Things to do today is sponsored by the Postal Museum.
What we're reading:
- The small businesses fighting to save Britain's railway arches.
- Thomas Heatherwick's visions for London Olympia revealed in new renderings.
- Meet the Mexican chefs taking London beyond burritos.
- Did the Blitz enhance London's economy?
- Man spends three years photographing every pie and mash shop in London as they face gentrification and closure.
Things to do:
WIMBLEDON: Looking for somewhere to watch Wimbledon? We've got a guide for that.
SPEAKING PROPER: With the English language constantly in flux, what should we make of the way grammar is taught in schools? At this lively discussion day, leading language authorities reflect on the state of English grammar and vocabulary. British Library (Euston), £10, book ahead, 9.30am-5pm
CHARMED LIVES IN GREECE: It's your last week to see the British Museum's free exhibition on Niko Ghika, John Craxton, and Patrick Leigh Fermor. See how this trio's shared love of Greece impacted their work and friendship. British Museum (Holborn), free, just turn up, 10am-5.30pm, until 15 July
WOMEN AND HIV: During the height of the AIDS crisis, an assumption that the illness did not effect women meant HIV+ women were particularly isolated. Hear the story of how a diverse group of women founded the International Community of Women Living with HIV/AIDS, and speak to four women about the activism that grew out of their experiences. Royal College of Nursing (Cavendish Square), free, book ahead, 5.30pm-7pm
TOTES AMAZE-BALLS: Bin your bag for life (not literally, though) in favour of a tote you've tarted up yourself. With, glitter, gems, sequins, and sharpies, this casual crafting evening has everything you need to liven up your arm candy. Drink, Shop & Do (King's Cross), £5, just turn up, 6pm
MANOR PARK ASTRONOMY: It may still be light outside, but that doesn't mean you can't engage in a bit of stargazing. The whole family is invited to Manor Park to safely view the surface of the sun at a free solar astronomy class. Manor Park (Sutton), free, book ahead, 6pm-7pm
Sponsor message
Visit one of the Museums of the Year
London's Postal Museum was one of the five shortlisted venues for the Art Fund's Museum of the Year award. The recognition will come as no surprise to anybody who has visited this First Class museum, which combines excellent historical displays, brilliant family spaces and, of course, the unique Mail Rail underground railway. If you've yet to visit, add it to your list.
GET FESTIVAL READY: Take your summer festival skincare routine beyond a once-over with the baby wipes. St Martins Lane have invited beauty connoisseurs Kiehl's to show you to how to best protect your skin against the elements with the absolute minimal amount of hassle. Your ticket includes a glass of wine. St Martins Lane Hotel (Covent Garden), £20, book ahead, 6pm-7pm
HANGER SINGLES NIGHT: Dating can be tough, but hang on in there — this indoor climbing singles night could be just what you need to take your romantic life to the next level. Draw a partner at random and try a couple's climb at The Climbing Hangar. It promises to be the ultimate compatibility challenge — so no pressure, then. The Climbing Hangar (Parsons Green), £10, book ahead, 6.30pm-10pm
STAMPTOWN COMEDY NIGHT: This raunchy variety show is billed as a full-on fringe experience. Join Zach and Viggo for the best comedy, cabaret and circus on the international scene. The Bill Murray (Islington), £5, book ahead, 8pm-10pm
FCKBOYS: Katie Burnett's one woman-show follows a fledgling comedian as she rides the highs and lows of modern dating. Can you ever really be friends with your past hook ups? And what happens when you get your heart broken by the ultimate fckboy? King's Head Theatre (Islington), £10, book ahead, 8pm-9pm
PERSEPOLIS: Genesis Cinema is turning 19, and to celebrate they're giving out a whole load of movie tickets for less than the price of an artisan latte. Tonight you can catch the celebrated French-Iranian animation film Persepolis. Genesis Cinema (Stepney Green), £2.50, book ahead, 8.50pm-10.50pm
Good cause of the day
Do you work or live in the City of London? Take the pledge to reduce your reliance on single-use plastics and help realise the dream of a plastic free City.
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