Things To Do Today In London: Wednesday 23 May 2018

Looks like this article is a bit old. Be aware that information may have changed since it was published.

Make a blooming marvellous floral arrangement.

What we're reading:

Things to do:

THE FLOATING MEADOW: As part of the Chelsea Fringe, the Paddington Pioneer Barge has been transformed into a floating floral oasis, covered in wildflowers and grasses. Take a stroll south of Little Venice and catch it while it's in full bloom. Paddington Basin, free, just turn up, 8am-5pm

PHANTOM ARCHITECTURE: Discover all the weird and wonderful buildings that never got off the ground — be it due to lack of funding, or for being too ahead of their time. Philip Wilkinson traces the fantastical structures throughout history that just weren't meant to be in a talk inspired by his book, Phantom Architecture. Edge Design (Clerkenwell), free, just turn up, 12pm-12.50pm

THIRTY YEARS WAR: Before World War I, Europe's most destructive conflict was the Thirty Years' War. On the 400th anniversary of the defenestration of Prague (that's a fancy term for throwing a person out of a window, FYI) Professor Peter Wilson looks at the causes, conduct and consequences of the conflict. Museum of London (London Wall), free, just turn up, 1pm-2pm

MEAT VS FISH: Carnivores, watch your back — those pesky pescatarians are out to prove that the best cuisine comes from under the sea. A stellar line-up of London's favourite eateries will go head-to-head, with half serving fish and half serving meat to see once and for all which tally at the top of the food change. All the proceeds go to Hospitality Action. Various venues (Flat Iron Square), £25, book ahead, 6pm-11.30pm

BUILDING BRIDGES: From the Victorian pomp of Tower Bridge, to the twisted steel that connects St Paul's to the South Bank, the capital boasts plenty of striking bridges. But, in a world increasing intolerant of mediocrity, what does it actually take to build such a structure? Find out at this free lecture. University Building City (Northampton Square), free, book ahead, 6.30pm

Bring Frankenstein back to life at a truly monstrous evening.

FLORAL MASTERCLASS: Making a beautiful floral arrangement may be trickier than it looks, but with florist Lizzie Thorne by your side, you'll blossom into a pro in no time. You get to take your beautiful bouquet home with you and she'll even throw in a vase. Martello Hall (Hackney), £41, book ahead, 6.30pm-8.30pm

LIVING FRANKENSTEIN: Listen to chilling ghost stories by candlelight and relive the birth of a monster at an immersive evening dedicated to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. You'll discover the spark of life, peruse the author's original manuscript, and quite literally find out what fear smells like. There's also a 200 year-old perfume for you to try if you need a palate cleanser. Senate House (Bloomsbury), £20, book ahead, 6.30pm-9.45pm

JOAN, BABS AND SHELAGH TOO: The life of Joan Littlewood gets the theatrical treatment in this whirlwind retelling which charts the maverick theatre director's politics, turbulent relationships, and role in turning Barbara Windsor into a 'serious' actress. Tara Theatre (Earlsfield), £10, book ahead, 7.30pm-8.50pm

FREE MEDITATION: Be honest, when was the last time your purified your chakras? Experience the tranquility of Sahaji Yoga Meditation for free while barely moving a muscle. Friend's Meeting House (Covent Garden), free, book ahead, 7.30pm-9pm

CUBA LONDON LOLA: Flamenco, latin and pop meet intensely stirring monologues inspired by this Spanish chanteuse's personal and professional experiences in Havana's magical music scene. Cuba London Lola's provocative fusion performance is one not to be missed. Sands Films Studios (Rotherhithe), £14, book ahead, 7.45pm

Good cause of the day

Blue Badge Style seeks to redefine disability, and look fabulous while doing so. Check out their inclusive range of products and experiences while sipping champagne and listening to live jazz. It's free to browse the collection, but all the proceeds from the evening concert will fund the BBS MIX Bursary for disabled musicians at the Royal Academy of Music.