Mayfair | Washington Mayfair Hotel Blog

Make this December One to Remember

As winter comes around we are all hoping for snowy picturesque scenes as we cosy up for the holidays but why not add a bit of excitement to December and book a trip to London where there are plenty of things on to enjoy winter to the full. Put yourself right in the centre of the action at The Washington Mayfair Hotel, enjoy Art Deco luxury in the most convenient of locations for a holiday in London to remember.

Don’t miss out on some special events planned just for winter like the city-wide pop-up ice rinks, transforming well known locations like The Natural History Museum, Canary Wharf and Hampton Court Palace. Book a place on the ice or have a drink with a view at one of the rink-side bars.

Seasonal Christmas markets are back and in full swing. Let yourself wander through the stalls sipping a hot chocolate a spiced latte or maybe even a mulled wine and sample a host of comforting street foods to warm you up from the inside. Conveniently, you can find these all in one place and local to The Washington at Hyde Parks Winter Wonderland which is open from 19th November to 3rd January. Ice skating, Christmas markets, a street food village and ice bar, not to mention traditional fairground rides and thrill zone for the brave among us, it really is a day out to remember.

Once you’ve had enough of the wintery scenes outside, how about enjoying them indoors by booking tickets to see The Nutcracker at the London Coliseum. Find yourself mesmerised by the spectacular performances of the English National Ballet as they perform to the well-loved Tchaikovsky score that is so synonymous with this time of year. Many London visitors make this sell out show a yearly tradition so make sure to book early so you don’t miss out. Booking from 16 December 2021 – 8 January 2022. For more winter show options, see the ultimate romantic comedy Love actually in concert with a live orchestra at the Eventim Apollo. Watch electrifying performances from skilled acrobats, trapeze artists and high-wire acts as they attempt jaw-dropping stunts and breath-taking feats, in Circus 1903 at the Royal Festival Hall. Or book tickets to see the magical Andrew Lloyd Webber classic of Cinderella at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.

Don’t forget to plan your break now for a stress-free holiday this winter or maybe give the ultimate gift of relaxation to a loved one. Here at The Washington we have 178 spacious bedrooms and suites perfectly suited to leisure or business needs. We are dedicated to providing the perfect 4* base central to London’s top attractions. All you need to do is book and let us take care of the rest. From luxury accommodation to a-la-carte dining in The Madisons restaurant. Book direct to always get out best offers and prices and stay at one of the best hotels in London. We look forward to seeing you this winter.

Plan your Perfect Break this November

As November arrives, we seem to be constantly reminded that December is only a few days away and the end of the year is in sight. No need to rush to put your calendar away though – there is plenty of time to book a London winter break and give yourself something to look forward to. What better location to choose than the elite district of Mayfair. Here at the Washington Hotel, we are right in the heart of one of the best areas to stay and one of the best hotels in London.

You can still book our ‘Autumn Break in the City’ offer till the end of November, with all the extra benefits when booking direct, including 15% off the best available rate and an unmissable 2 for 1 Mayfair afternoon tea deal. You and a friend can relax with a drink and enjoy a carefully chosen selection of sandwiches, pastries, and cakes. All created and prepared daily to ensure ultimate freshness. A cup of tea never tasted so good! Or choose from our chocolate and champagne option available to really treat yourselves.

The nights may be drawing in but with London lit up by thousands of twinkly lights it only makes the capital look even more spectacular! Stroll under the magical glow and take advantage of some of the later shopping hours. You are spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping in London. Pay a visit to stores such as the iconic classic – Harrods. Shop more exclusive brands such as Tiffany&Co, Chanel, or Louis Vuitton on Bond Street. Or take a short ten-minute walk over to Oxford Street where you can find flagship stores and a host of shops to suit all your retail needs. You may even bump into a celebrity or two! With most shops open later, keep your eye on the extra opening times to maximise your trip.

