What to do in London this weekend? November is here, meaning the season of cosy outfits, darker nights and all things—dare we say it—Christmas are in full swing.
This weekend, there's the Pitchfork Music Festival and Christmas lights on for the first time this season. If you're looking for family-friendly things to do, then firework displays in and around the capital are for you.
Check back here each week for updates, as we narrow the best things to do in London this weekend down to a handy top 30: from free things to do in London this weekend to the most luxurious, unusual, quirky, or wholesome. Whatever the occasion—dates, with mates, or on your own—find our hand-chosen recommendations below.
Curated by Lauren Cole, Lead Editor. Find out more about how we create our guides in our Editorial Policy.
What Are The Best Things Happening In London This Weekend?
1. Celebrate Bonfire Night At These Events
Of course, the event of the weekend has to be about Bonfire Night displays. London lights up over the next couple of days with fireworks that are perfect for families, date nights, and more.
There's all sorts to check out, from the charity firework night at Anglers in Teddington, with pizza, wings and a hog roast, to JOIA Rooftop's season closing party in Battersea, complete with live DJ sets and freshly cooked paella.
- When: all weekend
- Location: across
London
- Price: varies
- We recommend for: firework fun
Discover More Bonfire Night Displays Here.
Look forward to pretty night skies this weekend.
2. Check Out Carnaby And Oxford Circus's Christmas Lights
Winter in the capital officially kicks off as central London transforms into a glowing winter wonderland, and several iconic locations will already be lit up by this weekend. Oxford Street leads the festive charge with its Harry Potter-inspired displays stretching across the famous shopping thoroughfare.
Right around the corner in Soho, Carnaby Street lights up with a bold, 90s-inspired theme titled Press Play on Christmas - bringing neon arches, retro charm, and endless photo opportunities to the pedestrianised haven. Be sure to take an early evening stroll down to soak in London’s magical holiday atmosphere before grabbing a warm drink or heading out for dinner.
- When: from 2nd November 2026
- Location: Soho
- Price: free
- We recommend for: Christmas activities, shopping
Discover More Christmas Lights In London Here.
Oxford Street's lights are stunning every year.
3. Enjoy Diwali In London With These Menus And Celebrations
If you’re looking to celebrate Diwali with an unforgettable meal, the capital's dining scene has pulled out all the stops with limited-edition menus. For an upmarket fine dining experience, head to Marylebone's Michelin-starred Trishna for their 'Taste of Trishna' menu featuring partridge pepper fry, tandoori lamb chops, and Dorset brown crab .
Over in the City, Indian barbecue powerhouse Brigadiers is dishing up a decadent £105-per-person feast with cod kalimirch tikka and venison shank korma inside military-mess-hall-inspired surroundings. For a family-run gem near Bank, Chatora City offers an accessible set menu curated by Chef Imamuddin Khan, showcasing dishes like kasoori chicken tikka with gruyère and organic jackfruit biryani. Finally, over at Westminster's St. James, The Pem is hosting chef Romy Gill for a £65 four-course feast including spiced Kaddu pumpkin curry and Moong Dal Halwa against opulent crimson backdrops.
- When: 8th November (with events surrounding)
- Location: various across
London
- Price: varies
- We recommend for: delicious food and dancing
Discover More Diwali Events Here.
Tuck into stunning set menus for Diwali (Trishna pictured).
4. Explore Wildlife Photographer Of The Year
An internationally acclaimed exhibition, Wildlife Photographer of the Year can be found at the Natural History Museum. This display celebrates the best of nature photography, from polar landscapes to tropical rainforests and oceans.
These photos offer an insight into our changing environment, highlighting the people, places and species that need our attention.
- When: until 11th July 2027
- Location: Natural History Museum
- Price: from £17 per person
- We recommend for: photography fans
Get Tickets For The Exhibition Here.
Explore wildlife photography at this exhibition.
5. Attend Pitchfork Music Festival
As November settles in, festival season in the capital is far from over - Pitchfork Music Festival London 2026 returns for seven days of boundary-pushing sound from 2nd to 8th November 2026. Spanning iconic music spaces across the city - including the Roundhouse, KOKO, Hackney Church, EartH, Royal Festival Hall, and Village Underground - this year's multi-venue takeover brings together over 60 visionary artists across post-rock, electronic, avant-garde jazz, ambient, and indie.
