Don’t miss these events in London in March 2026
- ♀️ 8 March 2026 – International Women’s Day: Celebrate with a stellar programme of workshops, talks, events and exhibitions across the capital.
- 👑 15 March 2026 – Mother’s Day: The perfect opportunity to treat the mother figure in your life to something special.
- 💚 17 March 2026 – St Patrick’s Day: Don’t miss the annual celebration of Ireland’s patron saint, with parades, live music and festive cheer.
- 🌸 20 March 2026 – Spring Equinox: Marking the official start of spring in the UK, with clocks moving forward one hour on 29 March.
More highlights in March include bold works at The Other Art Fair (5 to 8 March), the historic Head of the River Race from Mortlake to Putney (14 March), and the 40th edition of London’s largest film event, BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival (18 to 29 March).
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Be swept up into a magical experience, as the multi-Olivier-Award-winning stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli's beloved animated feature film continues its triumphant West End run.March is one of the best times to visit London, with spring in bloom and a thrilling lineup of seasonal events and openings across the capital. From landmark exhibitions and cultural festivals to exciting food and drink launches and a host of new West End shows, there’s no shortage of things to do in London in March 2026.
Drawing on Visit London’s local experts and first-hand insights into what’s happening citywide, we’ve curated this guide with insider tips and practical advice. Each entry has been carefully chosen for its cultural significance, visitor appeal, accessibility and distinctive seasonal highlights. Standout happenings include Sadie Sink and Noah Jupe making their West End debuts in Romeo & Juliet at The Harold Pinter Theatre, Tate Modern’s major exhibition celebrating the multidisciplinary artist Tracey Emin, and the eagerly anticipated return of Simpson’s in the Strand.
Bookmark our weekend round-up and download the Visit London app for more inspiration and on-the-go ideas. Plan ahead with our special events calendar and check back soon as we regularly update this page with announcements and news.
What’s on in London in March 2026
Catch the return of the Olivier Award-winning musical Kinky Boots
Strictly Come Dancing’s Johannes Radebe is leading the cast of the Olivier Award-winning musical Kinky Boots as it returns to the London Coliseum this spring for a limited four-month run. The thrilling new production follows the true story of Charlie Price, who inherits his family’s struggling shoe business. Watch as his world is flipped upside down when he meets the fiercely fabulous drag performer Lola, who redefines fashion by revolutionising high heels for men. Expect a feel-good score by critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Cyndi Lauper paired with dazzling costume and set design courtesy of Robert Jones and Tom Rogers.
Editor’s tip: The best seats are in the middle of the Stalls (rows C to F), while the Dress Circle offers an elevated view of the stage.
Where: London Coliseum, St Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 4ES
When: 17 March to 11 July 2026
Duration: Two hours and 20 minutes (including an interval)
Price: From £25 – buy your tickets
Book a table at the newly reopened Simpson’s in the Strand
Celebrated restaurateur Jeremy King officially reopened the storied 200-year-old restaurant Simpson’s in the Strand last month, after its closure in 2020. The space has been carefully restored to its Edwardian splendour, preserving original features of the Grade II-listed building including its striking tiled exterior, timber panelling and showstopping chandeliers across two restaurants, two bars and a private event space. The Grand Divan features silver carving trolleys and serves a menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner with grills, roasts, pies and game all paired with a wine list that has a French flex. The second restaurant, Romano’s, offers a more relaxed vibe with a lighter British menu, while the art deco bar on the first floor is a great option for a pre-theatre tipple with its British gins and sparkling wines.
Editor’s tip: Don’t miss the underground bar Nellie – all animal-print velvets, experimental cocktails and open until 3am.
