’s playing for 12 weeks only at the Duke of York’s Theatre (to 11 Jan 2025). Find out more.

 

The Buddah of Suburbia at Barbican Theatre

The London premiere of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s The Buddha of Suburbia (co-produced with Wise Children) opened on 22 October and plays at the Barbican Theatre until 16 November. Known for its spectacular and experimental programme of contemporary live performances, the Barbican’s line-up features international and UK-based artists. This production is based on Hanif Kureishi’s award-winning novel transfers for a limited four-week season. It’s set in south London in the late seventies, among high unemployment, high inflation, food shortages and strikes. But despite the winter of discontent, 17-year-old Karim’s life is about to explode into glorious technicolour as he navigates a path to enlightenment. Or at the very least, Beckenham… Find out more.

 

[Last chance] The Comedy of Errors & Princess Essex & The Taming of the Shrew at The Globe Theatre

A number of productions play their final shows this weekend: Princess of Essex and The Taming of the Shrew close on Saturday 26 October and The Comedy of Errors closes on Sunday 27 October. Princess of Essex, a new play by Anne Odeke, explores the world of Edwardian seaside beauty pageant in a fast-paced and empowering musical comedy based on the true story of the first woman of colour to enter a pageant in the UK. The Taming of the Shrew is Shakespeare’s vicious comedy about Lucentio’s pursuit of Bianca and the taming of her fiercely independent sister, Katharina. Finally, back by popular demand, The Comedy of Errors made a triumphant return to the stage at The Globe Theatre earlier this year. The comedy about rival cities, long-lost siblings and mistaken identities plays its final show on Sunday; don’t miss it. Find out more.

Ghostbusters and Avatar in Concert at the Royal Albert Hall

Watch two of the world’s most beloved sci-fi movies in the spectacular surroundings of the Royal Albert Hall, with their scores played live by an orchestra. On Saturday, the Hall celebrated the 40th anniversary of the ‘80s sci-fi comedy, Ghostbusters. Watch Ivan Reitman’s movie 1984 classic on the big screen while Elmer Bernstein’s famous score is performed live by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. On Sunday, the multi-Academy Award-winning film Avatar will be shown live in concert, with a special pre-show Q&A with Pierre O’Reilly (Producer of Avatar Live in Concert) in conversation with James Cameron (Filmmaker) and Simon Franglen (Composer of Avatar: The Way of Water). The Q&A is included with tickets to Avatar Live in Concert. Find out more.

 

Crypt Lates: Mowtown Nights & Brahms Requiem by Candlelight at St Martin-in-the-Fields

Choose from two very different evenings of entertainment at St Martin-in-the-Fields church on Saturday. Lovers of classical music can watch Brahms’s choral masterpiece, A German Requiem, brought to life in a chamber arrangement by Iain Farrington, performed by the Choir of St Martin-in-the-Fields. Alternatively, in the Crypt, Major Tones Music & Entertainment proudly presents Motown Nights, a nostalgic live show that captures the golden era of Motown. Sample artists featured will include The Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Ben E King and many more. Find out more.

The London Literature Festival is the capital’s longest-running celebration of the written and spoken word of its kind, presenting prestigious names alongside rising literary stars and uniting readers of every age, every autumn. Saturday is the National Poetry Library’s Poetry Day, which will see a range of live reading sessions, writing workshops and displays of artists’ books take place at venues across the Southbank Centre. In the evening, British rap icon Ghetts unleashes his razor-sharp lyrics and crystal-clear rhymes on the stage at the Royal Festival Hall (9pm). This year’s London Literature Festival co-curator, he brings together some of the most exciting names in the capital’s poetry and music scenes on Sunday (7.30pm). Also on Sunday, the Creative Future Writers’ Day is a day of talks and panel events for aspiring writers, led by writers, publishers and literary professionals who share hints, tips and initiatives. Find out more.

Aspers Live: The Ed Sheeran Songbook at Westfield Stratford City

Aspers Casino at Westfield Stratford City has a jam-packed lineup of DJs and the best tribute acts, for a programme of fantastic free live music. On Saturday from 11pm, the ultimate Ed Sheeran tribute act takes to the stage. Treat yourself to a delicious cocktail or premium pint and get set for an ASPERS LIVE night to remember. Find out more.

 

Batman Unmasked

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  Batman Cowls on display © Batman Unmasked
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  Poison Ivy's Corridor © Batman Unmasked
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  Tumbler on display © Batman Unmasked
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  Mr Freeze suit © Batman Unmasked

Fans of the DC Comics superhero Batman should make sure to visit Batman Unmasked, an epic exhibition in Covent Garden that marks 85 years of DC’s most iconic superhero (to 30 Dec). Visitors will get up close to a never-before-seen UK collection of original props, vehicles and costumes direct from the archives. Fans of all ages will be able to venture into the Batcave and explore Batman films (1989-2022) as you step into the world of Gotham City and navigate a series of themed rooms containing Batsuits, Super-Villain suits, props and weapons. Robert Pattinson’s Batmobile from The Batman and Christian Bale’s Batpod from The Dark Knight are on display. There are several professional photo opportunities, a free-flow comic book and gaming area, and a retail store filled with exclusive merchandise, special 85th Anniversary items and classic Batman items. Find out more.

Step into scenes from everyone’s favourite TV show at The Friends Experience. From the sofa at Central Perk or Joey and Chandler’s apartment to Rachel and Monica’s apartment and the hallway scene of “pivot!”, all of the interactive sets have been recreated at ExCeL London. It’s open until Sunday 2 February. Find out more.