Photo: EFG London Jazz Photo: EFG London Jazz

The best things to do this weekend in London

London is bursting at the seams with incredible experiences and things to see and do, from galleries and museums to street food markets and pop-up events. Whether you're looking for the next big foodie event or want to hit up an art exhibition, there's bound to be something happening in the city to suit what you're looking for. Here are the top things to do in London this weekend, and don't forget to check back every week for a fresh batch of weekend highlights!

  1. The hottest spot of the week
    1. 1
      AngloThai A highly anticipated fusion hot spot
  2. Things to do in London this weekend
    1. 1
      Jazz it up at a top UK festival EFG London Jazz Festival is back
    2. 2
      Pick up your Mount Street passport Celebrate community and connection
    3. 3
      Catch a border-busting theatre show Voila! Theatre Festival is in town
    4. 4
      Hunt for bargains at a flea market Second-hand treasures await
    5. 5
      Tour London's festive displays The Xmas light switch has been flipped
    6. 6
      The UK Jewish Film Festival returns All around the city
    7. 7
      Celebrating 100 years of women in advertising Pioneering women in the industry
    8. 8
      Attend an immersive remembrance show At an iconic historic sight after-hours
    9. 9
      Dive into the mind of an iconic filmmaker The workings of a fascinating imagination
    10. 10
      The overlooked beauty of motorway bridges An exhibition by Jen Orpin
    11. 11
      Get to know the next generation of sculptors Up-and-coming talent on display
    12. 12
      Discover the future of our planet A VR adventure
    13. 13
      Relive one of the most loved sitcoms of all time The Friends Experience launches this week
    14. 14
      Discover the story of the Crystal Palace A Sundays-only trip to the museum
    15. 15
      Wander the outdoor sculpture trail in The City Sculpture in the City returns for the 13th time
    16. 16
      Step into Barbie's world An exhibition in Blockbuster Pink
    17. 17
      Dive into the career of a fashion icon A new blockbuster exhibition comes to the V&A
    18. 18
      Do you dare venture into Viola's Room? You can still catch Punchdrunk's new hit show
    19. 19
      Watch a prequel episode of Stranger Things A blockbuster adventure in the Upside Down
    20. 20
      Boogie at Mamma Mia! The Party An ABBA-filled night
    21. 21
      Discover more great London events

Jump to

The hottest spot of the week

This week's must-visit

AngloThai

A highly anticipated fusion hot spot

AngloThai, the first permanent venture by a couple built up anticipation via a successful stint on the pop-up circuit, finally launches this week. Located in Marylebone, the restaurant showcases the chef-founder's take on Thai-British fusion, inspired by his dual heritage. The ever-changing menu is paired with biodynamic wines and served in a contemporary space influenced by Thailand's contemporary design aesthetics.

Things to do in London this weekend

Here's what's on in London this weekend.

Jazz it up at one of the UK's top jazz festivals – Things to do this weekend
Jazz it up at one of the UK's top jazz festivals
Jazz it up at one of the UK's top jazz festivals – Things to do this weekend
Jazz it up at one of the UK's top jazz festivals
Barbican Centre Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club Kings Place Jazz it up at one of the UK's top jazz festivals
Barbican Centre
barbican.org.uk
Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club
ronniescotts.co.uk
Kings Place
kingsplace.co.uk
Barbican Centre
@barbicancentre
Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club
@officialronnies
Kings Place
@kingsplacelondon
Barbican Centre Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club Kings Place

EFG London Jazz Festival is back

The EFG London Jazz Festival, held annually each November since 1992, is the UK's leading jazz event, showcasing global stars and emerging talent across various London venues. The 2024 festival features a diverse programme with acts like Anohni and the Kenny Barron Trio, presented under themes such as "Icons," "Voices," and "Beyond Borders." This year also includes The Jazz Social, a pop-up hub near the Barbican, enhancing the festival experience with intimate performances, special events, and family-friendly activities.

  • Price: Varies
  • Date: 15 November–24 November
  • Silk St, Barbican, The City/City of London 47 Frith St, Soho York Way
    Barbican Centre
    Silk St, Barbican, The City/City of London
    Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club
    47 Frith St, Soho
    Kings Place
    York Way
  • Barbican Centre
    barbican.org.uk
    Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club
    ronniescotts.co.uk
    Kings Place
    kingsplace.co.uk
    Barbican Centre
    020-763 841 41
    Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club
    020-743 907 47
  • Barbican Centre Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club Kings Place Jazz it up at one of the UK's top jazz festivals
Mount Street launches its first holiday festival – Things to do this weekend
Mount Street launches its first holiday festival
Mount Street launches its first holiday festival – Things to do this weekend
Mount Street launches its first holiday festival
Mount Street Mount Street launches its first holiday festival

Celebrate community and connection

The Mount Street Neighbourhood Holiday Festival kicks off on 14 November, bringing a variety of festive events to Mayfair. Highlights include the Mount Street Neighbourhood Passport for unique shopping rewards, a family-friendly carol concert, and a screening of “Love Actually” at one of its actual filming locations. The festival also features the serene Ever After Garden, with illuminated roses supporting charity.

