Why is working out how to spend your weekend in London always a lot harder than it needs to be? Just like the Netflix library, when presented with way too much choice we end up resorting to the comforts we know (pub, anyone?). But here’s where we’re here to help as we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in London whether you’re on a budget - or feeling super fancy. From afternoon teas with a twist to cool spins on sight-seeing, keep scrolling for fun things to do in London.
1
Head to Barbie World
Where: Kensington
Good for: Day out with friends, solo date
Well sort of. Until February this year, the Design Museum is holding a Barbie exhibition, displaying costumes, dolls and Barbie paraphernalia from 1959 to present day. Expect all kinds of Barbie Dreamhouses, Barbie's sister and of course, a section dedicated to Ken. Unsurprisingly the exhibition is very popular so make sure to book in your tickets before attending.
2
Learn about the tarot readings of wine
Where: Islington
Good for: Night out out with friends, date night
London wine bar chain Humble Grape offer a variety of wine based events on each month, from wine tastings, to sip and plant (yes you get to craft your own succulent planter) to our personal favourite - the tarot and wine evening. On 29th October at the Islington location the bar is hosting a tarot and wine tasting, where you'll try four dynamic wines and learn about the tarot cards associated with them.
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3
Become a dim sum expert
Where: Vauxhall
Good for: Groups, date day, day out with friends
Ok so maybe not a fully fledged expert but by the end of this Chino Latino masterclass, you will actually know how to make them. Every Saturday Chino Latino's masterclasses will see their expert chef Tom teach you how to make two types of dim sum - Har Gau and Siu Mai - using freshly prepared pastry over the course of two hours. Oh and of course you get to eat your creations at the end of the session.
4
Head to the Copacabana
Where: London Cabaret Club at the Bloomsbury Ballroom, Holborn
Good for: Date night, night out with friends
Ok, get ready for one of the best nights of your life with a trip to Brazil (via Holborn). This cabaret show is filled with songs like Barry Manilow's 'Copacabana' and I Like It Like That' by Pete Rodriguez, and dance performances that will make you feel upbeat and as if you're partying on the beach in Brazil, created by Artistic Director/Choreographer Doni Fierro and London Cabaret CEO Evelina Girling,. Performed in three acts, you're also served a three course Latin American inspired meal while watching the show. Dinner and a show? Sign us up. You will be completely enchanted by the performances and once the show is over, a DJ is on hand to keep the party going.
Copacabana is on until 26th October 2024, so book your tickets fast.
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5
Eat in a hot air balloon... in a field
Where: Watford
Good for: Date night
For the second year running, the genius team at Feast Events have set up a fleet of Insta-grid-friendly hot air balloons in the gorgeous grounds of The Grove Hotel. You can either book their afternoon tea, which includes a delicious whipped cheese ice cream cone with a truffle flake, as well as finger sandwiches and tasty sweet treats, or you can opt for the nine-course tasting menu which features roasted Cornish cod and lobster en croute. Food, views and service are all amazing.
While technically not located in London, it’s just a short train journey or car trip away in Watford. And, trust me, it’s worth the travel for a guaranteed dreamy day out.
6
Applaud the best burlesque acts at Proud City
Where: close to Fenchurch Street station/London Liverpool Street
Good for: Nights out with friends
Whether you want a performance that's classic cabaret with a tongue-in-cheek twist (Secret Cabaret Society brings all the fun, feathers and, err, flames!) or something genuinely naughty (might we suggest booking on a date when the Kabaret Exposé acts are on?), Proud City has plenty on offer to jazz up your next night out. Seriously, we're still trying to work out how some of the artists are a) so bendy, b) so fire-resistant and c) how one managed to be suspended from the ceiling solely by her hair?
The venue is the perfect excuse to get dolled up with friends, or for a date, and more than welcomes groups. Peckish? You can opt in for a three-course meal as well as the show, too.
Tickets start from just £20.
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7
Explore God's Own Junkyard
Where: Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall St, E17 9HQ
Good for: Solo trip, catchup with friends, family day out
If you’re into Insta-friendly hidden gems, then head down to God's Own Junkyard in East London. A 15 minute walk from Walthamstow station, there are over 1,000 neon pieces crammed into the snug space. Entrance is free and you can refuel on food and drinks at the Rolling Scones cafe which also serves booze. Oh, and 80% of what’s inside is available to buy (they need to cover that electricity bill somehow).
