Looking for something fun to do today? Something eye-opening to watch tonight? Our guide on things to do this week in London is personally curated, ensuring there's a diverse range of events for you to choose from. Get stuck in!
All week
CHRISTMAS FAIRS: Feel like you should be making a start on your Christmas shopping? Some of London's Christmas markets are already open, with many more fairs taking place this week and over the coming weeks. Whether you're after jewellery, homewares, food, drink or other gifts, take a look at our guide to the best festive markets and fairs in London this year.
ICE SKATING: Three of London's seasonal ice rinks are already open, with two more joining them this week. Find your nearest and get booking — now's the ideal time, as they'll only get busier as Christmas nears!
SCOTTISH BOOK FESTIVAL: Former sports writer Gordon Simpson, political editor Robert Peston, actor Bill Paterson and broadcaster Carol Kirkwood are among the names on the St Andrew's Book Festival programme, a celebration of Scottish literature at venues including Scotland House (Temple) and Caledonian Club (Belgravia). 16-22 November 2026
CROYDONITES FESTIVAL: South London is in fringe festival mode, with the continuation of Croydonites, running until Saturday. It culminates in Dick's Picks, a comedy show curated by local funny man Dick Denham and featuring names from the UK comedy circuit including Roger O'Sullivan, Caz Thorne, CK Nath and Katie Norris. Until 21 November 2026
BIRDSONG: Final week to see a production of Sebastian Faulks' Birdsong at Stoke Newington's Tower Theatre. Adapted from the novel of the same name, it's a story of love and trauma during the First World War, and beyond. Until 21 November 2026
BALTIC FILM FESTIVAL: Films from across Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are in the spotlight at the London Baltic Film Festival, with three screenings at Regent Street Cinema during this final week. Kingpins sees an actress/waitress hatch a plan to rob a bowling alley; Ulya follows a young basketball prodigy discovered on a remote Soviet Latvian farm in 1964; and How to Divorce During the War follows a couple's separation in Vilnius on the eve of Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Until 21 November 2026
JAZZ FESTIVAL: Dozens of events, from live performances to special collaborations, make up this week's London Jazz Festival programme. There's almost too much to choose from, but we're tempted by gigs from singer-songwriter Vula Malinga, jazz singer Melody Gardot and the Igor Vdovin Duo. Until 22 November 2026
THEATRE FESTIVAL: Multilingual theatre festival Voila! continues until the end of this week, with highlights including mini theatre show The Gummy Bears' Great War and satirical sketch show Patisserie Femme. The programme is extensive, so you're bound to find several events to pique your interest. Until 22 November 2026
WRAPUP LONDON: Annual charity coat collection WrapUp London is back at London stations and other venues until the end of this week, so dig out your old coat from the back of your wardrobe. The organisation redistributes the coats they collect to those who need them most, to help keep them more comfortable and safe over the winter months. Collections take place until 22 November 2026
HOLLY JOLLY TEA: London's packed full of deliciously festive afternoon teas at this time of year, and one that's caught our eye is the Holly Jolly Afternoon Tea at Shangri-La The Shard. Tuck into treats including the Carpet Bag (apple, pecan and cinnamon), Chim Chim Chimney (chestnut and blackcurrant) and the Hat (Earl Grey and bergamot), served 35 storeys above London. Until January 2027
BOOK OF THE WEEK: Ever paused to admire the panoply of architecture around SW9 and SE24? New book Brixton and Herne Hill in 50 Buildings is your cue to do exactly that; allow us to whet your appetite with an extract featuring a police station, quaint cottages, and a shopping arcade inspired by the ancient Egyptians.