  • Price: Varies
  • Date: 14 November–24 December
A border-busting theatre festival is running in London throughout November – Things to do this weekend
A border-busting theatre festival is running in London throughout November
A border-busting theatre festival is running in London throughout November – Things to do this weekend
A border-busting theatre festival is running in London throughout November
The Gatehouse The Cockpit Barons Court Theatre A border-busting theatre festival is running in London throughout November
The Gatehouse
thegatehousen6.com
The Cockpit
thecockpit.org.uk
Barons Court Theatre
baronscourttheatre.com
The Gatehouse
@thegatehousen6
The Cockpit
@cockpittheatre
Barons Court Theatre
@baronscourtw14
The Gatehouse The Cockpit Barons Court Theatre

Voila! Theatre Festival is in town

The Voila! Theatre Festival  showcases a wide array of performances across multiple venues, highlighting diverse cultures and themes of challenge and change. This year's programme features innovative works, including "I was in the house and I was waiting for the rain to come," and the Spanglish comedy "Chop-chop!" The festival aims to connect international theatre with audiences, promoting a dynamic cultural exchange.

  • Price: Varies
  • Date: 4 November–24 November
  • 1 North Rd, Highgate Gateforth Street, Marylebone 28a Comeragh Road, Hammersmith and Fulham
    The Gatehouse
    1 North Rd, Highgate
    The Cockpit
    Gateforth Street, Marylebone
    Barons Court Theatre
    28a Comeragh Road, Hammersmith and Fulham
  • The Gatehouse
    thegatehousen6.com
    The Cockpit
    thecockpit.org.uk
    Barons Court Theatre
    baronscourttheatre.com
    The Gatehouse
    020-834 080 54
    The Cockpit
    020-725 829 25
    Barons Court Theatre
    078-339 137 60
  • The Gatehouse The Cockpit Barons Court Theatre A border-busting theatre festival is running in London throughout November
Second-hand treasures await at the Hackney Flea Market – Things to do this weekend
Second-hand treasures await at the Hackney Flea Market
Second-hand treasures await at the Hackney Flea Market – Things to do this weekend
Second-hand treasures await at the Hackney Flea Market
Abney Public Hall Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Second-hand treasures await at the Hackney Flea Market
Abney Public Hall
abneypublichall.com
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk
Abney Public Hall Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Second-hand treasures await

Hackney Flea Market hosts some of the largest pop-up flea markets in London, attracting hundreds of bargain hunters. Their markets take place across various venues citywide, including Saturday's Hackney Flea Market at Abney Hall and the Giant London Flea a day later. These markets feature diverse vintage traders offering everything from unique curios and collectibles to statement furniture and homeware, creating a lively and fun atmosphere.

  • Price: Free
  • Date: 16–17 November
  • 73A Stoke Newington Church St, Stoke Newington Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
    Abney Public Hall
    73A Stoke Newington Church St, Stoke Newington
    Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
    Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
  • Abney Public Hall
    abneypublichall.com
    Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
    queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk
    Abney Public Hall
    020-792 393 32
  • Abney Public Hall Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Second-hand treasures await at the Hackney Flea Market
Where to see the best Christmas lights in London – Things to do this weekend
Where to see the best Christmas lights in London
Where to see the best Christmas lights in London – Things to do this weekend
Where to see the best Christmas lights in London
Oxford Street Regent Street Carnaby Street Where to see the best Christmas lights in London
Oxford Street
oxfordstreet.co.uk
Regent Street
regentstreetonline.com
Carnaby Street
carnaby.co.uk
Oxford Street
@oxfordstreetw1
Regent Street
@regentstreetw1
Carnaby Street
@carnabylondon
Oxford Street Regent Street Carnaby Street

The Xmas light switch has been flipped

By mid-November, most neighbourhoods around London have put up their Christmas ornaments and switched on the lights, suffusing the city in a twinkling glow. Get in on the action early and tour the various festive displays with the help of our guide to where to see Christmas lights in London, avoiding the peak crowds of the holiday season and taking advantage of the milder weather.

