Not sure what’s on in London this weekend? Whatever the weather, we’ve got you covered. From cocktails to family-friendly activities and even things to do in the capital for FREE, there’s something for everyone on our list of things to do in London this weekend!
1. Borrow a Christmas tree, decorations and toys for free
Step into CreditSpring’s Home A Loan pop-up just off Brick Lane open from 19-21 November where families can borrow Christmas trees, decorations, toys, and kitchenware entirely free of charge, channeling the magic of Home Alone without the holiday price tag.
Browse, borrow, and even keep festive essentials for your own celebrations or return them after Christmas, where they’ll be donated to local charities to spread even more seasonal joy. The event champions sustainability and community spirit, helping Londoners create picture-perfect celebrations no matter their budget and with no sign-up required, it’s truly a festive gift to all.
2. Hop aboard a festive vintage steam train riding through the winter countryside
Just a short hop from London, the Bluebell Railway immerses families and festive fans in the magic of Christmas aboard vintage steam trains travelling through the frosty Sussex countryside. Experience the beloved Santa Special with every child meeting Santa in his beautifully decorated parlour and receiving a personal gift plus unlimited funfair rides, festive treats, and photo opportunities at atmospherically adorned stations.
Don’t miss SteamLights, the dazzling after-dark journey led by the enchanting Ice Queen, featuring illuminated landscapes, mythical creatures, and musical light shows. Tickets for both experiences sell out quickly, so book early for a nostalgic, memory-making adventure that’s one of the South East’s most cherished Christmas traditions.
3. Immerse yourself in London’s Christmas spirit and enjoy spectacular lights switch-on
London’s Christmas lights switch-on marks the spectacular start of the festive season, dazzling locals and visitors alike as the city’s famous shopping streets glow with enchanting displays. From the grand installations on Oxford Street and Regent Street, to the creative window scenes in Covent Garden and Carnaby, each neighbourhood brings its own twinkling magic and 2025 promises even bolder, brighter illuminations, with live entertainment, pop-up treats, and joyful street performances adding to the atmosphere. Wrap up warm, grab your camera, and join the crowds to witness London.
4. Feast at a Latin-inspired smokehouse with open-fire cooking from rising star Chef Lewis Simmons
Meat lovers and fire-cooked foodies, don’t miss chef Lewis Simmons’ Outback BBQ at The Hawke Pub, Victoria Park. This long-term residency brings the Latin American spirit to London with smoky asado meats, Cuban-style chicken, and inventive tacos, all crafted from local, quality ingredients alongside slow-smoked ribs, show-stopping desserts, and weekend specials. Pair your feast with craft beers, curated wines or the house Bloody Mary, and soak up the flame-fuelled communal energy that’s already lighting up the London dining scene.
5. Sing your heart out at BAM Karaoke’s Wicked-themed brunch
Calling all musical fans: for one day only, BAM Karaoke Box Victoria is hosting a Wicked-themed brunch on November 22, combining Oz-inspired eats, 90 minutes of bottomless drinks, and heaps of magical surprises including live performances, themed karaoke playlists, and best-dressed prizes. Gather your friends, don your emerald or pink finery, and get ready to sing your heart out in private karaoke rooms after brunch. With packages from £39pp, it’s a theatrical Saturday that promises pure Wicked fun and glittering memories.
6. Bag a free mince pie from the Morrisons Christmas market stall
Take a break from Christmas shopping with a delicious free The Best Signature Mince Pie from the Morrisons Christmas market stall. Popping up in Spitalfields and Bishops Square from November 19-23 between 11am and 7pm, they’ll be giving you a first taste of the pies, which won’t be available in stores until December 1. Be sure to get down nice and early, as there is limited stock. These award-winning mince pies are made up of melt-in-the-mouth brown butter pastry, encasing a fruity mincemeat laced with brandy and warming spices – all finished with a sweet dusting. Utterly delicious!
7. Cosy up in an Alpine-inspired winter chalet at Kitchen at Holmes
Mountain magic arrives in Marylebone as Kitchen at Holmes transforms its Baker Street terrace into an Alpine-inspired winter haven: think wooden chalet vibes, après-ski cocktails, and a snug rooftop cinema showing festive classics under a canopy of fairy lights. Enjoy rich, comforting alpine dishes, toast the start of ski season with a Jameson cocktail, or snuggle up on Fridays with live DJ beats. Don’t miss the unique rooftop movie experience, where your ticket includes a three-course set menu before the film ideal for date nights or friends looking for an alternative festive outing.