Where: 100 Strand, London WC2R 0EZ
Best for: Intimate fine dining in a historic setting
Dish to order: Ten Deadly Sins (the cherished Full English, served here until 2017)
Experience the Sounds of Blossom at Kew Gardens
Embrace the first signs of spring with this serene immersive experience at the UNESCO-protected Kew Gardens, in collaboration with the Royal College of Music. The event features seven new compositions created by talented students, inspired by Kew’s lush spring landscape and world-renowned magnolia and cherry blossoms. The experience is included with standard entry tickets and allows visitors to wander through blossom hotspots at their own pace.
Editor’s tip: If you’re visiting early in the month, don’t miss the final week of Kew Gardens Orchid Festival (until 8 March), celebrating the incredible biodiversity of China.
Where: Kew, Richmond TW9 3AE
When: 14 March to 6 April 2026
Price: From £42 – buy your tickets
Pick up new artworks at Battersea Affordable Art Fair
The spring edition of the Affordable Art Fair returns to London this month, with more than 100 leading galleries from around the world set to present 1,000 artworks. The beauty of the Affordable Fair is found in its mission to make art accessible, with pieces from emerging and established artists available from £100, alongside expert advice to help you pick the right piece for your home. Taking place at Evolution London in Battersea Park, highlights include a striking new installation by Yorkshire-based duo Relton Marine, a curated exhibition celebrating International Women’s Day, and Finds Under £500, while audio guides offer an exciting way to experience the fair.
Editor’s tip: The nearest Tube station is Battersea Power Station, which is a 10-minute walk away via the Chelsea Gate entrance of Battersea Park.
Where: Evolution London, Queenstown Road, London SW8 4NW
When: 4 to 8 March 2026
Price: From £14 – buy your tickets
See David Hockney’s new exhibition at the Serpentine
A free exhibition of trailblazing British artist David Hockney opens at the Serpentine this month, presenting a brilliant collection of works painted in his former studio in Normandie. The captivating show features a selection of pieces created on Hockney’s iPad during the pandemic, including a 90-metre-long frieze inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry, which will later be displayed at the British Museum. The frieze beautifully illustrates the changing seasons, reflecting Hockney’s fascination with nature, time and the act of looking. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore one of the most innovative artists of our time, before taking a stroll through the surrounding nature of Kensington Gardens.
Editor’s tip: The best entrance for Serpentine North Gallery is via West Carriage Drive in Kensington Gardens, which is a 10-minute walk from Lancaster Gate Tube station.
Where: Serpentine North Gallery, West Carriage Drive, London W2 2AR
When: 12 March to 23 August 2026
Price: Free
Celebrate Mother’s Day with an afternoon tea bus
Treat Mum this Mother’s Day (15 March) to an afternoon tea bus tour aboard a classic double-decker. Sip Prosecco, savour a delicious selection of finger sandwiches – including cucumber and cream cheese, egg and cress and smoked salmon and lemon – freshly baked scones with clotted jam and rich strawberry jam, alongside a tasty lineup of pastries and cakes. Tours depart at various times from Buckingham Palace Road near Victoria Station, gliding past landmarks such as Big Ben, Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London. Get more Mother’s Day inspiration with our guide covering dining, theatre and attractions.
Editor’s tip: Arrive 15-20 minutes before departure and be sure to book in advance if you’re seeking top-deck seats.
Where: Tours depart from 123-151 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9SR
Duration: 90 minutes
Price: From £49 – buy your tickets
Dive into the Magical Mischief takeover at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
Harry Potter fans can explore the studios where the hit films were produced and uncover authentic sets, costumes and props reimagined with the Magical Mischief takeover. Visit the O.W.L. examinations in the Great Hall, browse the Weasleys’ Wizarding Wheezes shop on Diagon Alley and uncover the magic behind iconic scenes like Harry’s flying acceptance letters and the Invisibility Cloak. More highlights include the Forbidden Forest, the Herbology Classroom and Gringotts Wizarding Bank. Round off your visit in the Studio Shops, brimming with replica wands, house robes and collectables such as Sorting Hats and Gringotts coins.
Editor’s tip: For a quieter experience, visit midweek or opt for early time slots on weekends.
