Things To Do
Things to do in London this week
Looking for things to do in London this week? We've got you covered
London. Home to four UNESCO world heritage sites, 300 spoken languages, 8.8 million people and more ways to keep yourself entertained than you can shake an umbrella at. So many, in fact, that it can be hard to choose. That’s why we’ve compiled this handy guide, which each week will bring you the very best things to do in London, covering music, comedy, art, immersive experiences, theatre and lots, lots more. So whether you’re a tourist looking to make the most of your trip to the Big Smoke, or a local in need of some free activities to pass the time till payday, read on to discover the finest activities London has to offer.
Step inside the paintings at FRAMELESS
Where? 6 Marble Arch, London W1H 7AP
Who’s it for? Lovers of art
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to step inside some of the greatest paintings in the history of art, you need to check out FRAMELESS, a multi-sensory digital art experience in the heart of London. Across four immersive galleries, you’ll have the opportunity to lose yourself in the works of Cezanne, Kandinsky, Monet, Dalí, Van Gogh, Canaletto, Rembrandt, Klimt and more, giving you a one of a kind glimpse into the worlds these artists imagined.
Catch Usher live at The O2
Where? Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX
Who’s it for? Fans of Usher
With eight Grammy wins under his belt and a career that spans three decades, it’s safe to say that Usher has earned icon status. And now, the seemingly ageless R&B star is back in the UK for his Past Present Future Tour, which will include a string of performances at London’s O2 Arena. It’s been ten years since Usher was last in the English capital, and it could be the same length of time before he returns, so don’t miss your chance to witness a true legend of R&B.
Immerse yourself in nostalgia at The FRIENDS Experience
Where? Immerse LDN, ExCeL Waterfront, 1 Western Gateway, London, E16 1XL
Who’s it for? Fans of the hit sitcom Friends
If you’re a fan of the iconic sitcom Friends, you’ve probably fantasised about hanging out with the gang inside their New York apartment. And now you can, thanks to The FRIENDS Experience: The One in London. Well, sort of. The gang won’t be there (being fictional characters and all), but you can still immerse yourself in recreated sets, dance in front of the fountain, peep through the purple door at Rachel and Monica’s apartment, play foosball at Joey and Chandler’s and take a selfie on the famous orange couch in Central Perk.
Get tickets to The FRIENDS Experience
Get emotional with Orla Gartland
Where? O2 Academy Brixton, 211 Stockwell Rd, London SW9 9SL
Who’s it for? Fans of eclectic funkiness
Orla Gartland exploded in popularity in 2022, when her single ‘Why Am I Like This?’ closed out an episode of Netflix’s LGBTQ+ series Heartstopper. Since then, the Irish singer-songwriter has gone from strength to strength, with her sophomore album Everybody Needs a Hero earning widespread acclaim for its folk-infused pop sound and emotionally charged lyrics. Gartland is briefly touching down in London on 3 April for a single show at the O2 Forum Kentish Town, and – like all of Gartland’s performances – it’s set to be an intimate, unforgettable event.
Find your zen in Kyoto Garden
Where? 100 Holland Park Avenue, London W11 4UA, United Kingdom
Who’s it for? Anyone looking for some calm
If you’re craving a break from the hustle and bustle of city living, beat a retreat to Kyoto Garden, a secluded sanctum tucked away inside Holland Park. There you’ll find ponds filled with gently meandering koi carp, traditional Japanese stone lanterns, a mesmerising waterfall and peacocks strutting their stuff. Best of all, you don’t have to a pay a penny to get in, and you can spend as long as you like soaking in the serenity before returning to the rat race.
Get directions to Kyoto Garden
Sing your heart out at Mamma Mia!
Where? Novello Theatre Aldwych, London, WC2B 4LD
Who’s it for? Anyone who loves the music of ABBA
One of the West End’s longest-running shows, Mamma Mia! is more popular than ever, thanks in no small part to the film franchise it inspired, as well as the recent ABBA Voyage tour. Weaving together the music of everyone’s favourite Swedish pop supergroup with a story that’s equal parts heartwarming and hilarious, Mamma Mia! is the perfect way to kick off your weekend. And yes, singing along is actively encouraged.
