Preview: Slow Down London

Now the initial excitement of Slow Exposure is past, it's time to get gradually interested in Slow Down London's programme of events of which our marvellous exhibition is just one. This gently thought provoking festival has the likes of the British Museum, Southbank Centre, Foyles and others involved and made last week's FT weekend supplement. We were initially sceptical about slowing down, since keeping pace with London 7 days a week is what Londonist is all about. But absorb the cheerful Slow Down booklet and you'll soon see it's about balance - challenging the cult of speed and finding time to do many of the things that Londonist would have you do anyway, to appreciate the city around you.

The events programme features obvious things like arts, crafts, yoga and meditation and a Southbank Slow Food market. But there are also discussions on the nature of "when", on time and history. There are "Evening Strolls" in Regents Park and along the Thames Path, a ramble through North London and a trail to discover the dinosaurs in Crystal Palace Park. Three men will be patrolling London in a milk float. There is comedy and creative writing, wallpaper printing, tranquil music and urban gardening.

The festival stirs into being on Friday 24 April and if you need to chill out, say nuts to rush hour and join the Big Slow Walk at 5pm meeting at Embankment Gardens. And don't forget to join us at Ray's Jazz Cafe, Foyles, Charing Cross Road on Friday 1 May between 6-8.30pm for the private view of Londonist Presents: Slow Exposure. Email [email protected] now to let us know you'll be there.