Whether you want to see a hot new show, catch the latest exhibition or spend a fun family day out in the capital, discover what’s on in London this weekend with our guide.
Things to do on Friday
Drag: Self-portraits and Body Politics at Hayward Gallery
Discover the work of more than 30 artists, who use drag to explore themes such as gender and class, with Drag: Self-portraits and Body Politics. This free exhibition features photography and other media from leading figures in the art world, including Robert Mapplethorpe and Cindy Sherman.
The Monster at Alexandra Palace
Bounce your way to happiness on the world’s biggest inflatable obstacle course. The Monster features a giant slide and bouncy cage, while back on firm ground there are cocktail bars and a dancefloor to keep the good times rolling in.
Things to do on Saturday
Smithfield 150: London’s Biggest Birthday Party at Smithfield Market
Celebrate the 150th anniversary of Smithfield Market with one of London’s biggest birthday parties. Smithfield 150 sees the markets and surrounding streets filled with festivities, including live music, a roller disco and plenty of delicious food.
Ladbrokes Challenge Cup Final at Wembley Stadium
Watch Rugby League’s best teams battle it out for the top spot during the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup Final. After 9 months of thrilling action, the final sees Warrington Wolves and Catalans Dragons go head to head, complete with cheerleaders and live music.
Black Cat Cabaret's Bohemia at the Underbelly Festival
Enter a world of glamour and intrigue with Black Cat Cabaret’s latest show at the Underbelly Festival. Be amazed by the troupe’s thrilling acrobatics, talented fire breathers and the rhythmic beats of the band, during a wild night of cabaret and circus.
Things to do on Sunday
Costa del Tottenham at The Cause
Soak up summer vibes under potted palm trees at Costa del Tottenham, an urban oasis in the unlikely location of a nightclub’s front yard. Bring your own meat to be fired up on the barbecue, sip on tropical cocktails and take a dip in the pool.
Notting Hill Carnival in west London
Head to west London for the capital’s biggest street party – Notting Hill Carnival. Watch floats and performers in elaborate costumes along the parade route, and join in the fun at sound systems on street corners. Refuel with delicious Caribbean food, including jerk chicken and fried plantains. Plus, check out our top 10 carnival tips to get the most out of your day.
Bank holiday parties across London
Continue enjoying the carnival atmosphere well into the night at one of the many bank holiday parties happening across London. Dance to afrobeats and hip hop at The Hoxton Pony with Supa Dupa Fly x Carnival Tun Up!. Be showered in confetti at the KoOKyLoCo Masquerade Glitterball. If you didn’t manage to snag a ticket to South West Four, you can still join in the fun at the Sunday afterparty with DJ EZ and special guests at Electric Brixton.
Things to do on bank holiday Monday
Make More festival at Victoria Park
Get crafty at the new Make More festival. Alongside the usual festival staples of live music and fully-stocked bars, this weekend-long event brings together lots of creative types to show off their skills and teach you new ones. Try your hand at watercolours, learn how to make gin infusions and create your own jewellery.
Pitch Sundays Bank Holiday Special at Pitch Stratford
Round off the bank holiday weekend with a trip to Pitch Stratford. Play games of table tennis, sip on cocktails, dance to chart toppers, eat street food from around the world and relax on colourful bean bags.
This week's offers
Kids Week
Treat the kids to one of London’s top theatre shows this August and receive a free ticket when accompanied by a full-price adult ticket. There's a huge selection of shows to choose from, including Wicked, Motown and 42nd Street. Book now
London family attractions
Keep the kids entertained with an array of family-friendly attractions and activities in the capital. From the ZSL London Zoo to The London Dungeon, there are plenty of exciting things to do with children in London. Book now