Best Things to Do in London this October

Discover London’s October delights with our handy guide.

Published: April 1, 2025
Best Things to Do in London this October

October in London is a time when the city bursts with autumnal colours and cultural festivities. From autumn walks to spooky celebrations, there’s something to catch everyone’s interest. We’ve curated a list of must-visit spots and exciting activities to ensure your October trip to London is both entertaining and memorable. Let’s delve into the best things to do in this dynamic city during the enchanting month of October. 

London Film Festival 

Immerse yourself in the world of cinema at the London Film Festival. This prestigious event showcases a stunning selection of films from around the globe, ranging from indie gems to Hollywood blockbusters. The festival’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with its diverse programming, offers an enriching experience for film enthusiasts. Whether attending a screening or engaging in panel discussions, the London Film Festival promises a captivating journey through the cinematic world. 

Kew Gardens 

Explore the autumnal beauty of Kew Gardens, where the changing leaves create a stunning display of colours. Wander through the beautifully curated landscapes, discovering vibrant foliage and seasonal blooms. The iconic Palm House and tranquil waterlily ponds offer peaceful settings for reflection. Kew Gardens’ dedication to horticulture and conservation ensures a refreshing and inspiring visit that captivates nature lovers and explorers alike. 

Diwali on the Square 

Celebrate the Festival of Lights at Diwali on the Square, held in Trafalgar Square. This joyful celebration features live music, dance performances, and delicious Indian cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with colourful decorations and cheerful crowds, creates an inviting scene for all. Whether participating in traditional activities or enjoying the festive ambiance, Diwali on the Square offers a cultural experience rich in warmth and togetherness. 

Hampton Court Palace 

Hampton Court Palace 

Step back in time at Hampton Court Palace, a majestic residence rich with Tudor history. Wander through the opulent State Apartments, explore the expansive gardens, and enjoy interactive exhibits that bring history to life. The palace’s stunning architecture and immersive storytelling offer a captivating journey through the past. Hampton Court Palace delivers elegance and intrigue, making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and curious explorers. 

Museums at Night 

Discover London’s cultural treasures in a new light with Museums at Night, an event that opens the doors of museums and galleries after hours. Enjoy special exhibitions, guided tours, and live performances in the magical nighttime setting. The enchanting atmosphere and unique offerings create a memorable cultural experience. Whether exploring ancient artifacts or contemporary art, Museums at Night provides an exciting adventure. 

The Shard 

Ascend to new heights with a visit to The Shard, offering panoramic views of London’s skyline. Enjoy breathtaking vistas from the viewing platform or relax with a cocktail in the sky-high lounges. The architectural elegance and stunning sights provide an inspiring backdrop for capturing unforgettable moments. Whether by day or night, The Shard offers a unique perspective of London’s bustling landscape. 

Borough Market 

Delight in culinary adventures at Borough Market, a paradise for food lovers offering a diverse range of fresh produce and street food. Sample artisanal cheeses, gourmet pastries, and global delicacies amid a lively market atmosphere. With its enticing aromas and vibrant energy, Borough Market promises a feast for the senses. Whether a dedicated foodie or a casual snacker, this market provides a memorable culinary experience. 

St. Paul’s Cathedral 

St. Paul’s Cathedral 

Admire the majestic architecture of St. Paul’s Cathedral, a symbol of London’s heritage. Climb to the Whispering Gallery for unique acoustics or ascend to the top for panoramic views. The serene interior and grand dome offer a place of reflection and admiration. With its rich history and architectural beauty, St. Paul’s Cathedral delivers a profound and awe-inspiring experience. 

Natural History Museum 

Explore the wonders of the natural world at the Natural History Museum, home to a treasure trove of exhibits. From dinosaurs to dazzling minerals, each display invites curiosity and discovery. The museum’s grand architecture and engaging collections create a fascinating environment for learning and inspiration. Whether young or old, the Natural History Museum promises to captivate minds and spark imagination. 

Tate Modern 

Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art at Tate Modern, housed in a striking former power station. The museum presents innovative exhibitions featuring works by renowned artists, offering a fresh perspective on modern creativity. The expansive galleries and bold displays encourage exploration and thought. Whether intrigued by abstract art or interactive works, Tate Modern delivers a stimulating journey through the art world. 