Today's events: Monday 16 November
KARATE MAN: Part theatre show, part video game, Karate Man takes the form of a choose-your-own-adventure comedy where the audience plays the show like a video game, controlling Karate Man up on stage. See/play it at Pleasance Theatre in Islington. 16-17 November 2026
TRAINS, DRAINS AND REMAINS: Explore the City's history beneath street level on this walking tour from outside Blackfriars Tube station. The route considers the Underground, sewers, the River Fleet, Roman remains, former water conduits and burial sites, finishing near London Bridge. 2pm-4pm
BRIDGEMASTERS OF LONDON: Sue Threader, one of two elected bridgemasters of London, gives a free talk about the role, at the Royal Thames Yacht Club in Knightsbridge. Find out about the history of bridgemasters, what it involves today, and hear some tales of scandal and controversy. FREE, 5.30pm-7pm
THE FESTIVE BAKER: Food historian and writer Ben Mervis discusses his new book, The Festive Baker: A Cookbook, at Fortnum & Mason. Hear about more than 170 sweet and savoury recipes spanning over 50 festivities and traditions, with a welcome drink and snacks on arrival. 6.30pm-8pm
WITCH HUNTING: Historian, writer and Herstorical Tours founder Maria Beadell examines who was persecuted in England's early modern witch trials, why they were targeted and how the motivations behind them continue to echo in present society. The talk takes place at Bird House Brewery in Norwood, followed by a Q&A. 7pm-8.30pm
ELIF SHAFAK: Award-winning author Elif Shafak discusses her new book, One Brief Moment in All Eternity, with hosts Afua Hirsch and Peter Frankopan at Kings Place in King's Cross. The conversation considers who gets remembered, how history is written and what the past leaves behind. Your ticket includes a copy of the book and the chance to get it signed. 7pm
POETRY MONDAY: Underground lyrical verse and alternative folk singer-songwriters take over Jamboree in King's Cross for an evening hosted and curated by Gibraltarian poet Gabriel Moreno. The line-up features London poets and singer-songwriters. 8pm
Today's events: Tuesday 17 November
ONE DAY THE MUSICAL: The long-awaited musical adaptation of David Nicholls' book One Day — also made into a Netflix series in 2024 — opens at the Garrick Theatre. Follow the parallel lives of Emma and Dexter, who meet on the night of their graduation, as we get an insight into what they're each up to on that same day over several years. 17 November 2026-March 2027
THE LIBERTY SCARF: Fashion historian and vintage scarf collector Paul Rennie joins Liberty Design Director Mary-Ann Dunkley and Lead Scarf Designer Alexandra Lovatt for a talk at the V&A South Kensington exploring the accessory's 150-year history. Drawing on Liberty's archive, they trace scarf design from block-printed silks and heritage motifs to bold abstracts and contemporary interpretations. In-person tickets have sold out, but you can still tune into the livestream. 3.30pm-4.30pm
GARDEN STORIES: Sarah Raven and Adam Nicolson share the histories and ideas connecting their two remarkable gardens, Sissinghurst Castle and Perch Hill, in an evening at Blackheath Halls. Expect personal stories about how the gardens have evolved, followed by a Q&A, book signing and a pop-up shop. 7pm
THE NUTTY PROFESSOR: Jerry Lewis' son Chris Lewis presents a special screening of The Nutty Professor at the Cinema Museum, preceded by an introduction and followed by a Q&A. Chris also signs copies of his book, Jerry Lewis on Being a Person, before the film. 7pm
BEYOND THE GRAVES: Join TV and film writer Jon Dear at Highgate Cemetery to hear about some of the horror films that have been shot there. Hammer and Amicus have both used it as a location, making use of its unique landscape and structures, and famous inhabitants. 7.30pm
THE PEN: Author and journalist Simon Garfield traces the history of humanity's oldest writing instrument, in a talk at the Highgate Literary and Scientific Institute (also available to watch online). The talk moves from reeds on the Nile to Montblanc and Bic, taking in wartime trenches, fountain pens and the desks of Jane Austen, Sigmund Freud and Margaret Atwood. 8pm-9pm
Today's events: Wednesday 18 November
BALLETBOYZ: Dance company BalletBoyz present the world premiere of Six Lethargies at Sadler's Wells, with composer Keaton Henson's score performed by a 37-piece orchestra and choreography by Iván Pérez and Seirian Griffiths. Michael Nunn and William Trevitt's company perform with around 35 dancers. 18-21 November 2026
LANTERN PARADE: Children from local primary schools lead a handmade-lantern procession through the Old Royal Naval College and across Cutty Sark Gardens, ending at Greenwich Market for its Christmas lights switch-on. The crowd counts down at 5pm, followed by live music and performances. FREE, 4pm-6pm
WHY PUBS MATTER: Conway Hall in Holborn hosts sociologist Amit Singh and pub artist Lydia Wood for a discussion about Britain's pubs, their role as community spaces and the pressures threatening them. Singh and Wood consider how these social roots might be preserved, with both speakers' books available on the night. 6.30pm-8pm
