The Fall and Winter months are a great time to visit London. There are plenty of festivals, events, shows and outdoor activities for people of all ages to enjoy. Whether traveling alone, with family or with friends there is always something to do in London. These events should keep you busy between September and January. Choose a few to attend or try to take part in them all. While visiting London and attending the events of your choice, stay in a New York Habitat vacation rental in London. With many apartments to choose from, there is an accommodation fit for any traveler.
September 24-26: International London Tattoo Convention (Tobacco Dock, Hackney)
Now in it’s sixth year, the International London Tattoo Convention is expected to be better than ever, with over 20,000 attending. Throughout the three days there are many events to choose from. At the International London Tattoo Convention you can visit the Oxford British Tattoo History Museum or attend Magical Tattooing, an exhibit on the tattooing traditions of native tribes. With these and many other events you will never be bored. Tickets can be booked now online for the International London Tattoo Convention.
– Hackney has plenty of flats to offer, as well as all of the other neighborhoods close to the convention. For instance, this 2 bedroom vacation rental in Tower Hill (LN-1499) can accommodate up to 4 people and is located close to Tower Hill, the nearest tube station to the International London Tattoo Convention.
September 26: Run to the Beat: London’s Half Marathon (The O2, Greenwich)
Do you enjoy running and would like to have fun while raising money for a great cause? Run to the Beat is London’s half marathon, where runners of all skill levels can come together and jog to live and recorded music throughout the race. By raising money for Run to the Beat you will be supporting Leukemia and Lymphoma research as well as many other involved charities. Sign up to take part in the marathon or come listen to the music and watch the race as you cheer on the runners.
September 29-October 10: Rain Dance Film Festival (Apollo Cinemas, Soho)
As the UK’s leading independent film festival, Rain Dance is definitely worth the price. Packages are available at different prices to benefactors for the 18th annual Rain Dance Film Festival. With the purchase of certain packages you can attend screenings, events, seminars and workshops.
October 1-November 4: London Games Festival (Different Venues Throughout London)
The London Games Festival 2010 is the place for everything having to do with video games. Whether you like to play video games, create them, or learn about them, this is the event for you. The London Games Festival is a series of events and expos throughout the month for both game lovers and industry specialists alike. With many public events, the London Games Festival is a great way to have fun while in London.
October 3: Pearly Kings and Queens Harvest Festival (St. Martin-in-the-fields, Trafalgar Square)
This October join the Pearly Kings and Queens association for the Pearly Kings and Queens Harvest Festival. Dating back over 150 years, the pearlies started out with orphan, Henry Croft who sewed pearl buttons onto his suit to resemble the market traders of the time. He then collected money for those in need and became very successful along with the help of others who followed in his footsteps. This event today is used to raise money for the homeless and takes place at St. Martin-in-the-fields Church where the statue of Henry Croft resides.
-This 1 bedroom accommodation in Westminster (LN-429) is fully furnished and located close to Trafalgar Square.
A traditional Punch and Judy puppet show is a great way to entertain the whole family. Organized by the Punch and Judy Fellowship, the festival teaches the public about the history and tradition of Punch and Judy. Come to this festival in Bloomsbury and enjoy dozens of puppet shows featuring the world famous Punch and Judy characters and learn all about how they came to be.
-This one-bedroom apartment in Covent Garden (LN-1244)is a great option for 1 person or a couple while traveling in London.
October 9: The Big Draw (Different Venues Throughout London)
The Campaign for Drawing, launched in 2000 is now a private charity encouraging drawing as a tool for thought, creativity, social and cultural engagement. The Big Draw is a national event each October with many events throughout the month for people of all ages and skill levels. The official Big Draw day is October 9th but if you are in London throughout the month, there are many artistic events to attend. This is a great experience for the whole family to learn about the importance of art and creativity while having fun.