Camden Market 

Experience the eclectic charm of Camden Market, a vibrant hub of creativity and culture. Browse an array of stalls offering vintage fashion, unique crafts, and global street food. The dynamic atmosphere and diverse offerings create a dynamic shopping and dining experience. Camden Market’s blend of individuality and flair guarantees an exciting and colourful visit, perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind finds. 

The Royal Observatory Greenwich 

The Royal Observatory Greenwich 

Explore the wonders of astronomy at the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Stand on the Prime Meridian and discover the history of timekeeping and navigation. The interactive exhibits and engaging planetarium shows provide a fascinating exploration of the universe. The observatory’s stunning location and educational offerings ensure a captivating visit. 

Greenwich Park 

Take a leisurely stroll through Greenwich Park, one of London’s oldest green spaces offering stunning views of the city. Enjoy a peaceful walk among ancient trees or relax with a picnic overlooking the Thames. The park’s natural beauty and historical significance provide a picturesque retreat from city life. Whether exploring trails or soaking in the landscape, Greenwich Park offers a delightful escape. 

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre 

Experience the thrill of live theatre under the stars at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Enjoy captivating performances ranging from Shakespearean classics to contemporary plays in a picturesque outdoor setting. The natural backdrop and talented cast create an enchanting and unforgettable cultural adventure. Whether a theatre enthusiast or a casual visitor, the Open Air Theatre delivers a night of entertainment and charm. 

The British Museum 

Embark on a journey through global history at The British Museum, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts. From the Rosetta Stone to ancient mummies, each exhibit offers fascinating stories of civilizations past. The grand architecture and thoughtfully curated galleries invite endless exploration and appreciation. Whether intrigued by ancient worlds or modern cultures, The British Museum promises to enrich and inspire. 

Westminster Abbey 

Westminster Abbey 

Step into the grandeur of Westminster Abbey, a historic masterpiece with awe-inspiring architecture. Explore the majestic nave adorned with intricate stained glass and statuary. The Abbey’s rich history and spiritual significance create a moving and profound experience. Whether reflecting on the past or appreciating the beauty, Westminster Abbey offers an unforgettable visit. 

