Best Things to Do in London This September

Explore lively September events and attractions in London.

Published: April 1, 2025
Best Things to Do in London This September

September in London is a time when the city is alive with vibrant festivals, cultural celebrations, and stunning natural beauty. As the leaves start to turn, there's a magical feel in the air that makes exploring London's attractions even more exciting. We’ve put together a list of must-see spots and unique experiences to ensure your September trip to London is packed with fun and wonder. Let’s dive into the best things to do in this dynamic city during the charming month of September. 

Thames Festival 

Celebrate the vibrant culture of London at the Mayor's Thames Festival, a lively event celebrating the city's iconic river. Enjoy spectacular performances, art installations, and interactive exhibits along the riverbank. The festival’s dynamic atmosphere, highlighting the Thames’ cultural and historical significance, ensures a memorable experience. Whether participating in workshops or enjoying riverside entertainment, the Thames Festival offers a fascinating journey into London’s heart. 

Open House London 

Take advantage of Open House London, an annual event allowing access to buildings and sites usually closed to the public. Explore iconic landmarks, historic homes, and modern wonders, each offering unique architectural insights. The event’s accessibility and variety invite curiosity and discovery, making it a treasure trove for architecture enthusiasts. Whether touring a historic estate or a contemporary masterpiece, Open House London promises a unique perspective on the city. 

Kew Gardens 

Explore the tranquil beauty of Kew Gardens, where autumnal colours come to life in September! Wander through beautifully curated landscapes, discovering rare plants and vibrant foliage. The iconic Palm House and serene waterlily ponds offer peaceful settings for relaxation. Kew Gardens’ dedication to horticulture and conservation ensures a refreshing and inspiring visit that captivates nature lovers and explorers alike. 

Totally Thames 

Totally Thames 

Immerse yourself in the cultural celebration of Totally Thames, a month-long festival dedicated to the River Thames. Enjoy art installations, live performances, and historical tours along the riverbanks. The festival’s diverse range of events highlights the river’s significance and beauty, offering a creative and engaging experience. Whether attending a riverside concert or exploring hidden river paths, Totally Thames provides an enriching adventure. 

Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard 

Experience the regal splendour of Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Watch the precision and pageantry of this iconic tradition unfold against the palace's grand backdrop. The impressive uniforms and ceremonial music add to the royal atmosphere. After the ceremony, explore the beautifully maintained gardens or enjoy a leisurely stroll in nearby St. James’s Park. 

South Bank Riverside Walk 

Take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant South Bank, savouring scenic views of the Thames and iconic landmarks. The bustling promenade offers street performers, art installations, and cultural venues, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. Whether browsing open-air markets or enjoying riverside dining, South Bank provides a dynamic outing perfect for a September day. The blend of creativity and leisure ensures a spirited exploration along the water. 

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 

Borough Market

Indulge in culinary delights at Borough Market, a haven for food lovers offering fresh, artisanal products. Wander through stalls offering gourmet cheeses, artisan bread, and international street food. The lively atmosphere is filled with enticing aromas and cheerful chatter, making it a feast for the senses. Whether you’re sampling freshly shucked oysters or enjoying a warm pastry, Borough Market should be on your travel itinerary. 

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. 

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. 

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 

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. 

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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. 

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. 

For more, check out London’s best immersive experiences, or discover the best places to explore the city’s rich musical history! 

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This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.

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The Royal Albert Hall Tour: FAQs