Get shaken by bass at fabric London
Where? 77A Charterhouse Street, London, EC1M 6HJ
Who’s it for? Discerning ravers
One of the most iconic nightclubs in the entire world, fabric London hasn’t just been a part of dance music history – it’s actively shaped it. From giving rising stars a chance to showcase their skills via its FABRICLIVE mix series, to curating some of the most memorable line-ups of all time, fabric London continues to leave an indelible mark on rave culture. If you want to get your brain rattled by bass this weekend, there’s no better venue.
Find out what’s on at fabric London this weekend
Take a ride on the London Eye
Where? Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB
Who’s it for? Anyone who hasn’t already been on it
With the opening of the Shard’s viewing platform, the London Eye no longer represents the best way to get a panoramic view of London’s skyline. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth checking out. For one thing, the London Eye moves (which the Shard doesn’t, unless something’s gone horribly wrong). For another, it’s a London institution, taking centre stage on everyone’s postcards and holiday snaps. And while it no longer offers the best views of London as a whole, it does offer a truly unique vantage point from which to check out Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
Book tickets for the London Eye
Enjoy the thrills of live music at Electric Brixton
Where? Electric Brixton, Town Hall Parade, Brixton Hill, London SW2 1RJ
Who’s it for? Fans of live music
Brixton is home to some of the most acclaimed live music spots in all of London, but there’s something special about Electric Brixton. Originally built as an Art Deco cinema, the venue boasts one of the best sound systems in the English capital, and it has a well-deserved reputation for curating exceptional line-ups. If you’re in the mood for some unforgettable live music – or find yourself kicking around with no plans this weekend – Electric Brixton should be at the top of your list.
Find out what’s on at Electric Brixton this weekend
Defy gravity at Wicked
Where? Apollo Victoria Theatre, 17 Wilton Rd, Pimlico, London SW1V 1LG
Who’s it for? Fans of musicals, or anyone who’s seen the movie
Make no mistake, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande deserve every bit of the lavish praise they’ve received for their performances in the 2024 adaptation of Wicked. But in our (admittedly biased) opinion, nothing beats hearing music live. That’s why Wicked remains a must-see spectacle for anyone in London, and now is the perfect time to grab some last minute tickets to the West End’s most magical show.
Get to grips with contemporary art at the Tate Modern
Where? Bankside, London SE1 9TG
Who’s it for? Anyone who wants to understand modern art
If you’ve ever stood in front of a piece of modern art and said “I don’t get it,” don’t worry – you’re not alone. Fortunately, help is at hand in the form of the Tate Modern, one of Britain’s most revered art institutes. Devoted to all things contemporary, the Tate doesn’t just showcase works of art, it also breaks them down and brings them to life, giving you an insight into the true genius at play behind the canvas (or inscrutable pile of bricks).
Find out more about the Tate Modern
Get funky with Franc Moody
Where? O2 Academy Brixton, 211 Stockwell Rd, London SW9 9SL
Who’s it for? Fans of eclectic funkiness
Throwing elements of funk, soul, disco and electronica into a sonic blender, Franc Moody have established themselves as one of the most innovative acts to emerge from the cutting edge of London’s underground scene. Originally a duo consisting of Ned Franc and Jon Moody, Franc Moody have steadily added members to the line-up, with singer and multi-instrumentalist Amber-Simone now sharing lead duties during live performances. If you don’t mind partying on a school night, Franc Moody will be turning in a funk-filled performance at the O2 Academy Brixton on 3 April.
Explore the dark of side of history at the London Dungeon
Where? Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB
Who’s it for? Anyone with an interest in history or morbid things in general
Everyone knows that the world used to be a much nastier place, but the London Dungeon transforms that abstract knowledge into a visceral, immersive experience. Gleefully gory and delightfully depraved, the Dungeon takes you on a journey back in time, bringing to life the manifold horrors of London’s most infamous prison with actors, animatronics and gruesome special effects. It’s not all mindless blood and guts, however, and you’ll leave the Dungeon with newfound knowledge about some of England’s most interesting historical events.
