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Guide to what’s on in London in April 2023
Find out what’s on in London in April, including the Ideal Home Show, Eid in the Square, St George’s Day, Vaisakhi and the London Coffee Festival.
It’s April so by now the spring weather should hopefully be in full swing. London is really opening up to tourists and the festival season really ramps up. Of course, the Easter holidays mean the capital becomes a hub of family fun with parents and carers looking for ways to entertain the little ones. This year, Easter Weekend takes place 7-10 April so expect a lot of special events over the long weekend. There’s also the annual festivities for Eid, Vaisakhi and St George’s Day.
Look out for the 
for family-friendly activities.
- Now until 1 April 2023 : Wandsworth Common Spring Beer & Cider Festival
South London’s largest attended independent beer festival, featuring 100 beers and 25 ciders to sample. Also featuring live entertainment. Open Wed 6pm-11pm, Thu 1pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 1pm-11pm. Tickets: £12-£40. Le Gothique, John Archer Way, Wandsworth, SW18 3SX. Nearest station: Clapham Junction, Wandsworth Town or Wandsworth Common. For tickets, visit Eventbrite.
- 1 April 2023 : Number 90 Bar & Kitchen’s 9th Birthday Party
Canalside drinking and dining destination Number 90 are hosting their 9th birthday party all day, with DJs, food, cocktails. DJs include DJ Fett Burger, San Proper, Scarlett O’Malley, Aroop Roy and more. Open 12pm-4am. Free entry before 10pm, tickets from £5 after 10pm. Number 90 Bar & Kitchen, 90 Wallis Road, Hackney Wick, E9 5LN. Nearest station: Hackney Wick. For more information, visit the Number 90 website.
- 1 – 16 April 2023 : Spring Festival @ Battersea Power Station
Two weeks of family-friendly fun at the new Battersea Power Station retail and entertainment complex. Activities include Giant Flower Trail, Mobile Farm, Illustrated Playground, face-painting and more. Times vary. Battersea Power Station, Circus Road West, Battersea, SW8 5BN. Nearest stations: Battersea Power Station, Battersea Park or Queenstown Road Battersea. For more information, visit the Battersea Power Station website.
- Now until 2 April 2023 : Ideal Home Show
A place of inspiration for homeowners including interiors, fittings and gardens. Includes plenty of opportunities to buy things both big and small for the house and food. Celebrity guests and experts include Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Phil Spencer, Martin Lewis, Gregg Wallace, John Torode, Lisa Faulkner, Olly Smith, Rosemary Shrager, Kate Hardcastle, Danni Menzies, Paul A Young and many more. Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm. Advance tickets (more on the door): Weekday £14 or Weekend £16, Children 15 yrs and younger free (Tickets also include free access to the Eat & Drink Festival). Olympia, Hammersmith Road, Kensington, W14 8UX. Nearest station: Kensington Olympia. For more tickets, visit the Ideal Home Show website.
- Now until 2 April 2023 : Eat & Drink Festival
Indoor food festival returns, featuring cooking masterclasses and workshops, drinks experts, celebrity chefs, shopping, Artisan Producers’ market, and more. Celebrity guests and experts include Nikita Pathakji, Asimakis Chianotis, Helen Graham, Lola Milne, Theodore Chana, Nathan Davies, Charlie Jeffreys, Carole Edwards, Skinny Jean Gardner, Kevin Flynn and more. Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm. Advance tickets (more on the door): Weekday £14 or Weekend £16, Children 15 yrs and younger free (Tickets also includes free access to Ideal Home Show). Olympia, Hammersmith Road, Kensington, W14 8UX. Nearest station: Kensington Olympia. For more information, visit the Eat & Drink Festival website.
- Now until 2 April 2023 : Telegraph Hill Festival
Arts and entertainment festival in South East London, including music, open studios, art shows, interactive exhibits, classes, workshops, talks, literary events, plays, performance art and music events. Lots of events are free, but some will cost. At various venues across New Cross, Nunhead, Hatcham, Brockley and Honor Oak. For more information, visit the Telegraph Hill festival website.
- Now until 2 April 2023 : Original Print Fair
View and buy original prints from old and modern masters. Open Thur-Fri 11am-8pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm. Tickets from £15. Somerset House, Strand, Westminster, WC2R 1LA. Nearest station: Temple. For more information and booking, visit the Original Print Fair website.
- 5 April 2023 : Wild Escape in the City
Free family activities will be taking place across the Square Mile as part of The Wild Escape. Including workshops, installations, story-telling, and more. For ages 3-11. Events are free, but booking is strongly recommended. At the Guildhall Art Gallery, London Metropolitan Archives, London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE and the Salter’s Company. For more information, visit the City of London website.
- 5 April 2023 : Kids Easter Egg Hunt @ Merchant Square
Head to the Paddington Basin with your little ones for an Easter Egg hunt with an Alice in Wonderland theme. For ages 4-12yrs. 11am-4pm (each hunt last 25 mins). Merchant Square, Paddington, W2. Nearest stations: Paddington and Edgware Road. For more information, visit the Merchant Square website.
- 7 April 2023 : The Passion of Jesus
Gather in Trafalgar Square to watch the Easter story performed by the Wintershall Players on Good Friday. Expect donkeys, doves, a 100-strong cast and a re-enactment of the Crucifixion. Performances at 12pm and 3.15pm. Free. Trafalgar Square, Westminster, WC2N 5DN. Nearest stations: Charing Cross, Embankment, Piccadilly Circus or Leicester Square. For more information, visit the Wintershall Players website.
- 7 – 9 April 2023 : Le Beat Bespoke
Indoor music festival returns celebrating 21st Century Modernist and Sixties inspired underground music culture. Featuring live bands, DJs, vintage market, guest clubs, all-nighters and Go Go dancers. Tickets range from £10 to £58. At various venues in East London, including Oslo, and Paper Dress Vintage. For more information and tickets, visit Le Beat Bespoke website.
- 7 – 10 April 2023 : Star Wars Celebration 2023
Four day celebration of Star Wars, including immersive exhibits, interactive show floor, screenings, merchandise, celebrity guests, panels, autograph sessions, fan activities, costumes and more. Tickets: Adults from £65, Children from £33. ExCel London, Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, E16 1XL. Nearest stations: Custom House or Prince Regent. For more information, visit the Star Wars Celebration website. 🐻
- 7 April – 30 July 2023 : Ai Weiwei – Making Sense @ The Design Museum
Ai Weiwei’s first exhibition focusing on design, featuring recent works and commissioned pieces. Open 10am-6pm. Tickets: Adults £15, Children £7.50. Design Museum, 224-238 Kensington High St, Kensington, W8 6AG. Nearest stations: Earls Court, High Street Kensington or Holland Park. For booking, visit the Design Museum website.