  • Price: Free
  • Date: mid-November–early January
  • Oxford Street, Soho/Mayfair/Marylebone Regent Street, Soho/Mayfair Carnaby Street, Soho
    Oxford Street
    Oxford Street, Soho/Mayfair/Marylebone
    Regent Street
    Regent Street, Soho/Mayfair
    Carnaby Street
    Carnaby Street, Soho
  • Oxford Street
    oxfordstreet.co.uk
    Regent Street
    regentstreetonline.com
    Carnaby Street
    carnaby.co.uk
  • Oxford Street Regent Street Carnaby Street Where to see the best Christmas lights in London
The UK Jewish Film Festival returns – Things to do this weekend
The UK Jewish Film Festival returns
The UK Jewish Film Festival returns – Things to do this weekend
The UK Jewish Film Festival returns

The UK Jewish Film Festival returns

All around the city

The UK Jewish Film Festival returns from 7 to 17 November, featuring a diverse line-up of dramas, comedies, and documentaries. Screenings across various London venues will include UK premieres like “All About The Levkoviches” and “The Milky Way”, as well as special gala presentations of “A Real Pain” and “Once Upon a Time in Algeria”, offering insights into Jewish culture and heritage.

  • Price: varies
  • Date: 7 November–17 November
This exhibition celebrates 100 years of women's influence in advertising – Things to do this weekend
This exhibition celebrates 100 years of women's influence in advertising
This exhibition celebrates 100 years of women's influence in advertising – Things to do this weekend
This exhibition celebrates 100 years of women's influence in advertising
Museum of Brands This exhibition celebrates 100 years of women's influence in advertising

Pioneering women in the industry

The “AdWomen” exhibition at the Museum of Brands, in collaboration with the History of Advertising Trust, explores a century of women's roles in advertising. Drawing from the Robert Opie collection and brand archives, it highlights how ads have influenced and mirrored societal shifts. It's inspired by Channel 4's “Mad Women” and features iconic ads from the 1920s to today, celebrating pioneering women in the industry.

  • Price: Free
  • Date: 8 November–28 April 2025
Watch an immersive remembrance show at The Tower of London after-hours – Things to do this weekend
Watch an immersive remembrance show at The Tower of London after-hours
Watch an immersive remembrance show at The Tower of London after-hours – Things to do this weekend
Watch an immersive remembrance show at The Tower of London after-hours
Tower of London Watch an immersive remembrance show at The Tower of London after-hours

At an iconic historic sight after-hours

Experience the Tower of London like never before this November with “Poppy Fields”, an immersive sound and light show honouring the First and Second World Wars. The event, in collaboration with Luxmuralis, features projections of photographs, documents, and artwork that reflect the impact of the World Wars.

  • Price: Free
  • Date: 8 November–16 November
The World of Tim Burton is finally coming to London – Things to do this weekend
The World of Tim Burton is finally coming to London
The World of Tim Burton is finally coming to London – Things to do this weekend
The World of Tim Burton is finally coming to London
Design Museum The World of Tim Burton is finally coming to London

The workings of a fascinating imagination

“The World of Tim Burton” offers fans of director Tim Burton a chance to explore his unique gothic fantasy worlds through items from his personal archives, including sketchbooks, storyboards, photography, and paintings. Showcasing both iconic works and lesser-known projects, the exhibit celebrates the distinctive style that made Burton a beloved filmmaker worldwide.

  • Price: From £22
  • Date: 25 October–20 April 2025
Celebrating the overlooked beauty of motorway bridges: a new exhibition – Things to do this weekend
Celebrating the overlooked beauty of motorway bridges: a new exhibition
Celebrating the overlooked beauty of motorway bridges: a new exhibition – Things to do this weekend
Celebrating the overlooked beauty of motorway bridges: a new exhibition
Union Gallery Celebrating the overlooked beauty of motorway bridges: a new exhibition

An exhibition by Jen Orpin

After her father's stroke in 2015, Manchester artist Jen Orpin found deep emotional resonance in the motorways she travelled to visit him, later capturing these journeys in a powerful series of paintings. Her latest solo exhibition, 'We Left Nothing Behind', showcases nearly 800 paintings of bridges across Britain and beyond, including a new series with pieces inspired by Los Angeles bridges.