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Valentine’s Day in London

Valentine’s Day in London isn’t just for the loved up. It can be for those in couples, sure. But it’s increasingly a day that caters to those looking for love. And those giving love the cold shoulder this year, tired of dating and the hype and the ceremony of it all. Those who say things like, “Valentine’s Day was just invented by greetings card companies.” Those who don’t. If you take it seriously, red heart balloons and all. Or if you go round popping said balloons. There’s something for you this Valentine’s Day in London. So dig into our guide on what to do this Valentine’s Day in London, including... Romantic Thames cruises for couples An evening under the stars, straight out of the movies A couple of unique twists on traditional speed dating, for those looking for love A murder mystery evening for those who are looking for a suspect And much, much more... The View from The Shard The View from The Shard are hosting a super special Valentine's Day event this year. Book as a couple and head up to London's highest viewing platform to catch the sunset, taking in incredible views across the city. Enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne to the soothing sounds of a live harpist. You'll get a souvenir digital photograph and a single red rose too. Outside of special event times, a trip up to see the View from The Shard is included with The London Pass. Click the button below to discover how you can see The View from The Shard with The London Pass, along with many, many other top London attractions. The View from The Shard, 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG. For more details and to book, head HERE. theviewfromtheshard.com[/caption] Valentine’s Day Thames River Cruises with City Cruises For plenty of people, a Thames River cruise on Valentine’s Day is as romantic as it gets. Getting out on the water, seeing the city’s most famous landmarks pass by, drifting off into the sunset. It’s hard to think of a more classically romantic way to spend Valentine’s Day in London. City Cruises are offering three different cruise options on 14th February. Take it slow with an afternoon tea cruise, enjoying sandwiches and cakes to a soundtrack of smooth, smooth jazz. Or treat one another to a three course dinner with a live band for company. Finally, the evening cruise is the best option for those looking to dance off into the sunset together. Interested in a sightseeing Thames River Boat Cruise without the Valentiney twist? 24 hour access to City Cruises’ main services is included with The London Pass. Find out more about Thames River Boat Cruises available with The London Pass below. 14th February. To find out more about the three special Valentine's Day cruises run by City Cruises and to book, head HERE. citycruises.com[/caption] London's Rooftop Bars For many, there’s nothing more romantic than a rooftop bar. Cocktails and heights just do it for lots of people. You can survey all those beneath you, say, “Look, there’s my office,” and watch the sun go down. They’re usually pretty swanked up. For places lucky enough to have roof space, it’s good London real estate worth spending a penny or two on. Have a read of our article on the best rooftop bars in London to find your perfect date location for Valentine’s Day in London. Valentine’s Evening with the Stars, Royal Observatory Greenwich Ross and Rachel and the juice box. The two jazzed up lovers in La La Land. That scene in Manhattan. Planetariums are romantic, guys. Head up to the Royal Observatory Greenwich for a romance themed planetarium show, the chance to see space through an 18-tonne Victorian telescope and some time holding hands across the Greenwich Meridian. These special lates take place on February 8th and 14th, with tickets costing £24 for adults. To visit the Royal Observatory Greenwich during normal opening hours, get yourself The London Pass. Entry to the attraction, and many more of London's finest, is included with the pass. 14th February. Royal Observatory Greenwich, Blackheath Ave, Greenwich, London SE10 8XJ. To find out more and to book, head HERE. [caption id="attachment_6260" align="alignnone" width="1000"] rmg.co.uk[/caption] London Valentine’s Speed Duetting Night Find someone you can truly harmonise with at this unique speed dating event. You’ll be split into groups, then paired up in a private karaoke booth to have a go singing a classic duet. It might go a little flat and fail to hit the high notes, or it might be the moment you find the Sonny to your Cher, the Simon to your Garfunkel. If you’re looking to take a chance doing something completely