Where: Studio Tour Drive, Watford WD25 7LR
When: 24 January to 27 April 2026
Duration: Around three hours and 30 minutes
Price: From 87.50 – buy your tickets
Check out Tracey Emin: A Second Life at Tate Modern
Tate Modern is staging a major exhibition charting the era-defining, multidisciplinary practice of Dame Tracey Emin, featuring more than 90 works across painting, video, textiles, writing, sculpture and installation. Spanning 40 years of Emin’s extraordinary career – including the Turner Prize-nominated My Bed 1998, an unflinching depiction of her recovery from an alcohol-fuelled breakdown. Other pieces include photographs of her 1980s school paintings, a textile addressing her experience of sexual assault, and a powerful video recounting an abortion that went tragically wrong. Alongside previously unseen works, the show explores Emin’s life in Margate including her transformative second life, marked by recovery and cancer survival.
Editor’s tip: Tate Modern is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026. Explore anniversary highlights including an unmissable birthday weekender and iconic artwork trail.
Where: Tate Modern, Bankside, London SE1 9TG
When: 27 February to 31 August 2026
Price: £20, free for members – buy your tickets
Get involved in BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival
Now in its 40th year, the UK’s largest queer film event kicks off at BFI Southbank this month, showcasing a diverse cast of films including new releases, shorts and rediscovered classics. While the official 2026 lineup is yet to be announced (check back here soon), screen enthusiasts can expect a roster of panels, events, workshops and screenings, with Jennifer Kroot’s riotous documentary Hunky Jesus confirmed as the opening night gala film. Major highlights from the 2025 event saw Emma Mackey in Hot Milk (2025), Daniel Craig in Queer (2024), and Murray Bartlett in Ponyboi (2024).
Editor’s tip: Head to the BFI Southbank box office 30 to 60 minutes before a sold-out screening to join the standby line for a chance to buy returned tickets.
Where: Various London locations
When: 18 to 29 March 2026
Price: Prices vary
Secure seats for Romeo and Juliet at Harold Pinter Theatre
The eagerly anticipated new production of Romeo and Juliet opens at the Harold Pinter on 16 March, starring the talented Sadie Sink (Stranger Things) and Noah Jupe (Hamnet) in their West End debuts as the famed star-crossed lovers. Directed by Olivier Award-winner Robert Icke (Oedipus), this electrifying and bold reimagining of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy explores love, innocence and the destructive power of family feuds. A must-see highlight of the West End this spring, this limited-run production promises to captivate audiences with its modern, dynamic interpretation.
Editor’s tip: Matinees are showing on Saturdays at 2.30pm.
Where: Harold Pinter Theatre, Panton Street, London SW1Y 4DN
When: 16 March to 6 June 2026
Duration: Two hours and 30 minutes
Price: From £25 – buy your tickets now!
Reserve a room at London’s coolest new hotel The Newman
New hotel group Kinsfolk & Co recently opened its first property in Fitzrovia, and it’s already making waves with London’s design set. The Newman offers 81 stylish rooms and suites, an all-day restaurant and a chic underground bar, with interiors by London-based studio Lind + Almond showcasing a striking art deco finish. Make it your base for exploring the capital and enjoy a dedicated wellness floor featuring a medical grade halotherapy room, ice lounge, sauna and steam room, plus a menu of treatments curated by Scandinavian skincare brand Nuori.
Editor’s tip: Don’t miss the vibrant collection of artworks celebrating Fitzrovia’s bohemian history including ink illustrations and abstract oils.
Where: 50 Newman Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T 3EB
Price: From £695 per night – book your room
Best for: First-class wellness and standout design
Spot the first signs of spring in London’s parks and green spaces
Take a break from sightseeing and head to St James’s Park – the capital’s oldest Royal park – where swathes of yellow and white daffodils signal the arrival of spring in London. Richmond Park impresses with its herds of deer and open grassland, while Hampstead Heath and Primrose Hill offer breathtaking skyline views. Regent’s Park and Greenwich Park are known for their stunning flower beds with tulips and cherry blossoms lining the paths. Elsewhere, Kensington Gardens delights with its ponds, terraces and the tranquil Sunken Garden – famously a favourite of Princess Diana’s and home to her memorial.
