October has arrived, meaning the season of cosy and (somewhat spooky) events fit for the whole family, is officially underway.
From exciting events such as The BFI London Film Festival and London Cocktail Week, to pumpkin picking, and of course, Halloween, there is plenty to do in the capital this month.
So, what are you waiting for? Show some love for London and the amazing places that make up the city, by reading our ‘What’s On’ guide below:
The UK’s biggest film festival is back this month, commencing on the 9th October with Steve McQueen’s World War II drama Blitz. Attendees of the 68th Edition of The BFI Film Festival will have the chance to witness a variety of films and short films, panel talks and XR experiences throughout the city, in grand locations such as the Royal Festival Hall and BFI Southbank. Highlights from this year include Conclave and We Live in Time.
From the 7th to the 12th October, Mount Street Neighbourhood Arts Festival will be celebrating London’s big week in art, alongside other big names like Frieze and PAD. Located in the heart of Mayfair, the festival will feature an exclusive collectibles pop-up from concept store, Sarabande’s House of Bandits, a conversation series with creative agency, A Vibe Called Tech, plus live music at Audley Public House throughout the whole week.
London Cocktail Week is returning this October, showing all why London remains the worlds capital for delicious tipples. From the 3rd to the 13th, attendees who purchase a wristband online or at The Hari Bar will have access to a world of discounted cocktails, carefully concocted by talented bartenders all across the city. The Hari Bar and Garden Terrace will be serving up a number of delicious signature cocktails, in partnership with Sapling Spirits and Everleaf.
Halloween will of course be taking place at the end of the month, which is why it would be wrong not to mention the best of autumnal activities, pumpkin picking! Located in Covent Garden, big ones and little ones alike can get their pumpkin fix at Covent Garden Pumpkin Market. Further afield, head to Four Winds Farm in Kent for an afternoon of face-painting and scarecrow hunting, or Tulleys Farm in Sussex to experience a night of pumpkin picking, live music and delicious street food.
Taking place at the esteemed Southbank Centre, The London Literature Festival is returning this month, with the principal aim of bringing together readers of all ages to celebrate the power of the spoken and written craft. From the 23rd October, visitors can discover the expansive world of literature, in the forms of poetry, memoirs, lectures and story-telling. What’s more, big names like Richard Dawkins and Rupert Everett will be in attendance, as well as a very special show from British rap icon Ghetts.
Taken from his personal archive, and as well from inspiration of his creative output up until the present day, The Design Museum presents the well-awaited exhibition, The World of Tim Burton. Expect to see an extensive collection of his drawings, photographs, paintings, sculptures and set and costume designs that all focus on distinctive characters from his noteworthy career. Spectacular highlights include Edward Scissorhands, Nightmare Before Christmas, Corpse Bride and Beetlejuice.
Taking place during the first weekend of October, Drink Japan aims to showcase the best of Japan to those who are curious about traditional Japanese beverages. Located in a beautiful church in Marylebone, the two day event will provide visitors with the chance to meet with Japanese producers and importers, as well as those who create artisanal Japanese drinks in the UK. What’s more, visitors will be able to sample the products, and if they wish, buy them directly from the vendors.
Until the 27th October, renowned British artist David Hockney will be presenting an exhibition-in-miniature, Hockney and Piero: A Longer Look. Taking place at The National Gallery, two of his noteworthy paintings, ‘My Parents’ and ‘Looking at Pictures on a Screen’ will be intimately exhibited with one underlying theme, Piero della Francesca’s ‘The Baptism of Christ’. Part of the gallery’s Bicentenary celebrations, the exhibition’s aim is to really take in what is in front of us.
One of the greatest days of the year will be taking place at the end of the month, World Pasta Day! Why not join in on the fun by treating yourself and those around you on the 25th October to a fabulous trip to our very own Italian restaurant, il Pampero. Here, you will be able to dine on a number of Italian classics like Pappardelle alla Bolognese, Pici cacio e pepe and Paccheri Nduja.