- Now until 9 April 2023 : London Game Festival 2023
In-person and online festival to promote gaming and interactive entertainment, including a Trafalgar Square exhibition, LGF World Stage, Games Finance Market, the Now Play This exhibition, BAFTA Games Awards, industry talks, and more. For more information, visit the Games London website. 🐻
Brixton Windmill
- 9 April 2023 : Easter Family Day @ Brixton Windmill
Family event in the grounds of Brixton Windmill, featuring an Easter egg hunt, arts and craft workshop, windmill tours, windmill tours and more. From 1pm-5pm. Free entry. Brixton Windmill, Windmill Gardens (west end of Blenheim Gardens, off Brixton Hill), Brixton, SW2 5EU. Nearest station: Brixton. For more information, visit the Brixton Windmill website.
- 14 April – 1 May 2023 : Sony World Photography Awards Exhibition
Check out images from the four competitions of the annual awards. Open Mon-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat-Sun 11am-8pm. Tickets: Standard £15, Children under 12 free. Somerset House, Strand, Westminster, WC2R 1LA. Nearest station: Temple. For more information, visit the Somerset House website. 🐻
- 14 April – 1 May 2023 : Tulip Festival @ Hampton Court Palace
Check out the UK’s biggest display of planted tulips. Daily tulips talks at 11am and 2pm. Open 10am-5.30pm. Tickets (inc with regular entry): Adults £26-£29, Child £13-£14.50. Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, KT8 9AU. Nearest station: Hampton Court. For more information, visit the Hampton Court Palace website. 🐻
- 15 – 16 April 2023 : Classic Car Boot Sale
Buy music, food, fashion and more surrounded by classic cars and bikes. Also featuring street food, clothing repair stalls, live DJs, craft beer and cocktail stalls. Open 10am-6pm. Tickets: £6. Granary Square, Kings Cross, N1. Nearest station: Kings Cross St Pancras. For more information, visit the King’s Cross website.
- 19 April – 11 July 2023 : No Place Like Home (A Vietnamese Exhibition) Part II
Vietnamese diasporic artists explore the theme of the home through a Vietnamese lens. There will also be accompanying workshops, food sharing, performances and a panel discussion. Open Tues-Sun 10am-5pm. Free entry. Museum of the Home, 36 Kingsland Road, Hoxton, E2 8EA. Nearest station: Hoxton. For more information, visit the Museum of the Home website.
- 20 – 23 April 2023 : London Coffee Festival 2023
Festival of Java, featuring tastings, coffee masters, food & wine pairing, Global Coffee School, DJs and more. Entry times via timed sessions. Thu and Fri daytime for industry only. Open to public: Fri 4pm-8pm, Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 10am-5pm. Tickets from £24. Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, Spitalfields, E1 6QR. Nearest station: Shoreditch High Street or Aldgate East. For more information and tickets, visit the London Coffee Festival website. Read the rest of this entry
Guide to what’s on in London in April 2022
Find out what’s on in London in April, including the Oxbridge boat race, the Vaisakhi festival and the London Games Festival.
April 2022 is sure to be a whole lot better than 2021, when the UK was in the middle of a phased exit from lockdown. With the weather getting warmer and summer fast approaching, London’s festival and event calendar is really kicking off.
This year, Easter weekend falls on 15-18 April so expect the capital to really come to life with a host of family and chocolate-themed activities. There is also an early May bank holiday weekend starting on 30 April.
Look out for the for family-friendly activities.
- 31 March – 3 April 2022 : London Coffee Festival
Java lovers should head to the East End for this four celebration of coffee. Featuring tastings, coffee masters, food & wine pairing, Global Coffee School, DJs and more. Entry times via timed sessions. Thu and Fri daytime for industry only. Open to public: Fri 4pm-8pm, Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 10am-5pm. Tickets from £24. Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, Spitalfields, E1 6QR. Nearest station: Shoreditch High Street or Aldgate East. For more information and tickets, visit the London Coffee Festival website.
- 1 – 2 April 2022 : The Creative Craft Show
An event for stitchers, sewers and hobbycrafters, featuring workshops, demonstrations and talks. Open 10am-4pm. Tickets: Adults from £10, Children free if accompanied by an adult. ExCel, Royal Victoria Dock, Docklands, E16 1XL. Nearest stations: Prince Regent or Custom House (DLR). For more information, visit the show’s official website.
- 1 – 3 April 2022 : London Spanish Film Festival – Spring Weekend
Three day film event ahead of the London Spanish Film Festival in September, featuring several new Spanish language releases. Tickets TBA. Cine Lumiere, 17 Queensberry Place, Kensington, SW7 2DT. Nearest station: South Kensington. For more information, visit the London Spanish Film Festival website.
- 1 – 10 April 2022 : London Games Festival
In-person and online festival to promote gaming and interactive entertainment, including a Trafalgar Square exhibition, LGF World Stage, Games Finance Market, the Now Play This exhibition, BAFTA Games Awards, industry talks, and more. For more information, visit the Games London website. 🐻
- 1 – 18 April 2022 : Dino Kingdom
Enjoy an immersive pre-historic adventure with life-sized, animatronic dinosaurs, augmented reality, 3D mapping technology exhibits, excavation site, fun fair, food and drink and more. Open daily 10am-4pm (timed entry). Tickets: Adults £14/£17, Children 3-15 yrs £12/£15, infants free. Dino Kingdom London, Gunnersbury Park, Popes Lane, W3 8LQ. Nearest stations: Gunnersbury, South Ealing or Acton Town. For more information, visit the Dino Kingdom website. 🐻
- 1 April – 4 September 2022 : 150 Years of the Royal School of Needlework
Retrospective exhibition of one of the country’s oldest arts organisations. Open 11am-6pm. Tickets: £12.65. Fashion & Textile Museum, 83 Bermondsey Street, SE1 3XF. Nearest stations: London Bridge or Tower Hill. For more information, visit the museum website.
- Now until 2 April 2022 : Wandsworth Common Spring Beer Festival
The 12th annual beer festival returns to SW18, featuring 100 beers and 25 ciders to sample. Also featuring live entertainment. Open Wed 6pm-11pm, Thu 1pm-11pm, Fri 12.30pm-11pm, Sat 1pm-11pm. Tickets: £10-£40. Royal Victoria Patriotic Building, John Archer Way, Wandsworth, SW18 3SX. Nearest station: Clapham Junction, Wandsworth Town or Wandsworth Common. For tickets, visit Eventbrite.
