Things to do
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS: If you're looking for ways to keep the kids entertained while school's out, check out our guide to spending the summer holidays in London. We've covered family-friendly events, exhibitions and theatre shows, plus plenty of places to eat and drink.
ASTRONAUT TRAINING: Take part in astronaut training challenges and collect stamps in a special passport. The Lego-themed out-of-this-world kids' events go on all week, with space shuttle building, a Lego space suit and a massive Lego mural. Lego Store (Leicester Square), free, just turn up, 22-28 July
BANK OBJECTS: The latest exhibition at the Bank of England Museum celebrates the Bank's 325-year history, retelling it in 325 objects. A one hundred million pound banknote, a nuclear weapon effects calculator, and a banknote forgery are among the fascinating exhibits. Bank of England Museum, free, just turn up, 22 July-June 2020
THE IRON MAN: Award-winning illustrator Chris Mould sets up in Foyles for the day to decorate the balcony overlooking the Children’s section with illustrations from his new version of the Ted Hughes classic The Iron Man. Meet him and watch him create his artwork live in front of you. Foyles Charing Cross Road, free, just turn up, 10am-2pm
LEARN TO SEW: Wish you were one of those people who could run up their own skirt or blouse on a sewing machine? Find out where to start at this workshop aimed at absolute beginners. Get to grips with threading, and different stitches and techniques, and tackle how to sew in a zip. Seven Sisters Road, £35, book ahead, 2pm-5pm (sponsor)
EXTINCTION REBELLION: Headline-making environmental campaign group Extinction Rebellion has written a book about its mission. This Is Not A Drill contains facts, empowering stories, and instructions on how to get involved in the rebellion, introduced by the editors at tonight's event. Owl Bookshop (Kentish Town), £7.99 (includes book), book ahead, 6.30pm
COMEDY: Adam Hess, comedian and star of Comedy Central's Stand-Up offers a preview of his Edinburgh show. Expect quick fire laughs and a story about getting stuck in a lift for 25 hours. The Bill Murray (Islington), £5, book ahead, 6.45pm-7.45pm
TOUR DE FRANCE: Think you know all about the Tour de France? Cycling cafe Look Mum No Hands! hosts a quiz about the world-famous bike race. Get yourself into a team of four and compete for prizes including free drinks and cycling caps. Look Mum No Hands! (Old Street), free, book ahead, 7pm-10pm
OUT-SPOKEN: Poetry and live music night Out-Spoken hosts award-winning US poet Morgan Parker , reading from new collection Magical Negro, and Sam 'Junior' Bromfield spinning reggae, soul and R&B music. Southbank Centre, £10, book ahead, 7.45pm
BELT UP: A capella music group Belt Up! have performed at Brasserie Zedel, Pizza Express Live, and on SkyOne. This live show is formed of powerhouse anthems and dance floor classics, moving ballads and the latest chart hits — and singing and dancing along is encouraged. The Other Palace (Victoria), £10-£15, book ahead, 8pm
Tube ponderings with Barry Heck
Our resident tube fancier dishes out daily thoughts on the London Underground.
Roundel of the Week time. I'm rather taken with this beauty on the District line, which has an unusual red border around the nameplate. An enrouged roundel. Follow Barry Heck on Twitter @HeckTube.
Good cause of the day
Book ahead for Absolute 80s Live Band, a fundraising gig themed on the decade, covering songs from Pet Shop Boys, Depeche Mode, New Order and many more. It takes place at Wilton's in August, and money raised goes to the Imperial College NHS Trust. Find out more and book tickets.
What we're reading
- This 'forbidding' London street has been massively brightened up.
- Only Fools And Horses mural painted over in just days.
- Meet the people of the River Thames.
- Theatre tests new staff bodycams to deter rowdy audiences.
