71 autumn in London ideas to fall for

1. Join one of London’s many Bonfire Night fireworks displays: Enjoy a mix of stunning pyrotechnics, seasonal food to warm those chilly November nights, and family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. Events take place on and around 5 November, so be sure to check in advance if tickets need to be booked.
2. Celebrate Black History Month across London: Discover a lineup of activities and events for all the family. This year's theme, "Reclaiming Narratives," showcases untold stories and diverse perspectives on unrecognised Black heroes. 1-31 Oct
3. Get your jazz hands ready for the EFG London Jazz Festival: Experience spectacular performances and events across the city, with over 300 shows at 70 venues. There's something for everyone, with artists coming from all over the world. Book your tickets now to see Cimafunk, a Grammy-nominated Afro-Cuban artist, performing at KOKO London on 22 November. Festival dates: 15-24 Nov
   
4. Marvel at the The Lord Mayor's Show: Enjoy the much-loved historic parade that mixes pageantry with a party atmosphere in the heart of London. Join the crowds as the procession departs from Mansion House at 11am, and experience the grandeur of the historic parade filled with colourful floats, marching bands and lively celebrations, which has been captivating residents and visitors for over 800 years. Top tip: On that day only, you can visit St Paul's Cathedral for free. 9 Nov  
5. Tuck into turkey and pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving: Soak up Canadian and American culture at restaurants and pubs across the city. Looking for any ideas? Celebrate at The Cadogan Arms, a charming pub in Chelsea, where you can enjoy a special Thanksgiving menu featuring classic American dishes with a British twist. On and around 14 Oct and 28 Nov
6. Spend the evening at a concert at the Royal Albert Hall: Soak up the atmosphere as you enjoy everything from tribute bands to enchanting orchestra performances. This autumn, a wide range of top performing artists are taking the stage of the iconic venue, from Beverley Knight to Jools Holland & His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, not to forget the nation's favourite sea shanties folk group, Fisherman's Friends.
7. Enjoy "lates" events in London's museums and galleries: select Fridays, explore the London Transport Museum after dark, or enjoy talks and live music events at the National Gallery. Experience immersive after-hours sessions at Frameless, the innovative art gallery that combines curated art displays with specially selected soundtracks for a truly unique and engaging viewing, available on Fridays and Saturdays.
8. See more than 100 murals across London this September during the London Wall Festival: Discover over 100 murals spread across the city exploring themes around connection between artists and communities. 5-29 Sep
9. Use the Mid-Autumn Festival as the perfect excuse to have your fill of Asian delicacies in Chinatown: Try the Golden Gate Cake Shop or the Bun House for mooncakes, the traditional treat at this time of year. If you're hungry for more, head to one of the many restaurants in Chinatown for roast duck. Traditionally, families gather to celebrate the annual harvest, with plenty of festivities taking place, including lion dancers. Dates TBC
10. Celebrate Rosh Hashanah in the capital: Mark the start of the Jewish New Year with activities across the city. Rosh Hashanah is a time where families and friends celebrate with a festive meal. Indulge in traditional honey-dipped treats and Jewish bread (challah) at local bakeries such as north London institution Grodzinski. 3 Oct 
11. Enjoy eclectic sounds at Regent’s Park Music Festival: Grab a picnic, sit back and discover local bands, choirs and jazz bands. Lose yourself in a symphony of sounds as performers take the stage against the backdrop of one of London's most beloved green spaces. Until 6 Oct
12. Calling all theatre lovers for Musical Con 2024: Join the biggest theatre fans convention in London and enjoy a weekend packed with the best of West End and Broadway hits, featuring thrilling live performances, interactive workshops, insightful panels, and much more. 19-20 Oct
13. Raise a stein as you celebrate Oktoberfest in London: Get your friends together and attend one (or a few!) of the many exciting beer festivals popping up across the capital. Indulge in traditional German delicacies like Bratwurst and cheer to the spirit of Bavaria. 17-19 Oct
    

Find more world-class London events in autumn months.