8
Dine on an old Victoria Line tube carriage
Where: Walthamstow
Good for: Date night
From the cosy Victoria Line tube carriage that seats just 36 to the personal introduction to the menu from skilled Head Chef Bea, Supperclub Tube is a unique experience and an unmissable London dining delight. The six-course set tasting menu is Latin America-inspired, and each dish is packed full of flavour and smells divine. The menu starts with a tasty tomato and chipotle soup with yellow corn, soured cream and coriander and goes on to feature tender lime cured cod and Cuban style shredded brisket before finishing with a corn and passion fruit cake with panna cotta and coconut and lime ice cream. You can opt for your own private table or book to be sat with other guests on the longer stretch of carriage - just be sure to book well in advance as it’s a popular spot.
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9
Visit Maltby Street Market
Where: Rope Walk, SE1 3PA
Good for: Solo trip, groups, date day
Best to be enjoyed when very hungry, Maltby Street Market is a supreme spot for weekend brunching. Tucked away under London Bridge’s railway arches, there’s a huge selection of independent food stalls offering a variety of delicious cuisines from Duck Frites to Gyoza Guys. If you’re planning to plot up and enjoy a drink or two at one of the bars, too, we recommend getting there early as seating is limited.
10
Immerse yourself in art at Frameless
Where: 6 Marble Arch, W1H 7AP
Good for: Solo trip, night out with friends, family day out
If art is your thing, then you have to visit Frameless in Marble Arch. The immersive exhibition uses technology to let you closer to some of the world's most famous masterpieces than ever before. Step beyond the frame and be immersed in the worlds of classic and modern artists, getting up close to every brush stroke.
They also support up-and-coming artists as well as hosting Frameless Lates every month for a unique night out with your pals.
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11
Head to Old Spitalfields Market
Where: E1
Good for: Solo trip, groups, date night, family day out
If you’re planning a trip to London or looking for somewhere to spend a Saturday (or Sunday... or any day of the week), a visit to Old Spitalfields Market is a must. Arrive early to avoid the bustling post-brunch crowds, so you can fully immerse yourself in everything that’s on offer at the iconic East London spot - and there’s a lot. From coffee to crochet cardigans, the market has you covered. Start by grabbing a coffee or chai at Climpson & Sons or Chai Guys before buying a next level sandwich from Crunch. Or for a more relaxed, sit down affair head to French-inspired restaurant 65a for their Surf and Turf and Sunday roast. Once you’re fully fuelled, it’s time to browse the many stalls and stores.
Recommendations include female-owned sustainable store Inspitalfields for gorgeous homeware, books and gifts, or if you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe Mercantile sells a range of independent labels with a focus on sustainable fashion. And for a real head-turning ‘fit, pay a trip to Percy Langley where they stock a selection of incredible British designers, while American Vintage is your go-to if you’re finally ready to ditch your neutrals in favour of comfy, beautiful brights.
Follow @oldspitalfieldsmarket for updates.
12
Head to Carnaby Street
Where: Carnaby Street, W1
Good for: Solo trip, groups, date night, family day out
Carnaby Street in Soho is the ultimate destination for filling a whole day in London. Kick things off with brunch at The Good Egg in Kingly Court, which serves everything from babka french toast to Iraqi aubergine pittas, followed by shopping to your heart's content. There's all you could need for hitting that clothing, makeup, or even homeware fix. Liberty London, we're looking at you.
Once you're peckish again, Bar Kroketa is a brilliant pick for their lunch menu - croquetas, a piece of Spanish tortilla, pan con tomate and olives and crisps for a tenner! Darjeeling Express, an award-winning family-owned Indian run by a all-female kitchen is also a must, followed up with cocktails and live jazz at Nightjar (plus a snap in the iconic photobooth, of course!) You'll barely scratch the surface for all the unique shops and restaurants on offer. Monthly trip, maybe?
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13
Explore Brick Lane
Where: Brick Lane, E1
Good for: Solo trip, groups, date night, family day out
If you want to eat, shop and explore all in one place, then East London's Brick Lane needs to be your next day out. With enough vintage stores to build an entire new wardrobe, a variety of cuisines and in the heart of Shoreditch, this historic street has everything you need.
We recommend enjoying a Bangladeshi curry at the north end of the street, then strolling down towards the south for shopping, even more food and to take in the eclectic art. Plus, you can't leave without getting a Brick Lane bagel. We don't make the rules!