BLACK BRITONS, RACE AND POLICING: Housmans Bookshop in King's Cross screens the landmark 1978 documentary Blacks Britannica, examining racism, policing, immigration, employment and resistance in 1970s Britain. The screening is followed by a discussion with author Bisi Akintoye, whose new book explores the historical and contemporary policing of Black communities, chaired by Dr Remy-Paulin Twahirwa. 7pm-8.30pm
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: Dolly Alderton and guests discuss the new Netflix adaptation of Jane Austen's classic at the British Library. The evening explores the version written by Alderton and starring Emma Corrin, Jack Lowden, Olivia Colman and Rufus Sewell. Watch in person at the Library or online. 7pm-8.30pm
Today's events: Thursday 19 November
HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND: London's giant festive funfair returns to Hyde Park from today, with all the usual attractions; ice rink, giant wheel, funfair rides, ice kingdom, Christmas market, and food and drink stalls. There's a new take on the circus for this year, too. You'll need to book your entry slot in advance, and prices vary depending on peak and off-peak timings. 19 November 2026-3 January 2027
ATTENTION: "A queer love story that is paused, rewound, restarted and reformed for a different outcome each night" — that's Georgia Bruce's play Attention, which starts tonight at Bush Theatre, running until just before Christmas. 19 November 2026-23 December 2027
ZOFFANY ENSEMBLE: The Zoffany Ensemble performs Brahms' Serenade No. 1 in D major, Op. 11 at Smith Square Hall, in a reconstruction of the work's original chamber version for nine instruments. The lunchtime concert lasts 55 minutes with no interval. 1.05pm
CHRISTMAS LATES: Dr Johnson's House near Fleet Street holds the first of a series of Christmas Lates, keeping the doors open into the evening so you can see the former home of dictionary compiler Dr Samuel Johnson decorated for Christmas. Enjoy a festive drink, learn how the Georgians celebrated Christmas, and shop for Christmas gifts. 5.30pm-7.30pm
WINDOWS INTO THE UNSEEN: Sheroes Collective's first public library exhibition transforms Deptford Lounge's windows and public-facing spaces with installations by 16 women activist artists confronting gender-based violence and highlighting resilience, survival and collective care. Meet the artists and join the conversation at the opening event tonight. FREE, 6.30pm-8.30pm (exhibition runs until 12 December)
MINISTRY OF SOUND: Simon Moore, Benji B, DJ Paulette Constable and Ministry of Sound founder Justin Berkmann join V&A curator Harriet Reed for a talk at V&A South Kensington celebrating 35 years of the legendary London club and record label. Drawing on photography, posters, record sleeves and personal recollections, the panel traces its journey from a south London warehouse to global dance-music phenomenon. 7pm-8pm
ROGER ACKROYD: The British Library marks 100 years of Agatha Christie book The Murder of Roger Ackroyd with an evening discussion featuring crime writers Harriet Tyce and Victoria Dowd, alongside Christie expert Tony Medawar. Expect a celebration of the pioneering mystery... and spoilers, so read the book first. It's part of the events series around the venue's current, excellent Agatha Christie exhibition. 8pm-9.30pm
Today's events: Friday 20 November
ROTHERHITHE WALK: Explore Rotherhithe's riverside history on a guided walk from Rotherhithe Station, covering the Pilgrims' voyage to modern-day USA, the Brunels' pioneering Thames Tunnel and the engineering innovation still used 200 years later. The route also takes in maritime stories, Cherry Garden Pier and views towards Tower Bridge. 10.30am-12.30pm
LANTERN PARADE: Also in Rotherhithe today: the Illuminate Bermondsey & Rotherhithe lantern parade is free to watch, wending its way from the Blue Market to Southwark Park. Everyone's welcome to join the procession, accompanied by a samba band. FREE, 5pm
ANCIENT EGYPT AT TWILIGHT: Explore Sir John Soane's interaction with ancient Egypt on an after-hours tour through the dark, winding passages of his house-museum at Lincoln's Inn Fields. An expert guide covers Egyptian gods and myths, 19th century acts of derring-do and the Western fascination with the ancient past. 6pm-7pm/7.30pm-8.30pm
MURDER MYSTERY: Valence House Museum in Dagenham reopens the historic case of PC George Clark for an immersive murder mystery. Work with Dr Thorne in an imaginary courtroom setting, examining evidence, testimony and long-buried secrets over an evening meal and welcome drink. Over-18s only. 7pm-10pm
80S ON BRASS: Old Dirty Brasstards bring a 10-piece drum-and-brass line-up to Signature Brew Blackhorse Road for a night of 1980s covers. Expect horn-heavy takes on anthems by Duran Duran, the Human League, Whitney Houston, Queen and Bon Jovi. Singalongs encouraged. 7pm
ROBES SLEEPOUT: Southwark Cathedral hosts an evening of entertainment supporting the Robes Project, with a project update, music from the London Sea Shanty Collective, a quiz and a group photo. The entertainment is suitable for all ages, and offers an alternative way to support the project — which helps the homeless in south London — for anyone who can't commit to a full night sleeping outside. 8pm-9.30pm
