October London: Things To Do, Activities And Events Guide

Scarlett Welch's profile picture
By Scarlett Welch • Editor, DesignMyNight Scarlett has covered the UK's best restaurants, bars and events for DesignMyNight since 2023. She holds an MA in Media & Journalism, with bylines in The Crack magazine and South London News, among others. Last updated on 30th October 2026

October in London is the month of mid-autumn dreams for everyone who loves this season in our capital: falling leaves across London's green spaces, the excitement of deer rutting in Richmond Park, spooky Halloween happenings, and the Bavarian-inspired beer takeover that is Oktoberfest (which, funnily enough, starts in September - despite the name - but carries over into October anyway). From fun events to autumnal activities, there's no shortage of things to do in October in London, whether the sun shines despite the chill in the air or the British weather takes over with gloomy rain.

Our guide to this glorious month contains tried-and-tested recommendations, handpicked by our team of editors who've all lived in London for between 4 and 32 years.

October London Guide: Recommendations From Locals




October Events In London

2. Best Oktoberfest Events In London 2026

Raise your steins and embrace the Oktoberfest spirit at these epic London events sprinkled across the city. Get your oompah on at these hotspots for bubbly brews, live brass music, massive bratwursts, and tonnes of traditional Bavarian attire. Prost.

3. Best Theatre Shows In London

We've got the inside scoop on the hottest London shows in the West End and beyond. From top-notch plays to toe-tapping musicals, we've rounded up the freshest entertainment to book for in theatres.

4. Sky Garden

Sky Garden might already be an iconic location in the City ready and waiting for you to take in sweeping views across London, but did you know that their events are top class too? Whether you choose their music night tickets, music nights with a VIP upgrade, rooftop yoga sessions, breakfasts or sunrise entry, you're sure to have a great time while soaking up the panoramas at this 20 Fenchurch Street venue.

5. Yamaha Presents: The Moonlight Night at Sky Garden

@ Sky Garden Bars on Monday 16th November 2026

Gather your favourite people for an evening above the clouds as Yamaha Presents: The Moonlight Concert comes to Sky Garden. You will enjoy an unforgettable night surrounded by hundreds of candles, taking in London's glowing landmarks while listening to live string and piano covers of modern classics played on Yamaha's state-of-the-art grand piano.

You can book standing access to explore the space with a glass of Moët & Chandon Champagne, or gather a group of four to secure a private table stocked with wine and sharing boards to enjoy during the two live performance sets.

6. Ballie Ballerson London

Inject some much-needed colour into your dreary days with a visit to Ballie Ballerson. The vibrant adult ball pit is sure to put a smile on your face with fruity cocktails, gooey pizzas and gigantic playpens to float around in.

7. Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two-One-Two

@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: London on Various dates from Thursday 5th November 2026

Take a trip to Shoreditch where Alcotraz is waiting to immerse you in a criminal underworld of liquor smuggling in a prison setting. Pop on your overalls and attempt to sneak in alcohol past the guards where inmate bartenders will shake up something wicked.

9. Hip Hop Brunch™

Spend your autumn partying through the weekends with Hip Hop Brunch's boozy day fests. Expect delicious food, heady drinks and a soundtrack of classics throughout. Make good use of the bottomless cocktail power hour before shaking your stuff on the dancefloor and rocking the mic when it's karaoke time.

11. Big Top 90's VS 00's Brunch

@ Trapeze on Saturday 7th November 2026 and 51 other Saturdays

Pull on your pedal pushers, dust off your double denim and get on down to the 90's VS 00's Bottomless Brunch. This three hour throwback is packed with singalongs, lip sync battles and epic dance offs.

Behind the decks, DJs will provide the soundtrack, spinning the very best hits, remixes and cult faves from the last two decades. To fire up your dancing feet, dive into 90 minutes of bottomless prosecco, beer and cocktails.

14. Rouges 70's & 80's Disco and Funk

Take a trip back in time this October at London's iconic Rivoli Ballroom. One of the last buildings of its kind in the city, it's hosting Rouges 70's & 80's Disco and Funk nights across the month.

Behind the decks, DJ Kobayashi will spin all the classics from this golden era to keep you dancing into the early hours. Grab your tickets to this night of nostalgia from just £17.60.

15. Backyard Comedy Club

Backyard Comedy Club in Bethnal Green is the place to be this October. Most nights of the week, they'll be host to some of the top names in comedy. Past acts include Micky Flanagan, James Acaster and many more. In between laughs, tuck into delicious grub and guzzle down tasty drinks.

