Free things to do in London this week.
See over 450 oil paintings of the inside of an artist's flat
For the past eight years, Rod Kitson has been painting his south London flat, one square foot at a time. He's now putting the result — a life-size replica of over 450 oil paintings, which create a raw, glitch-like view of domestic life — on display for a short time at his Surrey Quays Shopping Centre gallery.
Until 26 March.
Admire the work of an artistic family
Not long left to catch The Kallin Family Exhibition 2026, running at Burgh House in Hampstead (open Weds-Sun). This collection of textile landscapes, ink drawings, paintings, dolls house sculptures and mysterious figures explores themes of childhood nostalgia, dreams and the urban landscape — and is the work of one talented family.
Until 29 March.
Be dazzled by some Divine Jewels
Time's also running out to see the V&A's current free display, Divine Jewels. Head to the Jewellery Gallery in the South Kensington museum to ogle historic jewellery from the Albion Art Collection, based in Japan. British aristocratic tiaras, Russian crown jewels and ensembles of sapphires, diamonds, and pink topaz are among the glittering items on display.
While you're at the V&A, the free Remarkable Women tours are running daily throughout March for Women's History Month. Join a volunteer guide to hear about the leading role of women as artists but also patrons, muses, creators, business partners and more.
Until 6 April 2026.
See a boar's head carried through the City
If you find yourself in the City of London this Wednesday afternoon, look out for a (papier-mâché) boar's head being paraded from Butchers' Hall (near Smithfield) to the Mayor's residence of Mansion House.
The Boar's Head Ceremony started out as a peppercorn rent payment from the butchers of the City of London, who showed their appreciation for the parcel of land they were given, by presenting the then-Lord Mayor of London with a boar's head, for the centrepiece of a winter feast.
The procession — one of London's wackiest annual events — is free to watch.
18 March.
Celebrate the universe's 100th birthday
This Wednesday's free Gresham College lecture celebrates 100 years of our universe... sort of. Professor Chris Lintott, Gresham Professor of Astronomy, marks 100 years since Edwin Hubble published the first conclusive evidence that there were galaxies beyond the Milky Way. Learn about how much more knowledge we've gained over the intervening century, using new telescopes and instruments. Watch in person at Conway Hall, or online.
18 March.
Be at the launch of a psychological thriller
Letters to Hillary is Kathy Owen's new thriller about a woman's psychological unraveling, following a devastating incident. It touches on themes of abuse, loss and the resurfacing of the past. See the author chat about it, at Brixton House. It's free, but be sure to RSVP.
19 March.
Go on a free bird walk
Take a leisurely stroll along the River Lea from Cody Dock near Canning Town, learning about the bird species which live in the area. Experienced guides point out the sights and sounds of local birds on this free walk. Bring your own binoculars/camera.
20 March.
Catch a free show at the Royal Opera House
Once again, Covent Garden's Royal Opera House holds a Live at Lunch show, when performers from the Royal Ballet and Opera, and guest artists, put on a free performance. Artists aren't revealed until the day, but these productions are always popular, so arrive in plenty of time to get a seat.
20 March.
Have a crack at ballroom and Latin dancing
Head to Southbank Centre on Friday afternoon for a dancing session led by ballroom legend Jacky Logan. Take part in workshops where you can learn the basic steps of popular ballroom and Latin dance styles, ranging from quickstep, waltz and jive to rumba and cha cha — no experience or partner necessary. Once you know what you're doing, join in with an hour-long social dance session.
20 March.
View artworks depicting wartime London
The Imperial War Museum's new exhibition, Beauty and Destruction: Wartime London in Art, tells the story of the capital during the Second World War, as witnessed and recorded by artists. See over 45 paintings and drawings alongside photographs, film, objects and oral histories, created as bombs rained down.
20 March-1 November 2026.
Celebrate the local community at Urban Elephant
Free-entry community festival Urban Elephant returns to Elephant and Castle on Saturday. The action is spread across Walworth Town Hall Square, Sayer Street and Castle Square. Expect street entertainers, world music performances, fitness sessions and a special unveiling of The Elephant's new square.
21 March.