different this Valentine’s Day in London, this could be the show-stopping event you’re looking for. For daters aged 24 to 38. Lucky Voice Holborn, 84 Chancery Lane, London WC2A 1DL. For more information and to book, head HERE. [caption id="attachment_6261" align="alignnone" width="1000"] luckyvoice.com[/caption] Valentine's Vegan Speed Dating at Fortnum's Find love under the guidance of an eggless Eros at this vegan speed dating night. Another twist on the speed dating format, this event seeks to pair up like-minded meat and dairy-free singles. If you get beyond chatting about how long you’ve been a vegan, and start coming up with your favourite London vegan restaurants for a possible second date, you’ll know you’ve met your meatless match. Fortnum and Mason provide the perfect finger food accompaniment to this evening of green romance. 11th February. Fortnum's Bar and Restaurant, The Royal Exchange, The Courtyard, London EC3V 3LR. For more details and to book, head HERE. Love Letters Live This special take on the Letters Live series sees a host of famous faces and voices read out love letters sent by some of history and popular culture’s most interesting and important thinkers, artists, revolutionaries and lovers. From professions of love to confessions of heartbreak, interrogations of love and odes to its power, the letters read here approach love from every direction, offering new perspectives on the lives and thoughts of those who penned them. Letters Live has previously seen the likes of Benedict Cumberbatch, Olivia Colman and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie read letters written by David Bowie, Che Guevara and Maya Angelou. This special event is raising money for the charity Help Refugees. 14th February. Shoreditch Town Hall, 380 Old St, Hackney, London EC1V 9LT. For more information and to book, head HERE. [caption id="attachment_6262" align="alignnone" width="1000"] letterslive.com[/caption] 'Cooking With Cupid' Valentine’s Cookery Class What’s on the menu tonight? It’s love, of course. With a side of green beans. This couples cookery class is designed to add a bit of spice back into the kitchen. People flirt with food. A date at a fancy restaurant. Planning a romantic meal where you cook that one thing you know how to cook. But cooking with and for your partner can quickly collapse into a question of who’s going to boil the pasta this evening and who forgot to get the milk and why did you put the carton back in the fridge if it’s empty and fine, just forget it, let’s get a takeaway and for goodness sake can you just make up your mind where you want to order from and it not take an hour and a half. This Valentine’s cookery class is looking to change all that. And it includes bottomless booze. Which is sure to turn even the most reluctant cooks into accomplished, artistically minded, flamboyant chefs. For the night, at least. 14th February. The Avenue Cookery School, 3 Enterprise Way, Wandsworth, London SW18 1FZ. For more information and to book, head HERE. [caption id="attachment_6263" align="alignnone" width="1000"] theavenuecookeryschool.com[/caption] Valentine’s Heart in a Jar Class Tired of the ephemerality of love? Jaded by the over-commercialisation of romance? Into taxidermy? Stuck for Valentine’s Day gift ideas again this year? Then this heart pickling class is for you. Spend the afternoon learning how to dissect and preserve an animal heart, then take your very own specimen home with you in a glass jar. Give it to your partner. If they love it, you were meant to be together. If they hate it, well, they can always regift it come Christmas. 16th February. The British Academy of Taxidermy, Islington Arts Factory, 2 Parkhurst Road, London N7OSF. For more information and to book, head HERE. Anti-Valentine’s Day Murder Mystery in the Sky Head up to the London Sky Bar for this inventive antidote to Valentine’s Day: a murder mystery evening set in a Prohibition era speakeasy. The bar’s proprietor has been found murdered. It’s your job to piece together all the evidence, interrogating suspects and working together to get to the truth. Find out who did him in, on Valentine’s Day of all days. When you’ve closed the case, take in the views from this wonderful vantage point, 29 floors up and overlooking the Thames. 14th February. London Sky Bar, Millbank Tower, 21-24 Millbank, Westminster, London SW1P 4QP. For more information and to book, head HERE. Right, that’s your lot. However you spend your Valentine’s Day in London this year, we hope you have a swell time. And let us know of any alternative ideas you’re cooking up in the comment box below.
Matthew Pearson
London British Pub Grub
Blog