17. Hexmoor: Wizarding Prison

@ Hexmoor: London on Various dates from Thursday 5th November 2026

What better way to kick off a month of spooks than with a trip to a wizarding prison? Hexmoor is a unique, immersive experience created by the team behind Alcotraz, Avora and Moonshine Saloon, where you'll work with magical inmates to free yourselves from your cells.

Don your custom jumpsuit and get stuck into this interactive story, complete with film-like set design, special effects and theatrical performances. Even better? Everyone will receive three bespoke, potion-inspired cocktails along the way, prepared by the inmates.

18. Old School R&B Brunch

Old School R&B Brunch is back for an unforgettable series of boozy brunch events this October. Head on over and you'll get to enjoy bottomless punch, two courses of soul food and soundtrack of banging beats, with plenty of surprises along the way.

19. The Rosemary Branch Theatre

Found yourself in Islington this October? Then head down to The Rosemary Branch for a raucous night of theatre, comedy, cabaret, burlesque, quizzes and more. Get lost in the razzle dazzle of live performance and have a great night out with friends.

Be sure to check out The Dirty Thirty - a unique event where 30 plays take place in 60 minutes in a wild medley of theatre and sport. 

20. THE DOUBLE R CLUB

For an evening of mystery and nightmares brought to life, head to The Double R Club. This Lynchian cabaret show is inspired by the cult classic TV show Twin Peaks, promising mesmerising burlesque routines that reach the darkest corners of your imagination.

They're holding their usual monthly performance at Walthamstow Trades Hall, alongside a Reel Horrorshow at Fontaines in Stoke Newington. This is designed for fans of horror films, hosted by the one and only Benjamin Louche.

24. Little Nan's

Boasting teapot cocktails, exposed brickwork and quirky decor, Little Nan's in Deptford is a great place for a weekend with your friends. Get stuck into a bottomless brunch, complete with fish finger sarnies and endless booze or enjoy an afternoon tea with homemade cakes.

25. The Hip Hop Orchestra Brunch - Shoreditch

@ Blues Kitchen Shoreditch on Every Saturday

The weekly Hip Hop Orchestra Brunch has got all the Bs covered. That's booze, BBQ and big beats. With epic DJ sets and live performances from the Re:Imagined Orchestra, you'll groove to all the afrobeats, RnB and hip hop hits you know and love.

There's plenty here to keep the energy high. Order small plates, brekkie baps and burgers from the brunch menu and kick things up a notch with 90 minutes of bottomless drinks.

26. Albert's Schloss London

This October, Bavarian-themed bar Albert's Schloss is going all out with brilliant events. This lively West End venue is hosting all their usual free live music events and cabaret performances this month, but you can also check out their Oktoberfest parties. Don your lederhosen and get ready to dance to live brass bands, at a bustling event which promises keg tapping, wiener eating competitions and much more.

27. The Magic Hour

Looking for a theatre night with a twist? Step into the enchanting world of The Magic Hour. With mesmerizing shows at the iconic Sheraton Grand Park Lane and Andaz London, you'll be taken on a thrilling journey where nothing is as it seems.

From £49 per person, get ready to be dazzled, mystified, and totally blown away - this isn't your average night out.

28. Silent Sounds Disco Boat Party

@ The Silent Disco Boat on Saturday 19th December 2026

This October, hop aboard the two-storey Dutch Master for a Silent Sounds Boat Party. Make your way along the Thames and catch some of the prettiest landmarks, all while you dance to your chosen song channel, spanning from disco classics to hardcore house.

It's not just the views and the tunes that are enticing here, as there are also bars on each of the decks. And afterwards? Ballie Ballerson are hosting a brilliant afterparty, with a 40% discount on their usual entry fee.

29. Circe's Rooftop

Autumn in London doesn't get better than this. Circe's Rooftop transforms into a warm and whimsical escape as the air gets crisp and the nights grow longer. Get ready for epic bottomless brunches complete with beautifully prepared cocktails delicious brunches dishes (hello, shakshuka) and panoramimc views of the city from above.

30. Forbidden Nights - Male Revue Show London

@ Forbidden Nights London on Saturday 7th November 2026 and 45 other Saturdays

Gather the gang and head to Forbidden Nights Male Strip Show - a sexy show packed with spectacular performances and the odd ab or two. If you loved them on Britain's Got Talent, then now's your chance to see the guys in action this October. 