8. Sip on some seasonal mulled wine at Crudo
Warm up your winter evenings at Crudo Covent Garden with the launch of their seasonal mulled wine trio – Classic Mulled Wine, Tequila & Cacao, and Pisco & Orange, all designed to showcase Latin American flavours with a punchy, aromatic twist. Sip these spicy, comforting cups under the glow of Seven Dials and pair them with Crudo’s beloved ceviches and tacos- perfect for a post-shopping stop or an after-work catchup with friends.
9. Visit a free underground Christmas grotto just an hour from London
Step beneath the hills into the mysterious Hellfire Caves this Christmas, where the iconic network of tunnels outside London transforms into an underground wonderland. Discover twinkling grotto lights winding through historic caverns, meet Santa in his hidden chamber, and soak up the enchanted atmosphere that blends folklore, local legend, and pure festive spirit. With interactive guides, immersive decor, and playful surprises throughout, this is one Christmas grotto that promises intrigue and excitement for visitors of all ages – a magical seasonal outing with a unique twist.
10. Head to the UK’s largest one-day Christmas market
Beverley’s Festival of Christmas in East Yorkshire bursts back onto the winter calendar this year on Sunday 14th December, transforming the historic market town into the largest one-day Christmas market in the UK. Now celebrating its 29th year, the event sprawls across Beverley’s charming centre with more than 120 stalls selling seasonal gifts, Yorkshire produce and festive treats, plus an all-day roster of entertainment – think Santa and his reindeer parade, Victorian fairground rides, comedy acts, brass bands, birds of prey, and the iconic Bernese mountain dogs.
11. Unlock exclusive weekend plans by joining the Secret Club
Whether it’s exclusive discounts or the best dinner recommendations, the weekend possibilities are endless at the Secret Club. Their current perks include complimentary cocktails, a dinner show for less, and beyond – with continuous additions on the regular. You can also expect incredible giveaways, personal recommendations from like-minded locals, plus so much more. For more information and to join the Secret Club, click here to visit the official website. We’ll see you there!
12. Browse modern art at the famed Moco Museum
Moco Museum, which sits a stone’s throw from Marble Arch station, showcases the world’s best in modern and contemporary art; you can see original pieces by Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Yayoi Kusama, and more with your own eyes here. What’s more, the exhibition by the Robbie Williams, entitled Radical Honesty, is sure to be one you cannot miss.
The museum aims to provide an inclusive, accessible, and inspiring space for visitors and artists alike, whether you’re an art aficionado or just have a passing interest.
13. Catch a new film in the cinema
When in doubt, go to the cinema. That’s my motto anyway, and, handily, there’s plenty to see on the big screen this November. Whether it’s falling under the bewitching spell of ‘Wicked: For Good’, enjoying more magic mayhem in ‘Now You See Me: Now You Don’t’ or watching Glen Powell fight for his life in adrenaline-fuelled dystopian flick ‘The Running Man‘, you’re sure to find something to tempt you into the cinema – even if it’s just an excuse to scoff some popcorn. Check out the full list of films and events here.
14. Venture outside the city for a scenic country walk
Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London already? Surround yourself with the rolling hills of England on one of the best country walks near London. From exploring the birthplace of the Magna Carta in Runnymede to hiking through the iconic Seven Sisters cliffs, these trails offer stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and even cosy pubs to warm up in. Bundle up and enjoy Instagrammable views, wildlife sightings, and peaceful countryside vibes.
15. Lose yourself in the music and serenity of a Candlelight concert
With over three million attendees worldwide, and concerts in over 100 cities, it’s safe to say the Candlelight concert series is a bit of a phenomenon. Their schedule of concerts is ever-changing, and the genres are vast: string quartet reimaginations of pop music – think Taylor Swift hits and Ed Sheeran favourites – soundtracks from your favourite films, like Joe Hisaishi’s anime scores; and of course, classical music, like Tchaikovsky and Vivaldi. All performances are illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight to make for a gorgeous evening.
16. Challenge your five senses at a mysterious team activity
SENSAS in Vauxhall is a must-visit for groups – be it friends, family, or colleagues. The experience brings together a bunch of tasks that promote collaboration and good communication, while challenging each of your five senses; there are unique challenges for sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch.
The team behind the experience like to keep the challenges under wraps until you visit, which makes it all the more fun – all I’ll say is it’s like a nicer I’m A Celebrity: Get Me Out Of Here meets Mission Impossible. Read our review here.
17. Get lost in a world of optical illusions at this mind-bending museum
Need an escape from reality this weekend? Make a beeline for Knightbridge’s Paradox Museum for over 50 optical illusions that are sure to have you questioning your own perception.