- 2 – 19 April 2022 : Power UP
Interactive gaming events explores five decades of video games and consoles. For ages 5 and over. Tickets from £8. Science Museum, Exhibition Road, South Kensington, SW7 2DD. Nearest station: South Kensington. For tickets and more information, visit the Science Museum website. 🐻
- 3 April 2022 : Oxbridge Boat Race
Watch the historic annual boat race between the Cambridge and Oxford University crews. Thousands will line the banks between Putney Bridge and Mortlake to watch the action. Women’s boat race @ 2.23pm and Men’s boat race @ 3.23pm. Free. Nearest stations: Putney Bridge, Hammersmith, Ravenscourt Park, Stamford Brook, East Putney, Chiswick or Barnes Bridge. For more information, visit the Boat Race website. 🐻
- 5 – 26 April 2022 : The Arks of Gimokudan
Filipino artist-designer Leeroy New presents his first UK large-scale installation to mark Earth Day 2022. The installation will feature three ships made of recycled and reused materials and waste. Free. Somerset House courtyard, Strand, Westminster, WC2R 1LA. Nearest station: Temple. For more information, visit the Somerset House website. 🐻
- 7 April 2022 : SicilyFEST London 2022
A celebration of Sicily and its food, wine, produce and culture. Also featuring a kids’ area and DJs. Open Thur 5.30pm-10pm, Fri 11am-10pm, Sat 11am-8pm, Sun 10am-5pm. Tickets: £2.50 (advance), £3 (on the door). Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0QH. Nearest station: Angel. For more information, visit the FeverUp website. 🐻
- 7 – 10 April 2022 : Roy’s Art Fair
Roy’s Art Fair returns, aiming to make art more affordable and accessible. Meet and buy direct from the artists, take part in workshops and check out installations. Open Thur 5pm–8.30pm, Fri 2pm-8pm, Sat 12pm–6pm, Sun 12pm-5pm. Free. At Bargehouse, Oxo Tower Wharf, South Bank, SE1 9PH. Nearest stations: Waterloo, Blackfriars or Southwark. For more information, visit the Roy’s People Art Fair website.
- 7 – 12 April 2022 : F R A G M E N T S Festival
An experiential festival featuring short events dotted across the City celebrating the 100th anniversary of T S Eliot’s poem The Waste Land. Tickets: £20 (all-access). Events take place at 22 City of London churches. For more information, visit the festival’s website.
- 8 – 10 April 2022 : Now Play This 2022
Festival of experimental games returns to the capital. Open Fri 12pm-8pm, Sat 11am-7pm, Sun 11am-6pm. Tickets: £9/£6.50 conc. Somerset House, Strand, Westminster, WC2R 1LA. Nearest station: Temple. For more information, visit the Somerset House website. 🐻
- 8 – 10 April 2022 : Ceramic Art London
Contemporary arts event, featuring exhibitions, talks, and opportunities the buy. Open Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pm. Tickets: Adults £16, Children free. Central St Martins, Granary Square, King’s Cross, N1C 4AA. Nearest station: King’s Cross St Pancras. For more information, visit the Ceramic Art London website.
- 8 April – 29 August 2022 : Football – Designing the Beautiful Game
Explore the stories of design from the world of football. Open Sun-Thu 10am-6pm, Fri-Sat 10am-9pm. Tickets: Adults from £16.80. Design Museum, 224-238 Kensington High St, Kensington, W8 6AG. Nearest stations: Earls Court, High Street Kensington or Holland Park. For booking, visit the Design Museum website.
- 8 April – 11 September 2022 : Inspired!
Exhibition explores how visual artists have taken inspiration from the literary arts. Opening hours TBC. Tickets: £8. Guildhall Art Gallery, Guildhall Yard, City of London, EC2V 5AE. Nearest station: St Paul’s, Bank or Moorgate. For more information, visit the City of London.gov website. Check out Metro Girl’s blog post on the exhibition.
- Now until 10 April 2022 : Telegraph Hill Festival
Arts and entertainment festival in South East London, including music, open studios, art shows, interactive exhibits, classes, workshops, talks, literary events, plays, performance art and music events. Lots of events are free, but some will cost. At various venues across New Cross, Nunhead, Hatcham, Brockley and Honor Oak. For more information, visit the Telegraph Hill festival website. 🐻
- 11 April – 26 October 2022 : Magnificent Maps of London
London Metropolitan Archives show off their historical map collection in a new exhibition. Featuring maps from the 16th century to present day. Open Mon-Thu 10am-4pm. Free entry. London Metropolitan Archives, 40 Northampton Road, Clerkenwell, EC1R 0HB. Nearest station: Angel. For more information, visit the City of London.gov.uk website.
- 12 April – 31 May 2022 : Travel Photographer of the Year (TPOTY)
Check out 138 photographs of landscapes and people from around the world in an outdoor exhibition. Open 24/7. Free. Granary Square, King’s Cross, N1C 4DQ. Nearest station: King’s Cross St Pancras. For more information, visit the TPOTY website. 🐻
Immerse yourself in a colourful wonderland as Colourscape returns to Wembley
Be entertained by musicians and dancers as you walk through a tunnel of sound and light.
Colourscape comes to Wembley Park this Easter
IMPORTANT UPDATE 16/03/20: Due to the Covid-19 virus, Colourscape has been postponed. All ticket holders should receive an automatic refund in the coming days. If you have not received a refund by the end of the week please contact KX Tickets directly at customers@kxtickets.com.
Returning to Wembley Park this Easter is the travelling immersive art installation Colourscape. From 8 – 13 April 2020, visitors can walk through a labyrinth of colour and light while enjoying live performances by musicians and dancers.
Colourscape was originally created by artist Peter Jones in the early ’70s and has previously popped up at the Vienna Festival of Youth, Cologne for the World Cup and Turku for European Capital of Culture. The installation is comprised of a series of interlinked, kaleidoscopic chambers. As visitors stroll through the maze of light, they will be met by musicians playing instruments from Tibet, China and Mongolia. Guests will be given coloured capes to wear so they blend into the interactive tunnel of colour.
Returning to Wembley for the second year running, this year’s Colourscape will be supporting learning disability charity Brent Mencap.
- Colourscape takes place from 8 – 13 April 2020. At Wembley Park Boulevard (next to London Designer Outlet), Wembley, HA9 0FD. Nearest stations: Wembley Park or Wembley Stadium. Open 11am-4.30pm (sessions last 30 mins). Tickets (must be pre-booked): Adults £5, Children £3. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Wheelchair accessible. No dogs allowed. For more information, visit the Wembley Park website.