1. Discover the best 10 London attractions: Buy The London Pass to see multiple attractions on one trip.
2. Tick off London's top sights with the Total London Experience: Make the most of your day out in the capital. Discover some of London's top attractions including St Paul's Cathedral, Tower of London and the London Eye.
3. Brave the London Dungeon: Enjoy this immersive experience at one of London's most terrifying historical sights and explore the capital dark past. Encounter infamous conspirators, confront the notorious Guy Fawkes, and navigate the treacherous maze of Whitechapel streets, where Jack the Ripper lurks in the shadows.
4. Take a leisurely turn on the London Eye: Take a ride on the world's largest observation wheel and admire London's skyline, from the political heart of the capital in Westminster with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliaments to the iconic Tower Bridge and many more top sights.
5. Step into the wonderful world of the Paddington Bear Experience: See some of the most iconic locations from the movie and help Paddington and the Brown family as they get ready for Marmalade Day Festival.
6. Walk in the footsteps of royalty at Kensington Palace: Explore the palace where Queen Victoria was born and spent her childhood, which is now home to the Prince and Princess of Wales. Wander in the King's State Room and admire the fine paintings and grand ornaments, before heading outside to the Sunken Garden.
7. Soar above the river Thames with the IFS Cloud Cable Car: Take in sweeping views of the city on London's only cable car. Arrive at Greenwich Peninsula and and head to the royal borough where plentiful of activities await. Discover life at sea aboard the historic Cutty Sark, explore iconic film sets at the Old Royal Naval College, and visit the Royal Observatory perched atop Greenwich Park.
8. Take a tour of historic Tower of London: Learn all about the famous fortress, royal palace, notorious prison and former royal zoo. Take a tour with one of the Beefeaters, the Tower's official guardians, see the famous ravens and explore the White Tower where shining armouries are exposed.
9. Visit the City to discover centuries-old relics: Head to London's Roman Amphitheatre hidden within the Guildhall Art Gallery, explore the London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE, and take a tour of the Billingsgate Roman House and Baths.
10. Go on a fascinating tour of Shakespeare's Globe: Learn all about the open-air playhouse. Delve into the rich history and architecture of this iconic venue, learn about Elizabethan theatre practices, and explore the vibrant world of Shakespearean drama. A must-visit for literature and history enthusiasts alike.
11. Gaze at the marvellous interior of St Paul's Cathedral: Admire the breathtaking interior of St Paul's Cathedral, with its majestic dome and intricate artwork. Discover the fascinating history of this iconic landmark, from its survival during the Great Fire of London to its role in key historical events. 

1. Be mesmerised by Wicked at the Apollo Victoria: Enjoy spectacular songs and stunning effects in the magical story about the witches from The Wizard of Oz. Witness the incredible performances as the two witches embark on an unforgettable journey of friendship, love and courage that has made Wicked a global sensation.
2. Don't miss the brand-new stage adaptation of Mean Girls at the Savoy Theatre: New to high school, Cady decides to take on The Plastics in the ultimate revenge plot. Enjoy sharp wit, catchy songs and vibrant performances in this hilarious and heartfelt story about navigating teenage drama.
3. Experience the inspiring Hamilton at Victoria Palace Theatre: See Lin-Manuel Miranda's smash-hit musical based on the tale of the founding father Alexander Hamilton. Enjoy a groundbreaking blend of hip-hop, jazz, and R&B in this powerful story of ambition, politics and legacy that continues to captivate West End audiences.
4. Watch the award-winning The Phantom of the Opera London at His Majesty's Theatre: Meet the mysterious masked figure haunting a Paris opera house. Immerse yourself in the dazzling decors, mesmerising music and captivating story of love and intrigue that have made this Andrew Lloyd Webber classic a timeless masterpiece. 
5. Get the family together for Matilda The Musical at the Cambridge Theatre: A girl with magical powers takes on her terrifying headteacher. Follow Matilda's courageous battles against unfair treatment at school, all while navigating the challenges of her disinterested parents.
6. Tick off West End long standing musical Les Misérables at the Sondheim Theatre: Immerse yourself in the gripping tale of redemption and revolution following the iconic characters from Victor Hugo's beloved novel set in revolutionary France. Witness the epic journey of Jean Valjean as he is pursued by the relentless Inspector Javert in this unforgettable musical masterpiece.
7. See the debut of the award-winning folk musical, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, in London's West End: Follow the extraordinary journey of a man unlike any other – born old and destined to grow younger with each passing day. Embark on a poignant exploration of life, love and the passage of time in this captivating theatrical adaptation.

See more London theatre shows or laugh your head off at a comedy show.