October 13-January16: Venice: Canaletto and his Rivals (National Gallery)
This exhibit at the National Gallery in London presents works by Canaletto as well as many other artists who’s pieces feature Venetian views. Don’t miss the chance to see this collection of around 50 pieces which are on loan from around the world. Such a great exhibit of Venetian views has not been on display since 1967 and this is the first exhibit of its kind in the UK. Come to the National Gallery to see the major works of Canaletto as well as his rivals. Tickets to Venice: Canaletto and his rivals can be booked online now or purchased at the museum.
-This 1 bedroom vacation rental in Westminster (LN-812) is located in a quiet area with a view of the London Eye.
October 14-17: Frieze Art Fair (Regent’s Park)
Each year at Regent’s Park in London, the Frieze Art Fair features over 150 contemporary art galleries from all over the world. Special pieces and projects are also on display during the fair which include talk programs and educational speeches by artists throughout the four days. If you are traveling with a group consider booking a private tour in advance where you will be led by a trained guide through the Frieze Art Fair. Non- private tours are also available throughout the day and are encouraged, especially for those new to the Frieze Art Fair.
October 13-28: London Film Festival
The London Film Festival is an annual event that features over 300 screenings of features, documentaries and shorts from countries all around the world. Films by both established and up and coming film makers are shown and attendees often include many celebrities. Throughout the program there is not only screenings, but also forums, educational events, lectures and question and answer sessions with both the filmmakers and the actors. Hosted by the British Film Institute, the London Film Festival has become a true red carpet event. Tickets are needed for London Film Festival shows and other events.
October 20-24: The Ski and Snowboard Show (Olympia)
If you love to ski or snowboard then the Ski and Snowboard Show is for you. The entire show recreates a mountain atmosphere and there is constantly something to do throughout the event. Come to the show to take part in the activities such as the 50ft competition kicker or the new ice driving experience or sit back and watch the ski and snowboard fashion show or take in some shopping and then get something to eat at one of the recreated lodges. Tickets are required for this event and by booking early you can save money.
October 22-24: London Baby Show (Earl’s Court, South Kensington)
If you just had a baby or have one on the way, than make sure to attend the next London Baby Show taking place this October. This is a great opportunity to shop, get advice from experts and enjoy all of the entertainment throughout the event. Tickets for the London Baby Show can be purchased in advance or at the door. The London Baby Show is an event for the whole family with things to do for all ages.
-Consider staying in a South Kensington accommodation to fully enjoy the adorable show. For example, this 2 bedroom vacation rental in Earl’s Court, Kensington-Chelsea (LN-765) is located near many London Landmarks and is less than 5 minutes from the Earl’s Court event venue.
October 22-31: London Ghost Festival
Come experience all there is to know about ghosts, crime, hauntings and all things paranormal in what is known to be the most haunted city in the world. The London Ghost Festival features walks, talks, events, night vigils and performances for all people who are ready for a thrill. Not for the faint of heart, if you are looking to be spooked, haunted and scared, reserve your spot for the London Ghost Festival events soon.
October 24: Trafalgar Day Parade (Trafalgar Square)
Come find a spot in Trafalgar Square and watch the Trafalgar Day Parade, led by the Sea Cadet Corps. This parade is marched in honor of the British victory of Lord Nelson vanquishing the French and Spanish fleets at Cape Trafalgar. The Trafalgar Day Parade is free and is a great event to attend if you want to truly feel like a Londoner.
-This 1 bedroom apartment in Lambeth (LN-1175) is walking distance from the River Thames and is a great choice if you are looking to visit the many famous London attractions including Trafalgar Square.
October Plenty is London’s annual harvest celebration presented by the Lions Part Theater Company. The festival celebrates everything Autumn, including the weather and food. Throughout the day there are many events to attend making this an exciting celebration for the whole family. This event is free so come see the Corn Queen and the Berry Man during your October trip to London.
-This 1 bedroom accommodation in Southwark (LN-865) is the perfect vacation rental if you plan on attending October Plenty on Bankside. The apartment can accommodate up to four guests so invite your friends or family and enjoy London in the Fall.
October 29-31: The Yoga Show (Olympia)
In it’s seventh year, The Yoga Show in London has even more to offer. At the Yoga Show you will find free yoga and pilates classes for people of all ages and over 200 exhibitors from whom you can purchase equipment and products for all of your yoga needs. Tickets to The Yoga Show can be purchased in advance online and are available in 1 day, 2 day or 3 day passes.
