40 amazing things to do in London in February 2026

Discover the hottest new shows, exhibitions and special events happening in London this February. Plus, explore Valentine's and half-term ideas with this definitive guide to the best things to do in the British capital this month.
Visit London Editors
Written by Visit London Editors Edited by Lucie Fryer 18 March 2025

Key activities and events in London in February 2026

  • UK schools enjoy February half-term (16-20 February) this month, so London's top attractions bustle with special family-friendly activities throughout the week.
  • Celebrate Black History Month in London with various pop-ups, workshops, panel talks and events across the capital.
  • Treat your special someone this Valentine's Day (14 February) with our guide to the most romantic things to do in London.
  • Explore various exhibitions and pop-ups across the capital in honour of London Fashion Week (19-23 February).
  • Discover what's new in London's West End this month. Visit the city's hottest attractions or go on a thrilling sightseeing tour around the capital.

Take advantage of the week-long February half-term holiday and treat the family to a winter adventure in London. Discover the best things to do in London in February with our definitive guide – featuring special events, fun half-term activities and immersive experiences. Whether you're planning a day out or a weekend getaway in the capital, you'll find all the inspiration you need here. Plus, we've got plenty of ideas for Valentine's Day including themed afternoon teas and must-see shows.

Unmissable events in London in February

Two people cheers drinks aboard a valentines themed afternoon tea bus tour

  1. Impress your other half in London on Valentine's DayEnjoy luxury hotels, award-winning restaurants, romantic river cruises and Valentine's Day activities. There's no better place to spend a romantic day out or a weekend away. On and around 14 Feb
  2. Enjoy Battersea Power Station's annual Light Festival: Wander between enchanting installations before taking a trip up Lift 109 to see sweeping views of London's skyline. TBC
  3. Celebrate the season of love at Theatre Royal Drury Lane: The beautiful theatre puts a romantic twist on their popular year-round offerings such as a limited afternoon tea experience paired with personalised poems. TBC
  4. Learn about LGBTQ+ History MonthHead to events, panel talks and workshops across London this month in celebration of LGBTQ+ histories, cultures and communities. 1-28 Feb
  5. See the Six Nations rugby tournament in a London sports barOr try to score tickets to a fixture at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham. Feb-Mar
  6. Catch a match at a top London football club: Fans of the sport or first-timers curious about the big game will love experiencing the passion and excitement. 
  7. Celebrate the year of the horse this Chinese New YearJoin one of the world's largest Lunar New Year celebrations outside of Asia, with parades, food pop-ups and live performances in London's West End. TBC
  8. See epic acts and live music performances at Outernet: Explore the UK's most visited cultural attraction this February. 
  9. Keep up to date on the latest fashion trends at London Fashion WeekTake a front-row seat at an unmissable event and keep your eyes peeled for pop-up shops and exhibitions across the city. 19-23 Feb

Check back closer to the time for more events in February. In the meantime, take a look at our London events calendar to see what else is happening in London.

Shows in London in February 2026

Elphaba wears the school uniform standing in front of a black board.

Be captivated by classic comedy shows, innovative plays and long-running London musicals in February. Whether you opt for an evening of glamour at one of the capital’s best theatres or catch a must-see new performance during a daytime showing, check out the hottest shows in London theatre throughout February 2026.

  1. Don't miss Witness for the Prosecution at London County Hall: Based on the short story by Agatha Christie, watch the mysterious murder trial unfold before your very eyes. Until Apr 2026
  2. Get the family together for Matilda at the Cambridge Theatre: Watch the star student take on the terrible Ms Trunchbull with the help of some very special powers. Until May 2026
  3. Feel moved by Les Misérables at the Sondheim Theatre: The iconic musical continues to wow audiences on London's West End. Until Mar 2026
  4. See London's favourite wizard embark on a new adventure at the Palace Theatre: Watch Harry, Ron and Hermione in a new chapter in the award-winning Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
  5. Be spellbound by the tale of Elphaba and Glinda: Watch Wicked the musical at the Apollo Victoria Theatre this February. 
  6. Grab tickets to the feel-good classic Mamma Mia!: Follow the heartwarming story of Sophie and her mother Donna while listening to some of ABBA's greatest hits.
  7. See the incredible story of Simba at the Lyceum Theatre: The Lion King is ideal for all ages with its incredible costumes and powerful songs. 
  8. Watch the new production of Oliver! at Gielgud Theatre: Follow the adventures of orphan Oliver Twist through Victorian London.

Discover more amazing London theatre, from top musicals to fantastic shows for kids.

