October

It’s officially Autumn and it’s time to get cosy but we’re not ready to completely hibernate indoors just yet. I want to get outdoors and soak up as much fresh air as possible. Here is our hit list for this month.

Bandol

This month - London Restaurant Festival 1st-31st October

Running between 1 and 31 October 2019, London Restaurant Festival celebrates the diversity of this global capital of exceptional, groundbreaking restaurants with citywide experiences and menus. This year’s Festival Menus, brought to you by OpenTable, are newly themed, so whether you’re looking for cutting-edge cuisine, hot new openings, breathtaking views or our London Legends, there is a special menu created just for you. Be sure to check off as many themes as possible throughout the October. Words and source : London Restaurant Festival for info and tickets click here.

Cosy pub recommendations

Lounge around on roughed-up sofas and bask in the glow of a burning fire – these cosy London pubs are crying out to be treated like your home away from home in the autumn months. Whether you want to get warmed-up after a brisk walk through Hampstead Heath or you feel like getting all aglow while in Soho, these pubs will work wonders on your post-summer, not-quite-winter complexion. 

From creakingly old inns with nooks for hiding away from the London fog to modern pubs that know how to turn on the warming charm, find somewhere in the capital to get seriously cosy over autumnal ales and hot toddies.  Words and source : Time out for more info click here.

V&A - Wonderful Things by Tim Walker

Tim Walker Exhibition - Wonderful Things on now until the 8th March 2020

Experience the extraordinary creative process of one of the world's most inventive photographers through his pictures, films, photographic sets, and special installations – including ten new series of photographs influenced by the V&A's collections. Words and source - V&A for more info and tickets click here.

Rickie No.17 at 45 Jermyn St.

Sober October - 1st-31st Oct

This month is Sober October but that doesn’t mean you need to sit at home. Here are some of our fave places and mocktails that are sure to brighten up your month.

Nettle fizz at The Zetter Townhouse

Nearly negroni at American Bar at The Savoy

Mango and fennel lassi at Dishoom

Flu fighters martini at Redemption Bar

Glossy at Connaught Bar

Rickie No.17 at 45 Jermyn St.

Watermelon, pink peppercorn and habanero agua fresca at Ella Canta

Pura sangre at Nightjar

Dartmouth Food Festival - Instagram

Dartmouth Food Festival - 18th-20th October

During the Festival the whole of Dartmouth buzzes with activity. With street entertainers, food and drink stalls, cooking contests to enter and children’s activities, cooking demonstrations and classes, you and your children will have a wonderful day out. 

The Festival has something for the whole family. There plenty for grown ups with amazing cookery demonstrations, drinks seminars and tastings. You'll meet celebrity chefs and local cookery heroes and some of the UK's top food writers. For children there's the Children's Tea Party at the start of the Festival on the Thursday, followed by lots of fun events throughout the Festival. And even your dog can can be a gourmand for the day and savour the latest doggy flavoured ice cream from Dartmouth Ice Cream Company.

And the good news! Most of the Festival is FREE, thanks to our generous Sponsors! You'll only need to pay for certain events. Words and source; Dartmouth Food Festival For more info just click here.

Hull Fair - 5th -13th October

Hull Fair is one of Europe’s largest travelling funfairs, which comes to Hull for one week. Unlike small local fairs, Hull Fair attracts rides, attractions, and travellers from a wide variety of different regions.

The fair is one of Hull’s biggest traditions, as well as one of its oldest, having reached its 700th anniversary in 1993. Carrying on with such tradition the fair is opened by the Lord Mayor of Hull on the opening evening, normally at 5 pm. It first opened from 9 to 23 March 1278.

Stalls down Walton Street are filled with the sights and smells of traditional fairground food from hamburgers and hot dogs to candy floss, toffee apples, pomegranates and even hog roast. Source and words : Hull city Fair and more info click here

Photo by Alfred Schrock

Pumpkin Patches - throughout October

We’ve found this great list from https://www.youneedtovisit.co.uk with a whole load of suggestions for the best pumpkin patches around the UK. I am pretty sure there will be one near you. Pumpkins come in all shapes and sizes, paint them, carve them or use them to decorate your home this Autumn. For info click here.

Framlingham Castle, Suffolk - English Heritage

Halloween - 31st October

For the kids…

October is half term so grab your broomsticks for a bewitchingly brilliant day out at English Heritage’s Halloween events taking place across the country. Kids and families can head to our historic places this Halloween Half Term with creepy crafts and wicked witch-themed quests at our castles, abbeys and houses. And come nightfall, brave grownups can dare to explore some of the country's eeriest castles and discover the darker side of history. Words and Source : English Heritage

For the grown ups…

Fear is a funny thing; take a step back in time into London’s dark past told by live actors, scares and immersive sets. Your tour starts in a Victorian Gin Palace where a complimentary Gin fizz is served before heading off into the Streets of Jack the Ripper and to meet other infamous people from Sweeny Todd to Mrs Lovett you will receive another drop of Dutch courage in the Ten Bells served by the landlady. Audience participation is encouraged as you pass from one show to the next. The finale is a drop ride which may leave you in need of a stiff drink, lucky for you our Tavern awaits. The Tavern is an ideal place to regroup and to take a breather before heading out. This adult’s only experience is a great alternative to a West End show or a great way to experience one of London’s top attractions without the crowds. Source and words by Design my night

London Ocktoberfest - Instagram

London Oktoberfest

Millwall Park (3rd-13th October) and Olympia London ( 24th-26th October) are transformed into a gigantic Oktoberfest. More fun, more party and more Oktoberfest than ever before in London. Over the years a lot have tried - but no one beats the fun and good mood London´s own, original Oktoberfest creates.