Snap up tickets from £25 per person and bag your spot at the after-party, as the event teams up with Infernos London to host the ultimate extravaganza. There'll be hot and hilarious laughs, photo opportunities and so much more, so bag your spot now and turn up the heat.

32. Coyote Ugly London

Coyote Ugly is a world-famous brand that was born in New York City in 1993, with the aim of bringing the American party spirit all across the globe. They've done all that, and to get a taste in London you can head to their Camden or Piccadilly saloons. Check them out for line dancing lessons from the Coyotes themselves and bottomless Nashville brunches.

33. The Slow Jams Bottomless Brunch (Old Queens Head)

@ The Old Queens Head on Every Saturday

The Slow Jams Bottomless Brunch serves up an afternoon of non-stop RnB gems. Expect the biggest hits and deepest cuts from the likes of Aaliyah, Nelly, Ashanti, Usher and Destiny's Child.

With 90 minutes of free-flowing prosecco, mimosas and rum punch on offer, you'll have plenty of fuel for the dancefloor. Need something to soak up the sauce? There's NYC-style pizza to see to that.

34. Cowgirls & Cocktails Bottomless Brunch

@ The Star In Shoreditch on Saturday 7th November 2026 and 53 other Saturdays

October in Shoreditch just got rowdier thanks to Cowboys & Cocktails at The Star. Running every Saturday, this seasonal special is slinging 90 minutes of bottomless drinks, juicy burgers with fries, and a heap of Wild West-themed fun.

Expect everything from line dancing to musical bingo, plus karaoke sessions to let your inner country star shine. Tickets start at just £30 for early birds (between the 4th of October and 8th of November), so round up your gang and make this autumn one to remember.

35. BOUGIE DRAG EVENTS LTD

For some of the fiercest, most fabulous goings-on in the whole city this month, check out Bougie Drag Events. They're hosting both bottomless brunches and dinners at locations in Vauxhall and Embankment, complete with 90 minutes of unlimited drinks.

You can also expect four whole hours of raucous drag performances from a cast of talented queens, featuring lip-syncing, dance-offs, catwalk contests and so much more. There are competitions for you to get involved in too, with he chance to win up to £200 worth of prizes.

36. The F*cking Fabulous Brunch

The F*cking Fabulous Brunch is London's wildest weekend ritual, and now it's bigger, brasher, and more chaotic than ever.

Taking over two iconic venues across the city, each brunch promises two courses of delicious food, bottomless drinks, and a theatrical spectacle of DJs, musicians, and live shows that turn your Saturday into an unforgettable celebration. Sexy, high-energy, and utterly unpredictable, it's brunch with a seriously fabulous twist.

37. Amélie: Uncorked Evenings

This Thursday, Belgravia's Provençal gem, Amélie, invites you to an intimate culinary experience as part of its new Uncorked Evenings series. Two titans of European winemaking - Rare Champagne and Biondi-Santi, the legendary creator of Brunello di Montalcino - will be showcased alongside a meticulously curated menu.

Highlights include truffle croque monsieur paired with Rare Champagne 2012, slow-cooked beef short ribs with Brunello di Montalcino 2013 and 2019, and a rhubarb and raspberry pavlova finished with Rare Rosé 2014. For £95 per person, this is an unmissable evening for wine lovers and food connoisseurs alike.

38. Kitchen Table

This October, two Michelin-starred Kitchen Table is unveiling Stages of Nature, an intimate new weekly cocktail and canapé series hosted in the restaurant's lounge by Bar Manager Amin Azil. Launching on the 7th of October and priced at £95 per person, the 90-minute experience will guide just ten guests through the evolution of mixology, pairing four reimagined classics - punch, highball, martini, and old fashioned - with four seasonal canapés from chef-founder James Knappett.

Each serve is crafted with British produce and a sustainable, zero-waste ethos, using every part of the ingredient. October's debut menu features highlights such as a Grape Punch with grape brandy, Pinot Gris and grape caramel; a Foraged Gin and Tonic with gooseberry; a Foraged Dry Martini; and an Old Fashioned with English Rye, Bramley apple, roasted oats and custard. Canapés will include delicate Jerusalem artichoke chips with rosemary mascarpone and indulgent chocolate fudge with fennel seed.