Headliners and highlights include legendary sample-pop outfit The Avalanches taking over the Roundhouse, post-rock pioneers Tortoise, raw Chicago hip-hop force Noname, ambient-piano innovator Hania Rani, and electronic visionary Actress. Beyond the big hall showcases, festival-goers can dive into experimental showcases during the signature Dalston Takeover featuring performances across Café OTO, Moth Club, St. Matthias Church, and The Shacklewell Arms.
- When: 2nd-8th November 2026
- Location: Roundhouse, Cafe OTO, EartH Hall, and more
- Price: varies
- We recommend for: music lovers
Pitchfork Music Festival 2026.
6. Drink And Dine At One Of These Amazing Bottomless Brunches
Name something you'd rather do on the weekend than a bottomless brunch...we'll wait. Unlimited drinks are now a weekend staple, and mean you can keep track of your pennies without overspending.
There's a whole host of bottomless brunches available across the city, with everything from ABBA-themed affairs in Covent Garden to multi-award-winning brunches entirely centred around Eastenders star, Pat Butcher. Whatever you're looking for, there's something for everyone.
- When: usually held on Saturdays and Sundays
- Location: locations across London
- Price: prices vary depending on the brunch
- We recommend for: tasty cocktails and delicious dishes
Book A Bottomless Brunch Here.
London has everything from Taylor Swift bottomless brunches to ABBA.
7. Experience A Spellbinding Trip To Hexmoor: Wizarding Prison
The world's first wizarding prison bar is opening its doors this weekend. From the creators of Alcotraz, Moonshine Saloon and Avora, this brand-new immersive experience will see you conversing with dark arts wizards and prison guards from the wizarding world.
Hexmoor is an immersive theatrical experience combining film-like set designs, three amazing cocktails and magical special effects that are set to blow you away. And you even get your own prison jumpsuit to fully get into character.
- When: all weekend
-
Location: 127
Hackney Road, Unit 11, Hackney, E2
8GY
- Price: tickets from
£49.50
- We recommend for: immersive experiences and quirky cocktails
Book Tickets To Hexmoor: Wizarding Prison Here.
Step inside the magical world of Hexmoor prison for the ultimate immersive cocktail experience.
8. Whisk Up A Storm At Big Bakes
Channel your inner pastry chef at The Big London Bake, South and East London's award-winning answer to the ultimate baking challenge. Perfect for those with a competitive streak and a love for sweets, this 90-minute extravaganza pairs you with a baking bench buddy to whip up, decorate, and present a masterpiece based on a monthly rotating theme.
With all pre-measured ingredients, professional instructions, and a Head Baker on hand to guide your station, the experience is designed to be entirely stress-free - right down to the fact that they even handle the washing up.
- When: various dates
-
Location: 38 Tooting High
Street, SW17 0RG and Lee Street,
E84ED
- Price: from £32.40 per person
- We recommend for: double dates, group activities, and baking fans
Book Big Bakes In London Here.
Get your bake on in South and East London.
9. Discover FRAMELESS Lates
FRAMELESS is the iconic, immersive art gallery that brings classic pieces to life, and they offer adults-only sessions after dark. There are four different multi-sensory galleries to explore, where you'll be surrounded by artwork on every surface.
In these late-night visits, drinks are allowed inside the gallery, and there'll be a soundtrack from Soho Radio. Perfect for a unique night out, you'll see art in a whole new way here.
- When: Fridays and Saturdays
- Location: 6 Marble Arch, London, W1H 7AP
- Price: from £20 per person
- We recommend for: a unique art experience
Dive into immersive art at this unique gallery.
10. Throw Shapes At A Bottomless Hoedown Brunch
Dust off your cowboy boots and get ready for a Saturday like no other, as Tequila Mockingbird transforms your weekend into a high-octane Bottomless Hoedown Brunch. You can look forward to a two-hour celebration of boot-scootin’ burlesque and dazzling drag performances, complete with country classic sing-alongs and a competitive round of Hoedown Bingo.