14
Practise your swing at Pitch
Where: Soho and Bishopsgate
Good for: Groups
Golf wouldn’t usually be at the top of our list of things to do on a Saturday afternoon, but hear us out. If you’ve ever been curious about playing golf, Pitch is the perfect place to practise your swing with a group of friends - especially if you’ve never hit a golf ball before. The Soho location is a huge 8,000 sq ft and is home to nine private bays as well as a bar that serves everything from a classic Cosmopolitan (oh, hi!) to a Triple Bogey Negroni and an alcohol free Pi-no Colada.
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15
Dig in at Black Eats London
Where: Bohemia Place, Hackey, E8 1Du
Good for: Solo trip, groups, date night, family day out
With a variety of mouthwatering cuisines in the heart of Hackney, Black Eats London has to be your next go-to spot for the next time you're feeling hangry.
Launched in 2021 in collaboration with Bohemia Place Market, Black Eats London brings together 60 of the best Black-owned businesses in street food, snacks, drinks and more. Plus, there's artisan traders selling clothing, skincare and they hold some of the best nights-out if you like to get lit.
16
Get swept up in the cabaret at Lío London
Where: Coventry Street, W1D
Good for: Groups, nights out with friends
Lío Ibiza has been a hit ever since it opened its doors over a decade ago, so it was a no-brainer to finally open a Lío in London. Set in the former iconic Cafe de Paris building, it’s an incredible space with a stage big enough for the talented theatrical acts - from acrobats to dancers and singers - to truly flaunt their skills. As you’re immersed in the show (introverts, prepare to be swept up out of your seat for a dance), dinner and drinks are served. And on Fridays and Saturdays, once the desserts are cleared, the venue turns into a 700+ capacity club to keep the party going. Up for a big night out in the city? Add it to the list, ASAP.
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17
Dance and dine at Mamma Mia: The Party
Where: The O2, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX
Good for: Groups, a night out with mum
If you're an ABBA or Mamma Mia fan, then get ready to embrace your inner 'Dancing Queen' for a night out like no other.
Be transported to the Greek island of Skopelos to dine at Nikos’ family-run taverna, where you’ll enjoy a four-course meal as a theatre show unfolds all around you. Then, dance the night away at a glittering ABBA disco. It's a theatre show, dinner and party all in one!
18
Play crazy golf at Swingers
Where: West End - 15 John Prince’s Street, W1G 0AB / City branch - City branch is at 8 Brown’s Buildings, EC3A 8AL
Good for: Groups, friends night out, date night
Swingers is as much about the drinks, street food and Friday night atmosphere as it is the golf, but that’s not to say their 9-hole crazy golf courses aren’t some of the best in London. The West End venue is modelled on a 1920’s British seaside while the City branch is based on a 1920’s golf club set in the English countryside.
But, the best of all? The staff (or the caddies as they’re called) - just check out all the rave reviews on Trip Advisor.
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19
Enjoy afternoon tea at Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Where: Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Catherine St, Covent Garden, London WC2B 5JF
Good for: A day out with the parents, catch up with friends
London boasts an endless list of luxurious afternoon teas, but they don’t get much better than the super fancy offering in the Grand Saloon. Served on custom decorated fine bone china featuring Mythical Characters designed by interior designers Kit and Willow Kemp, feast on madeleines topped with whipped English feta and pickled heritage carrot before finishing off with a miniature sticky toffee pudding. The tea without champagne costs £59 and gluten free and vegan options are also available.
20
Pretend you're a Great British Bake Off contestant
Where: There are two Big Bakes tents, one in Haggerston, East London, and another in Tooting Bec, South London
Good for: Groups, day out with friends or family
Calling all GBBO fans (so, err, everyone then?) – the Big Bakes experience offers up the chance to pretend you're on everybody's favourite cake-heavy show for the day, with new challenges and themes set each month... Meaning, you can return again and again.
When you arrive, you'll be lead to a work station (with your teammate) where ingredients and instructions await. Once you've created your masterpiece, you'll also have it judged in true Paul Hollywood style by an expert, who will crown an ultimate winner.
There's also a bar/cafe on site, too, where you can treat yourself to a cocktail or cuppa afterwards and get munching whatever delicious treat it is that you were tasked with conjuring up. Great for dates, a Mother's or Father's Day gift, or simply hanging with your pals.