Family-friendly things to do in London

A man and a young child looking at an interactive display table with mail memorabilia in the background

  1. Make the most of February half-term in LondonFind plenty of unforgettable experiences and fun things to do.
  2. Ride the Explorer land train at Kew Gardens: Take a guided tour around the gardens on the explorer train as you learn all about the sight's flora and fauna. 
  3. Or take to the seas at Cutty SarkExplore the legendary sailing ship, meeting curious characters from the ship's past along the way.
  4. Explore London's Postal Museum and ride the Mail Rail: Visit this family-friendly museum that showcases London's postal network through interactive exhibits, workshops, tours and more.
  5. Venture to London Zoo for their fun half-term takeover: Families can enjoy a series of special events and workshops. TBC
  6. Snap a selfie with your favourite famous faces at Madame Tussauds: Whether it's royalty or a top musician  where else can you pose with world-renowned icons?
  7. Discover the incredible collection at UCL's Grant Museum of Zoology: Explore exhibitions or marvel at specimens and skeletons at the museum's historic permanent collection.

Find more things to do for families in London.

Top activities and immersive experiences

A person stands in an optical illusion exhibition at the twist museum in London.

  1. Team up with friends and family or go head-to-head at an escape roomStep up and save the world from an invasion, or enter the strange world of Alice in Wonderland. 
  2. Head to the London Transport MuseumTake part in a scavenger hunt, race balloon-powered buses and much more. 
  3. Enjoy afternoon tea at the National Gallery on the Highlights Tour: After an expert takes you through the beautiful gallery, enjoy scones and savoury treats in their delightful restaurant.
  4. Go on a day trip to Windsor for a Windsor tour with entry to Windsor CastleJoin an expert guide as they reveal the history, and some royal secrets, of this famous town and fortress.
  5. Discover the rich history of Maritime GreenwichVisit the Royal Museums, scale the Royal Observatory, and witness the marvel that is the Painted Hall.
  6. Chow down on some of London's tastiest food and drinkWhether that's at a boozy brunch, or a food and tasting experience at hotspots like Borough Market.

Discover more inspiration for a memorable adventure in London, from guided walking tours to spectacular immersive experiences

London exhibitions February 2026

Two people stand in an immersive gallery in front of the rowbow on the seine painting by monet.

  1. Head to FRAMELESS for an art experience like no other: Immerse yourself in the works of famous artists such as Van Gogh and Monet.
  2.  Experience impressive modern art at the Moco Museum in Marble Arch: Discover artworks from top contemporary artists including Banksy, Damien Hirst and Andy Warhol.
  3. Don't miss Picasso: The Three Dancers exhibition at Tate Modern: Chart the inspiration and history of one of the most iconic pieces in modern art 100 years after it was first painted. 
  4. Visit the National Gallery to see the first major exhibition celebrating the work of British artist Joseph Wright: The Wright of Derby exhibition traces over 20 remarkable works including paintings, mezzotints and various works on paper.
  5. Catch the Lee Miller exhibition at Tate Britain before it closes this month: The showstopping exhibit spotlights 200 vintage and modern prints by the trailblazing surrealist photographer. Until 15 Feb 2026
  6. Marvel at the seascapes of French artist Georges Seurat: Visit The Courtauld Gallery at Somerset House and explore paintings and oil sketches by the pioneering artist at the Seurat and the Sea exhibition. Until 17 May 2026

Check back nearer the time for more exhibitions in London.

Concerts and festivals in London in February 2026

ABBA Arena stage lit up in pink and blue lights during a live performance of ABBA Voyage in London.

  1. See the spectacular ABBA Voyage at the ABBA Arena: Dance along to ABBA's greatest hits as special effects transport you back to the golden age of pop music.
  2. Take the kids to the Imagine Children's Festival at Southbank Centre: Watch the little ones dabble in all things cultural. TBC
  3. Explore Kew Gardens' annual Orchid Festival: Discover countless orchid species on display, and celebrate the world's unique flora and fauna. 1 Feb-2 Mar

  4. Catch the BFI Future Film Festival at BFI Southbank: Sit back and watch live and in-person screenings at the UK’s largest festival for young, emerging filmmakers.TBC

Check back nearer the time for more concerts and festivals in February in London.

Frequently asked questions about London in February 

What is the weather in London like in February? 

February in London sees average day temperatures of around 3 to 9C (37 to 48F). Evenings are still frosty with temperatures often dropping below zero. There are typically 10 days of rainfall in London in February (45mm)

When is the best time to visit London in February to avoid crowds? 

Visit midweek to avoid crowds and try to book landmark attractions early in the morning for a quieter experience. February is generally a quieter time of year to visit London so you can often find good deals on accommodation, attractions and restaurants. However, half-term (16-20 February) and Valentine’s Day (14 February) are expected to be particularly busy.

What to wear in London in February? 

Wear a warm waterproof coat and be sure to have gloves, scarves and an umbrella to hand. If you’re visiting from further afield, pack comfortable shoes to walk around the city with ease.