What a better way to end the evening than to see a show. The West End is back and in full swing with a host of shows to choose from… Sing along to the classic tunes of Mamma Mia, immerse in some American history with Hamilton, or be amazed at the goose-pimpling voices in The Phantom of the Opera, find out what is on here.

If you’re looking for more diary dates for things to do in London: EFG London Jazz Festival 2021 (12-21 November), and of course, Winter Wonderland Hyde Park (19 Nov – 3 Jan) with everything from traditional fairground rides to street food and an ice bar. Book ahead to plan your visit today!

There are plenty of reasons to visit London this November, stay at The Washington Mayfair to be in the centre of it all. Remember to book direct and check our Special Offers for the best deals. We look forward to welcoming you to The Washington Mayfair Hotel, London.

Enjoy Autumn Days in London this October with Great Savings

There are lots of reasons to book a London trip this October and there is no better place to spend your break than with us at The Washington hotel in the heart of London’s most elite district of Mayfair. Don’t miss out this Autumn and take full advantage of our savings and offers available.

Are you looking to save on our best flexible rate? Then remember to always book your London stay direct with us as we offer a 10% discount on our best rates and more flexibility, with the ability to cancel up until 2pm the day before you arrive, for free. There are more perks to booking direct too… Get a priority free room upgrade so you can indulge and enjoy your stay that bit more. Surf the web to your hearts content as we provide you free Wi-Fi for the duration of your stay. Make sure to relax in our Madison’s Restaurant and enjoy our Mayfair afternoon tea at a special 2 for 1 discount. Also, when you dine with us, get 15% off food and beverage.

Looking for more than a day-trip? Our Stay Longer, Save More deal will give you double the discount if you book a break for three nights or longer. Get 20% off and save on a room today or maybe treat yourself to a deluxe stay in one of our suites, for the ultimate London staycation. Our 178 bedrooms and suites offer a great range of spacious luxury accommodation for all types of travellers.

We’ve covered some of the deals and perks we can offer you to make your stay extra special at a better price but if you want to know more reasons why you should visit London here are some things happening in the capital you won’t want to miss…

A favourite London Attraction is back, The National History Museum’s outdoor Ice rink is now taking bookings from October 22nd. Show off your skating skills or relax with a warm drink at the bar as you watch skaters from the open-air balcony. Sadly after 16 years this is the final year the ice rink will be running, so book your space now to ensure you don’t miss out.

Mojito, Pina Colada, Old Fashioned? What’s your cocktail of choice? London Cocktail Week is happening this year for the whole month of October! Join the biggest cocktail festival in the world and take a sensory journey as you let some of Londons top bars offer you their signature drinks. Pop-up events, parties and masterclasses will be happening throughout the City of London for the whole month. Make sure to look out for the ‘The Essence House’ returning to Covent Garden for an immersive inspirational experience that you won’t forget.

A selection of other dates for your diary include, The NFL London Games 10-17 Oct, The London Restaurant Festival 1-31 Oct and The BFI London Film Festival 6-17 Oct. We hope to see you soon at The Washington hotel so you can take advantage of all these great events happening this October and holiday in style.

September Evenings in Mayfair

Autumn – it’s arguably the best season of the year. As the days begin to get a bit colder and the nights start to draw in there are plenty of reasons to get out that cosy jumper, to treat yourself to that cheeky hot chocolate, or just take in the sheer beauty of nature. London has to be one of the best places to spend those cooler Autumn evenings. At The Washington Hotel Mayfair you are perfectly located to enjoy London to the full. Why not treat yourself to a London vacation with us in Art Deco luxury and try out some of our suggestions for the perfect London evening.