November 5: Fireworks (Bonfire) Night (Throughout London’s Boroughs)
Bonfire Night in London is a fun and exciting celebration. This tradition dates back to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Today, Bonfire night is simply an exciting event held all over London that is routed heavily in tradition. If you happen to be in London in November, this is a can’t miss event
November 5: Diwali Celebrations (Trafalgar Square)
Diwali, also known as the festival of lights is celebrated all over the world by Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities. The event in Trafalgar Square each year is celebration of Diwali which includes live performances, a balloon release, inspirational speeches, religious story performances and dance and music acts. The Diwali Celebrations in Trafalgar Square are free and fun for everyone in your group.
-This 1 bedroom vacation rental in Westminster (LN-174) is near many restaurants and pubs and is within walking distance of Trafalgar Square, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, The West End Theatres and many more London attractions.
November 7: Veteran Car Run (Hyde Park to Brighton)
This 60 mile drive from Hyde Park to Brighton is truly and amazing thing to see. Around 500 cars manufactured prior to 1905 take part in this run each year. Attending this event may also mean the chance to see the Royals and British celebrities that participate in the run. The run is free and can be seen from varying point among the route throughout the morning. This event takes place in commemoration of the Emancipation Run of 14 November 1896 which had taken place after raising the speed limit for “light locomotives” from 4mph to 14mph and allowed them to run without the presence of a man on foot behind them. The run that you can watch today started in 1927 and has taken place every year since.
November 10: Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair (Business Design Center, Islington)
With over 400 exhibitors each year, the Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair does not have a shortage of great Christmas gifts for all of your friends and family. The fair features everything from unique gifts and crafts to great food and party ideas. Take your whole group to this fair and pick out gifts for everyone on your list.
Now in its 18th year, the London Jazz Festival is fun for the jazz lover as well as those who just want to enjoy some good music. If you are in November during the London Jazz Festival than you are in luck, with multiple shows going on throughout the week, there is always something to do, or listen to. Get tickets to one event or as many as you want, and enjoy some of London’s greatest concerts with everyone in your group.
-This 2 bedroom vacation rental in City-Islington (LN-840) has a contemporary and stylish design and is among some of London’s trendiest attractions and hotspots.
November 13: Lord Mayor’s Show
Experience 800 years if history during the Lord Mayor’s Show. Over a half a million people come out to watch the show and millions more watch it on TV. The newly elected Mayor, to prove his loyalty must make his way to the Royal Courts of Justice to pledge allegiance to the crown. The journey to the Royal Courts is over 3 miles long and is a great sight to watch. The day doesn’t end there though, at 5 o’clock there is a fireworks display over the Thames for all to enjoy.
November 19-January 4: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Featuring London’s largest open-air ice rink, a traditional German Christmas market, a Christmas circus and an observation wheel overlooking all the excitement, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is truly a must-see for any London traveler. Entry to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is free, purchase tickets for the shows, ice skating and the observation wheel in advance because spots fill up quickly.
-This 3 bedroom accommodation in South Kensington (LN-857) is beautifully decorated, can accommodate six people comfortably and only steps away from Hyde Park.
November 22-29: London ATP World Tennis Finals
The ATP World Tour Finals feature the eight best singles and the eight best double teams of the year. Buy your tickets soon, because space at this event sells out quickly. The London ATP World Tennis Finals is the tennis event to attend to see the best of the best compete.
November 30-December 5: AEGON Masters Tennis (Royal Albert Hall, Knightsbridge)
The AEGON Masters Tennis tournament is the ending event to the ATP World Tennis Finals. During this event, the top tennis players compete in a round-robin format. Two groups of four single players compete first and the winners of each group compete in the final. This is definitely an exciting an one of a kind event to see during your stay in London.
-This studio apartment in South Kensington (LN-27) is very close to Royal Albert Hall as well as the Natural History Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum.
