What we’re reading:
- Take a look around the London silver vaults.
- Four Feet Under: 30 Untold Stories of Homelessness in London — first-hand study of street survival.
- Fascinating pictures show Smithfield market through the years.
- Creator of prank adverts plastered across London says 'people will believe absolutely anything'.
Things to do:
WAR STORIES: Veterans and eyewitnesses share insights you won’t find in the history books, aboard the HMS Belfast. Hear about the front lines of WWII, and about life during the Korean and Falklands wars from the people who were there. HMS Belfast (Southwark), included in museum admission, just turn up, until 11am-3pm
ASK THE TECHIE: Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at London’s most iconic landmarks? Head to Tower Bridge’s Engine Rooms where expert engineers reveal how they keep the 124-year-old structure in such great shape. Tower Bridge London, £10, just turn up, 1.15pm-2pm
CIGAR AND WHISKY PAIRING: Indulge in a bit of old world glamour sipping whisky and puffing on cigars at a Winston Churchill-inspired cocktail bar. Your ticket includes a welcome cocktail, canapés, and a fine Montecristo Double Edmundo and Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve pairing. The Churchill Bar & Terrace (Marylebone), £50, book ahead, 6pm-9.30pm
SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL TOUR: Here’s a wholesome midweek diversion. Experience the tranquility of an evening at Southwark Cathedral while a professional guide tells you all about its illustrious 900 year history. Southwark Cathedral (London Bridge), £8, book ahead, 6.30pm-7.30pm
CIRCUS LATE: The Science Museum celebrates 250 years of the circus with the help of unicyclists, magicians, clowns, stilt walkers and mime artists. Discover the technical skills behind the thrills. You also get the chance to learn juggling, practice your mime skills, and get a clown makeover. Science Museum (South Kensington), free entry, book ahead for some events, 6.45pm-10pm
Drink brand new Londonist beer at our Fourpure Brewery party
If anyone can organise a piss-up in the brewery it should be us, right? We regularly write about London's unrivalled craft beer scene, spend a decent amount of time indulging in it, and now we've created our very own London-y brew (with the help of the fantastic folks at Fourpure). Join us to celebrate the launch of Londonist beer in style on Sunday 16 September at the Fourpure Brewery. For just a tenner you get an eight hour party, live music, the chance to win Londonist goodies, and four cans of one-off Londonist beer to take home. Find out more here, or go ahead and book your tickets.
VIVE LA RESISTANCE: What do journalist Owen Jones, magazine editor Michael Segalov, and comedian Josie Long have in common? If you answered ‘a passion for grassroots political activism’, you’d be correct. Join them for an evening of discussion and debate. Foyles (Charing Cross Road), £8, book ahead, 7pm-8pm
VICTORIA PARK SINGALONG: Give your vocal pipes some exercise with the Victoria Park Singers. They’re inviting you to join them in singing some of their favourite tunes at an east London watering hole. With no performance to work towards it’s all about the music. Royal Inn on the Park (South Hackney), £12, book ahead, 7pm-8.45pm
LIVE MUSIC: All-female indie rock trio Primo headline Upset the Rhythm's latest musical showcase. They're joined by post-punk art core act Rainham Sheds and Slushy Guts. The Islington (Angel), £6, book ahead, 7.30pm
YORUBA OPERA: Writer April Atinuke Koyejo took the Yoruba fairytales of her childhood as her inspiration for this utterly original opera. Ayanfe features an exciting rendition of Yoruba folk music reimagined in a western classical style. Bridewell Theatre (City of London), £15, book ahead, 7.30pm-9.30pm, until 30 August
FRIENDS PUB QUIZ: Want to get your hands on the coveted Geller cup? Get your game-face on, Monica-style and get ready for a pub quiz all about everyone’s favourite nineties sitcom. There’s BOGOF Friends-themed cocktails all night long. The Star of Bethnal Green (Bethnal Green), £5, book ahead, 7.30pm-10pm
Good cause of the day
If you’re interested in mental health and have a few hours to spare, consider volunteering with SANE — a charity working to improve quality of life for anyone and everyone affected by mental illness. Find out how you can help at tonight’s volunteer information evening.