1. Reach new heights at Lift 109 at Battersea Power Station: Enjoy 360-degree views of London in this exciting glass lift experience. Admire London's skyline and challenge each other to spot familiar landmarks lining the horizon as you soar above the cityscape.
2. Head to one of London's hidden gems, the Postal Museum: Discover how the postal system has changed our lives for the better and ride the Mail Rail – a century-old railway that once transported mail beneath the bustling streets of London.
3. Walk among the stars at Madame Tussauds London: Snap a photo with your favourite celebrities and enjoy the exciting Marvel Universe 4D experience. Rub shoulders with Hollywood's elite before paying a royal visit to the palace, and don't forget to journey to a galaxy far, far away as you meet your beloved Star Wars characters.
4. Be a junior zookeeper at London Zoo: Spend the day feeding and bonding with animals as you care for them firsthand. Gain valuable insights into the world of zookeeping as you assist in feeding and nurturing your favourite creatures during this unforgettable experience.
5. Meet your favourite characters at Shrek's Adventure! London: Immerse yourself in the magic of your favourite movies with captivating animation and an exhilarating 4D ride. Meet your favourite characters in person and embark on an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, excitement, and wonder.
6. Marvel at magical views from the Treetop Walkway at Kew Gardens: Stroll along the treetop canopy and be dazzled by a spectrum of the world's brightest colours this autumn. Afterwards, explore Kew's renowned botanical tropical collections, and discover exotic plant species from around the globe, before wandering along tranquil ponds.
7. Take the kids to meet their favourite animals at Hobbledown Heath: A unique London attraction, this animal centre is home to capybaras, meerkats, lemurs and much more. In October, be sure to visit the Pumpkin Patch, find the perfect pumpkin and enjoy seasonal treats. 27 Sep-3 Nov
8. Spend a day exploring some of London's top free museums: Enjoy the best of London's culture with the little ones. Wander the spectacular hallways of the Natural History Museum and marvel at historic dinosaur skeletons, or head to the Young V&A, which specialises in sparking children's creativity through interactive exhibitions and workshops.

Discover more family activities, including exciting experiences for teenagers.

1. Take a guided walking tour of the city: Discover hidden corners on a Secret London Walking Tour, trace the steps of the royal family on a regal royal guided tour, or dive into the magic with a tour of filming locations from the wizarding world. Each tour offers a unique perspective on the city's rich history and vibrant culture.
2. Get lost in an immersive experience: Become an inmate for the night at the infamous Alcotraz, where you'll join a liquor-smuggling gang in a thrilling Alcotraz Immersive Prison Cocktail Experience. Alternatively, venture to The Cauldron, an underground bar where you'll unleash your inner sorcerer by brewing molecular cocktails in an enchanting potion-making class.
3. Hop aboard the Ghost Bus Tour and uncover the dark side of London by night: Listen to chilling tales and uncover hidden truths as you traverse the city on a vintage double-decker bus, complete with a few spine-tingling surprises along the way.
4. Head to an exciting activity bar: Challenge your friends to a game of ping pong at Bounce, head to Fairgame in Canary Wharf for a night of retro funfair games, or have a go at axe throwing in Tower Bridge.
5. Spend the day exploring London's more unusual museums: Go behind the scenes of the royal Household Cavalry Museum to witness the meticulous preparations for royal ceremonies, or delve into dark history at the Jack the Ripper Museum where you'll uncover the chilling stories of one of history's most infamous killers.

Search for London events by day.

1. See artwork come to life before your very eyes at Frameless: Travel beyond reality and into the worlds of famous artists such as Van Gogh, Rubens and Monet. Marvel as paintings transform around you, with brushstrokes and scenes materialising in a dynamic, interactive display that envelops you in the masterpieces.
2. Experience the vibrant urban life of Seoul at the Delight Media Art Exhibition: Immerse yourself in a multisensory journey where light, visuals, and sound effects recreate the bustling atmosphere of South Korea's capital.
3. Head to the King's Gallery to see the latest exhibition Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography: Discover an extensive collection showcasing the transformative impact of photography on the public's perception of the royal family, revealing how this art form has shaped and evolved their image over the past century.
4. Explore the extraordinary Six Lives: The Stories of Henry VIII's Queens at the National Portrait Gallery: See Tudor paintings by famous court painter Hans Holbein the Younger and delve into the fascinating lives and legacies of Henry VIII's six queens. 20 Jun-8 Sep
5. Discover In the Eye of the Storm at the Royal Academy of Arts: Marvel at the groundbreaking modernist art that emerged from Ukraine against the backdrop of a falling Soviet Union – a revealing period empowering a nascent art movement. 29 Jun-13 Oct
6. Don't miss Fragile Beauty at the V&A: Immerse yourself in an unparalleled collection of photographs from the Sir Elton John and David Furnish Collection, delving into captivating narratives across fashion, celebrity, reportage, and the male body. 18 May-5 Jan
7. Marvel at Expressionists: Kandinsky, Munter and the Blue Rider at Tate Modern: Delve into the captivating stories of a friendship that revolutionised modern art, as artists experimented with new mediums to create bold and vibrant works. 25 Apr-20 Oct
8. Celebrate the 65th anniversary of Barbie with a captivating exhibition at the Design Museum: Explore the evolution of this iconic doll through rare archives showcasing beloved designs from throughout her history. 5 Jul-23 Feb

Find more exhibitions in London.

