Although some mourn the end of summer and don’t like the darker evenings, the cooler days of autumn can be a refreshing, invigorating time of new starts, while the crisper air can mean you have more energy to go places and do things. And the UK’s capital has a huge amount to offer at this time of year.
Perhaps you’re in London over the next few months, whatever the reason, and keen to book some fun things to do? Or maybe you want to spend October half-term (which for most schools runs for a week from October 27) in town?
Either way, the city’s fall 2025 calendar is jam-packed with varied events, activities and stuff to enjoy, whatever you like doing. Here are some of them:
- The 69th BFI London Film Festival
This takes place in the UK’s capital and across the UK between 8 and 19 October. Discover the best new movie releases and more – see the British Film Institute (BFI) website for full programme details.
- Visit the city’s parks
London’s parks look amazing in the autumn, when they’re ablaze with seasonal colours. Here are some ideas:
- Kew Gardens houses one of the world’s most famous botanical collections, with more than 50,000 living plants to discover across the UNSECO World Heritage site. And autumn is a great time of year to visit. Last year, for example, there were woodland walks and a spooky Halloween trail.
- Richmond Park is also lovely at the tail-end of the year, with vibrant fall foliage. There’s a good chance of spotting deer, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. And if you’re a runner, there are distances for all levels on October 19, with 5k, 10k and half-marathon
- Hyde Park is equally glorious, and more centrally located than Richmond or Kew. Its Winter Wonderland is back from mid-November, with games, rides shows plus an array of delightful food and drink.
- Totally Thames
As the name suggests, this festival celebrates London’s famous river with performances, active adventures, environmental initiatives and heritage and educational programmes. A vast amount is going on – read more about specific events here.
Staying by water, the weather is generally mild enough for a leisurely canalside stroll somewhere like Little Venice or along the South Bank for views across the river and of some of London’s most iconic landmarks.
- Drink in London Cocktail Week
If cocktails are your thing, this event takes place between 9 and 19 October. It’s billed as the biggest celebration in the world of cocktail culture, and is dedicated to signature drinks created in the city’s top bars. It incorporates a packed programme of one-off experiences, cocktail events, special menus, immersive pop-ups and more.
- Stroll around Borough Market
Go for a wander around this centrally located market, with its combination of covered and outdoor stalls which make it an all-weather outing. The emphasis is on high-quality food and seasonal produce. Established in 1756, Borough Market is open six days a week and pottering around here is aways a delight. You could maybe catch a cookery demonstration or masterclass here, too.
- Catch London Literature or London Design Festivals
If you’re a bookworm, London Literature Festival runs at the South Bank Centre from October 21 to November 2 and gets readers of all ages to celebrate the written word. Learn more here. Meanwhile, the London Design Festival takes place between September 13 and 21. It promotes the city as the world’s design capital, with events across town. Visit the website for further details.
- Join in the festivities
Autumn in the UK means Halloween and Bonfire Night. Join a themed night on October 31 somewhere like the Tower of London or follow a local pumpkin trail. Plus, there are Bonfire Night celebrations across the city on November 5.
You could join in Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, on October 20, when vibrant festivities take place in Trafalgar Square.
Equally, of course, you can enjoy all the same things in London that you can all year round, from West End shows to fine dining or cosy pubs. What’s more, you won’t be walking around or using public transport at the hottest, busiest time of year.
Book your serviced accommodation in London this autumn
Serviced accommodation is your home from home, offering more space and greater comfort than a standard hotel room, plus more freedom in terms of having the choice to eat out, order in or self-cater.
At 37GS Residences, we offer 22 beautifully finished, luxuriously spacious apartments at Golden Square, near Piccadilly Circus, Mayfair and Soho and all that these central districts have to offer. One of our residences in the heart of the city can be yours this autumn for as long as you need it, complete with 24/7 Reception, free, dependable Wi-Fi, luggage storage facilities and cleaning every four days during your stay. Choose from one, two or three bedrooms, all completed by our interior designers to a superb standard.
Book your apartment now – or contact us with any queries you may have.
