September is synonymous with new beginnings. You start to feel the cool autumn breeze, kids go back to school, and people return from vacations refreshed and with a clear head. In short, it’s almost like a reset of the year. That’s why, to start this new cycle, we asked ChatGPT —’cause we too are coming back from vacations!— to give us 7 unique activities to start September on a high note… and these were the results!
1. Open House Festival
Every year for two weeks, London’s most important buildings and best-kept secrets are open to the public to celebrate the city’s unique architecture and neighbourhood thanks to Open House Festival. From September 6 – 17, you can buy tickets to visit everything from iconic sites like The National Portrait Gallery to more intimate residences like the 1960s Primrose Hill House. Along with open buildings, the festival has a programme of urban walks and tours, one of the best ways to learn about London’s history and architecture.
2. Candlelight Concert
From all the activities ChatGPT suggested this is one of our favourites! Begin September with a bang by experiencing the magic of Candlelight concerts up close. Their concerts take place in various historic venues across London and offer an breathtaking ambience that it’s totally Instagram-worthy. From your favourite movie soundtracks to the most iconic pop stars, hear classical music in an intimate setting illuminated by candlelight. — This is definitely plan worth existing the group chat!
3. Totally Thames Festival
If you can’t get enough of festivals, visit the Thames Festival, which celebrates this iconic river throughout September. Events with artistic content, active adventures, environmental initiatives, and heritage and educational programs are just some of the few activities you can enjoy here. But one of the most amazing things to watch is the illuminated flotilla with over 150 boats decorated in glistening white lights that will sail along the waterway from Chelsea to Tower Bridge as part of an art installation called ‘Reflections’.
4. Richmond Park Deer Rutting
Apparently, September isn’t only the beginning of new cycles for us but also for nature. Witness the captivating deer rutting season in Richmond Park. Watch male deer perform territorial displays and compete for mating rights. This is a unique opportunity to observe wildlife behaviour and enjoy the park’s natural beauty. Just remember to bring your binoculars, keep your distance from the deer, and have your dog on leash at all times.
5. Bermondsey Beer Mile
After a good holiday all you want to do is meet up with all your mates and catch up on everything that has happened during the summer. So why not do it over a good pint? Head down to the Bermondsey Beer Mile and hop every single pub as you discover a variety of craft breweries and taprooms in South London.
6. London Design Festival
From September 16 – 24, London Design Festival 2023 unfolds across the city, centred at the iconic V&A. This year’s celebration honours the 300th anniversary of Sir Christopher Wren’s death by bringing together global designers pushing the boundaries of creative expression. Through exhibitions, installations, and events, the festival will showcase the evolution of design. With new Design Districts in Dalston, Fitzrovia, Chelsea, and Battersea, the city transforms into a canvas of contemporary innovation, making exceptional exhibitions and installations easily accessible.
7. Columbia Road Flower Market
September is, without a doubt, the best month to visit the Columbia Road Flower Market. With fewer crowds and milder weather, this hidden gem becomes a haven of late summer’s most vibrant flowers – dahlias, sunflowers, and chrysanthemums – offering an array of colours against the mild backdrop of early autumn. Capture the beauty of the unique month’s blooms through your camera lens and relax in this flower-lover’s paradise in east London.