Things to do
SPARE PARTS: The repair and alteration of human bodies is examined in this new exhibition — the second-ever show at Science Gallery. Processes such as organ transplants and tissue regeneration are explored, based on both the latest scientific research, and creative responses by artist and designers. Science Gallery (London Bridge), free, just turn up, 28 February-22 May
GENDER, MARRIAGE AND DIVORCE: Why does the church still hold such strict views about divorce and same-sex marriage? In this Gresham College talk, the Revd Canon Professor Richard Burridge discusses the relevant sections of the New Testament and asks whether a biblical view of sexuality and gender is relevant in today's ethical debates. Barnard's Inn Hall (Holborn), free, just turn up, 1pm-2pm
ADVENTURES AT SEA: Tying in with the current Merchant Navy Treasures exhibition, head to Guildhall Library for a chance to see documents relating to Merchant Navy history, in a workshop led by Assistant Librarian Jeanie Smith. No sea legs required. Guildhall Library (Bank), free, book ahead, 2pm-3pm
MODERN LONDON: Find out about the people who made modern London what it is today — including inventors and philanthropists — on this walking tour. See a hole in the ground that saved thousands of lives, and find out about the 18th century version of Wikileaks, and the Americans who helped London's poor. Farringdon tube station, £12/£9, book ahead, 2pm-4pm
OBJECTS OF DESIRE: Explore the collections of the Petrie Museum with Egyptologist John J Johnston on hand to answer any questions. Various other experts share their favourite objects from the museum, which relates to their specific research and interests. Petrie Museum (UCL), £5, book ahead, 6pm-8pm
POETRY LONDON: Rachael Allen, Vahni Capildeo, Rebecca Perry and Matthew Dickman are among the writers reading their work at the launch of the spring edition of magazine Poetry London. King's Place (King's Cross), £6.50, book ahead, 7pm
ISLAND: Documentary film Island, set on the Isle of Wight, tells the story of four different people in the year their lives will end. Some accept death while others are in shock, and outlooks and relationships gradually shift. Watch the moving film, then take part in a Q&A with director Steven Eastwood. Whitechapel Gallery. £9.50/£7.50, book ahead, 7pm
RED OR WHITE: Take part in an evening focusing on the history of wine in Russia, and enjoy the current exhibition focusing on Russian royalty while sampling wines especially curated for it by wine expert Tanya Nesterova. Queen's Gallery (Buckingham Palace), £35, book ahead, 7pm
ANOTHER SKY: London-based band Another Sky — who joined forces while studying at Goldsmiths — perform at Rich Mix. Their music is influenced by Four Tet, The xx and — on a currently melancholic note — Talk Talk. Rich Mix (Shoreditch), £11, book ahead, 7.30pm
BLACK TUDORS: Dr Miranda Kaufmann discusses her new book, Black Tudors, which tells the stories of ten Africans and their paths through Tudor and Stuart England. Hear the detail about their daily lives, and how unusual they were compared to fellow Africans because they were free, rather than part of the slave trade. National Archives (Kew), £10/£8, book ahead, 7.30pm-9pm
Tube Ponderings with Barry Heck
Our resident tube fancier dishes out daily thoughts on the London Underground.
The distinctive seat coverings on London transport are called moquettes. You might imagine they were designed by a large multinational, but no. Five of the more recent moquettes have sprung from a small, corner-shop company in Islington. Here's their story.
Good cause of the day
If you're feeling flush this pay day, book ahead for the Roundhouse Gala 2019 on 14 March. Pet Shop Boys headline, with a silent auction selling art by well-known names and once-in-a-lifetime experience. As with most gala nights, it's not cheap — you're looking at £600 for a ticket. Find out more and book.
What we're reading
- It looks like Oxford Street may become part-pedestrianised after all.
- Black cab drivers lose Uber legal action.
- The new Crossrail launch date could be announced by April.
- Squirrel meat lasagna — more than just a PR stunt.