Guide to what’s on in London during Easter 2019 for both adults and families
Find out what’s on in London over the Easter weekend and school holidays, including family events and activities, Easter egg hunts and even adults-only fun.
This year, the Easter weekend takes place in the middle of April with Good Friday on 19th and the Easter Bank Holiday on 22nd. As ever, this religious holiday coincides with at least two weeks of school holidays, so there will be plenty of parents looking for ways to occupy their children. To many people, Easter is associated with chocolate, so expect to see the mighty cocoa bean dominating menus and events over the period. Fortunately, Easter isn’t just for kids, there’s an adults-only guide to offers and events at the bottom.
Here’s Metro Girl’s guide to what’s on in London over the Easter period.
- 30 March – 29 April : George Irvin’s Funfairs
Travelling funfairs will be setting up camp at Crystal Palace Park (30 Mar – 14 Apr), Clapham Common (5 – 28 Apr), Hampton Court (19 – 23 Apr) and Shepherd’s Bush Green (5 – 22 Apr) over the Easter break. Rides include Big Apple Coaster, Dodgems, Bungee Trampolines, Tea Cups, Waltzer, Inflatable Slide and Carousel, among many others. For more information, visit the Irvin Leisure website.
- 6 – 22 April : Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt @ Hampton Court Palace
Hunt for the Lindt gold chocolate bunny in the house and gardens at Hampton Court. Other family activities include a digital adventure around the palace, the magic garden and maze and workshops. Tickets (events inc with general admission): Adults from £21.30, Children from £10.70. Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU. Nearest station: Hampton Court (36 minutes from Waterloo). For more information, visit the Historic Royal Palaces website.
- 6 – 22 April : Easter @ Battersea Park Zoo
Take part in a host of Easter-themed activities, including an Easter Egg hunt, hedgehog day, honey bee day, cocoa fun day and a host of other events. Open 10am-4.30pm. Visitors can purchase a £1.50 (including prize) quiz sheet upon entry and follow the trail. General admission: Adults £9.95, Children 2-15 yrs £7.95. Battersea Park Zoo, Battersea Park, Chelsea Embankment, Battersea, SW11 4NJ. Nearest station: Battersea Park. For more information, visit the Battersea Park Zoo website.
- 6 – 22 April : Easter @ WWT London Wetland Centre
Take part in Dusty’s Giant Easter Duck Hunt, enjoy a spot of pond dipping, a Wild Play session and Animal Track Detectives. 10am-5pm. Tickets: Adults from £11.70, Children 4-16 yrs from £7.93. London Wetland Centre, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, SW13 9WT. Nearest station: Barnes or Barnes Bridge. For more information, visit the London Wetland Centre website.
- 6 – 22 April : Easter @ Kew
Check out the beautiful gardens and attractions of Kew, as well as other activities. Including the Tower of Colour, Sunday Stories, Log Trail, Woodland Walk and Giant Badger Sett. Free to take part with normal admission. Tickets: Adults from £16.50/£18, Children 4-16yrs from £4.50/£6, Under 4s free. Kew Gardens, Brentford Gate, Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AB. Nearest station: Kew Gardens. For more information and tickets, visit the Kew Gardens website.
The beauty of spring at Kew Garden
- 8 – 22 April : Easter @ National Army Museum
Over the Easter holidays, the museum will offer a variety of family activities, including make your own cap badge, tiny troopers (posters), digital poster design and poster printing. 10am-5.30pm. Free. National Army Museum, Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, SW3 4HT. Nearest station: Sloane Square. For more information, visit the National Army Museum website.
- 10 – 17 April : Hotel Chocolat Easter Eggs-travaganza @ London Eye
Enjoy an Easter experience on the London Eye with Hotel Chocolat. Including fast track entry, Hotel Chocolat tasting guide and Q&A session, 30 minute rotation, soft drink and Hotel Chocolat Easter goodie bag. Tickets: Adults £35, Children £28. London Eye, South Bank, SE1 7PB. Nearest station: Waterloo, Westminster or Lambeth North. For booking, visit the London Eye website.
Guide to what’s on in London in April 2018
Spring is here
Easter kicks off April with a long weekend and school holidays, meaning the capital’s attractions are pretty busy. As in recent years, the weather can still be unpredictable, so plenty of events are taking place indoors. Across the capital, there’s a host of foodie and booze festivals so there’s plenty of options besides chocolate. There’s also several cultural celebrations taking place, including St George’s Day and the Sikh New Year. Here’s Metro Girl’s round-up of the best events in London in April.
For a guide to what’s on over Easter holidays, click here.
- Now until 1 April : London International Ska Festival
Four day festival of ska music at venues across the capital, including the O2 Academy Islington and The Garage. Acts include The Clarendonians, Doreen Shaffer, Otis Gayle, Alpheus, The Spitfires, DJ Little Diane, Ranking Joe, Clive Chin, Oxman & Gladdy Wax Sound System and many more. Wristbands for the whole festival £140, individual gigs range in price. For more information and tickets, visit the London International Ska Festival website.
- Now until 1 April : BFI Flare
The British Film Institute hosts the 11 day festival of LGBT film featuring Tali Shalom-Ezer’s My Days Of Mercy and Steve McLean’s European premiere of Postcards From London. Ticket prices vary. BFI Southbank, Belvedere Road, South Bank, SE1 8XT. Nearest station: Waterloo. For more information and booking, visit the BFI website
- Now until 1 April : Le Beat Bespoke
Indoor music festival returns celebrating 21st Century Modernist and Sixties inspired underground music culture. Featuring live bands, DJs, record fair, market, guest clubs, all-nighters and Go Go dancers. Tickets: Individual gig tickets vary from £7-£25, or three-day pass £59. 229 The Venue, 229 Great Portland Street, W1W 5PN. Nearest station: Great Portland Street or Oxford Circus. For more information and tickets, visit Le Beat Bespoke website.
- Now until 2 April : Ideal Home Show
A place of inspiration for homeowners including interiors, fittings and gardens. Includes plenty of opportunities to buy things both big and small for the house and food. Celebrity guests include Rosemary Shrager, Phil Spencer, Martin Lewis, Martin Roberts, Craig Phillips, David Domoney, Ryan Simpson and Liam Trottman and many more. Open daily 10am-6pm (Thurs lates until 9pm). Tickets: Weekday £14 or Weekend £16 (also includes free access to Eat & Drink Festival). Olympia, Hammersmith Road, Kensington, W14 8UX. Nearest station: Kensington Olympia. For more tickets, visit the Ideal Home Show website.