  • Price: Free
  • Date: 2 November–7 December
Get to know the next generation of sculptors at this exhibition in November – Things to do this weekend
Get to know the next generation of sculptors at this exhibition in November
Get to know the next generation of sculptors at this exhibition in November – Things to do this weekend
Get to know the next generation of sculptors at this exhibition in November
Bowman Sculpture Get to know the next generation of sculptors at this exhibition in November

Up-and-coming talent on display

The Bowman Sculpture gallery has announced its first Graduate Exhibition, showcasing works by 12 promising young sculptors from London's top art institutions. This exhibition, curated to bridge emerging and established art circles, highlights innovative talent and diverse styles within the sculpture world. Gallery director Mica Bowman describes the exhibition as ”a celebration of innovative spirit and boundless creativity.”

  • Price: From £22
  • Date: 1 November–22 November
Natural History Museum – Things to do this weekend
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum – Things to do this weekend
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum – Things to do this weekend
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum – Things to do this weekend
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum – Things to do this weekend
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum – Things to do this weekend
Natural History Museum
Discover the future of our planet at the Natural History Museum's latest exhibition – Things to do this weekend
Discover the future of our planet at the Natural History Museum's latest exhibition
Natural History Museum – Things to do this weekend
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum – Things to do this weekend
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum – Things to do this weekend
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum – Things to do this weekend
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum – Things to do this weekend
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum – Things to do this weekend
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum Discover the future of our planet at the Natural History Museum's latest exhibition

A VR adventure

Step into the future of wildlife at the Natural History Museum's new mixed-reality exhibition, "Visions of Nature". They use cutting-edge tech to take visitors to explore eight ecosystems and discover how animals and habitats might evolve over the next century, showing the impact of human intervention and scientific innovation.

  • Price: Free
  • Date: 23 October–21 February 2025
  • Cromwell Road, Kensington
  • Website
    Natural History Museum
    020-794 250 00
  • Natural History Museum Discover the future of our planet at the Natural History Museum's latest exhibition
The Friends Experience: The One in London launches in August – Things to do this weekend
The Friends Experience: The One in London launches in August
The Friends Experience: The One in London launches in August – Things to do this weekend
The Friends Experience: The One in London launches in August
Immerse LDN The Friends Experience: The One in London launches in August

The Friends Experience launches this week

An immersive exhibition dedicated to the beloved US sitcom "Friends" is coming to London this summer as part of the new Immerse LDN entertainment district. Fans can explore recreated sets, including the iconic Central Perk couch and Joey and Chandler's foosball table, reliving memorable moments from the show. Photo opportunities abound throughout.

  • Price: From £20
  • Date: 12 August–1 February 2025

Discover the story of the Crystal Palace

A Sundays-only trip to the museum

Open on Sundays only, the Crystal Palace Museum explores the history of the architectural masterpiece that gave its name to the entire area. Three times the size of St Paul's Cathedral, the Crystal Palace was originally built to house the Great Exhibition, later relocated, and finally destroyed in a fire in 1936. You can see original bits and pieces at the museum, as well as photographs, scaled models, and other exhibits exploring the building's fascinating past.

  • Price: Free
  • Date: Ongoing
Sculpture in the City has turned the Square Mile into a gallery again – Things to do this weekend
Sculpture in the City has turned the Square Mile into a gallery again
Sculpture in the City has turned the Square Mile into a gallery again – Things to do this weekend
Sculpture in the City has turned the Square Mile into a gallery again

Wander the outdoor sculpture trail in The City

Sculpture in the City returns for the 13th time

The annual Sculpture in the City has returned for its 13th edition, transforming the urban landscape of the Square Mile into a free, accessible gallery featuring 17 artworks by 15 contemporary artists. Spread across the area between Liverpool Street, Aldgate, and Fenchurch Street, the exhibition runs until Spring 2025 and is accompanied by workshops, talks, and other events. You can download a map of the trail and learn more about the artworks on their website.

  • Price: Free
  • Date: 24 July–28 February 2025
It's a Barbie world and we're all just living in it – Things to do this weekend
It's a Barbie world and we're all just living in it
It's a Barbie world and we're all just living in it – Things to do this weekend
It's a Barbie world and we're all just living in it
Design Museum It's a Barbie world and we're all just living in it

An exhibition in Blockbuster Pink

You've probably noticed, but just in case your address for the past couple of years has been “1 Under a Rock Rd” – Barbie has made a major comeback on the back of Greta Gerwig's blockbuster film. The iconic doll is celebrating its 65th anniversary in 2024 and is the star of a major new exhibition at London's Design Museum, exploring her evolution from 1959 to the present. The exhibition offers the chance to see rare and unique items from the Barbie archive in California, thanks to a partnership with Mattel.