After all the time we’ve spent stuck indoors lately what better way to spend an evening than a refreshing stroll through one of The Royal Parks. Hyde Park is right on your doorstep at only a short walk away, it’s open till midnight so you have plenty of time for exploring and breathing in that crisp air. There are an array of statues, fountains and things to view along the way. For a longer walk and a chance to enjoy some Royal history, consider taking The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk which takes you on a journey to see buildings and locations associated with the Princess during her life. Make sure to check out the Frieze sculpture that is coming to Regent’s Park for a limited time from the middle of September. No matter which park you wander through, you will be able to spend some time with the local wildlife and be able to take in all the stunning colours of the season changing and the leaves starting to fall.

If you would prefer to spend the evening indoors, you don’t need to look any further than the elite district of Mayfair for indulging in fine dining and sipping a cocktail or two. There are a variety of cuisines to choose from, from all over the globe. There’s always entertainment to be enjoyed locally. Immerse yourself in a cultural experience at The Royal Albert Hall with some ‘Late Night Jazz’ or be there for the unmissable experience of the ‘No Time to Die’ world premiere coming this September!

So don’t be stuck wondering what to do over the next few months, spice up your calendar with an unforgettable London break and stay with us at The Washington Hotel Mayfair, one of the most premium hotels in London. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

Now Is The Time To Visit Mayfair This Summer 2021

As we start to return to normal, one thing we have noticed is that although the shops and attractions are open in Central London, without the influx of foreign visitors, London is quiet. We love the peace that we find in the London Parks, but now we find this in nearby Piccadilly Circus. Spending the afternoon with friends, picnicking in the park or enjoying the boutiques of Bond Street are all so much more enjoyable when the weather is pleasant!

While so many are still working from home, we have found that rush hour on the tube is now the same as any other time of day. Yes, we still wear masks and observe social distancing, but we can sit and read on our commute. Although we might need to book an appointment to visit on of the many museums in London, be it the The Natural History Museum, the V&A or The British Museum, we know that it’ll not be crowded and we’ll be able to see the exhibits properly. London is quiet, quieter than it has probably been for many years. Now is the time to book your hotel in London Mayfair.

The Washington Mayfair Hotel is perfectly located to enjoy Mayfair in London. With 178 spacious bedrooms and suites, meeting and event facilities and Madisons Bar & Restaurant, we are your luxury hotel on London. Whether you are looking for a luxury afternoon tea in Mayfair, a luxury hotel in central London for a long weekend, or are planning to enjoy London for your staycation this year, The Washington Mayfair Hotel is your London hotel.

For the best price at the best hotel in London, simply click the ‘Special Offers’ link in the menu. We look forward to seeing you.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN FEBRUARY 2020

Goodbye January…..Welcome February!

February might be a little cold and dark but there’s loads of exciting events taking place throughout the month which you can enjoy while staying at the Washington Mayfair with our special winter hotel offers. February brings romantic vibes, iconic fashion and stacks of pancakes to London with city-wide celebrations. Also, February in London is the month of Kew Garden’s Orchid Festival, London Fashion Week Festival, the London Classic Car Show and Craft Beer Rising. Here at the Washington Mayfair Hotel, we have picked some of the greatest events to get you out when you stay with us this February!

KEW GARDEN’S ORCHID FESTIVAL – From 8th February to 8th March 2020

Escape the dreary winter with Kew’s annual festival of orchids. Through a spectacular ensemble of orchid-laden displays along a curated route, Kew Gardens are celebrating the plant life of Indonesia this year. The Prince of Wales Conservatory will be filled with the sights, smells and sounds of Indonesia. Highlights will include a dramatic central pond display filled with bright orange orangutans, life-sized animals and an erupting volcano all made up of hundreds of stunning orchid blossoms. There’ll also be an impressive carnivorous pitcher plant archway.

NEW LONDON SHOW: PRETTY WOMAN THE MUSICAL – from 13th February 2020 to 2nd January 2021

Celebrate the 30-year anniversary of one of the most treasured romantic films of all time with Pretty Woman: The Musical at the Piccadilly Theatre. Follow successful businessman Edward and prostitute Vivian, as they fall in love against the odds. Danny Mac plays the role of Edward and Aimie Atkinson takes to the stage as Vivian. With original music and lyrics by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, this new West End show will lift your spirits.