- Now until 2 April : Eat & Drink Festival
Next door to the Ideal Home Show is a new live experience, featuring modern cuisine, mixology and street food. Learn from the best at the Foodie Lab, Chef’s Table and Cook’s Academy. Tickets: Weekday £14, Weekend £16 (also includes free access to Ideal Home Show). Olympia, Hammersmith Road, Kensington, W14 8UX. Nearest station: Kensington Olympia. For more information, visit the Eat & Drink Festival website.
- 5 – 7 April : Cocktails In The City
Three-day extravaganza featuring some of London’s and Europe’s best cocktails bars coming together under one roof. A host of pop-up bars and food venues will be spread across four levels. Open 6pm-11pm. Ticket: £20 includes 1 cocktail. One Marylebone, 1 Marylebone Road, Marylebone, NW1 4AQ. Nearest stations: Great Portland Street or Regents Park. For booking, visit the Cocktails In The City website.
Cocktails In The City returns to One Marylebone
- 5 – 15 April : London Games Festival
An event to promote gaming and interactive entertainment, including the Trafalgar Square Game Festival (7 April) EGX Rezzed at Tobacco Dock, the British Academy Games Awards, Now Play This at Somerset House, Games Finance Market and the Games Character Parade (14 April). For more information, visit the Games London website.
- 5 April – 18 May : Sense Of Space
Multi-sensory art pop-up installation featuring four different rooms and a bar to help you switch off from busy London life. Rooms include The Doodle Room, The Motion Box, The Infinity Garden and The Zen Studio. Events include live doodle art, silent cinema, yoga, art talks and more. Free entry. Exchange Square, Broadgate, EC2M 3WA. Nearest station: Liverpool Street. For more information, visit the Broadgate website.
- 6 April – 30 September : Underbelly Festival
Summer-long arts festival on the South Bank, featuring comedy, circus, cabaret and family shows at affordable prices in the inflatable upside down cow venue, international street food, open-air bar. Festival grounds open daily until 11pm. Ticket prices for show vary, but a majority are under £20, free entry to festival grounds. Jubilee Gardens (off Belvedere Road), South Bank, SE1 8XX. Nearest station: Waterloo. For more information and tickets, visit the Underbelly Festival website.
- 7 – 8 April : Cask Beer 2018
Cask beer festival featuring some of the country’s top breweries. Featuring 60 casks from 30 breweries with all beer at £5 a pint. Tickets: £5 (include branded festival glass, welcome half pint and a souvenir brochure). Affinity Brewing Company, Railway Arch 7, Bermondsey, SE16 3LR. Nearest stations: Bermondsey or South Bermondsey. For tickets, visit Billetto. Read the rest of this entry
Guide to what’s on in London over Easter 2018
Spring into spring
It was only recently it was minus degrees and snowing so no doubt you may be shocked it’s approaching Easter already. With Easter Weekend bridging the end of March and beginning of April, we can only hope for some warm weather and sunshine. With schools on holiday for two weeks, parents everywhere will be looking for ways to entertain their little ones. Meanwhile, showing Easter isn’t just for kids, there’s an adults-only guide to offers and events at the bottom.
- 25 March : Easter Egg Hunt @ Parsons Green Market
Pick up some clue questions and search the market for the Easter Eggs, with the chance to win chocolate prizes or a box of farmers market eggs. 10am-2pm. Thomas’s Academy, New King’s Road, Parsons Green, SW6 4LY. Nearest station: Parsons Green or Putney Bridge. For more information, visit the London Farmers Markets website.
- 26 March – 15 April : Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt @ Hampton Court Palace
Hunt for the Lindt gold chocolate bunny in the house and gardens at Hampton Court. Other family activities include a digital adventure around the palace, the magic garden and maze and workshops. Tickets (events inc with general admission): Adults from £19.20, Children from £9.60. Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU. Nearest station: Hampton Court (36 minutes from Waterloo). For more information, visit the Historic Royal Palaces website.
- 29 March : Kids Easter Egg Painting @ Bluebird
Take the kids to an Easter egg painting class. For ages 3 and up (parents required to supervise). 3.30pm. Tickets: £15 per child. Bluebird, 350 King’s Road, Chelsea, SW3 5UU. Nearest stations: Fulham Broadway, South Kensington or Sloane Square. For more information, visit the Bluebird website.
- 29 March – 2 April : Easter Egg Hunt : St Katharine Docks
A special egg hunt around St Katharine Docks, which celebrates its 190th anniversary this year. Families can pick up Easter egg colouring-in sheets and a ‘Hunt Pack’ that will consist of crayons and activity sheet as they search for eggs around the central basin. From 10.30am-4pm (closed Easter Sunday). Free. St Katharine Docks, 50 St Katharine’s Way, E1W 1LA. Nearest station: Tower Hill or Tower Gateway. For more information, visit the St Kats website. To find out about the history of St Kats, click here.
- 29 March – 7 April : My First Ballet – Swan Lake
Introduce your child to ballet with the English National Ballet and English National Ballet School production of this classic fairytale. Performance times vary. Tickets: £10-£25. Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, Holborn, WC2A 2HT. Nearest station: Holborn or Temple. For more information and booking, visit the Sadler’s Wells website.
- 30 – 31 March : Family Weekend @ Sadler’s Wells
BalletLORENT present their production of Rumpelstiltskin, follow a self-guided journey or enjoy a host of activities. Prices vary depending on event. Sadler’s Wells, Rosebery Avenue, Clerkenwell, EC1R 4TN. Nearest station: Angel. For booking, visit the Sadlers Wells website.
- 30 – 31 March and 1 – 2 April : Easter Quest @ Kenwood
Follow the clues to claim your chocolate reward in house and gardens of historic Kenwood House. 11am-3pm. Tickets: £1 per child. Kenwood House, Hampstead Lane, NW3 7JR. Nearest station: Hampstead or Highgate. For more information, visit the English Heritage website.
- 30 March – 2 April : Easter @ Battersea Park Zoo
Take part in a host of Easter-themed activities, including an Easter Egg search amongst the animals and a host of activities on Easter Bunny Day on 30 March. Open 10am-4.30pm. Visitors can purchase a £1.50 (including prize) quiz sheet upon entry and follow the trail. General admission: Adults £9.50, Children 2-15 yrs £7.50. Battersea Park Zoo, Battersea Park, Chelsea Embankment, Battersea, SW11 4NJ. Nearest station: Battersea Park. For more information, visit the Battersea Park Zoo website.
- 30 March – 15 April : A Big Day Out With Peter Rabbit @ Kew
Beatrix Potter and her animals come to Kew Gardens, featuring games, Peter Rabbit trail, and the late author’s links with Kew. Free to take part with normal admission. Tickets: Adults from £17.75, Children 4-16yrs £4. Kew Gardens, Brentford Gate, Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AB. Nearest station: Kew Gardens. For more information and tickets, visit the Kew Gardens website. Read the rest of this entry
Guide to what’s on in London in March 2018
Spring is in the air!