39. R&B Lovers: The Lovers Brunch - BOXHALL

@ Boxhall City on Saturday 28th November and Saturday 19th December 2026

Consider your weekend plans officially sorted: the ultimate 90s and 00s R&B Lovers Brunch is taking over Boxhall, right by Liverpool Street Station.

Starting at just £27.50 per person, your ticket unlocks five full hours of non-stop throwback anthems, 90 minutes of bottomless drinks, and your choice of eats from 13 epic street vendors. You can even upgrade your pass to include a second dish, making it the absolute main-character spot for birthday celebrations, hen or stag dos, or just an excuse to gather the group for a wild weekend catch-up.

40. Honest Burgers: The Chilli Con Carnage

Honest Burgers has teamed up with Heinz to launch a limited-edition Chilli Bite Ketchup, debuting in a spooky Halloween dish dubbed the Chilli Con Carnage burger.

Available at all nationwide branches from the 6th of October to the 2nd of November, the burger features a distinctive black bun paired with a choice of double smashed beef, classic beef, or Honest fried chicken, all layered with homemade chilli con carne, pickled guindilla pepper, American cheese, tomato, white onion, pickles, and a kick of the new medium-heat ketchup. The menu extension also includes Carnage loaded chips and tabletop bottles of the sauce.

41. Comedy at The Union, Soho

@ The Union Club on Wednesday 25th November 2026

Soho's midweek entertainment gets a welcome boost at Comedy at The Union, held within the characterful club just moments from Tottenham Court Road station. Entry is priced at £16.50 and includes a fully curated stand-up show led by Alex Zane, with Carey Marx, Ali Woods and Ria Lina supplying the laughs.

Expect seasoned delivery, smart material and the buzz of seeing major comedy names in a cosy setting rather than an enormous arena.

42. Where To Watch The Traitors UK In London

Join the community of reality show-lovers for a viewing party that will lead to speculation, theories and shocking moments as you watch The Celebrity Traitors at some of London's top venues. 

Witness a room full of big reactions as you root for your favourite star of the series, with the added bonus of being able to order amazing drinks and food while you're sucked into the action on screen.  

43. Studio48 Weekday Bottomless Brunch

@ Studio 48 Bar & Kitchen on Various dates from Thursday 5th November 2026

Looking for the ideal Friday night plan with friends? Make your way to Studio 48's modern rooftop in Camden for a relaxed evening brunch running anytime between 4pm and 10pm. It is a fantastic spot to gather the group, toast to the weekend, and pick a package that suits your vibe.

You will get 90 full minutes of bottomless drinks, ranging from classic prosecco and mimosas to refreshing Aperol spritzes, plus an upgrade option if you fancy margaritas or daiquiris. Complement your drinks with a hearty meal, whether you prefer savoury dishes like their signature burger and fries or a sweet treat like waffles drizzled in Biscoff sauce.

October Activities In London

45. The Big Bakes

Whisks at the ready for The Big Bakes' competitive cooking event, taking place in both Tooting and Haggerston. If you're up for a challenge, the unforgettable experience will see you battling it out to create a masterpiece in 90 minutes.

46. Mr Fogg's

October might be the home of autumn leaves and spooky vibes but Mr Fogg's Victorian Murder Mystery is taking that up a gear with an interactive experience, where you help Inspector Fix solve the crime. If that's not your thing, they also host immersive treasure hunts too, solving puzzles against the clock, plus there are also talks with inspirational explorers.

You can also indulge in gin tasting sessions and cocktail masterclasses at this whimsical spot, if you're after something more relaxed. Or if it's tasty eats you're after, then why not try out their botanical brunch instead?

48. Natalia Bareikis

Remove yourself from the London hustle and reconnect with you body and spirit with a practical session centres around kundalini energy, breathwork, somatic awareness and shamanic practice. 

Engage with your inner energy and release any physical and emotional blocks throw the power of movement and mindfulness. Natalia will be guiding you through your journey, making sure you're equipped with the tools you need to achieve a heightened awareness and deep presence. 

50. Floating Hot Tub Tour of London's Docklands

@ Skuna Boats on Every Wednesday

Looking to get outdoors this month? Then head over to Canary Wharf, where Skuna Boats are running floating hot tub tours of the Docklands. Maintained at a comfortable 38 degrees, it's a relaxing activity that's suitable in every season, and you can even sip a glass of fizz while you're at it.

While drifting along the water, you'll hear more about the docklands from experienced tour guides who bring the area to life. This is a mixed-group experience for up to seven people, or you can choose private hire instead.