Editor’s tip: Take a look at what’s on in London’s Royal Parks including walking tours, nursery experiences and nature roadshows.
Explore our guide to the best parks in London.
Soak up London’s biggest landmarks on a hop-on hop-off bus tour
Climb aboard London’s favourite hop-on hop-off bus tour and discover the capital's top landmarks from an open-air top deck of a double decker. Buses depart every 20 minutes and stop at more than 60 key attractions including Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London and Westminster Abbey. You can choose from 24, 48 or 72-hour tickets, and pick from three different routes, with the Classic Tour covering central London highlights and the museum quarter.
Editor’s tip: Not sure where to start? Head to Stop 1 opposite the London Eye on Belvedere Road.
Where: London Eye, Belvedere Road, London SE1 7NA
Duration: Depending on your ticket
Price: From £26.25 – buy your tickets
Take on the UK’s highest roof walk at the Ally Pally Summit
Alexandra Palace has launched an exhilarating new roof walk, inviting thrill-seekers to scale the iconic London landmark and enjoy sweeping views across the capital. This guided open-air experience is the UK’s highest roof walk at a staggering 130 metres above sea level. From the summit, soak in 360-degree vistas stretching up to 25 miles, with landmarks including The Shard, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Gherkin clearly visible. During the climb, an expert guide will share fascinating stories from Ally Pally’s storied 150-year history before you reach the Angel of Plenty Statue.
Get the lowdown with our review of the Ally Pally Summit.
Editor’s tip: Choose a sunset climb to capture London’s skyline at the golden hour, awash with oranges and pinks.
Where: Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY
Duration: One hour
Price: From £28 – buy your tickets
Head to the British Library’s Fairy Tales exhibition
Little ones will love the British Library’s new interactive exhibition Fairy Tales, tracing enchanted lands, magical creatures and timeless stories through books, costumes, puppets and illustrations. Visitors will journey through some of the UK’s most treasured tales, from a cosy cottage showcasing French stories from Histoires ou contes du temps passé by Charles Perrault, to a rich woodland filled with heroes and villains inspired by Little Red Riding Hood and Hansel and Gretel, and a glittering royal palace where fantastical objects and fairy godmothers celebrate Cinderella.
Browse available time slots and relaxed sessions, and don’t miss our guide to the best London libraries for more British Library highlights.
Editor’s tip: Relaxed time slots are available for children with special educational needs and disabilities.
Where: 96 Euston Road, London NW1 2DB
When: 27 March to 23 August 2026
Price: From £11.50
Discover London’s International Women’s Day events
March is Women’s History Month in London, with International Women’s Day as the highlight of the celebrations honouring women’s social, cultural and political achievements. Key events include an International Women’s Day Concert at the Royal Albert Hall (8 March), featuring saxophonist Jess Gillam and singer-songwriter Katie Melua, and a Women in Jazz takeover at Southbank Centre (13 to 14 March) including a talk with music journalist Emma Warren and singer-songwriter Celeste. Plus, check out our pick of the best London walking tours – from Blue Badge guides to Royal-themed routes – to follow in the footsteps of Britain’s pioneering women.
Editor’s tip: Don’t miss TfL’s takeover of 10 Santander Cycles named after inspirational women cyclists across the capital in March.
When: 8 March 2026
Don’t miss the final shows of Back to the Future
It’s officially the last month to catch Back to the Future before the musical leaves the Adelphi for its UK tour in April. This seven-time Olivier Award-nominated show was reimagined for the stage by the 1985 film’s original creators, featuring feel-good songs and the same thrilling story exploring time, destiny and consequences. Follow Marty McFly as he’s hurled back to 1955 in Doc Brown’s DeLorean, racing to reunite his young parents and secure his future.