Spring is nearly here… allegedly! The temperatures will soon start creeping up, and the days are brighter and longer. Those who love to hibernate over the winter are finally waking up and ready to explore. This month you can expect to see a lot of art and beer events on around the capital. Not forgetting, Easter Weekend kicks off at the end of the month on Friday 30 March so there is yet more school holidays for parents to deal with.
For a guide to what’s on in London over Easter, click here.
- 1 – 4 March : The Spring Knitting & Stitching Show
Haberdashery festival featuring workshops, knitworking, dressmaking studio, textile galleries, Mr X Stitch Guide to Cross Stitch and the Creative Living Theatre. Open 10am-7pm, Fri-Sat: 10am-5.30pm, Sun: 10am-5pm. Tickets: Adults £13.50, Children £6. Olympia, Hammersmith Road, Kensington, W14 8UX. Nearest station: Kensington Olympia. For more information, visit the Knitting & Stitching Show website.
- 1 – 4 March : Number 90’s 4th Birthday
Popular canalside destination are hosting a mini festival of sorts over four days to celebrate their fourth birthday. Including DJs, live painting sessions, vintage clothes stalls, film screenings, dance show, magician, live music, food and drink. DJs and artists include Norman Jay MBE, Haggis Horns, Toytown Hustle, Dila V & The Oddbeats and the Pop-Up Choir. Open Thu and Sun 12pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-1am. Free entry. Number 90 Bar and Kitchen, 90 Wallis Road, Hackney Wick, E9 5LN. Nearest station: Hackney Wick. For more information, visit Number 90’s website. Read Metro Girl’s blog post on the festival.
- 1 – 8 March : International Women’s Day @ Seven Dials
A week of events, offers and promotions celebrating women at the stores and businesses of Seven Dials. Highlights include a panel discussion hosted by Gemma Cairney on IWD on 8 March. At venues and stores around Seven Dials, Covent Garden, WC2H. Nearest station: Leicester Square or Covent Garden. For more information, visit the Seven Dials website. Read Metro Girl’s blog post on the event.
- 1 – 20 March : Richmond Upon Thames Music and Drama Festival
Three weeks of music, dance and drama performances by local artists, arts organisations and schools. The Music and Drama Festival Showcase will take place at The Exchange in Twickenham on 4 March at 3pm (Tickets: £5-£10). The rest of the festival takes place in various venues across the borough. For more information, visit the Richmond.gov.uk website.
- 1 – 21 March : Pauline Bewick Art Exhibition
One of Ireland’s most acclaimed artists Pauline Bewick displays some of her huge collection as part of the St Patrick’s Festival. Open 9am-5pm. Free entry. City Hall, The Queen’s Walk, Borough, SE1 2AA. Nearest station: London Bridge. For more information, visit the London.gov.uk website.
- 1 March – 6 May : Somnai
Experience a live, multi-sensory experience with immersive technologies. Somnai is said to be the biggest theatrical event since Punch Drunk and offers a ‘lucid dreaming’ experience. Over 18s only. 90 minutes long. Times vary. Tickets: £50. 2 Pear Tree Street, Clerkenwell, EC1V 3SB. Nearest stations: Old Street, Barbican or Farringdon. For booking and more information, visit the Somnai website.
- 2 – 3 March : Movie Nights at the Museum
Watch a film under Hope the whale in the Hintze Hall. Movies include Star Trek, Star Trek: Into Darkness, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Star Wars: A Force Awakens. Screenings at 7.15pm and 10.15pm. Tickets: £28. Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, South Kensington, SW7 2RL. Nearest station: South Kensington. For booking, visit the NHM website.
- 3 March : Magic of India Holi Festival
Family friendly festival to celebrate the Hindu festival of Holi. Featuring dry colour powder play, DJs, drummers, giveaways, hot Indian food and more. 11am-3pm. Tickets: £12. Exact location to be revealed nearer the time. Nearest station: Swiss Cottage. For tickets, visit the Funzing website.
- 3 March : RA Lates – Night at the Palace
Late night party at the Royal Academy of Arts inspired by their upcoming Charles I exhibition. The RA will be transformed into the King’s Whitehall Palace for dancing, feasts, art, music, immersive experiences and creative activities. Dress code: Courtly decadence. 7pm-11.45pm. Tickets: £25-£40. Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington House, Piccadilly, W1J 0BD. Nearest station: Green Park or Piccadilly Circus. For more information, visit the RA website.
- Now until 4 March : Vault Festival
Six week arts festival in the tunnels beneath Waterloo across three venues. Entertainment includes live music, theatre, film, dance, comedy and late-night parties. Open Wed-Sun. Ticket prices vary. The Vaults, 10 Leake Street, Waterloo, SE1 7NN. Nearest station: Waterloo and Lambeth North. For booking, visit the Vault Festival website. To find out about this year’s highlights, click here, or for a review of Neverland, an immersive theatre show, click here.
- Now until 4 March : Snow Kingdom – Backyard Cinema
Backyard Cinema have created a wintry immersive cinematic experience in the foodie surrounds of Mercato Metropolitano. Travel through an ice cave and across a frozen lake to watch new and classic films in the atmospheric Snow Kingdom. Tickets from £17. Backyard Cinema, 42 Newington Causeway, Elephant & Castle, SE1 6DR. Nearest station: Elephant & Castle. For booking, visit the Backyard Cinema website. For Metro Girl’s review, click here.
- Now until 4 March : Ovo by Cirque du Soleil
The newest touring production from the Cirque, a spectacular exploration of the ecosystem, with insects working, playing, fighting and looking for love. Tickets range from £25-£231. Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP. Nearest stations: South Kensington, Knightsbridge or High Street Kensington. For more information and booking, visit the Cirque Du Soleil website. Read the rest of this entry
Guide to what’s on in London in April 2017
Canalway Cavalcade returns to Little Venice
Spring is here at last! The days are getting longer and the temperatures are warmer up. London’s festival season really kicks off with tons of alfresco events taking place all over the capital. This year, Easter is a bit later than usual so there will be plenty of harassed parents looking for ways to entertain the kids during the school holidays.
- Now until 1 April : Cocktails In The City
A three-day extravaganza will see some of London’s and Europe’s best cocktails bars coming together under one roof. A host of pop-up bars and food venues will be spread across four levels. 6-11pm. Ticket: £15 includes 1 cocktail, multiple complimentary experiences and cocktail booklet. One Marylebone, 1 Marylebone Road, Marylebone, NW1 4AQ. Nearest station: Great Portland Street or Regents Park. For booking, visit the Cocktails In The City website. For more information, read Metro Girl’s post on the event.