VALENTINE’S DAY – 14th and 15th February 2020

Spoil your Valentine with dinner at The Washington Mayfair Hotel. Indulge in our exclusive four-course Valentine’s dinner in Madison’s Restaurant. Enjoy the delicious dinner with a glass of champagne for £45 per person. See Menu

For more information, please call +44 (0) 20 7499 7000 or send an email Madison@washington-mayfair.co.uk

DATE NIGHT IN MAYFAIR ON VALENTINE’S DAY

Indulge your passion and make time for your loved one with ‘Date Night’ romance hotel package at The Washington Mayfair Hotel. Treat someone special to an intimate escape that features all the right touches. The package starts from £245 per night and includes:

Overnight night accommodation
Rose petals turn down
Half bottle of chilled Champagne & chocolate dipped strawberries in your room
Three course dinner with a glass of wine each
Full English buffet breakfast the next morning
Late check out to 16.00hrs

BOOK NOW

LONDON CLASSIC CAR SHOW – 20 – 23 February 2020

The London Classic Car Show is the must-attend event for any discerning classic car owner, collector, expert or enthusiast. Over 700 classic cars and some of the most legendary ‘getaway cars’ from automotive history go on display at the London Classic Car Show which comes to the prestigious Olympia London in Kensington. Every year, there’s also a special guest appearance by a racing legend, alongside special displays of their cars, trophies and memorabilia.

PICASSO AND PAPER AT THE ROYAL ACADEMY OF ARTS – until 13 April 2020

For Picasso, paper was both a tool to explore his ideas and a material with limitless possibilities. He experimented with everything from newsprint and napkins to decorative wallpaper. He spent decades investigating printmaking techniques, sourcing rare and antique paper from as far as Japan – and all without losing his compulsion to draw on every last scrap. You will see Picasso’s creative process first-hand in remarkable documentary footage of the artist at work, studies for Guernica, and sketchbooks where the seeds of revolutionary masterpieces first took shape, including Les Demoiselles d’Avignon. Immerse yourself in Picasso’s world of paper and discover how – with this everyday material we know so well – he found the means to explore the furthest reaches of his creativity.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN JANUARY 2020

Are you visiting London in January? It is going to be great! Though the festive season is coming to a close and the days are still as dark and chilly as ever, there’s tons of fun stuff happening in London throughout the New Year to enjoy especially using The Washington Mayfair Hotel as a base. London’s attractions are quieter than usual this month and we have several winter hotel offers, so it’s a great time to enjoy a stroll around a museum and avoid queues at popular attractions. And, don’t forget, many of London’s attractions are free!

Top January events include the New Year’s Day Parade, Burns Night and Chinese New Year. With so much going on in London this January here are some helpful tips on the must see events and experiences.

NEW YEAR’S DAY PARADE – 1^st January 2020

London will be hosting a magnificent parade on New Year’s Day at 12 noon. The Parade will be made up of huge floats and balloons perfect for families to enjoy and be part of this London tradition that started in 1987. Catch the festivities along the parade route, which runs from Green Park Tube station at 12pm, to Parliament Square at around 3.30pm, via Piccadilly Circus, Lower Regent Street, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square and Whitehall. The Washington Mayfair is the ideal choice of hotel as it would allow you to be away from the crowds on and around the days of the parade but just 30 mins from the attraction.

WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK – until 5th January 2020

Only a 15 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. New attractions for 2019 include Marvel at the acrobatic wonders at Zippos Christmas Circus or Cirque Berserk and Paddington on Ice – The Grand Voyage.

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL – from 12 January to 1 March 2020

Cirque du Soleil return to London’s Royal Albert Hall in 2020, bringing their dazzling luminous spectacle, LUZIA to Europe for the first time. LUZIA takes you to an imaginary Mexico, like in a waking dream, where light (“luz” in Spanish) quenches the spirit and rain (“lluvia”) soothes the soul. With a surrealistic series of grand visual surprises and breathtaking acrobatic performances, LUZIA cleverly brings to the stage multiple places, faces and sounds of Mexico taken from both tradition and modernity.