Indulge in 90 minutes of bottomless service, featuring everything from margaritas and pornstar martinis to ice-cold beers and bubbly, while teetotalers are well-catered for with signature mocktails like the Spring Fling and Prom Queen. There'll be plenty of pizza, too.
- When: Saturdays
- Location: Tequila Mockingbird Covent Garden, 42 William IV Street, WC2N 4DD
- Price: from £52.92 per
person
- We recommend for: a fun time dancing, brunch enthusiasts, a weekend with friends
Grab Tickets To Tequila Mockingbird's Bottomless Hoedown Brunch Here.
Saddle up for this brunch.
11. See Quentin Blake Illustrations At The Southbank Parade
As part of The Southbank Centre's 75th anniversary celebrations, Sir Quentin Blake has created a series of illustrations for the occasion. They feature some of the icons who have graced their stage over the years, as well as Londoners of all backgrounds who fill the riverfront on a daily basis.
The artwork can be found everywhere from the cloakrooms to the balconies of the building, as well as multiple pieces outdoors.
- When: 3rd-8th November 2026
- Location: The Southbank
Centre
- Price: free
- We recommend for: family fun
Find Out More About The Southbank Centre's Quentin Blake Exhibition Here.
See the legendary illustrator's work this weekend.
12. Visit An Unusual Museum
It's no secret that London is home to some of the best museums in the world, but if you're bored of all the usual suspects (though we know you really can't go wrong with the Natural History)? We've got just the thing.
These seven weird and wonderful
museums are a great way to spend your Saturday or
Sunday (especially if you're looking for free events in London this
weekend). Whether you fancy checking out the Freud Museum in
Hampstead or heading to Bethnal Green to discover a collection of
curiosities throughout history, this list will sort you
out.
- When: various dates and times, depending on the museum
- Location: museums across the capital
- Price: from free, but depends on the museum
- We recommend for: quirky art displays and history
Explore More Unusual Museums Here.
Experience the wacky and wild collections that London has to offer.
13. Do Aqua Aerobics or Yoga With Skyline Views
Designed by the visionary Jaime Hayon, art'otel London Battersea Power Station offers a cultural escape. This March, the hotel’s rooftop becomes a hub for wellness and leisure, kicking off with aqua aerobics sessions, followed by skyline yoga and breakfast for those looking to find zen above the city.
For a more melodic weekend treat, the hotel hosts afternoon tea with live music, providing the perfect blend of sophisticated dining and artistic atmosphere. Whether you're diving into the rooftop pool or enjoying the curated events, art'otel stands as one of the city’s hippest vantage points for food, fitness, and the arts.
- When: various dates
- Where: 1 Electric Blvd, Nine Elms, SW11 8BJ
- Price: from £27.50 per person
- Perfect for: unique exercise ideas and stunning vistas
Book art'otel London Battersea Power Station Wellbeing Events Here.
Head up to the roof for some yoga.
14. Head To A Freddie Mercury Exhibition
Celebrating the iconic musician's 80th anniversary year, Freddie Mercury | Splendid Things is a brand new display at the V&A. You'll get to see eight looks from his career, including from music videos and legendary performances.
This is totally free to attend, so head down and learn more about this famed singer.
- When: from 24th October 2026
- Location: V&A, South Kensington
- Price: free
- We recommend for: fans of music and fashion
Book Tickets To The Freddie Mercury Exhibition Here.
Discover more about Freddie Mercury through his fashion.
15. See Jesus Christ Superstar
Coming to Theatre Royal Drury Lane this autumn and winter, Jesus Christ Superstar is an iconic musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. This is the award-winning Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production, following a record-breaking summer at The London Palladium.
It's directed by Tim Sheader, choreography is
by Olivier Award-winner Drew McOnie and the design is by Tony
and Olivier Award-winner Tom Scutt - it's set to be something truly
special.
- When: until 9th January 2027
- Location: Theatre Royal Drury
Lane
- Price: from £25 per person
- We recommend for: fans of the musical
Get Tickets For Jesus Christ Superstar Here.
Catch the musical at Theatre Royal Drury Lane.
