What's on in London this October
As the evenings draw in, discover the best things to do and see in London this October.
06 Oct 2022
Autumn is in full swing here in London, shifting the cityscape into a mirage of crisp blue (or grey) skies and golden autumn leaves. But whilst we once again bid adieu to long summer evenings spent meandering around London’s many parks, bars, restaurants, and romantic hidden streets, London remains as alive and buzzing as ever. From exciting new exhibitions and pop-up restaurants to exclusive tours of royal palaces, here is a roundup of the best things to do and see in London this October.
Things to do in London
The BFI London Film Festival
From 5th – 16th October cinemas cross the UK will become host to an array of films and TV series from around the world, with the flagship cinema being right here in London at the BFI Southbank. Alongside a selection of celebrated films and TV encompassed within the 400 total screenings, so too can you catch witness to some of the most anticipated premieres at present. Examples include ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ starring Daniel Craig, ‘Decision to Leave’ – set to be the next ‘Parasite’, and for those visiting with children, ‘Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical’. With tickets still available this is an eclectic festival where visitors of all ages and become truly immersed.
Take a tour of London’s best landmarks
Travel through London and behold key landmarks and attractions across the city with this London in One Day guided tour by Evan Evans. As well as learning fascinating details and stories about the city, delivered by one of their expert guides, this tour will also offer assured sightings of unforgettable moments like the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, a visit to the stunning Albert Memorial, St Paul’s Cathedral, and notorious Tower of London. A river cruise along the Thames boasts the perfect end to the day.
The pickup point for this tour is at Victoria Coach Station, easily accessible for guests staying at The Rubens at The Palace and Hotel 41, and a peaceful walk across Green Park for those staying at The Chesterfield Mayfair.
Enjoy an Exclusive Guided Tour of St James’s Palace
From the 22nd – 30th October St James’s Palace will be opening its doors for exclusive access for the first time. Led by a Royal Collection Trust curator, traverse the corridors and embrace the stunning Tudor architecture as you learn of the stories and notable events that have taken place within the palace’s walls, including the recent Accession Council of King Charles III on 10th September this year. As well as bearing witness to the State Apartments, highlights of the tour include views of the Chapel Royal, Colour Court, and the Throne Room.
St James's Palace is nestled between Green Park and St James's Park, a pleasant walk for guests staying at The Rubens at the Palace, Hotel 41, or The Chesterfield Mayfair.
Unique London experiences
Exclusively at The Rubens
Indulge in a Curry Room banquet experience
Enjoy a unique, personalised experience with Chef Kumar at The Rubens at the Palace with their Curry Room Banquet. Located in the celebrated Curry Room restaurant, watch the chef prepare a delicious feast of delectable Indian cuisine as you sip on a glass of Champagne with canapés. Afterwards, indulge in Chef Kumar's gourmet experience that showcases a variety of delicious food tailored to your taste.
Exclusively at The Milestone Hotel
Enjoy an in-room cocktail masterclass
Guests staying at The Milestone Hotel & Residences during their trip to London this October can enjoy a unique in-room Cocktail Masterclass led by an expert mixologist. With an eclectic cocktail menu, this experience is sure to be a delight. Choose from classic favourites or try a unique signature variation such as the Smoking Old Fashioned.
Exhibitions in London
The Design Museum: Art of Movement by Van Cleef & Arpels
With a reputation as a master in both vision and dynamism, Van Cleef & Arpels’ ability to marry mesmerising jewels with delicacy and movement is celebrated at this new exhibition at The Design Museum. By showcasing nearly 100 creations from their patrimonial collection, alongside archive documents and lender masterpieces, the exhibition is a tribute to ‘the French High Jewelry Maison's constant quest to impart movement into precious materials’. With beautiful designs and a spectacular display of vibrant colour and precious jewels, this exhibition will offer a truly spellbinding escape.
Located in the heart of Kensington, this exhibition is perfectly situated for visitors staying at The Milestone Hotel & Residences or The Egerton House Hotel.
Kensington Palace: Life Through a Royal Lens
Discover the relationship between the Royal Family and the camera like never before at this new exhibition, running until the 30th October. Marrying almost 200 years of photography, spanning from Queen Victoria and Prince Albert to modern day royals, guests can expect an unveiling of the ‘intimacy between Sovereign and subjects’ as facilitated by the photograph. It is a unique exhibition, and in light of the recent passing of Elizabeth II, one that offers a touching tribute to the life of the late monarch and the future of the crown.
Kensington Palace neighbours The Milestone Hotel & Residences and is a short walk from The Egerton House Hotel.
The British Museum: Hieroglyphs Unlocking Ancient Egypt
Where Ancient Egypt was a mystery, it became an accessible lens into the history of humankind upon the discovery of the Rosetta Stone. To honour the significance of this artifact and its value in allowing us to read and translate ancient script, this exciting new exhibition showcases the work that contributed to and resulted from the decipherment of Egyptian hieroglyphs. More than this, it offers a glimpse into the characterful lives of this ancient civilisation. The Rosetta Stone will sit alongside an array of artifacts, offering a transcendental glimpse into the hidden world of ancient Egypt.
Situated in the heart of Bloomsbury, The British Museum is a mere 5-minute walk away from guests staying at The Montague on the Gardens.
Spend October half-term in London
Visiting London with children this October half term? Discover our selection of the best things to do and see with little ones this half term.
The Rubens guide to family things to do in London