December: Spitalfields Winter Festival
If you are looking to enjoy carol singing and musical performances during your trip to London this winter, then the Spitalfields Winter Festival is the event for you. This event is free and is a great option for your whole group or family to get in the holiday spirit while traveling to London. Visitors and Londoners alike enjoy this festive winter event each year.
-This one bedroom furnished apartment in Shoreditch, Hackney (LN-436) is in a trendy and diverse area of London, close to Spitalfields, where you and your group can attend the Winter Festival.
December: Bonham’s 2010 London (Olympia)
Whether you are looking to purchase antique automobiles and collectors items or just want to browse at all of the interesting motorcycles and cars featured this year, Bonham’s 2010 London is the place to be for people of all ages. Bonham’s, one of the biggest and longest running auctioneers in the world hosts this event each year in London where many collectors vehicles and other famous automobiles are auctioned.
December 2: Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree Lighting
The Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square is donated each year by the people of Norway. This donation has been going on every year since 1947 as a thank you for Britain’s support during World War II. The lighting of the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree and the carol singing that goes along with it, is the unofficial beginning of the countdown to Christmas in London.
December 4: The Great Christmas Pudding Race (Covent Market Garden)
Each year The Great Christmas Pudding Race is organized to raise money and awareness for Cancer Research in the UK. Each team in The Great Christmas Pudding Race will have to endure a series of obstacles while carrying pudding on a tray. Enter this race with a group of six or just come watch for what is sure to be a day of entertainment for the whole family.
December 11: John Rutter’s Christmas Celebration (Royal Albert Hall)
Come enjoy the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra for John Rutter’s Christmas Celebration. The show features choral pieces and orchestral works. The show also includes sing along carols, fun for both children and adults. This is a can’t miss event if you are lucky enough to be in London on this day.
-This 2 bedroom accommodation in South Kensington, Kensington-Chelsea (LN-856) is only steps from Royal Albert Hall where you can enjoy John Rutter’s Christmas Celebration.
December 14-20: London International Horse Show (Olympia)
While attending the London International Horse Show, you will get to see a mix of equestrian competition and equestrian displays. Olympia 2010 is a great horseshow to attend whether it’s your first or one of many. Tickets for this event are currently on sale and can be ordered online or over the phone. A portion of ticket proceeds will be donated to Starlight, a wish granting charity for terminally ill children.
December 18-24: Carols by Candlelight London (Royal Albert Hall)
Carols by Candlelight is a Christmas tradition in London featuring sing-a-long carols, readings from Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” and readings from the bible. The performers are dressed in eighteenth century costumes and the audience can join in and sing along with the well-known Christmas carols. This show is memorable and fun for the entire family.
December 25: Peter Pan Cup Swimming Race (Hyde Park Lake)
The members of the Serpentine Swimming Club will enter the cold waters of Hyde Park Lake Christmas morning to compete in the Peter Pan Cup Swimming Race. The race through these icy waters is 100 yards longs. Come watch these brave swimmers compete and then head over to nearby Kensington Gardens to see the statue of Peter Pan.
-This 3 bedroom vacation rental in Knightsbridge, Kensington- Chelsea (LN-829) is only a short walk away from Hyde Park, making it an ideal location if you are interested in attending the Peter Pan Cup Swimming Race or any of the other winter events that take place in Hyde Park.
If you are in London for New Years, join the many others crowding around the River Thames to enjoy the spectacular New Year’s Eve Fireworks display over London. The fireworks are free to view and there are many great spots for getting the best look at the UK’s biggest fireworks display. Make sure to grab your friends and family and find a spot early in the evening to make sure you have a great view.
-This 2 bedroom apartment in Chelsea (LN-474) overlooks the River Thames making this the perfect vacation rental for viewing the New Year’s Eve Fireworks 2011.
Are you taking a trip to London this fall or winter? If you are let us know which events you are going to attend. After your trip comment below about your experience attending some of these London events.
How random would that be to say I went and saw a puppet show when I was in London?
that would be quite the story…
I intend to attend the London Film Festival and maybe see what the Ghost Festival is all about. Any one have any suggestions on what I should go see during the month of Oct.