Editor’s tip: The Dress Circle offers stellar views of the iconic flying DeLorean scene.
Where: 409-412 Strand, London WC2R 0NS
When: Until 12 April 2026
Duration: Two hours and 40 minutes
Price: From £19.75 – secure your seats now!
Dive into Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends
To mark their 50th anniversary year, the British animation studio Aardman is staging a major exhibition at the Young V&A in Bethnal Green. The Bristol studio is behind some of the UK’s most cherished stop-motion creations including Wallace and Gromit, Chicken Run, and Shaun the Sheep. As part of the show, visitors can meet renowned characters such as Morph, Feathers McGraw and Ginger, while exploring the creative process from initial sketches to final effects. Book your tickets and uncover more than 150 items including never-seen-before models, sets and storyboards from the Aardman’s archives.
Discover the highlights with our review.
Editor’s tip: Plan to spend longer with the main galleries featuring sensory play areas and design-focused installations.
When: 12 February to 15 November 2026
Where: Young V&A, Bethnal Green E2 9PA
Price: From £11, free for under-4s – buy your tickets now!
Adventure outside of London on a Stonehenge tour
Looking to explore more of the UK? Book this luxury day trip from London to Stonehenge and step inside the historic monument’s inner circle on a guided tour. Explore the majestic stones up close while your expert guide explains the Neolithic origins, theories behind its construction and its significance for ritual and astronomy. Visit the exhibition at the Visitor Centre and see the village reconstruction before boarding your spacious, air-conditioned coach back to Victoria Station.
Read our review of the experience for insider tips and more highlights.
Editor’s tip: Wear waterproofs and warm clothes in case of rain showers and cold weather.
When: Tuesdays and Saturdays
Duration: Seven hours
Price: From £139 – reserve your tickets today
Watch the eagerly anticipated revival of Teeth ‘N’ Smiles
David Hare’s groundbreaking play Teeth ‘N’ Smiles returns to London’s West End this March for a strictly limited 12-week run at the Duke of York’s Theatre, celebrating 50 years since its debut. Set during a chaotic night at a 1969 university ball, the show follows Maggie Frisby as she defiantly refuses to let her voice and her relevance fade away. Rebecca Lucy Taylor (Self Esteem) stars as Maggie alongside a stellar cast including Michael Fox (The Land of the Living), Phil Daniels (House of the Dragon), and Michael Abubakar (Wonka), with original music by Nick Bicât and lyrics by Tony Bicât. Book your seats for this electrifying revival, blending live music, rebellion, and sharp social commentary in a thrilling celebration of resilience.
Editor’s tip: Head to nearby Seven Dials Market for pre-theatre bites, with more than 20 food stalls to choose from including bao buns, tacos and pizzas.
When: 13 March to 6 June 2026
Where: St Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 4BG
Price: From £31.25 – buy your tickets now
Get ready for new four-day festival Tri Design
New four-day festival Tri Design is uniting craftsmanship across the King’s Road, Fulham Road and Knightsbridge, with a stellar lineup of exhibitions, workshops and installations centred around the 2026 Pantone colour of the year Cloud Dancer. Brands across the district that are getting involved include Designers Guild, Harrods Interiors Design, The Emory, The Berkely and White Company. While the official programme is yet to be revealed, expect behind-the-scenes access to hotels, showrooms and studios, and inspiring talks from visionaries in the area.
Editor’s tip: London Design Week takes place at nearby Design Centre (9 to 13 March), with more than 135 showrooms and 30 pop-ups inspiring London’s design crowd.
Where: Knightsbridge, King’s Road and Fulham Road
When: 12 to 15 March 2026
Price: Free – explore the programme
Step into 1890s Paris at The Lost Estate’s CHAT NOIR!
