As much as we’re doing our best to maximise the sunshine, it might be time to accept defeat and start making inside-based plans.
Because, not to be negative, but let’s admit something here: soon, we’re all going to be wrapped up warm and the sunshine will be little more than a distant memory. But not to worry, because London is choc-a-block full of excellent activities that are all based comfortingly inside. And whether you’re in the mood to splash out the latest trends or would prefer to get your daily exercise in without cringing at the thought of a five-mile jog in the rain – we’ve got you covered. Similarly, if you want nothing more than a relaxing few hours or a spot of culture, we’ve found a great option.
You’re welcome!
Listen to some inspiring talks at Stylist Live
Featuring three days of fashion, beauty, influential speakers and delicious street food, Stylist Live is not to be missed. Back for its fourth year, this festival of inspiration promises to be bigger than ever before. Think workshops on everything from physical to mental health, how to improve your career and the future of activism. Guest speakers include Radio One DJ Clara Amfo, GBBO’s Nadiya Hussain and journalist Bryony Gordon. You’ll also get an exclusive look at Stylist’s Catwalk, where you’ll find all the 2018 A/W trends. It’ll take place between 9-11th November at Olympia, Kensington. Get your tickets here. Olympia London, Olympia Way, Hammersmith, W14 8UX ⭐️Sponsored⭐️
Relax back with a film at Electric Cinema
Not only does the Electric Cinema in Portobello offer a huge range of the latest films, but you can watch them all reclining in a comfy armchair, sat on a plush sofa or, better yet, on a full-size bed. Now that’s ultimate comfort. Sixty-five leather armchairs with footstools and side tables offer unparalleled comfort compared to your usual cinema experience and it’s not quite as frowned upon to fall asleep. Head to the bar before your film of choice starts and grab a drink, some snacks, and spend a comfortable few hours in the warmth. 191 Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London W11 2ED
Bounce around at Oxygen Free-jumping
Acton might be a slightly further stretch out of central London but Oxygen is well worth a visit. Inside, you’ll find a huge stretch of blue and yellow trampolines and different zones to get you bouncing, climbing and somersaulting, depending on how brave/skilled you are. In fact, there are more than 100 trampolines as well as dodgeball courts, giant airbags, basketballs and more. If you loved trampolining as a kid (and, ahem, maybe still now) then it’s a definitely a trip to squeeze in this autumn. Oxygen Freejumping Trampoline Park, 15 Vision Industrial Park, Kendal Avenue, London W3 0AF
Delve into history at Kensington Palace
Set in the huge grounds of Kensington Gardens, you’ll find plenty of places to wander around if the weather’s nice. But if it’s not (and, it being autumn in London, we’re assuming it’s not) then don’t fret, because there’s enough going on inside to keep you entertained for hours. Inside, discover Queen Caroline’s Cabinet of Curiosities – a collection of objects from around the world, and Queen Mary’s State apartments, which have been preserved over time. If you visit before the end of October, you’ll also see the colourful exotic flowers in the Sunken Garden. Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX
Reach for the stars at Westway Climbing
If you want to get high in west London then Westway Climbing is our top recommendation. There are more than 350 climbing routes on 110 ropes and you can scale the heights of up to 13.5 metres (just over the height of three London buses). So if you’re heading to the top, don’t look down. And not only is climbing an alternate way to spend a few hours, it’s also exercise and therefore good for you. Which means you need no excuse to head home afterwards and spend another few hours watching Netflix. Result. 1 Crowthorne Rd, London, W10 6RP
Watch a new play at the Bush Theatre
The Bush Theatre in Shepherd’s Bush is somewhere we should thank for showing us all of the best up and coming plays. It might not be as centrally located as the West End, but you’ll find new talent, interesting acts and significantly cheaper prices. If you want to show off to your friends about a new show that you’ve seen then the Bush Theatre should definitely be your first place to go. As it aims to bring in new artists and already established ones, there’s no telling who you could expect to show up onstage next. Bush Theatre, 7 Uxbridge Road, Shepherd’s Bush, London, W12 8LJ