Today's events: Saturday 21 November
THE SNOWMAN: After an incredible 32 years of the Birmingham Repertory Theatre's take on The Snowman, the Peacock theatre shakes things up for Christmas 2026 with a new staging. The BRT is still at the helm as puppets and a soaring score combine to bring Raymond Briggs' charming story of a Christmas Eve friendship between a boy and a snowman to life. It's one of our picks of family theatre shows not to miss this Christmas. 21 November 2026-3 January 2027
CINDERELLA: BUTTONS UNDONE: It's Cinderella, but not as you know it. Once again, Charing Cross Theatre hosts a strictly adults-only take on a classic panto, and Cinderella: Buttons Undone is a raucous version of the fairytale, in which tennis champion Ivan Yassandvich holds a ball to find a bride, to the excitement of maid Cindy, her stepsister boss Mercedes and her gay bestie Buttons. 21 November 2026-9 January 2027
VAN EYCK: One of our art critic's pick of the top exhibitions to see in London in 2026, Van Eyck: The Portraits at the National Gallery brings all of the Flemish painter's portraits together for the first time in history. 21 November 2026-11 April 2027
TOVE JANSSON: The work of Finnish author-illustrator Tove Jansson is in the spotlight in a special exhibition at the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration in Clerkenwell, including her most famous creations, the Moomins. The UK's first exhibition to share her original works in almost a decade includes previously unseen drawings, along with over 100 rarely shown sketches, paintings, illustrations and photographs. 21 November 2026-9 May 2027
SEA SHANTY FESTIVAL: Warm up your vocal pipes and climb aboard Cutty Sark for the Sea Shanty Festival, celebrating the vessel's 157th birthday. Bands and singers from across the UK perform live including the HogEye Men and the London Sea Shanty Collective. 10am-6pm
VINTAGE FURNITURE: The Vintage Furniture & Flea Market arrives at Great Hall, Blackheath Halls for the first time, with Judy's Vintage Fair bringing traders from across London and the UK. Browse mid-century furniture, design classics, lighting, ceramics, artwork, homewares and vintage fashion. 11am-3.30pm
GEORGIAN COOKING: Food historians Marc Meltonville and Robert Hoare demonstrate how Georgians prepared for Christmas Day and the festive period at Handel Hendrix House in Mayfair, including making Christmas puddings on the last Sunday before advent. The event includes a glass of wine. 6pm
MUSIC HALL: Gatti's Music Hall is reborn at the Canal Museum tonight, as the New Players' Theatre Company perform traditional set pieces from the era of vaudeville. You can also view the museum's ground floor exhibitions, and make use of a bar. Doors 6.30pm
Today's events: Sunday 22 November
STIR-UP SUNDAY: Step back in time at Gunnersbury Park & Museum, where children can role-play Victorian servants preparing Christmas in a grand mansion. Grind sugar and spices, roll pastry, stir a traditional plum pudding and make festive decorations, with activities suitable for ages four+. 10.15am/11.30am/1.45pm/3pm
SHIRE HORSE SUNDAY: It's that time of year when the Shire horses of Hampton Court Palace line up outside the building for a blessing by HM's Chaplain of the Chapel Royal. Anyone's welcome to watch the unusual ritual, and to join the evensong service at the Chapel Royal within the palace complex afterwards. FREE, 3pm. It's part of a garden open weekend at Hampton Court, when you can visit normally-ticketed areas of the gardens and grounds for FREE, 21-22 November 2026
LAUREL AND HARDY: It's 100 years since Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy first appeared in a film together, and to mark the milestone, silent film/improvised piano expert Neil Brand is at the Cinema Museum for two shows, reliving some of the duo's most famous — and lesser-known — moments. Proceeds go towards helping the museum purchase its building. Both shows are the same. 5pm and 8pm
KAYFABE MEMORIES: Past and present collide in Kayfabe Memories, a wrestling play in which a grieving widower finds himself transported between the faded world of a 1920s carnival and the present-day Flinch Club. Featuring live wrestling (and music), it's on at the Pearly Queen Theatre in the Bow Bells pub. 5pm-7pm
RORY BREMNER: Political impressionist Rory Bremner brings vocal mimicry, political commentary, stand-up and candid conversation to the Chickenshed Theatre in Southgate. The evening is a fundraising event, with all proceeds supporting Chickenshed’s work. 7pm
CHRISTMAS WREATH WORKSHOP: Feeling crafty? Have a go at creating your own Christmas wreath, in a workshop at the Rookwood in Wanstead. Build a beautiful handmade wreath from foraged foliage and dried flowers — no experience is required, and all materials (and mulled wine!) are included. 7pm-9pm
BRIAN BLESSED: Actor, author and mountaineer Brian Blessed celebrates his 90th birthday with a live conversation at the Adelphi Theatre, looking back on a career spanning Shakespeare, science fiction, musical theatre and classical opera. Richard Herring joins him for an evening covering everything from Everest to the stage. 7.30pm-9.20pm
