From acclaimed exhibitions and unmissable theatre to great places to eat, drink and play, there’s always something new to discover in London. And with SWR trains whisking you straight into the heart of the capital, getting there is easy – leaving you more time to enjoy the day itself. Plus, when you book your journey with SWR, you can unlock SWR Rewards, giving you access to exclusive offers and discounts on a whole host of London experiences. So, we’ve rounded up nine things worth hopping on the train for this autumn.
1. Practice some clay target shooting with your SWR reward
Clays puts a modern spin on the traditional shooting range, bringing virtual clay shooting to the heart of London. Gather your mates, take your spot at the peg and compete across a range of games and challenges, with the tech tracking your shots and keeping score as you go. Add in a full bar and food menu, and you’ve got everything you need for a fun, competitive night out. And with SWR Rewards, you can get 15% off!
2. Celebrate Oktoberfest at Between the Bridges
There are few better reasons to make the journey into London this autumn than for a big old Bavarian knees-up. This year, Between the Bridges is putting on its biggest Oktoberfest celebration yet, taking place across October 2–3, 9–10 and 16–17. On these dates, the German Beer Hall-style venue will come alive with brass bands, Bavarian-inspired street food and full-to-the-brim steins of beer. You’ll even get a free two-pint stein included with your ticket – and don’t be shy about dressing up in your best Bavarian fancy dress for the occasion.
🚆7 minute walk from Waterloo Station
3. Experience the magic of Thelma & Louise reimagined as a musical
You might know Thelma & Louise as the iconic 1991 movie, but the story is taking to the stage in a brand-new musical at the Young Vic. Written by the film’s original screenwriter Callie Khouri, the production stars Rachel Tucker and Amy Lennox, with music and lyrics by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Neko Case. Expect the same themes of friendship, freedom and rebellion, but with a soaring musical score guaranteed to make this a road trip worth taking to the theatre for – and get 10% off tickets with SWR rewards.
🚆4 minute walk from Waterloo Station
4. Hit the Clapham Grand for cabaret, comedy and drag shows
The Clapham Grand has plenty up its sleeve when it comes to live entertainment, with a packed programme spanning drag, cabaret, comedy and everything in between. October’s highlights include Riot Cabaret wrestling and Myki Meeks, Darlene Mitchell & Nini Coco. You can also catch BudPod for some comedy from the popular podcast duo, and Massaoke’s Time Machine, where you can belt out the biggest hits with a live band. With such a varied line-up, there’s plenty to choose from depending on what kind of night you fancy.
🚆1 minute walk from Clapham Junction Station
5. Dine in a gorgeous Grade II* listed building at Brunswick House
For dinner with a side of history, make your way to Brunswick House in Vauxhall. This striking Grade II* listed Georgian mansion dates back to 1758 and is packed with original character, antique furniture and plenty of old-school grandeur. Inside, you’ll find a restaurant serving seasonal British food, as well as the Black Duke bar downstairs, tucked inside a 300-year-old cellar that hosts live jazz every Tuesday. Because when you can eat dinner in a 1758 mansion, why settle for an ordinary restaurant?
🚆7 minute walk from Vauxhall Station
6. Learn about one of the most influential artists of all time at Frida: The Making of an Icon
Frida Kahlo’s distinctive appearance is instantly recognisable, but Tate Modern’s Frida: The Making of an Icon delves deeper into the woman behind the image. Bringing together more than 30 of Kahlo’s works alongside photographs, personal artefacts, jewellery and clothing, the exhibition explores how she went from relatively unknown painter to one of the world’s most recognisable cultural icons. It’s on at Tate Modern until January 3 2027, so there’s plenty of time to make the short journey from Waterloo and immerse yourself in her fascinating world.
🚆18 minute walk from Waterloo Station
🚆1 stop on the Jubilee line to Southwark + 9 minute walk
7. Sip cocktails before the London skyline at Circe’s rooftop
Take your evening to new heights at Circe’s Rooftop, where you can sip cocktails and tuck into Mediterranean-inspired sharing plates while taking in panoramic views across London. The covered and heated rooftop means you can enjoy the views even when the autumn weather isn’t playing ball, making it a pretty dreamy spot for drinks with a difference.
🚆1 minute walk from Waterloo Station
8. Indulge in some retail therapy on Northcote Road
A short stroll from Clapham Junction, Northcote Road is a great spot to escape the usual shopping hotspots and discover a mix of independent boutiques and well-known names. Spend an afternoon exploring the shops along Northcote Road, where you can browse everything from stylish homeware at Maison Curate and gifts and jewellery at Huttons to antiques and quirky finds at Northcote Road Antiques Market. Alongside its independent boutiques, you’ll also find well-known names including Space NK and Whistles, as well as fashion finds at Made the Edit. With plenty of cosy cafés and restaurants along the way, there are ample opportunities to stop for a well-earned coffee or bite to eat between browsing.
🚆11 minute walk from Clapham Junction Station.
9. Get competitive in one of London’s most beautiful parks
Battersea Park makes a pretty brilliant playground for a day of competitive socialising. If you’re after an adrenaline hit, take on the high ropes and zip wires at Go Ape; if you’d rather keep your feet firmly on the ground, battle it out over a round of crazy golf at Putt in the Park. Whether you’re looking for a high-octane challenge or something a little more laid-back, Battersea Park is an idyllic place to spend an autumn day.
🚆18 minute walk from Queenstown Road Station