From the simple and fun to the outright wacky, some illusions are there for you to observe, while others you can step into and become part of. This museum offers insights into the science behind some of its illusions too, if you’re inquisitive like us, Secret London bunch.
18. Journey back to the time of the Titanic at this VR experience
Step into history at Titanic: Echoes From The Past, a groundbreaking VR experience that has recently opened in London. This immersive 30-minute journey takes you through the RMS Titanic’s fateful voyage, from its departure to its tragic end. Using authentic facts, immersive storytelling, and virtual reality, you can experience key moments of the Titanic’s story, including hitting the iceberg and exploring the wreck as it appears today.
19. Be transported to another world by a London cocktail bar
Avora is an out-of-this-world cocktail experience in Hoxton, with impressive set design, cool cocktails, and a fun (and important) storyline. It’s made by the team behind London’s famous Alcatraz cocktail experience. During the immersive adventure, you’ll be able to mix your drinks after ‘foraging’ for ingredients, and come face to face with the other-worldly Avorians as you try to protect their planet.
20. Enter a rootin’ tootin’ Wild West saloon
Another London cocktail experience to enjoy is Moonshine Saloon – consequently from the same team behind Avora and Alcatraz. Moonshine Saloon will transport you from Aldgate to the Wild West for a storyline of illicit booze smuggling (it’s BYOB), sheriffs, and gambling. It’ll all come to a dramatic conclusion towards the end of your visit – will the sheriff get you?
21. Live through a Martain invasion in the capital
Ever wondered what it would be like to survive a merciless Martian invasion in Victorian England? Haven’t we all? Luckily, Jeff Wayne’s The War of The Worlds: The Immersive Experience is here to help. A multisensory adventure with holograms, virtual reality, special effects, time-warping sets and live theatrics, the eerie experience brings Jeff Wayne’s multi-platinum album to life.
22. Blast off to indoor amusement park Babylon Park
Are you ready for an out-of-this-world adventure? Babylon Park is a fun-filled intergalactic amusement park under the streets of Camden which not only features London’s only indoor rollercoaster, but a variety of attractions including a toddler-friendly ferris wheel, cosmic bumper cars and adrenaline-spiking drop tower. With hundreds of arcade games, a soft play area, virtual reality experiences and much more, it’s a stellar destination for all ages. Fuel your fun with pizza, hot dogs, and ice cream as you explore this three-storey space wonderland.
23. Embark on one of the most efficient sightseeing tours of London
Fancy being a tourist in our beloved capital this weekend but short on time? Redditor ‘magulagie’ has created the ultimate London sightseeing map for those in a hurry. Spanning just over five miles long, his route will take you past a ton of London’s most iconic landmarks, and will take you around two hours (if you avoid going inside any of the places you pass, that is).
24. Grab a pint at one of the oldest pubs in London
Bored of your local? Drink in some of the capital’s history alongside your beer this weekend at one of London’s oldest pubs. Better yet, if you’re up to it, you can even make a historic bar crawl out of our handy list (though traipsing from Holborn to Hampsted does seem a little far-fetched…)
25. Scoff scones and sip champers at an awesome afternoon tea
A “weekend afternoon tea” encompasses everything from a flamboyantly fancy day out to a simple natter over scones and sweet treats. Grab a pal, and a glass of bubbles, and indulge in one of London’s wonderful afternoon teas this weekend.
26. Save some money and still get outside with some of London’s free things to do
Pinching the pennies this weekend? Considering it feels like 50 quid evaporates from our bank account the minute we step outside, we don’t blame you. We’ve compiled a handy list of 200(!!) of the best free things to do in London, and they’re not all ‘go for a walk in the park’ – promise.
27. Enjoy a feast for the eyes and stomach at one of the capital’s prettiest restaurants
Treat yourself to a meal out in one of London’s prettiest restaurants this weekend – you’ve worked hard all week, you deserve it! From muted pastel tones or wildly OTT décor, we’ve compiled a handy list of the prettiest restaurants in London to save you the research time.
28. Browse one of London’s many other thought-provoking art exhibitions
From its major galleries to its museums, London is bursting at the seams with art exhibitions. Take a leisurely stroll around the likes of the Tate Britain, the V&A or the National Gallery this weekend. We’ve compiled a list that encompasses everything from classic works to cutting-edge modern pieces and even free exhibits.
29. Grab the little ones and enjoy some family-friendly activities
In a city of nine million people, you can guarantee that you’ll find something for everyone to enjoy, no matter how old you are. If you need to entertain the kids this weekend, check out some of the best family-friendly activities in London this weekend.