16. See Carmen At The Royal Ballet & Opera
Damiano Michieletto’s white-hot production of Bizet’s Carmen is taking centre stage at the Royal Opera House. Featuring an all-star cast led by Ginger Costa-Jackson and Ramona Zaharia alongside Russell Thomas and Valentyn Dytiuk, this electrifying opera explores passion, obsession, and jealousy in a remote Spanish town as the free-spirited Carmen seduces the conflicted Don José.
Conducted by Sesto Quatrini and sung in French with English surtitles, Bizet's iconic, sensual score runs for just over three hours (including one interval), making it the ultimate high-culture night out or weekend matinee in London.
- When: until 21st November 2026
- Location: Royal Ballet & Opera, Bow Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 9DD
- Price: from £47 per person
- We recommend for: seeing a gorgeous play in a historic venue
Book Tickets To Carmen At The Royal Ballet & Opera
Here.
Carmen features an all-star cast.
17. Check Out These Winter Pop-Ups
- When: all
winter
- Location: across
London
- Price:
varies
- We recommend for: a cosy, seasonal experience
Winter is well and truly upon us, but that doesn't mean there's not plenty to get out and see this weekend. The city is packed full of seasonal pop-ups, promising cosy spaces, warming drinks and dazzling decorations.
Some of our top picks include Fire & Fromage at Jimmy's and Lodge D'Argent, as well as multiple different igloos all over the capital.
Discover the city's best winter pop-ups.
18. Check Out Doc'n Roll Festival
The 13th edition of Doc'n Roll Film Festival is coming to London this weekend, taking place across several of the city's best cinemas. This is a womxn-led film agency that champions marginalised voices, showcasing music and film of all genres.
This weekend, discover screenings of The Best Summer, Peven Everett: Voice of a Generation, Wolf and more.
- When: until 8th November 2026
- Location: across London
- Price: varies
- We recommend for: independent film lovers
Find Out More About Doc'n'Roll's Festival Line-Up Here.
Doc'n Roll festival is coming to London cinemas.
19. Devour A Sunday Roast
After a long, hot summer, there's finally starting to be an autumnal chill in the air. And what better way to enter the cosy season than by checking out some of the city's best Sunday roasts?
We've rounded up the very best spots to enjoy a roast dinner all over the city, tried and tested by the DesignMyNight team. From dry-aged beef rump at Hawksmoor to veggie filo rolls with all the trimmings at The Talbot, there's all sorts to check out here.
-
When:
Sundays
- Location: across London
- Price: varies
- We recommend for: a wholesome Sunday outing
Discover Our Favourite Sunday Roasts Here.
Tuck into this quintessential British feast.
20. Check Out London's Best Parks
When the weather's looking good for the weekend ahead, there's nothing better than chilling in a beautiful green space, and it's one of the many free things to do. This city has plenty of parks (and is actually made up of 40% public spaces), which is why it's only natural that we've put together a guide to the very best parks across the capital.
We've got all areas covered, from Hampstead Heath to Clapham Common or Greenwich Park - perfect for picnics, alfresco drinks and soaking up the sun among Grade II-listed buildings or picturesque Japanese gardens.
- When: anytime
- Location: London's most famous green spaces
- Price: free
- We recommend for: free things to do and wholesome experiences
Free-roaming deer inhabit Richmond Park.
21. Explore The Newest Restaurant Openings
Looking to spice up your weekend with something delicious? London’s restaurant scene is bursting with fresh openings, from sleek rooftop spots to cosy neighbourhood gems. Whether you're craving Korean BBQ, modern Mediterranean, or plant-based plates, there’s a new table waiting for you.
- When: various opening times
-
Location: varying locations
across the city
- Price: prices of food will
vary
- We recommend for: incredible food and dining out
Read More About London's Newest Restaurant Openings Here.
Check out the capital's hottest new restaurant openings.
22. See The Lives of Others
The Lives Of Others is a moving play about writer and an actor who are placed under state surveillance in East Germany, set in 1984. It's being performed at Adelphi Theatre, starring Keira Knightley, Stephen Dillane and Luke Thompson.
