From acclaimed exhibitions and fascinating talks to memorable meals and unique experiences, there’s always something new to discover in London. And with SWR trains taking you straight into the heart of the capital, getting there is easy – leaving you more time to make the most of your day. 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, whether you’re looking to discover something new, indulge in a little culture or simply enjoy a leisurely day in the capital.
1. Listen to fascinating speakers at Wimbledon BookFest
Hear from a stand-out line up of bestselling writers and thought-provoking speakers at Wimbledon BookFest this month. Running from October 15-25, the festival combines compelling talks, author events, and lively discussions on everything from literature and fiction, history, politics, international affairs, poetry, and art. It’s a lovely excuse to spend a day exploring Wimbledon while discovering a few new ideas along the way.
🚆3 minute walk from Wimbledon Station.
2. Admire a vast showcase of Henry Moore’s work at Kew Gardens
There are few London spots more beautiful in the autumn than Kew Gardens. Until early next year, you can feast your eyes on the largest ever presentation of outdoor works by Henry Moore installed throughout the grounds. Featuring 30 monumental sculptures as well as 90 smaller scale works in the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art it’s a chance to experience incredible art against the backdrop of Kew’s unrivalled natural beauty.
🚆16 minute walk from Richmond Station
3. Immerse yourself in Renoir’s impressionist art at The National Gallery
Step into the romantic world of Renoir at The National Gallery, where more than 60 paintings explore the artist’s enduring fascination with love and relationships. Bringing together some of his most celebrated works from collections around the world, Renoir and Love offers a chance to see the Impressionist master in a whole new light, making it well worth hopping on an SWR train for a cultured day out in central London.
🚆18 minute walk from Waterloo Station
4. See a new musical from the creators of Les Misérables at the Old Vic
From the creators of Les Misérables, Martin Guerre is a reimagining of the Olivier Award-winning musical, based on an extraordinary true story of forbidden love, deception, and mistaken identity. Set in 16th-century France, this exciting production brings fresh music, lyrics and folk-inflected orchestrations to the stage. You can catch it until October 31 only, so you better get booking that day trip into London.
🚆2 minute walk from Waterloo Station
5. Fly over the Thames in a cable car with your SWR reward
Let stunning city views from miles around soak in as you float over the Thames in London’s only cable car that has a glass floor. Use your SWR reward to save up to 30% on an advanced off-peak return booking when you book 7 days in advance. Or, if you’re more of a spontaneous day-tripper, you can still save 5-25% discounts on all return journeys when you book more than one day ahead.
6. Enjoy a delicious meal in a cosy neighbourhood Italian
For a taste of contemporary Italian dining, settle in at Archway Battersea, a stylish neighbourhood restaurant tucked beneath a historic railway arch. Head chef Franco De Lucia, who was born in Naples and grew up in Florence, brings his love of fresh, simple ingredients to an ever-changing menu, with dishes such as tagliolini with crab and maltagliati with rabbit ragù. With its elegant yet relaxed setting and carefully curated wine list, it’s a cool spot that still retains the charm of a classic Italian restaurant.
🚆6 minute walk from Queenstown Road
7. Toast to a lovely London day out at Searcy’s champagne bar
For a pre-dinner drink with a sense of occasion, Searcy’s champagne bar at Battersea Power Station is a fantastic option. Set inside the Power Station’s striking Art Deco Turbine Hall A, the stylish bar serves an extensive selection of Champagne and English sparkling wine – perfect for raising a toast to your day out in London. Take your time over a glass or two before exploring everything Battersea Power Station has to offer.
🚆16 minute walk from Queenstown Road
8. Master the art of Japanese cooking at HASHI
If you’re passionate about food or fancy picking up some new culinary skills, HASHI is a brilliant place to do it. This intimate Japanese cookery school in Wimbledon is run by Reiko Hashimoto, an experienced Japanese cooking teacher with more than 20 years of experience. Choose from hands-on classes covering everything from sushi and sashimi to ramen and gyoza, before sitting down to enjoy your creations together with some white wine or Asahi.
🚆1 stop on the Disctrict line from Wimbledon to Wimbledon Park
9. Browse gorgeous artisanal goods at Duck Pond Market
If you love discovering independent brands and picking up something you won’t find on the high street, make a beeline for Duck Pond Market in Richmond. The weekend market brings together a changing line-up of artisan makers and food producers, with stalls selling everything from handmade crafts and gifts to delicious local treats. Set beside the Thames in Heron Square, it makes for a relaxed weekend outing with plenty to browse.
🚆9 minute walk from Richmond