What is the Royal Albert Hall? The Royal Albert Hall is perhaps the most famous concert hall in the country. It was opened by Queen Victoria in 1871 and has since played host to some of the most memorable, revered and notorious events in British cultural history. Take a look round it and learn all about its history on a Royal Albert Hall tour, which is what this article is all about. Why is it called the Royal Albert Hall? It's named in tribute to Albert, Prince Consort and husband to Queen Victoria. Following London’s successful hosting of the Great Exhibition in 1851, Prince Albert pushed proposals for permanent cultural facilities and institutions in the capital. Albert died before his vision could come to life. A memorial to him was planned, with a great hall stood across from it. The Albert Memorial still stands in Kensington Gardens, with the Royal Albert Hall facing it. Why is it so famous? Because of its design... perhaps. It is an ellipse with a distance colour to it, courtesy of its liberal use of Fareham Red brick. The great dome, constructed from glass and wrought-iron, is 41m high and the whole building is ringed by a triumphant mosaic frieze, depicting important events in the story of the arts and sciences. Also, references in songs and artworks helped it become part of the UK’s cultural fabric, particularly when John Lennon sang its name in the enigmatic ‘A Day in the Life’. It has become a byword for classiness and making it when it comes to the arts. If you’re playing the Albert Hall, you’re probably doing OK. And perhaps it’s famous because of all the events that have taken place there, and all the famous people who’ve performed or been in attendance. What events? What famous people? Camille Saint-Saëns played the Hall’s great organ, known as the Voice of Jupiter, during a performance in 1871. The genius composer and virtuosic pianist Sergei Rachmaninoff played at the Royal Albert Hall in 1911. Albert Einstein led a meeting about assisting refugee academics here in 1933; the Eurovision Song Contest was held at the Hall in 1968. Two sides of the same coin. Sporting events regularly take place at the Royal Albert Hall. Past events include UFC 38, a Sumo wrestling tournament, and boxing bouts featuring Frank Bruno, Lennox Lewis and Prince Naseem Hamed. But it’s the music that still wins out. As well as hosting the BBC Proms - an eight-week classical music festival - each year, the Royal Albert Hall has put on shows by Beyonce, the Arctic Monkeys, Adele and Eric Clapton. Clapton has played the hall over 200 times, and once said that playing it was like ‘playing in my front room.’ Pink Floyd were banned from ever playing the hall again after a 1969 concert saw them setting off cannons and nailing things to the stage. A piece by British pop artists Peter Blake, named Appearing at the Royal Albert Hall, shows more than 400 people who have performed and appeared at the hall. It’s a fun way of finding out just how many famous faces are associated with this place, having played, performed and watched shows here. What will I see on the Royal Albert Hall tour? Your guide introduces you to the history of the Hall as you take a look at the royal areas and the giant auditorium. You’ll see the famous stage and learn about the great variety of performances the hall puts on. The dome, its construction and the famous acoustical problems it presented are another interesting part of the Royal Albert Hall Tour. And the tour guides come armed with plenty of facts about the weirdest and wildest things to have occurred in the grand concert hall since it opened. Want to know about the time a church group made a river in the auditorium? The time an operatic concert called for the auditorium to be flooded? And what do the Krays have to do with this place? You’d better get yourself on a Royal Albert Hall Tour to find out. This doesn’t always apply, so don’t get your hopes too high...but some lucky tour groups get the opportunity to watch world-class orchestras as they soundcheck prior to the evening’s performance. That’s a real treat. When do the tours run? The Royal Albert Hall Tour runs from 10am to 4pm from November to March, and between 9.30am and 4.30pm April to October. They leave every 30 minutes from the Cafe Bar at Door 12. Sometimes, because of performance schedules, the tour runs less frequently or, very occasionally, not at all. How long do the Royal Albert Hall tours last? Each tour lasts about an hour. Can I take photos during the Royal Albert Hall tour? Usually, yes. However, when events are taking place that evening and rehearsals are on, it’s not possible. Is there anywhere to get food and drink? Sure. There’s a cafe and an Italian restaurant. For a particularly memorable visit, consider ordering an afternoon tea after your tour. Are the tours accessible for people with disabilities? They are. And if you wish to arrange a touch tour or a tour for the deaf, contact 020 7589 8212. Can I book a group tour? If your group is 15 people or more, contact the Hall directly. Otherwise, just use the advance booking system online, or turn up nice and early on the day. So tours can be booked on the day? Yes, particularly when you are in small groups, pairs or on your own. How much do tour tickets cost? Standard adult tickets cost £13.75 when booked online, while concessions are £11.75 and children (5-16 years old) cost just £6.75. If you’re coming with children under 5, they are free, but you still need to get them a ticket. However, tickets to the Royal Albert Hall Tour are free for London Pass holders. How do I get there? It’s best to get public transport to the Royal Albert Hall. South Kensington and High Street Kensington are the tube stations closest to the Hall, with both about 10-15 minutes walk away. The nearest step-free tube station is Green Park. Bus-wise, number 9, 23, 52, 70, 360, 452 and 702 stop close to the Hall. Not scratched your London landmark itch yet? Have a go on this.
Matthew Pearson
Kew Gardens
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Top Facts about Kew Gardens