- Now until 1 April : Whisky Live
Whisky festival comes to 18th century surroundings, featuring masterclasses, food pairings, the VIP Lounge and exclusive private VIP pourings. Open Fri 31st 4-10pm, Sat 1 Apr 11am-5pm. Tickets: £45-£65. Honourable Artillery Company, City Road, EC1Y 2BQ. Nearest station: Old Street or Moorgate. For booking, visit Eventbrite.
- Now until 1 April : West Norwood Free Film Festival
Free film festival comes to West Norwood for the first time featuring screenings of Back To The Future, The Goonies, Memento, Babette’s Feast, Paterson and Northern Soul. At various venues in SE27 including St Luke’s Church, Knowles Of Norwood, The Clockworks and more. Nearest station: West Norwood. For more information, visit the Free Film Festival website.
- 1 – 17 April : Urban Festival
The Southbank Centre hosts a two week celebration of urban culture, featuring breakdancing battles, dance residencies, workshops, free family events, parties and more. Events range from free to ticketed. Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, South Bank, SE1 8XX. Nearest station: Waterloo. For more information, visit the Southbank Centre website.
- 2 April : Oxbridge Boat Race
Watch the historic annual boat race between the Cambridge and Oxford University crews. Thousands will line the banks between Putney Bridge and Mortlake to watch the action. Women’s boat race @ 4.35pm and Men’s boat race @ 5.35pm. Free. Nearest stations: Putney Bridge, Hammersmith, Ravenscourt Park, Stamford Brook, East Putney, Barnes Bridge or Chiswick. For more information, visit the Boat Race website.
- 2 – 10 April : Camberwell Free Film Festival
Ten day free film festival comes to SE5 featuring screenings, talks, and Q&As. Film screenings include Moana, Rear Window, Son of Saul, I Daniel Blake and more. At various venues including William Booth College, Whirled Cinema, The Phoenix, Coldharbour Studios, The Crooked Well, Grand Union Camberwell, The Flying Dutchman and The Sun. For more information, visit the Camberwell Free Film Festival website.
- Now until 2 April : The Other Art Fair
Chance to see and buy art from 130 unrepresented artists, regardless of how experienced you are in purchasing artwork. Also features book signings, panel discussions, kids’ workshops, Carolina Mizrahi’s immersive ‘Ruby’ room with hidden underground bar, The Modern Pantry pop-up restaurant and much more. Tickets: £8 in advance. Victoria House, Southampton Row, Bloomsbury, WC1B 4DA. Nearest station: Russell Square or Holborn. For more information, visit the Other Art Fair website.
- 3 – 28 April : I Am London exhibition
Photography showcase of iconic, pioneering, creative and fascinating Londoners and its places. Free. City Hall, The Queen’s Walk, SE1 2AA. Nearest station: London Bridge or Tower Hill. For more information, visit the London.gov.uk website.
- Now until 7 May : The Iris @ Now Gallery
A new art installation from artist Rebecca Louise Law, featuring 10,000 fresh irises suspended from the ceiling. Open Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat-Sun 11am-4pm. Free entry. NOW Gallery, The Gateway Pavilions, Peninsula Square, Greenwich Peninsula, Greenwich, SE10 0SQ. Nearest station: North Greenwich. For more information, visit the NOW Gallery website.
Celebrate caffeine at the Coffee Festival
- 7 – 9 April : London Coffee Festival
A celebration of coffee for the capital’s caffeine lovers at the Old Truman Brewery, featuring food, music and – of course – coffee. Visitors will even have the chance to make perfect coffee at home from some top baristas. Tickets start from £16.50 (advance), £22.50 (on the door). The Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, Shoreditch, E1 6QL. Nearest station: Shoreditch High Street or Aldgate East. For more information, visit the London Coffee Festival website.
- 8 April : Rebel Bingo
Rebel Bingo turn the traditional numbers game on its head with competitions, loud music and lots of attitude. Not for the faint-hearted and strictly over 18s only. 8-11.30pm. Tickets from £13.50. Mecca Bingo, 180 Arlington Road, Camden, NW1 7HL. Nearest station: Camden Town. For more information, visit RebelBingo.com.
- 8 – 9 April : VeggieWorld London
Europe’s biggest and oldest vegan festivals is coming to London, featuring food and fashion stalls, international food court, cookery demos, animal yoga, children’s activities and more. Open Sat 8 10am-7pm, Sun 9 10am-5pm. Tickets: £8 (advance), £10 (on the door). Kensington Town Hall, Hornton Street, Kensington, W8. Nearest station: High Street Kensington. For more information, visit the VeggieWorld website.
- Now until 9 April : Telegraph Hill Festival
Arts and entertainment festival in South East London, including music, open studios, art shows, interactive exhibits, classes, workshops, talks, literary events, wellbeing, plays, performance art and music events. Lots of events are free, but some will cost. At various venues across New Cross, Nunhead, Hatcham, Brockley and Honor Oak. For more information, visit the Telegraph Hill festival website. Read the rest of this entry
Guide to what’s on in London this Easter 2017 for adults and children
Chicks, chocolate and bunnies galore in London this Easter
© onefox/Pixabay
Easter is fast approaching! To many of us that means a long weekend, lots of chocolate and (hopefully) warmer temperatures. With parents searching for ways to entertain their children, a host of London attractions have curated special activities over the break. My monthly ‘what’s on guides’ include many activities on in the capital during April, however for those looking for more family and Easter-centric ideas of what’s on during the holidays, here’s listings of things to keep you occupied. However, it’s not all for the kids, with a special section at the bottom with adults-only Easter fun over the Bank Holiday weekend (which is 14 – 17 April in case you’re wondering).
For a guide to what else is on in London in April, click here.
- 24 March – 23 April : George Irvin’s Funfairs
Travelling funfairs will be setting up camp at Crystal Palace (24 Mar – 9 Apr), Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park (1 – 17 Apr), Clapham Common (1 – 23 Apr) and Hampton Court (13 – 18 Apr) over the Easter break. Rides include Big Apple Coaster, Dodgems, Bungee Trampolines, Tea Cups, Waltzer, Inflatable Slide and Carousel, among many others. For more information, visit the Irvin Leisure website.
- 1 – 16 April : Bunny Hop and Seek for Easter @ Museum Of Brands
Hunt a parade of Easter bunnies around the museum and through the Time Tunnel. Tues-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm. Activities free with museum entrance: Adults £9, Children 7-16yrs £5. Museum Of Brands, 111-117 Lancaster Road, Notting Hill, W11 1QT. Nearest station: Ladbroke Grove. For more information, visit the Museum Of Brands website.