This has been adapted and directed by Olivier Award-winner Robert Icke, based on the 2007 film. It explores the relationship between art and politics, focusing on artistic censorship and state surveillance.
- When: until 9th January 2027
- Location: Adelphi Theatre
- Price: from £25 per person
- We recommend for: theatre fans
Book Tickets To The Lives Of Others Here.
This play stars Keira Knightley and Luke Thompson.
23. Check Out The Capital's Best Cocktail Bars
Looking for the perfect spot to sip something special this weekend? London’s cocktail scene is overflowing with stylish bars serving up expertly crafted drinks in unforgettable settings. Whether you're into smoky old fashioneds, tropical tiki creations, or something totally experimental, there’s a bar for every taste.
Head to Swift for sleek sophistication, SOMA for minimalist Japanese-inspired mixes, or Nightjar for vintage vibes and live jazz. If you’re after something quirky, try Callooh Callay for playful menus and bold flavours. It’s the ideal way to elevate your weekend plans - one cocktail at a time.
- When: open now
- Location: 30 Grosvenor Square, Mayfair, W1K 6AN
- Price: prices of food and drinks
vary
- We recommend for: American-Italian dining and date night
Explore More Of London's Best Cocktail Bars Here.
London is home to some of the best cocktail bars in the UK.
24. Relax In A Cosy Pub With A Fireplace
The weather is getting colder, and there's nowhere better to be this weekend than a cosy London pub. And if you're wondering where to find one with a fireplace? Then check out our handy guide.
Some of our favourites include the Holly Bush in Hampstead, The Grazing Goat in Marylebone, Canary Wharf's Gun and the Rose & Crown in Stoke Newington.
- When: all weekend
- Location: across London
- Price: free entry
- We recommend for: winter drinks
Book Your Favourite Cosy Pub Here.
There's nothing better than a pub with a fireplace.
25. Check Out The Agatha Christie Exhibition At The British Library
Looking for the ultimate culture fix this weekend? Enter the world of the undisputed Queen of Crime with a landmark exhibition celebrating the extraordinary life and legacy of Agatha Christie. This captivating display takes you on a journey through the real-life inspirations behind her legendary whodunits, from grand English country estates to sun-drenched archaeological digs and romantic trips aboard the Orient Express.
Packed with fascinating personal letters, original manuscripts, and never-before-seen drafts, you can get up close to iconic artefacts like her 1937 Remington typewriter (on which she penned And Then There Were None) and her original 1917 pharmaceutical study notes.
- When: 30th October 2026 - 20th June 2027
- Location: British Library, 96 Euston Road, NW1 2DB
- Price: from £25 per person (peak)
- We recommend for: fans of the writer, murder mystery enthusiasts, literary lovers
Book Tickets To Agatha Christie At The British Library Here.
Credit: The Christie Archive Trust.
26. Visit Absurd City By Wake The Tiger
Wake The Tiger is a unique experience that has created an imaginative attraction: Absurd City. This is one of their signature amazement parks, where you'll travel through a portal and enter a whole new world.
The premise is that this city has suffered a climate collapse, and it has been sealed under a giant dome. You'll get to explore different districts, trying to save the city and even working with a robotic dog.
- When: every day
- Location: Westfield London, Shepherd's Bush
- Price: from £22.95 per person
- We recommend for: a futuristic, immersive experience
Explore this unique city at Wake The Tiger's immersive experience.
27. Go Back In Time To The 90s: Art And Fashion
Curated by fashion trailblazer Edward Enninful OBE, The 90s: Art And Fashion is a major exhibition exploring a transformative decade of British culture defined by rebellion, optimism, and cross-disciplinary creativity across art, fashion, music, and design.
The show brings together iconic fashion photography by Juergen Teller, Nick Knight, David Sims, and Corinne Day alongside works by leading YBA and contemporary artists including Damien Hirst, Gillian Wearing, and Yinka Shonibare. Highlighting the era's bold visual language, the exhibition also spotlights groundbreaking fashion creations from influential designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen, and Hussein Chalayan.
- When: until 14th February
2027
- Location: Tate
Britain, Millbank, SW1P
4RG
- Price: from £22 per person
- We recommend for: art lovers
2026 is all about the 90s.