1. See London from the water during a river cruise: Take in iconic sights as you journey along the Thames from Westminster to Greenwich aboard one of London's Uber Boats by Thames Clipper. Alternatively, explore Camden by hopping on a waterbus along the tranquil Regent's Canal to Little Venice.
2. Combine royal treasures, fascinating history and beautiful architecture on a tour of Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath: After marvelling at royal treasures at Windsor Castle, learn all about the mysterious monoliths and the famous Roman Baths.
3. Opt for a day trip from London and check off multiple iconic sights in one go: Explore the prestigious campuses of top universities Cambridge and Oxford, or venture into the picturesque English countryside and discover the charming villages of the Cotswolds.
4. Shuffle your way through fallen autumn leaves in London’s best parks and gardens: They are swathed in oranges and yellows at this time of year. Head to Richmond Park to see trees in vibrant shades of red and yellow, and maybe catch a glimpse of its famous deer.
5. Explore Hampstead and wander through its charming cobbled streets and alleys: Discover quaint coffee shops and delightful charity shops before taking a leisurely stroll in Hampstead Heath. Be sure to visit the ancient Pergola nestled in the heart of this North London nature haven, and don't miss Kenwood House, a historic property boasting world-class art.
6. Enjoy a warming drink at one of London’s cosy pubs: Curl up in front of a roaring fire as the nights draw in, and indulge in your favourite comfort foods, from hearty pie and mash to a sumptuous roast with all the trimmings.
7. It’s Black Friday on 29 November, so rush out to the city’s top shopping destinations and department stores: Find plenty of bargains and autumn fashion deals.

Find more of the best autumn spots in London.

1. London is a haven for plant-based cuisine, so why not indulge in one of the city's top vegan restaurants: From the upscale dining experience at Gauthier Soho to the tantalising tacos and empanadas at Club Mexicana, and don't miss The Spread Eagle, London’s first 100% vegan pub.
2. Treat yourself to an indulgent brunch: Enjoy bottomless mimosas or a playful ball pit brunch as you savour stacks of pancakes topped with berries and maple syrup at Smith & Wollensky, or dip into a flavourful shakshuka with sourdough at The Good Egg.
3. Admire London's iconic landmarks from the water on a memorable dinner cruise: Savour a delicious meal while taking in the breathtaking views of the illuminated London skyline.
4. Celebrate National Curry Week in October (dates TBC) at a top south Asian eatery: Choose from venues including Michelin-starred Amaya, Trishna and Veeraswamy. For a more budget-friendly option, head to Brick Lane and enjoy delicious meals at renowned spots like City Spice or Bengal Village.
5. Get your fill at London's restaurants in celebration of World Food Day: Explore the city's diverse dining options, from quirky eateries to luxurious dinners. Whether you're craving the comfort of gastronomic pubs, the finesse of Michelin-starred restaurants, or the vibrant flavours of street markets, London's eclectic food scene offers something to delight every palate.
6. Enjoy Sunday roasts, fish and chips or afternoon tea: Autumn is the traditional harvest time and the perfect time to indulge in hearty meals that will keep you warm and fueled for the winter ahead. Enjoy succulent roast meats with all the trimmings, golden-battered fish with chunky chips, or delicate pastries and finger sandwiches accompanied by freshly brewed tea.

Find more food and drink inspiration.

1. Celebrate a magical festive season with Hogwarts in the Snow: Experience the wizarding world transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with enchanting holiday decorations and festive activities. Enjoy a snow-dusted Hogwarts, dazzling Christmas trees, and seasonal delights that bring the magic of the holidays to life.
2. Be wowed by Christmas at Kew: Marvel at the stunning light displays and immersive art installations that transform the famous London botanical gardens into a magical winter experience.
3. Don't miss the feel-good festive fun at Winter Wonderland: Get into the Christmas spirit at this winter spectacular in Hyde Park. Visit the Christmas market and tuck into a selection of mouthwatering festive dishes – the perfect way to warm up before daring your friends to spectacular funfair rides. 
4. See the city sparkle with a Christmas lights bus tour: Be dazzled by glittering festive displays and illuminated landmarks as you journey through London's most iconic streets.
5. Get your skating fix: London’s winter ice rinks start popping up across the city from November. Glide across the ice at spectacular venues, from Skylight, Europe's only rooftop rink, to the iconic Battersea Power Station with stunning views of the Thames. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and make magical memories at these top-notch skating locations.
6. Start your Christmas shopping spree under sparkling Christmas lights, as they switch on in November: Bond Street, Carnaby, Covent Garden, Jermyn Street, Oxford Street, Regent Street, Seven Dials and South Molton Street all usually have stunning displays. Join a Christmas lights bus tour to see London lit up from November.

Plan ahead with more Christmas in London ideas.