A Guide to British Pub Grub

Excited to try some British bites? You've come to the right place! We've crafted the ultimate pub grub guide to fuel your UK adventures. Nothing says Great Britain like sharing a meal in a pub - the locals' living room. You'll find value, casual atmosphere and hearty classic dishes, all washed down with top drinks. A pub visit is a must for any trip to these Isles. To help you find the best bites, we've researched pubs across the country and their specialties. This guide highlights traditional British staples, from fish and chips to ploughman's lunches. Whether you're after a light lunch or a full evening out, follow our recommendations and you'll leave satisfied. Don't forget to check the specials board! You’ll most likely find interesting ‘twists’ on pub favourites like special pies, curry, burgers or even sausages of the week! Dine out in a relaxed environment If you’re looking for a cosy atmosphere and home-cooked food, look no further than a pub. Casual dining is very popular in the UK and you often won’t need to book. Depending on the size and type of pub) you can sit in the bar area or a separate section for dining. Best of all, pub grub offers value for money and large portions! If you want to experience a London pub crawl, we've got some great recommendations. Read to the bottom for our list of fantastic pubs you need to put on your to-visit list. Fun for all the family Most pubs offer family-friendly opportunities to enjoy a meal out in a relaxed atmosphere (although we recommend you double-check first). When it comes to pub grub, there’s usually something for everyone. And if there isn’t a specific kids' menu, you can ask for smaller portion sizes or share some side dishes. A lot of pubs have beer gardens which are lovely in the summer months – even better if there’s some play equipment for the kids. Enjoy some great draught beer Draught beer, bitter, or ale are what pubs are famous for, and traditional British beers are seeing a revival. It’s hard to beat the quality and choice of beer in other eateries, so if you’re in a pub why not try a beef and ale pie? Or a delicious beer-battered cod, with chunky chips? What’s on the menu? Traditional British pub dishes haven’t changed much over the years, although you can now find the addition of non-traditional favourites inspired by cooking from all over the world. Check the menu before you choose your pub – you may be in for a surprise. Some, for example, serve Thai food only. Here are some traditional British pub grub faves: Typical main meals in London pubs Sunday Roast Usually served at lunchtime, the roast is usually chicken, beef, lamb or pork, though vegetarian alternatives are often available. Served with roast potatoes, a mix of fresh vegetables and gravy. And don’t forget the trimmings! Roast beef isn’t complete without Yorkshire pudding (a baked batter pudding, best filled with gravy), mustard and horseradish sauce. Pork is delicious with apple sauce; roast lamb and mint sauce belong together. Don’t worry too much if it’s not a Sunday – many pubs offer roasts throughout the week. Steak and Kidney Pie A savoury pie with a pastry lid, filled with a mixture of diced beef and kidney, fried onion and brown gravy. Not for the faint-hearted, it’s a great winter warmer and delicious with a side order of vegetables. Bangers and Mash A British staple named for its mashed potatoes and sausages, but the gravy is just as important. The type of sausages used varies, but a curly Cumberland is a popular choice. Filling and comforting, it's exactly what you want from British pub grub. Toad in the Hole Not as strange as it sounds and certainly has nothing to do with toads. This is another sausage dish, but this time the sausages are baked in Yorkshire pudding batter. It’s served with loads of gravy and fresh vegetables. Fisherman’s Pie Not in the mood for meat? Fisherman’s pie is classic pub grub. The pie is made with smoked whitefish in a white or cheddar cheese sauce, baked in the oven and topped with mashed potato. It can also contain prawns and hard-boiled eggs and traditionally comes served with garden peas. Fish and Chips No trip to the UK is complete without fish and chips, and the best thing about ordering this dish in a pub is that the batter will often have been made with some of the pub’s delicious draught beer. Try it with some tartare sauce and mushy peas. Ploughman’s Lunch A traditional lunch brought out to the fields by ploughmen, this cold plate of cheese, pickle and crusty bread is simple yet delicious. You might also have some apples, boiled eggs, ham or pickled onions on the side. As its name suggests, you eat a Ploughman's at lunchtime. Vegetarian and vegan eats Hello there, veggies and vegans. You have nothing to worry about. When in London, you'll find that most pubs have a great selection of vegetarian dishes, including vegetarian nut roasts with onion gravy, battered tofu & chips, as well as pies and pasta dishes. You can often customise dishes and order them without the meat element, too - don't be afraid to ask as pubs will usually do their best to accommodate dietary requirements. What's for dessert? Treacle sponge pudding Are you still hungry? That's fair enough. Try this typical British dessert – steamed sponge, with treacle on top and usually served with hot custard or ice cream. Knickerbocker Glory Finally, here’s one for the kids. A 'knickerbocker glory' is a colourfully layered cream, ice cream and fruit sundae served in a tall glass. A long spoon is essential if you want to get to the bottom! Here's the list of our top pubs in London The Prospect of Whitby - Wapping, Tower Hill The Royal Oak - Bloomsbury The Harp - Chandos Place, Covent Garden The Duke of Edinburgh - Cromwell Road, South Kensington Trafalgar Tavern - Park Lane, St. James's The Mayflower - Rotherhithe The Lamb and Flag - Covent Garden The Ten Bells - Commercial Street, Spitalfields The George - Great Portland St. - Great Portland Street, Marylebone The Blue Posts - Rupert Street, Soho And here are our favourites outside of London The Tan Hill Inn - Tan Hill, Swaledale, North Yorkshire The Salutation Inn - Ham, Gloucestershire The Dolphin Inn - Porlock Weir, Somerset The George & Dragon - Haddenham, Buckinghamshire The Bell Inn - Westhay, Glastonbury, Somerset If you’re looking for good food and friendly service in a relaxed atmosphere, you can’t go wrong with a British pub - they're perfect for refuelling after a day of sightseeing. Of course, the menu will vary from place to place (from gastro-pubs to carveries and independent locals to national chains), but you’ll often find staple pub grub favourites to suit every appetite and occasion. Don't forget to check out a guided London pub tour while you are at it! Experience everything London has to offer with The London Pass® Planning your London trip? With The London Pass®, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you'll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. ✈️ Buy The London Pass® ✈️  
Vanessa Teo
Scary Attractions in London
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Scary Attractions in London

If you're looking to get spooky in the run-up to Halloween, check out our picks of the best scary attractions in London and prepare for the fright of your life! Including: London Bridge Experience London Tombs Tower of London London Dungeon and more!   And those were our picks of the best scary attractions in London! Whether you’re warming up in October, or want year-round spooks, you’re more than served in the city. And, if you liked the above and want even more London goodness, why not read our complete guide to the Tower of London. Or, for a few under-the-radar options, check out the 10 hidden gems of London.     Step up your sightseeing with the London Pass®    We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems, and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings compared to buying individual attraction tickets.    See more, do more, and experience more with the London Pass® – just choose a pass to get started!  
Dom Bewley

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