Sing along and dance on the benches while enjoying Ompha-Ompha music, a bratwurst and a German beer - what more could you want!?

On Sunday's we have a special offer for your family lunch so you can let the entire family experience Bavarian culture for a day. (On Sunday's kids are allowed at the event together with their parents). Words and source : Design my night

August

Poptata

Who doesn’t love chips … you need to check out Poptata - Open Now at multiple locations.

With more than 14 years experience in the Luxury Hospitality Industry, Marco and Luca decided to go back to basics and came up with a plan to offer Londoners something familiar and comforting, yet done in a very different way. Taking one of the best loved beacons of British culinary tradition, the (Italian pair) stole a march on their homegrown rivals and decided to celebrate the humble Chip. And Poptata was born, heralding the arrival of London’s best-ever-snack-time-favourite – STREET FRIES! For more info click here. Source and words by Poptata.com.

Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill Carnival - 25th and 26th August

Given that an estimated two million people attended last year, Notting Hill Carnival totally deserves its reputation as Europe’s biggest street festival. The annual event is a vivid and thrilling spectacle that celebrates and showcases London’s rich, varied and magnificent multicultural past and present. And for any party lovers, the Carnival weekend is a vital date in the calender.

Still, the sheer size and excitement of Carnival can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure of exactly what you should be doing. So, to get totally prepared and ready for the celebrations, don’t go anywhere without reading Time out guide, which includes invaluable information, tips and travel details about Notting Hill Carnival 2019. For more info click here. - Source and words by Time Out.

London Dessert Festival

The London Dessert Festival - 17th-18th August

The London Dessert Festival is the capital’s first experiential festival celebrating sensory indulgence through desserts. Journey through this incredible celebration of London’s finest and most fanciful creations, and let your senses guide you. Through the use of scents, flavours, textures, sights and sounds, we’ll take you on a voyage of discovery. With appearances from top influencers and some of the biggest names in gastronomy, this truly immersive experience will inspire, captivate and entertain. In the sweetest way you can imagine. For tickets and more info click here. Source and words by Londondessertfestival.com.

Hitchin Lavender, Hertfordshire

Pick Your Own Sunflower Farms near London

August-September is when sunflowers usually bloom in the UK — and plenty of farms and fields near London invite you to pick your own. If you're making a special journey, check ahead to ensure the flowers are out. British summers are anything but predictable. Click here for 5 great spots to check out. Source and words by Londonist.com.

The Maldon Smoke and Fire Festival - 16th August - 19th August

Now in it’s third year and attracting over 18,000 visitors. This August, the ancient town of Maldon in Essex welcomes back this fabulous two-day festival celebrating the magical art of cooking with FIRE and SMOKE; showcasing new and exciting food, recipes and techniques and offering entertainment the whole family can enjoy, including an extensive children’s play area. For tickets and more info click here. Source and words by Eventbrite.

Shards Sessions 3rd August - 12th October

The View from The Shard, in collaboration with Moët & Chandon, are quite literally taking music to new heights with this year’s Shard Sessions; a series of exclusive events with some special guests, all taking place 800ft above the capital. Create your perfect Moët moment on selected Friday & Saturday nights throughout the summer as a number of handpicked guests perform at the top of the city’s most iconic structure, we look forward to raising the roof on London’s highest riser. Catch performances & DJ sets from the likes of Colin Francis, DJ Luck & Mc Neat, Mark Wright, Nathan Dawe,Rickie & Melvin, Foor and many more whilst enjoying a complimentary glass of ice cold Moët & Chandon Champagne. For tickets and more info click here. Source and words by theviewfromtheshard.com.

The Monster - Alexandra Palace

The Monster at Alexandra Palace - 23rd -28th August

We're pumped! The world's biggest inflatable obstacle course is returning to London — and tickets are now on sale. The internet almost blew up in 2016, with the arrival of The Monster at Alexandra Palace. Now, it's been announced that the bouncy 300m-long course will return to Alexandra Palace for a short residency at the end of August. The Monster travels the world, transforming adults back into kids, thanks to its wacky 42 obstacles including an 18-metre long 'Mega Slide' and the 'Bouncy Cage of Doom'. The Monster has previously been an adults-only zone, but this time there's a two-day special event for kids aged 7-15 (27 and 28 August). For tickets and more info click here. Source and words by The Londonist.

Somerset House - Film 4 Summer Screen

Somerset House - 8th-21st August

Join in the ultimate cinematic experience under the starry sky when the Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court transforms into a beautiful open-air cinema.