BURNS NIGHT IN LONDON – 25^th January 2020

On the 25th of January it is Burns Night. This lively night celebrates the famous Scottish Poet (Robert Burns) who died in 1796. The night is filled drinking, dancing and energetic music that is sure to uplift anyone and instill joy and laughter. Many pubs in London are offering deals, music and a great atmosphere to fully experience the night and this great Scottish tradition. Make the most of your trip to London with the Winter Warmer offer from The Washington Mayfair hotel.

CHINESE NEW YEAR PARADE – 26th January 2020

The Chinese New Year London events are the largest outside Asia and attract hundreds of thousands of people each year. Enjoy a colourful Chinese New Year parade, lion dances in Chinatown and delicious Chinese street food, as well as free entertainment and stage performances in Trafalgar Square.

TUTANKHAMUM: TREASURES OF THE GOLDEN PHARAOH AT THE SAATCHI GALLERY – until 3 May 2020

TUTANKHAMUN: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh presented by Viking Cruises at the y Saatchi Gallerincludes 150 artefacts – with 60 items being shown outside Egypt for the first time. The exhibition commemorates the 100th anniversary of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, and is the final chance to see these glittering world heritage artefacts before they return to Egypt forever.
Explore the life of King Tutankhamun, and the storied discovery that captivated the world, through more than 150 authentic pieces from the tomb – three times the quantity that has travelled in previous exhibitions.

Don’t miss our special packages:

Winter Warmer – click and learn more

Date Night in Mayfair – click and learn more

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN DECEMBER 2019

With lots of festive things to do, December is the most magical month to visit London. Here at the Washington Mayfair we want to guide you to the best activities, events and fun stuff happening in London throughout December 2019.

Get into the festive spirit during your December visit by experiencing some of London’s favourite seasonal activities: shop for handmade gifts and festive food at a charming Christmas market; go ice skating on one of the stunning outdoor ice rinks that pop up across the capital; enjoy carols and concerts accompanied by mulled wine and mince pies; and watch a Christmas pantomime, ballet or family show.

OPERATION SMILE CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT – 4th December 2019

Operation Smile UK has announced that the London Community Gospel Choir, the Fulham Children’s Choir and celebrity readers will be joining them at their annual Carols by Candlelight on Wednesday 4th December 2019 at 7pm at the Grosvenor Chapel, Mayfair. The event will see a number of readings and musical entertainment, followed by refreshment in the chapel. Tickets for the Carol Service are £20 for an adult (Under 16 go FREE) All tickets include seasonal refreshments. Book your tickets here. The Washington Mayfair Hotel is only few minute’s walk from the Grosvenor Chapel.

WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK – until 5th January 2020

CHRISTMAS AT ZSL LONDON ZOO – until 24 December 2019

Immerse yourself in the magic of ZSL London Zoo at Christmas as you step inside an igloo at the heart of the zoo to meet the man himself in Santa’s Grotto. It’s then time to journey around the zoo to discover more about its inhabitants. Get up close and personal with donkeys, camels and penguins, as they feast on their very own Christmas treats ahead of the big day. Also, relax and enjoy some time in front of the big screen at the Free Festive Film Screenings. Cosy up with tasty snacks and a hot drink and enjoy your favourite Christmas films. Tickets are free, but must be booked in advance with a valid zoo ticket or membership.

TOP ICE-SKATING RINKS IN LONDON

Covent Garden Ice Rink (until 26th December 2019)
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink (until 5th January 2020)
Tower of London Ice Rink (until 5th January 2020)
Winter Wonderland Ice Rink (until 5th January 2020)
Natural History Museum Ice Rink (until 12th January 2020)
Somerset House Ice Rink (until 12th January 2020)
Queen’s House Ice Rink (until 12th January 2020)

CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME, BALLET AND FAMILY SHOW

English National Ballet’s Nutcracker at the London Coliseum – 11 Dec-5 Jan.

