Frantically casting around for things to do this weekend? No need to fret, that’s why Secret London was invented!
You know the moment as well as we do. The moment when you realise that, despite your best efforts, you’ve left a big hole in your social calendar, and there are no plans to fill it. You could tidy the house, sort your finances out, or maybe, just maybe, you could do something actually fun. Now who can find you some awesome things to do this weekend, I wonder? Something with doughnuts, or abseiling, or Harry Potter, perchance? Hmmm…
1. Brace yourselves, Halloween is coming (October 27th-29th)
Yes, despite the best efforts of some people, Halloween is in full swing this week. And whilst All Hallows’ Eve itself doesn’t fall until next week, the petrifyingly good parties are this weekend. Fever have rounded up eight of the best shindigs and soirees that will fright and delight you. But really, there’s nothing better than a haunted house to get you in the mood, and we’ve found two terrifying options! We can’t really decide whether the American Horror House or the Horror Factory looks more horrifying, so we’ll ask you to do the research for us (please).
For spooky offerings that don’t involve partying with demons, we’ve also rounded up the best alternative Halloween events in London.
2. What does the Internet know about you? Let’s find out! (Begins October 25th)
Ever had a social media post you regretted, or entered a competition and found yourself in a world of eternal spam? Mozilla know exactly how you’re feeling, and being experts on all things Internet, they’re here to help. The Glass Room is a free pop-up shop that’s part art gallery, part tech clinic, and all kinds of fascinating. Over forty provocative artworks and interactive displays will show you how your data is being harvested and, most importantly, what it’s being used for. (Hint: that’s everything from dating apps to government surveillance!)
This peek behind the digital veil is certain to be an eye-opener, but Mozilla have some clever solutions too. Having revealed exactly what your Facebook likes and Tinder swipes are telling the Internet about you, they’ll help you clean up your online life with their Data Detox Kit. This tech wizardry will be running from October 25th to November 12th – find out more and register your interest here.
69 – 71 Charing Cross Road, WC2H 0ND. Nearest station: Leicester Square
3. Pottermania takes over St Pancras (all week)
London hasn’t been this buzzed about Harry Potter since the Cursed Child took up residence in the West End. Harry Potter: A History of Magic is in full swing at the British Library, and there’s not a Horcrux in sight! What you’ll get instead is original Potter artwork and manuscripts, magical artefacts, and even a never-before-seen chapter from one of the books.
Meanwhile, just next door at the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel is an equally spellbinding experience with 100% more booze. Fever are offering discounts on Potterifically good themed cocktails, and you can get your tickets here.
The British Library is at 96 Euston Road, NW1 2DB, whilst the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel is on Euston Road, NW1 2AR. Nearest station for both is King Cross St Pancras.
4. Visit Queen of Hoxton’s new winter rooftop
Finally back for the winter, Queen of Hoxton’s rooftop is disguised as a giant Moroccan Medina adorned with beautiful fabrics and twinkly lights. Get cosy and enjoy a Spiced Hot Buttered Rum or a Shimmering Gold Pomegranate Bellini as you relax amongst patterned cushions, rugs and throws. The food sticks to the Moroccan theme, with highlights including lamb and apricot tagine, rainbow vegan mezze boards and halloumi fries.
The Moroccan Medina is now open at Queen of Hoxton, 1-5 Curtain Road, Shoreditch, near Liverpool Street/Old Street stations, EC2A 3JX. It’s open from 4pm every day.
5. First chance to ice skate this winter (October 26th)
Keen to get you sliding around before anyone else, the Natural History Museum ice rink arrives on October 26th. Your chance to enact your own Miracle on Ice – if you can stay on your feet, naturally – also throws an iconic backdrop into the bargain. Tickets are on sale now, so get your skates on to be first on the ice. (Find more Christmas ice skating rinks in London.)
The Natural History Museum is located on Cromwell Road, Kensington, SW7 5BD. Nearest station: South Kensington
6. Studio 338’s reopening party (October 27th)
After last year’s devastating fire, the beloved Studio 338 is finally reopening. It’s sure to be a night to remember, as they are expecting “tears and hugs and magic”, as well as a line-up including ItaloJohnson, Djebali, Steve O’Sullivan, and Colin Chiddle. Tickets are available via Fever.
338 Boord Street, Greenwich, SE10 0PF. Nearest station: North Greenwich
7. Pergola Paddington returns (October 25th)
London’s favourite rooftop wonderland is back with another glorious winter residency. How do rooftop views, reams of fairy lights, and a mountain of furry blankets sound to you? Pretty sweet deal, right? Pergola Paddington are also throwing in live music and food from some of London’s tippity-top eateries, and tickets are available here.
5 Kingdom Street, Paddington Central, W2 6PY. Nearest station: Paddington
8. Last chance to abseil down the ArcelorMittal Orbit (October 25/26/28/29th)
For the more adventurous amongst you, Fever still have a few tickets remaining to abseil down an 80-metre tower. Not for the faint of heart, but you’ll get some amazing views over London, and slots are available this week.