Get tickets to the London Dungeon
Broaden your musical horizons at the Jazz Cafe
Where? 5 Parkway, London NW1 7PG
Who’s it for? Fans of jazz, or anyone who enjoys live music
In recent decades, jazz has developed a reputation for being somewhat inaccessible. Fortunately, that’s now starting to change, thanks in no small part to venues like the Jazz Cafe. One of London’s most eclectic live music spots, the Jazz Cafe has developed a reputation for putting on line-ups that blend jazz, blues and any number of other contemporary genres. So whether you’re an existing jazz fan, or looking to broaden your musical horizons, consider adding a trip to the Jazz Cafe to your weekend itinerary.
Find out what’s on at the Jazz Cafe this week
Get lost in the spooky World of Tim Burton
Where? Design Museum, 224–238 Kensington High Street, London W8 6AG
Who’s it for? Anyone who likes Tim Burton’s movies
It’s not every day that you get to step into the mind of a creative genius, but that’s exactly what’s on offer at The World of Tim Burton. One of Hollywood’s most distinctive auteurs, Burton has spent his career perfecting a spooky aesthetic that has won him legions of fans, not to mention a cabinet-full of awards. Now, in an immersive exhibition at London’s Design Museum, you can take a peek into Burton’s creative process, with the collection encompassing drawings (including some from his childhood), paintings, photographs, sketchbooks, moving-image works, sculptural installations, and set and costume designs.
Get tickets to The World of Tim Burton
Explore human history at the British Museum
Where? Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG
Who’s it for? Anyone with an interest in history, art or culture
The British Museum opened its doors to the public in 1759, with the goal of showcasing artefacts brought home by the great explorers of the day. Since then, the museum has amassed a collection of more than eight million fascinating items – many of which regularly go on display – and it often hosts special exhibitions delving deep into niche subjects. Whether you’re interested in expanding your own knowledge or looking for something to keep the kids occupied for a few hours, the British Museum is a safe bet if you’re looking for free things to do in London.
Find out more about what’s on at the British museum
Peak into the room where it happened at Hamilton
Where? Victoria Palace Theatre, Victoria Street, London, SW1E 5EA
Who’s it for? History buffs who love a good musical
Hamilton isn’t just a musical – it’s a cultural phenomenon. The brainchild of the legendary Lin-Manuel Miranda (who also wrote both Moana and Encanto), Hamilton explores the earliest days of the United States by chronicling the story of its most interesting Founding Father, told through an award-winning musical score that blends rap, blues, jazz, and R&B and show tunes. This is history like you’ve never seen (or heard) it before.
Belly laugh at Big Belly Comedy Club
Where? Units 6 & 7, 30 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9LQ
Who’s it for? Fans of stand-up comedy
South East London’s premier destination for stand-up comedy, the Big Belly Comedy Club has been spreading laughter and putting on unforgettable nights of side-splitting entertainment for years. Big Belly Comedy Club serves up laughs seven days a week, and it’s also home to some of London’s best street food vendors, so if you’re looking for something fun to do in London, it should be top of your list.
Sample London’s culinary culture at Borough Market
Where? Victoria Palace Theatre, Victoria Street, London, SW1E 5EA
Who’s it for? 8 Southwark Street, London, SE1 1TL
Just a few minutes’ walk from London Bridge train station, you’ll find one of London’s most historic areas. Although it once existed to supply greengrocers and restaurants, today Borough Market mostly consists of stalls selling nothing but mouthwatering delicacies. From the legendary Black Pig – which has recently been setting social media ablaze with its gargantuan sandwiches – to Richard Haward’s, which has been serving fresh oysters for seven generations, Borough Market has something for everyone.