  • Price: From £14.38
  • Date: 5 July–22 February 2025
A major exhibition exploring the career of fashion icon Naomi Campbell is coming to the V&A – Things to do this weekend
A major exhibition exploring the career of fashion icon Naomi Campbell is coming to the V&A
A major exhibition exploring the career of fashion icon Naomi Campbell is coming to the V&A – Things to do this weekend
A major exhibition exploring the career of fashion icon Naomi Campbell is coming to the V&A
Victoria and Albert Museum A major exhibition exploring the career of fashion icon Naomi Campbell is coming to the V&A

A new blockbuster exhibition comes to the V&A

Launching at the V&A on Saturday 22 June, “NAOMI: In Fashion” explores the career of Naomi Campbell, showcasing items from her wardrobe alongside designer archives and V&A exhibits. The exhibition, produced in collaboration with Campbell, covers her journey from being scouted as a teenager to her supermodel years, relationships with designers, global fame, and impact on fashion, and is slated to be one of the year's unmissable events.

  • Price: £16
  • Date: 22 June–5 April 2025
  • Cromwell Road, Kensington
  • Website
    Victoria and Albert Museum
    020-794 220 00
  • Victoria and Albert Museum A major exhibition exploring the career of fashion icon Naomi Campbell is coming to the V&A
Viola's Room: Here's what we know about Punchdrunk's new immersive experience – Things to do this weekend
Viola's Room: Here's what we know about Punchdrunk's new immersive experience
Viola's Room: Here's what we know about Punchdrunk's new immersive experience – Things to do this weekend
Viola's Room: Here's what we know about Punchdrunk's new immersive experience
Woolwich Works Viola's Room: Here's what we know about Punchdrunk's new immersive experience

You can still catch Punchdrunk's new hit show

Celebrated immersive theatre company Punchdrunk has extended the run of its latest success, a retelling of a classic gothic mystery. Narrated by none other than Helena Bonham Carter, “Viola's Room” takes visitors on a chilling sensory adventure lasting one hour. It was originally slated to run for just one month, but has been extended thanks to demand.

  • Price: From £34.50
  • Date: 14 May–23 December
“Stranger Things: The First Shadow” looks to be a major West End hit – Things to do this weekend
“Stranger Things: The First Shadow” looks to be a major West End hit
“Stranger Things: The First Shadow” looks to be a major West End hit – Things to do this weekend
“Stranger Things: The First Shadow” looks to be a major West End hit
Phoenix Theatre “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” looks to be a major West End hit

A blockbuster adventure in the Upside Down

“Stranger Things: The First Shadow,” a prequel to the popular Netflix series, is making waves in London's West End as a major theatrical hit. The play, unfolding the backstory of the series' villain Henry Creel, is co-directed by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin, and has been praised for capturing the essence of “Stranger Things” as well as putting on an astounding visual feast.

  • Price: From £20
  • Date: 14 December 2023–15 February 2025
  • Charing Cross Road
  • Website
    Phoenix Theatre
    033-300 966 90
  • Phoenix Theatre “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” looks to be a major West End hit
Dance the night away at this Mamma Mia party – Things to do this weekend
Dance the night away at this Mamma Mia party
Dance the night away at this Mamma Mia party – Things to do this weekend
Dance the night away at this Mamma Mia party
Mamma Mia! The Party Dance the night away at this Mamma Mia party

An ABBA-filled night

Head on a Greek journey to the island of Skopelos for an unforgettable evening of dining and dancing at this Mamma Mia-inspired event. As the sun sets, discover yourself at Nikos' family-run taverna, feasting on a tasty four-course Greek meal, including dishes like Greek mezze, salad, confit lamb shoulder, and slow-cooked beef with garlic-roasted potatoes. A live band will play iconic ABBA tracks throughout the night, ensuring the dance floor stays lively with their best hits. 

  • Price: From £99
  • Date: 11 January–29 June 2025

Discover more great London events

Our event calendar highlights the top things to do in London.

Things to do this weekend – About the guide

Weekend guide – Here's our selection of the best things to do in London this weekend, updated every week to make sure you don't miss any weekend highlights.

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At Thatsup, we have extensive experience of guiding our readers to a city’s hidden gems. Since 2008, our editors have been writing insightful guides covering restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels, and hairdressers, among other things. Our guides consist of carefully selected tips based on our local knowledge and are regularly updated with the help of our focus group, where we collectively discuss selections and content. We are constantly working to inspire and provide you with the best possible experience, no matter where you are or what you are looking for.