Blending a sumptuous three-course Parisian banquet with immersive storytelling, CHAT NOIR! transports guests from London to the bohemian heart of Montmartre, where French haute cuisine classics are served alongside captivating burlesque in a Belle Époque-inspired setting. Choose from raised seating, cabaret tables, centre stage tables or an indulgent luxury box, each offering a different perspective on the spectacle. On the menu, French onion soup is followed by chicken braised in wine with mushrooms, bacon and onions before a decadent cherry crème brûlée with lemon shortbread cookies provides the perfect finale.
Editor’s tip: The Lost Estate is a 2-minute walk from West Kensington Tube station, which is ideally located to explore the Natural History Museum, Science Museum and V&A.
Where: 9 Beaumont Avenue, London W14 9LP
Duration: Three hours and 30 minutes
Price: From £139.95 – buy your tickets today!
Join the St Patrick’s Day festivities in London
The annual celebration of Ireland’s patron saint is a highlight of London’s cultural calendar, with more than 150,000 expats from the Emerald Isle calling the capital home. The official parade takes place on 15 March, kicking off at 12pm near Hyde Park Corner before travelling along Piccadilly, St James’s and Whitehall, and concluding in Trafalgar Square. Expect marching bands, dance troupes and colourful floats, followed by live music, and food and drink in the square. Nearby pubs and restaurants such as The Devonshire in Piccadilly and The Porterhouse in Covent Garden are great places to keep the festivities going.
Editor’s tip: Read our guide to the best Irish pubs in London to find the finest Guinness, whiskey and live music.
When: 17 March 2026
Marvel at Wes Anderson: The Archives at the Design Museum
Fans of Wes Anderson’s whimsical style should check out the Design Museum’s major exhibition charting the American filmmaker’s successful career. The first-ever retrospective brings together more than 600 items from Anderson’s films including the pink model of The Grand Budapest Hotel, the Fendi fur coat Gwyneth Paltrow wore as Margot Tenenbaum, and a screening of his 1993 short film Bottle Rocket. The exhibit is organised chronologically, showcasing rarely seen notebooks, sketches and scripts from his early career to his most recent short film, The Wonderful World of Henry Sugar (2023).
Editor’s tip: Stop-motion fans should look out for the original models from Fantastic Mr Fox.
When: Until 26 July 2026
Where: 224-238 Kensington High Street, London W8 6AG
Price: From £19.69 – buy your tickets now
Snag a table at Jul’s in St James’s
Ibiza’s favourite restaurant is set to launch in London this month, and we couldn’t be more delighted. Greek chef and co-founder Christos Fotos has transformed a former bank in St James’s into a sultry dining destination – all marble countertops, scorched wood and seductive lighting. Much like its Balearic sibling, the menu champions local, sustainable produce with ingredients sourced from farms in and around London. Go for the spicy king crab tagliolini with mint harissa, mango and pineapple chutney, or opt for the smoked grilled chicken fillet with almond dried peach, cooked over open fire. And if the fountain of life cocktail – rum, toffee, amaro, pineapple and tarragon – is on the menu, make it your drink of choice. Opens 18 March
Editor’s tip: Nearby highlights include The National Portrait Gallery, Horse Guards Parade and Buckingham Palace.
Where: 11 Waterloo Place, London SW1Y 4AU
Best for: Mediterranean dishes in a seriously stylish setting
Dish to order: Giouvetsi with slow-cooked lamb and flatbread
You may also like:
- Treat the kids to The Paddington Bear Experience and journey through themed rooms such as Paddington Station, No.32 Windsor Gardens and the jungle of Peru.
- Book tickets for the limited run Avenue Q at the Shaftesbury Theatre, a feel-good puppet show following young adults in downtown New York. 20 Mar-29 Aug
- Step into the ultimate immersive experience at FRAMELESS, where 42 world-renowned artworks are reimagined through innovative light projections.
- Get your tickets for London Transport Museum (kids go free!) and explore the evolution of London’s transport, with Harry Beck’s original Tube map and the world’s first underground steam train among the highlights.