Founded in 1840, The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, commonly known as Kew Gardens, is one of the most extensive and important botanical gardens in the world. It's a stunning sanctuary less than 30 minutes from central London, offering a perfect escape from the city buzz. Housing the "largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections" globally, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is also one of London's most popular attractions. Kew Gardens has more than 50,000 different plants in its living collection and over 7 million preserved specimens. It's not just a pretty space; it's a veritable treasure trove of plant-based knowledge, with over 750,000 volumes and illustrations contained in its library. Discover more about this historical botanical landmark with some of our favourite facts about Kew Gardens below. A stroll through time A little tidbit on the history of Kew Gardens: It's been around for quite a while! Its growth and development over the years have made it one of the most famous gardens in London and indeed, the world. 1. The world's oldest potted plant resides at Kew Housed inside the famous Palm House, the world's oldest pot plant, a huge Jurassic cycad (Encephalartos altensteinii) originally came to Kew in 1775. Plant-hunter, Frances Masson, collected the specimen during one of Captain Cook's voyages from the Eastern Cape of South Africa. 2. It's home to the smallest royal palace in the country After a decade-long restoration project, the Grade I listed Kew Palace was reopened in 2006. The smallest of British royal residences, it was a popular getaway of George III (1760 - 1820). The same size as a small manor house, the palace was gifted to the people by Queen Victoria in 1837. So, Kew Gardens is not just one of the best gardens in London, but also a royal one. 3. It has its own police force For over 150 years, Kew Gardens has had its own police force responsible for on-site security. Established in the mid-1840s, it initially consisted of part-time gardeners and veterans from the Crimean War. The Kew Constabulary originally possessed the same powers as the Metropolitan Police. This meant they were permitted to exercise their force in most London parks, including Battersea Park and Parliament Square. As of 2022, the Kew Constabulary has 20 members of staff and one vehicle, making it one of the smallest police forces in the world.  4. Suffragettes burned the Tea House down On 20 February 1913, Suffragettes Lilian Lenton and Olive Wharry burned down the Tea House at Kew Gardens in one of several arson attacks in the capital. After being caught, they were sentenced to 18 months at Holloway prison. During their incarceration, they both went on hunger strike. They ended up being released within a month. 5. The tube station has its own pub Getting to Kew Botanical Gardens is even more fun knowing that Kew Gardens station has its very own pub! Previously called The Railway, The Tap on the Line pub reopened in 2013. There is still a door near the bar that leads directly to platform one, but it's no longer open to the public. 6. It includes part of the old London Bridge In 1968, the American entrepreneur Robert P. McCulloch bought the 19th-century London Bridge and attempted to move it to Arizona’s Lake Havasu. He thought he was buying Tower Bridge, but alas, no. Around 200 granite blocks didn't make the trip across the Atlantic. Four of those blocks were taken by Kew Gardens and placed on the banks of the big lake near the Sackler Crossing. Consider adding the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew to your itinerary during your trip with The London Pass®. You'll make great savings on combined admission vs. paying at the gate, and your pass includes entry to dozens more top attractions in the city! 7. Commemorative coins Kew Gardens celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2009 and to commemorate this event, the Royal Mint released a commemorative 50p coin. Only 210,000 Kew coins were minted. This resulted in them soaring in value, selling for over 100 times their monetary worth. 8. Climate control Discover 10 different climate zones at the Princess of Wales Conservatory. From the dry tropics and wet tropics to eight smaller micro-climates, the conservatory ensures that each set of plants' needs are met. 9. Rare heist In 1987, the world's smallest water lily (Nymphaea thermarum) was discovered in Mashyuza, Rwanda. Conservationists saved the plant from extinction after it was grown from seeds at Kew Gardens. In 2014, one of these rare water lilies was stolen from the Princess of Wales Conservatory. 10. An explosive history During the Second World War, the Great Pagoda became the perfect place to test the aerodynamics of bombs in secret. Around 30 high-explosives dropped onto the gardens during the Blitz and the Herbarium, Temperate Houses, Palm House and Waterlily House suffered damage. 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® ✈️
Suz Pathmanathan
Westminster Abbey
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My TV show-inspired trip and the hack that made it happen

We caught up with Joyce Dieter to hear how she made the most of our Explorer Pass while exploring London through the lens of her favourite TV shows.
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