More than 100 dancers and musicians tell the story of a young girl’s Christmas adventure that begins in snowy Edwardian London.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears at the London Palladium – 7 Dec-12 Jan. 2020

This top Christmas panto in London includes Paul O’Grady, Matt Baker and Julian Clary, as Dame Betty Barnum and Goldilocks strive to save the beloved family circus.

Nativity! The Musical at the Eventim Apollo – 11-29 Dec. 2019

Based on the Christmas film series, this family-friendly stage adaptation features many of its catchy tunes, including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth and One Night One Moment.

The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre – until 5 Jan. 2020

Raymond Briggs’ Christmas story is filled with dance, storytelling and songs from the film, as the two friends embark on a magical adventure to the North Pole.

Mary Poppins at the Prince Edward Theatre – until 3 May 2020

Join Mary, Bert and the Banks family for a magical adventure this Christmas, and sing along to classic tunes including Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and a Spoonful of Sugar.

White Christmas musical at Dominion Theater – until 4 Jan. 2020

Catch a true classic with the stage production of the famous Bing Crosby film, White Christmas.

NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS – 31st December 2019

Hear Big Ben’s famous “bongs” ring out at midnight on New Year’s Eve in London, followed by the UK’s largest annual fireworks display over the Coca-Cola London Eye, presented by the Mayor of London. If you want to join in the celebrations on the night, you must have a ticket to attend.

Don’t miss our special packages:

Winter Wonderland – click and learn more

Winter Warmer – click and learn more

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN NOVEMBER 2019

November in London is brimming with fun and sparkles. There are plenty of things to do in November in London to make the most of the longer nights, or to warm up indoors. This month the city comes alive, illuminated with thousands upon thousands of dazzling Christmas lights. It is also the month of the London Jazz Festival, The Lord Mayor’s Show, Winter Wonderland, South Bank Wintertime, Hogwarts in the Snow and Christmas at Kew.

Here’s our pick of the best events and things to do in November during your stay with us!

BONFIRE NIGHT FIREWORK DISPLAYS IN LONDON – from 3 to 5 November 2019

Remember, remember the fifth of November……each year London marks the historic moment when Guy Fawkes and his motley crew attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and King James I in the Gunpowder Plot of 5 November 1605. The day became known as Guy Fawkes Day or more commonly Bonfire Night. The main firework action takes places on Sunday 5th November, but events will run before and afterwards. You can enjoy traditional Bonfire Night food and drink, alongside music, funfairs and family activities.

TUTANKHAMUM: TREASURES OF THE GOLDEN PHARAOH AT THE SAATCHI GALLERY – from 2 November to 3 May 2020

TUTANKHAMUN: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh presented by Viking Cruises at the Saatchi Gallery includes 150 artefacts – with 60 items being shown outside Egypt for the first time. The exhibition commemorates the 100th anniversary of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, and is the final chance to see these glittering world heritage artefacts before they return to Egypt forever.
Explore the life of King Tutankhamun, and the storied discovery that captivated the world, through more than 150 authentic pieces from the tomb – three times the quantity that has travelled in previous exhibitions.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN LONDON – from 7 November to 5 January 2020

Nothing signifies the approach of Christmas more than the glow of seasonal street lights. From the shimmering lights on Oxford Street to the beautiful decorations illuminating Covent Garden, don’t miss the world-famous London Christmas lights as the city is gloriously decked out for Christmas. Here’s our list to when London’s festive lights are switched on in some of the capital’s biggest shopping destinations.