Get directions to Borough Market
Enter the Wizarding World at Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Where? Palace Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 5AY
Who’s it for? Fans of Harry Potter
The creation of acclaimed British playwright Jack Thorne (currently making new water cooler waves with Adolescence on Netflix), Harry Potter and the Cursed Child picks up where the seventh book left off, exploring Harry’s life as a father, husband and Ministry of Magic employee. Since its premier in 2016, the Cursed Child has become the most awarded West End production in the history of the Olivier Awards. So dust off your wand, ready your Nimbus 2000 and prepare to enter a world of magic and darkness.
Get tickets to Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Get your mind blown at the Science Museum
Where? Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD
Who’s it for? Anyone with an interest in science
London’s Science Museum exists for two purposes: to catalogue history’s most important scientific breakthroughs, and to shine a light on developments from the cutting edge of modern research. To these ends, the museum boasts immersive galleries, interactive installations and time-limited exhibitions – all of which will blow your mind. The Science Museum also has a number of areas designed to spark curiosity in young minds, making it a perfect day out of the entire family.
Learn more about the Science Museum
Enjoy an uproarious evening with Paul Chowdhry
Where? Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX
Who’s it for? Anyone who needs a laugh
If you’re a fan of comedy you’ve almost certainly seen Paul Chowdhry on your screen, either in one of his specials or on one of the many panel shows he frequents. But in case you’ve somehow never seen him, here’s what you need to know: Chowdhry is regarded as the most successful British Indian stand-up comedian in British history, not to mention one of the funniest. If you want to see Chowdhry in the flesh, you can catch him at the London O2 on April 3 as part of his Englandia tour.
Embark on the ABBA Voyage
Where? ABBA Arena, Pudding Mill Lane, London E15 2RU
Who’s it for? Anyone who needs a laugh
ABBA’s last public performance took place on December 11, 1982. Sadly, we can’t send you back in time to see the Swedish supergroup in their prime, but we do have the next best thing. Blending cutting edge technology and some of the most beloved pop records in history, ABBA Voyage sees the band return to the stage in truly spectacular fashion. For an upgraded experience check out ABBA Arena’s Oceanbird Lounge, and if you’re visiting from out of town make the most of your trip with our ABBA Voyage Hotel Packages.
Journey through space and time at
Back to the Future The Musical
Where? The Adelphi Theatre, 409-412 Strand, London, WC2R 0NS
Who’s it for? Anyone craving some 80s nostalgia
If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling back to simpler times (and honestly, who hasn’t?), then Back to the Future the Musical should be at the heart of your weekend plans. Adapted for the stage by the minds behind the original movie, Back to the Future takes you on a voyage that’s electrifying and nostalgic in equal measure. Get ready to join Marty McFly and Doc Brown as they race against time to rectify the past, secure the present, and navigate their way… back to the future.
Get tickets to Back to the Future the Musical
Experience the thrills of six-a-side football at Baller League
Where? Copper Box Arena, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, E20 3HB
Who’s it for? Football fanatics
If you’ve ever kicked a ball around with your mates, you’ll know it’s hard to beat the excitement of a six-a-side match. While this format was previously reserved for playgrounds and parks, Baller League has teamed up with icons of the beautiful game including Gary Lineker, John Terry and Alan Shearer to find out what happens when the pros have a go. Originating in Germany, Baller League has rapidly gained a massive following, and after two successful seasons it’s making its UK debut at the iconic Copper Box Arena on 31 March.
Revel in weirdness at the Horniman Museum
Where? 100 London Road, Forest Hill, London, SE23 3PQ
Who’s it for? Anyone with an appreciation for oddities
Founded in 1901 by Frederick John Horniman, the Horniman Museum boasts a number of exhibitions, with displays including anthropology, ancient musical instruments and natural history. However, the museum is most famous for its large (and profoundly weird) collection of taxidermied animals, the centrepiece of which is a comically overstuffed walrus. If you’re looking for something free to do in London this weekend, the Horniman Museum is guaranteed to deliver a memorable experience.
If you’re looking for more things to do in London, check out our What’s On London Event Guide