Over fourteen summer evenings, London’s largest outdoor screen and cinema-quality surround sound ensure you enjoy every frame, every look and every line of these unmissable films. New this year, you can select from a range of seating options in the courtyard, including beanbags and director’s chairs, and pre-book a hamper or dining package.

With Jimmy Garcia’s BBQ Club on site and top-class DJ spinning tunes as the sun goes down each night, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House is outdoor cinema at its finest. For tickets and more info click here. Source and words by Somerset House

The stables - Fest Camden

The Stables at Fest Camden

Although our stables our individually themed for the perfect party spot and club night. They are home to our very own pub house during the day. Enjoy a live pianist playing the best of commercial acoustic tunes, whilst enjoying our new best of British pub grub and delicious drinks menu. 

Whether you’re looking for a new go to place for after work drinks, a spot to enjoy food and drink to break up your memorable tour of Camden’s markets or a place for pre drinks before attending one of our spectacular events, the pub house is now OPEN! For more info click here. Source and words by CamdenFest.com.

July

With the sunshine coming out to play this month we’ve picked out some of our favourite happenings in and around London. From Wimbledon, to sipping cocktails or heading to the seaside, we’re sure to have something that will get you into the summer spirit. Cheers to July may it be hot and sticky with plenty of ice cream days. Enjoy, and remember to share any hip happenings in the comments below x

Wimbledon - 1st-14th July

Kicking off this month is one of the most quintessentially British summer events, Wimbledon. It remains one of the very few major UK sporting events where you can still buy premium tickets on the day of play. Tickets are sold strictly on the basis of one per person queuing.

A limited number of tickets are available daily for Centre Court, No.1 Court and No.2 Court, except for the last four days on Centre Court, when all are sold in advance. In addition, several thousand Grounds Passes are available each day at the turnstiles entitling use of unreserved seating and standing room on Courts No.3 - 18. For more info click here.

Summer Cocktails

Secret London have a great selection of cocktail spots with some of the best places to sip on cool, alcoholic beverages in London this season; from frozen margaritas to charitable sugar snap pea-infused vodka. Believe me, they’re good. For more info click here.

Escape to the beach

There are plenty of ways to escape London - from lush park walks to weekend village breaks - but sometimes a trip to the seaside is the only way to reset and unwind. Londoners needn’t trek far for a brilliant beach; the capital is well connected to some of the best beaches in the country, and in less than two hours, city folk can find themselves oceanside making sandcastles, spotting wildlife, and copping a lungful of fresh salty air.

From the fresh oysters on the foodie coastline of Mersea Island to seal-spotting and fossil hunting at Walton-on-the-Naze - here’s Time Out’s guide to the best beaches near London.

Summer swimming

Come rain or shine, outdoor swimming was a favourite British pastime in the 1930s, over the last few years it has been making a bit of a come back. Luckily there are a few of the original lidos that remain and have been revamped for modern day – now serving as ideal spots for al fresco exercise or lazy summer days by the pool. Sheerluxe have pulled together some of the very best ones in London, and around the UK…for in for click here.

ON Blackheath - 13th-14th July

Born out of a desire to stage an event that would celebrate this stunning part of London, ONBlackheath was created as the perfect festival for unwinding and putting a smile on your face, showcasing the best in local and international artists, serving up amazing food, and offering a world of fun for our younger visitors. For more info click here.

Somerset House - Summer series - 11th-21st July

Across eleven nights of open-air gigs, Somerset House Summer Series brings a vibrant festival atmosphere to the very heart of London. With a programme of pioneering musicians across a range of genres, Summer Series gives music fans a live experience unlike any other, with the rare chance to see critically acclaimed artists plus some of the best up and coming performers in a spectacular yet intimate setting. For tickets nad more info click here.

Citadel Festival - 14th July

If we’re being honest, Sundays at a festival are usually a bit of a damp squib. After days of abuse, both your inflatable mattress and soul are dangerously deflated. Going to a festival on a Sunday all fresh and rested, on the other hand, sounds a lot more appealing, especially if it’s tailor-made for the day of rest – which is where Citadel comes in. Returning to Gunnersbury Park once again as the calmer post-Lovebox antidote, Citadel has more of a chilled vibe to it, but still boasts some top musical acts including Friendly Fires, Honeyblood and Dream Wife, plus all manner of other pursuits, including comedy, arts, talks, workshops and lots of top food and drink. Words by Time Out for more info click here.

Longboys - Now open

This new venture from former Group Pastry Chef for the Hakkasan group, Graham Hornigold, and Heather Kaniuk, former Executive Pastry Chef at the Mandarin Oriental, has brought us some very unholy doughnuts. These aren’t round boys, they’re Longboys.

Found at Wembley Boxpark and the Selfridges Food Hall, Longboys has changed the game for doughnuts. More like a eclair-doughnut hybrid, they’re filled with all sorts of fresh and tasty ingredients, such as rhubarb, custard and orange; sticky toffee, date and pecan; raspberry, rose and lychee; and lemon meringue pie.