28. Mundo Pixar Experience
The world’s largest immersive Pixar exhibition, the Mundo Pixar Experience, can now be found in Wembley, following successful runs in Madrid, Barcelona and Brussels. Here, you can explore all your favourite films brought to life through interactive exhibits and amazing photo opportunities.
Lose yourself in life-sized scenes like Andy's bedroom in Toy Story and Carl's floating house from UP, across 3,500 square metres of space. What's more, they've even unveiled a brand-new room, created exclusively for London.
- When: until 3rd January 2027
- Location: Wembley Park, Fulton Road, Wembley, HA9 0TF
- Price: £29 per person (£20 for children)
- We recommend for: family-friendly fun
Immerse yourself in Pixar films.
29. Attend The Ibiza Anthems Brunch
The Ibiza Anthems Brunch is coming to House Party in Soho this weekend, bringing you seven floors of fun. The venue, co-founded by Stromzy, is designed like a real house, taking you back to your youth - think retro games consoles, red cups and rooms designed like bedrooms, kitchens and more.
DJs will be playing all the best sounds from the White Isle, as you dance the afternoon away. Plus, there are 18-inch New York-style pizzas available, alongside plenty of drinks.
- When: Saturday 7th November 2026
- Location: 61 Poland Street, Soho, W1F 7NU
- Price: £27.50 per person
- We recommend for: a lively brunch party
Book Tickets To Ibiza Brunch Anthems At Stormzy's House Party Here.
Party Ibiza style at this afternoon event.
30. Attend A Murder Mystery Event
If you love your whodunits and theatrical experiences, then check out our guide to murder mystery events in London. There are heaps to exercise your detective skills on, such as Mr Fogg's Victorian Murder Mystery, where it's your job to trace back the steps of a gentleman struck down in Mayfair in 1873. You have only one hour to uncover the culprit, mind you, and themed cocktails help you on your way.
Fancy some top-tier food alongside intrigue? The Murdér Express Part Deux - Jewel Of The Empire transports you to 1937 where Dr. Errol Earhart has unearthed the world’s most valuable diamond, which goes missing. As bodies begin to pile up, it's your job to figure out what's going on, all while you tuck into a delicious three-course meal.
- When: various dates
- Location: varies by
venue
- Price: varies by venue
- We recommend for: fans of mystery and immersive theatre
Find And Book Murder Mystery Events In London Here.
Mr Fogg's Victorian Murder Mystery.
FAQs
What's on in London this weekend for free?
Plenty. London's free weekend options regularly include open-air markets, park events, gallery visits, and cultural festivals. DesignMyNight's weekly guide flags free-to-attend options alongside paid events — look for the "free" tag when browsing the list.
What's on in London this weekend for families?
London is packed with family-friendly options most weekends. This weekend, the Disney Pixar experience at Wembley Park is a standout for kids and parents alike. Beyond ticketed events, London's free museums, parks, and open-air markets are reliable weekend staples for all ages.
Are there any unusual or unique things to do in London this weekend?
Yes — London's weekend calendar regularly features one-off and immersive experiences you won't find anywhere else. This weekend, boat yoga and a seafood brunch aboard the historic Prince Regent Boat is one of the more distinctive options: a one-hour Flow Yoga session on the water followed by a fresh seafood feast. You can also enjoy a silent disco on the highest floors of the Shard, balance on a float in a pool overlooking Battersea Power Station while doing pilates, and have a go at taxidermy.
What's the best way to find last-minute things to do in London this weekend?
DesignMyNight updates its London weekend guide every week with bookable events, pop-ups, and experiences across every budget. This article is refreshed every Monday (or Tuesday, if there is a bank holiday on Monday) ahead of the weekend, so checking back regularly is the easiest way to stay up to date.
Is there anything on in London this weekend that I can book on the day?
Many of London's weekend events — including pop-ups, food markets, and outdoor experiences — are walk-in or available to book at short notice. On DesignMyNight, you can discover and book all in one place, with our guide updated every week for the coming weekend — perfect for all you last-minute planners.
Need more inspiration? Check out the best things to do in London for more ideas.
