5 Unmissable Late Summer Events In London

September is an ideal month to plan a few days out. There’s usually still plenty of warm sunny weather to go around, and the buzz of the approaching autumn season is in the air. This is never truer than in London, where there are endless ways to spend a worthwhile day out. Here are a few ideas!

London Design Festival

The festival celebrates its 20-year anniversary in 2022, between the 17-25 September. London has long been one of the leading centres of the design world, and the festival brings together some of the most innovative and creative people working in the industry today. Some of the best work by artists, architects, designers and retailers will be on display.

The event is largely free to attend, although some special talks and events may require online advance booking. Highlights include the Sony Design exhibition at Cromwell Place, titled INTO SIGHT. The installation is a life-sized media platform, which uses light, colour, and said in new and unexpected ways to challenge the audience.

Open House Festival

Open House London (8 – 21 September) opens up some of the capital’s finest buildings to the public. The full programme goes live shortly, but it will include free access to buildings which are normally closed to the public. There will be guided tours, and a range of events and activities aimed at families and children.

It will be a brilliant chance to learn more about the capital’s familiar landmarks, and discover some of the lesser-known corners of the city, which are equally interesting. Admission is free, but some buildings may require advance online booking, and a few may be subject to a public ballot.

London Transport Museum

This popular museum based in Covent Garden has a fine collection of vehicles, including the iconic red double decker buses. There is also the chance to see the world’s first underground steam train, and the original design for the Tube map by Harry Beck. Highlights include the interactive Tube driving simulator, where you can play at being a train driver!

For art lovers, there is a Design for Travel gallery, featuring the distinctive posters and artworks which lined the walls of the Tube. It’s a fantastic family day out, with a shop and café to visit for refreshments and souvenirs. Tickets must be booked in advance online.

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

This annual outdoor festival takes place across multiple venues around Royal Greenwich, Docklands, and Tower Hamlets. It is a part of the Royal Greenwich Festivals, which celebrate the performing arts through dance, theatre, circus acts, and much more.

The festival runs for 18 days from the 26 August, and most of the events are free to attend.

BBC Proms

The familiar annual music event continues until the 10 September. Events take place at the Royal Albert Hall, and are designed to make the best of classical music in the UK accessible and affordable. Tickets can be bought from £6, ranging up to £100, and booking fees may be extra.

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