Carnaby Street (7th November)
Covent Garden (12th November)
Marylebone (13th November)
Regent Street (14th November)
Oxford Street (21st November)

THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW IN THE CITY OF LONDON – 9 November 2019

Celebrate the new Lord Mayor as the spectacular procession winds its way between Bank and Aldwych for The Lord Mayor’s Show. The Lord Mayor’s Show dates back to 1215, when King John granted a charter allowing the citizens of London to elect their own mayor. Every year since, the newly elected Lord Mayor has travelled from the City of London to Westminster to pledge allegiance to the Crown. The procession kicks off at 11am from Mansion House with cadets, carriages, floats and bands moving through the streets, while festival zones at Paternoster Square and St Paul’s will see a funfair, archive film show, art installations and street theatre takeovers. Check the Lord Mayor Show event page for updates.

WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK – from 21 November to 5th January 2020

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN SEPTEMBER 2019

London comes alive with an array of city-wide celebrations in September, many of which are free to attend. Autumn is already on our doorstep but the sky is still blue and the days are very warm.

September in London is the month of the Totally Thames festival, the annual London Design Festival, Open House London weekend when over 800 London buildings are opened to the public, London Fashion Week Festival and plenty of live music from On Blackheath.

Here’s our pick of the best events in London this September.

TOTALLY THAMES 2019 – from 1 to 30 September 2019

Totally Thames is an annual celebration of the River Thames with a creative and diverse programme that inspires, connects and enthrals. Walk along the Thames to see large-scale art installations, free exhibitions and live performances. Enjoy a concert below river-level or join an archaeological tour of the river’s surroundings. See boats of all sizes cruise down the river, or get on the water yourself with water sports and boat parties.

BBC PROMS IN THE PARK – 14 September 2019

Taking place on the closing night of the two-month classical music festival, this year’s main evening performance culminates with the traditional Last Night finale performed live on stage by the BBC Concert Orchestra. The Last Night of the Proms celebrations is hosted by Michael Ball in Hyde Park. The open-air concert celebrates the night with a host of stars from the worlds of classical music, rock and pop, choirs and musical theatre – nearly 150 performers in all!

LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL – from 14 to 22 September 2019

Explore a range of creative installations and events celebrating contemporary design during the London Design Festival (LDF). The launch of the first Festival took place at Bloomberg on 25 March 2003, with a huge show of support from design, education, government and London organisations. 16 years later, this vision remains ever strong. During the festival, hundreds of large-scale installations, exhibitions and events pop up in many unique spaces across London, from world-famous museums to small local studios. The V&A is the hub of the London Design Festival, hosting a wide range of activities, from tours and workshops, to installations and exhibitions.

OPEN HOUSE LONDON – 21 and 22 September 2019

The annual Open House London weekend gives Londoners the chance to explore behind the closed doors of some of the capital’s biggest, most renowned and most secret venues for free. Enjoy free access to more than 800 public buildings, private houses, churches, museums, schools and offices, and join tours, guided walks and activities throughout the weekend. You can explore iconic buildings that are not usually open to the public, learn something new about more familiar spaces, and step into the private homes of the rich and famous. Highlights of the Open House London programme often include the BT Tower, The Gherkin, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, the Royal Albert Hall and Fuller’s Griffin Brewery.

LEONARDO DA VINCI: A LIFE IN DRAWING AT THE QUEEN’S GALLERY, BUCKINGHAM PALACE – until 13 October 2019

Marking the 500th anniversary of the death of Leonardo da Vinci, the exhibition brings together more than 200 of the Renaissance master’s greatest drawings in the Royal Collection, forming the largest exhibition of Leonardo’s work in over 65 years. Drawing served as Leonardo’s laboratory, allowing him to work out his ideas on paper and search for the universal laws that he believed underpinned all of creation. The drawings by Leonardo in the Royal Collection have been together as a group since the artist’s death in 1519. Acquired during the reign of Charles II, they provide an unparalleled insight into the workings of Leonardo’s mind and reflect the full range of his interests, including painting, sculpture, architecture, anatomy, engineering, cartography, geology and botany.

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