51. London's Ultimate Baking & Cocktail Competition

@ Bake Master London on Saturday 7th November 2026 and 16 other Saturdays

Whisk, shake and decorate your way through The Ultimate Baking & Cocktail Challenge. Starting at £65 per ticket, this two-hour experience includes baking and decorating a showstopping three-tier cake, crafting your own cocktail or mocktail, and enjoying a themed challenge that changes each month.

Perfect for pairs, the event offers gluten-free and vegan options too. Grab a friend and get ready for an afternoon of sweet treats and spirited fun.

52. Jury Duty: The Immersive Experience

@ Slateworks on Various dates from Thursday 5th November 2026

Step into the jury box and prepare for one of London's most gripping live experiences. Jury Duty is an award-winning immersive theatre show that puts you right at the heart of a criminal trial.

You'll sift through evidence, question the defendant, and decide his fate. Charged with arson, manslaughter, and murder, Harry Briggs claims he's not guilty - but the truth might not be so simple. Expect tension, twists, and plenty of 'wait, what just happened?' moments.

53. The Rambling Beer Co.

If you're looking for October plans in London, The Rambling Beer Co. is a top contender. Flaunting cheese and meat-fuelled beer tours, which are led by industry professionals across the city, this hotspot will not disappoint. To top it off? There's also plenty of booze to enjoy.

56. Dabbers Social Bingo

October in London is filled with spooky season vibes, but Dabbers Bingo adds a bit of fun and flair to your calendar. With exciting events like Comedy Bawlers Bingo and Pick N Mix Bingo, this venue in the City of London gives bingo a modern twist.

Expect live music, hilarious performances, and plenty of opportunities to win incredible prizes. Whether you're celebrating Halloween early or just need an entertaining indoor activity, Dabbers Bingo is one of the hottest events you won't want to miss.

57. Live Band Karaoke

Fancy becoming the lead singer and belting out your favourite tunes? Live Band Karaoke offers you just that this October, thanks to cheap tickets alongside the opportunity to get up on the stage with your friends and plenty of instruments to back you.

58. Hidden Jazz Club

Whether you're looking for cool date night plans or just fancy treating your ears to some live music, you won't want to miss out on Hidden Jazz Club's event at Stone Nest on the 6th. While settled in the stunning venue, enjoy an artist-led performance that's spontaneous, fun and intimate.

59. Pillars Brewery Tour & Tasting Afternoon

@ Pillars Brewery on Saturday 12th December 2026

Pillars Brewery, based in Walthamstow, is a popular spot that offers brewery tour and tasting experiences to show you behind the scenes. The 90-minute session includes an introduction to different world beer varieties, as well as a tour of the brewing process.

During the visit, you'll taste several fresh pours as well as some of the raw materials used in the brewing process. Tickets cover a welcome drink, six beer tasters with accompanying bites, and a full tour.

60. BARRY'S HIIT CLASS COMES TO SKY GARDEN

@ Sky Garden on Saturday 7th November 2026

London's iconic glass dome is turning into the ultimate high-altitude wellness hub this autumn. You can experience Barry's HIIT Class at Sky Garden, a high-energy, 50-minute band and mat session led by an expert Barry's trainer. Your ticket includes all equipment, post-workout smoothie refreshments, a breakfast bite, and access to 360-degree skyline views - plus 10% off post-class breakfast at Larch Restaurant.

If you prefer a more tranquil start, you can find your flow with Yoga at Sky Garden (in partnership with Stretching The City). Running at 8am on Saturdays and Sundays for all levels, these calming sessions let you stretch and reset above the city.

61. Silent Disco Global

From eight years of sold-out shows in Singapore to iconic European cultural hot spots, Silent Disco Global has refined the quiet party concept into a polished art form. They eliminate the traditional nightlife friction points by distributing high-fidelity wireless sound directly to each individual dancer.

Their signature London residency at The View From The Shard proves why their global formula works so well. Hovering dozens of stories above the Thames, you get all the visual impact of a massive venue takeover paired with the personal intimacy of your own tailored headphone mix.

62. Brewdog Waterloo

This month, there are all sorts going on at BrewDog Waterloo. This fun-filled venue features an indoor slide, as well as darts, ping pong and duckpin bowling - and kids bowl for free on Sundays.

They're also hosting a number of Harry Potter quizzes, with each one focusing on different books in the series.