- 1 – 17 April : Moomin Adventures @ Kew Gardens
Explore Kew Gardens on an interactive trail before ending up at the magical Moomin Festival Camp in the wild woodland. There will also be the opportunity for craft workshops, sample the Moomins’ pancakes and visit the Hemulens’ Herbarium. There will also be Lindt chocolate treats for every visitor. Tickets: Adults: £14, Children £2.50. Kew Gardens, Brentford Gate, Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AB. Nearest station: Kew Gardens. For more information and tickets, visit the Kew Gardens website.
- 1 – 17 April : Jurassic Kingdom
Dinosaur fans will get the opportunity to see 30 life-sized installations of animated dinosaurs, which move and make noise. There will also be street food and drink vendors on site. 10am-6pm. Tickets: Adults – £13.50 (online), £15 (on the door), Children £11.50 (online), £13 (on the door). Osterley Park, Jersey Road, Isleworth, Middlesex, TW7 4RB. Nearest station: Osterley. For tickets, visit the Jurassic Kingdom website.
- 1 – 17 April : Easter Egg Hunt @ Battersea Park Zoo
Find out what zoo animals will be holding Easter eggs. Open 10am-4.30pm. Visitors can purchase a £1.50 (including prize) quiz sheet upon entry and follow the trail. General admission: Adults £8.95, Children 2-15 yrs £6.95. Battersea Park Zoo, Battersea Park, Chelsea Embankment, Battersea, SW11 4NJ. Nearest station: Battersea Park. For more information, visit the Battersea Park Zoo website.
- 1 – 17 April : Easter Family Fun @ Hampton Court Palace
Go on a Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt at the homes and gardens of King Henry VIII. Other activities include meet Princess Caroline, decorate your own chocolate cup and find out how Georgians used to drink their chocolate. Open 10am-6pm. Tickets: Adults £23 (£20.30 online), Children £11.50 (£10.20 online). Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU. Nearest station: Hampton Court (36 minutes from Waterloo). For more information, visit the Historic Royal Palaces website.
- 1 – 21 April : Easter @ WWT London Wetland Centre
Enjoy the Celebrity Dusty Duck Trail and Easter Giant Duck Hunt (1 – 17 April only) during the Easter Holidays. The trail (£1 entry) will feature 6ft sculpture of Dusty Duck with a chocolate prize at the end, while the hunt (£1 entry) will feature ducks hidden around the reserve with a prize at the end. Entrance tickets: Adult £12.26-£13.49, 4-16 years £6.75-£7.42, family tickets £34.36-£37.80. London Wetland Centre, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, SW13 9WT. Nearest station: Barnes or Barnes Bridge. For more information, visit the London Wetland Centre website. Read the rest of this entry
Guide to what’s on in London in April 2015
Spring is here!
Spring is (hopefully) in full swing and with Easter Holidays kicking off at the beginning of the month, there’s plenty going on both during and after the school holidays. With the hope of warmer weather, some events and festivals are starting to venture outside. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for some balmier weather.
- 30 March – 12 April : Chorus Festival
Festival celebrating singing as a group, featuring concerts, warm-ups and workshops. Tickets range from free to £38. Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX. Nearest tube: Waterloo. For more information and booking, visit the Southbank Centre website.
- 2 – 5 April : London International Ska Festival
Four day festival of ska music featuring Lee Scratch Perry, Steel Pulse, Derrick Harriot, Gentleman’s Dub Club, Rico Rodriguez, Freddie Notes and Sir Horace Upton Collective (from The Specials) among others, at venues across the capital, including the Jazz Café and the Forum. Wristbands for the whole festival £141, individual gigs range from £5 to £25. For more information and tickets, visit the London International Ska Festival website.
- 2 – 5 April : Le Beat Bespoke Festival
Indoor music festival returns celebrating 21st Century Modernist and Sixties inspired underground music culture. Featuring live bands, DJs, record fair, market, guest clubs, all-nighters and Go Go dancers. Tickets: Individual gig tickets vary, or 3 day pass £53, 4 day pass £61. 229 The Venue, 229 Great Portland Street, W1W 5PN. Nearest station: Great Portland Street or Oxford Circus. For more information, visit Le Beat Bespoke website.
- Now until 6 April : Ideal Home Show
A place of inspiration for homeowners including interiors, fittings and gardens. Includes plenty of opportunities to buy things both big and small for the house and food. Celebrity ambassadors in attendance include Alan Titchmarsh. Gregg Wallace, Laurence Llewelyn Bowen, George Clarke, Katie Piper, Martin Lewis, and Suzi Perry. Tickets: Adults £12 (weekday) or £14 (weekend). Kensington Olympia, Hammersmith Road, W14 8UX. Nearest tube/overland: Kensington Olympia. For more information and tickets, visit the Ideal Home Show website.
- 9 April – 19 July : Udderbelly Festival
The Udderbelly cow returns to the Southbank
Udderbelly returns to the Southbank for a seventh year, featuring three months of comedy, circus, cabaret and family shows at affordable prices in an inflatable upside down cow venue. Jubilee Gardens, off Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX. Nearest tube: Waterloo. For more information and tickets, visit the Udderbelly website.
- 10 April : Spicy Friday – Friday Late @ Museum Of Brands
Late night adults-only opening of the Museum Of Brands, with spicy being the theme this month. Discover sauces, test your chili tolerance. Entrance includes free drink on arrival, themed cocktails, drinks and snacks, live entertainment and a spicy Time Tunnel trail. Tickets; £10. Museum Of Brands, 2 Colville Mews, off Lonsdale Road, Notting Hill, W11 2AR. Nearest tube: Notting Hill Gate. For more information and booking, visit the Museum Of Brands website.
- 10 April : Historic Punch gets Medieval
Late night event at the British Library, featuring Historic Punch, the salon of conversation, expert talks, and gin-laced concoctions as guests explore the quirkier aspects of Medieval life. 6.30-9.30pm. Tickets: £25. The British Library, 96 Euston Road, NW1 2DB. Nearest station: Euston, St Pancras or King’s Cross. For more information and booking, visit the British Library website.
- 11 April : Oxbridge Boat Race
Watch the historic annual boat race between the Cambridge and Oxford University crews. Thousands will line the banks between Putney Bridge and Mortlake to watch the action. Starts at 5.55pm. Free. Nearest stations: Putney Bridge, Hammersmith, Ravenscourt Park, Stamford Brook, East Putney, Barnes Bridge or Chiswick. For more information, visit the Boat Race website.
Memoirs Of A Metro Girl 