Things to do
LONDON HORROR FESTIVAL: Warm up for Halloween at London Horror Festival, a programme of theatre and stage shows designed to give you a scare. Gothic musicals, Italian horror, and an interactive show set in a 17th century settlement all feature on this week's programme. Pleasance Theatre and Old Red Lion Theatre, various prices, book ahead, 8 October-2 November
ARMISTICE AND ARCHAEOLOGY: When the Armistice ended the first world war, and the German Navy fleet was seized, the Allied Nations were unable to agree what to do with these assets. Hear about the effect this had on larger political decisions and agreements at the time, with specific maritime archaeology case studies covered. Society of Antiquaries (Piccadilly) free, book ahead, 1pm-2pm
AFRICAN DIASPORA: As part of Black History Month, Birkbeck hosts a talk about the hidden black diaspora in Spain. Very little is known about the African Diaspora in Spain between 16th-18th century, as it was largely eradicated from history books, but this is a chance to hear what is known. Stratford Library, free, book ahead, 6pm-7.30pm
BADGER SCIENCE: A panel of scientists, farmers and policymakers tackle the controversial subject of badger vaccination. A recent review advised that the best way to tackle bovine tuberculosis — a disease which has a huge negative impact for farmers — might be to vaccinate badgers, rather than simply culling them. The costs and practicalities of such an idea are discussed tonight. ZSL (Regent's Park), free, just turn up, 6pm-7.45pm
SECRET RIVERS: What does the future hold for London's rivers? Secret Rivers exhibition curator Kate Sumnall, Mathew Frith from the London Wildlife Trust, Tideway's Darren White, and artist and activist Amy Sharrocks all look at the challenges and current projects facing the capital's waterways. Age 16+. Museum of London Docklands, £15, book ahead, 6.30pm
AMA SAN: Watch Ama San, a beautifully-shot 2016 documentary about a group of Japanese women who go diving every day. With no tanks or breathing equipment, the women of Wagu fishing village have been diving for more than 2000 years, to find sustenance to feed their families while the men were out on longer-term hunting and fishing missions. Bertha DocHouse (Bloomsbury), £9/£7/£5, book ahead, 6.30pm
JOURNEYS IN BURMA: Hear from David Eimer, author of A Savage Dreamland: Journeys In Burma, about his travels through one of the world's most mysterious countries. Find out how the history, culture and politics of Burma is changing, following an historic election in 2015. Stanfords (Covent Garden), £4, book ahead, 7pm-8.15pm
OCEAN PLASTICS: A panel of scientists and experts gathers at the Royal Institution to discuss whether it's too late to save our oceans — and their residents — from the plastic hazard that's choking them. Can we reverse the damage already done, and if so, how? Royal Institution (Mayfair), £16/£10/£7, book ahead, 7pm-8.30pm
IT IS A TRUTH: As part of The Vagina Museum's pre-opening events programme, comedy performer Jaleelah Galbraith brings 2018 Edinburgh Fringe show It Is A Truth to north London. She plays Jane Austen-obsessed Jayde in an hour of stand-up covering love, romance, and Colin Firth. The Vagina Museum (Camden Stables Market), £10/£8, book ahead, 7.30pm-8.30pm
DISCO YOGA: Bust a move at this disco yoga class, aimed at experienced yoga devotees and first timers alike. Glitz up at the glitter station before taking part in the lively, hour-long session, with a disco soundtrack. Finish up with a cocktail or mocktail (included in ticket price). Shoreditch (address given on booking), £17, book ahead, 7.30pm-9pm (sponsor)
Tube ponderings with Barry Heck
Our resident tube fancier is on holiday this week, in a place beyond the end of the Underground lines. He'll return next week, if he can find his way back.
Good cause of the day
Book ahead for Stand Up For London's Air Ambulance, a fundraising comedy show for the lifesaving charity. Jo Brand, Doc Brown, and Sindhu Vee are among the performers at the 17 November event. Find out more and book tickets.
What we're reading
- A survivor of the Paddington rail disaster fears that rail safety standards are slipping.
- When hippy squatters took over a Piccadilly mansion.
- Extinction Rebellion protesters arrested ahead of two weeks of planned action.
- London Overground services will run on Boxing Day this year.
