Autumn conjures up images of red and brown leaves swirling through a windswept park, and the onset of longer nights. But while the air may be a little cooler, there is nevertheless more reason than ever to visit London come September. So before you start to hibernate, make sure you know what’s going on in London in the weeks ahead, and just what it is that makes this the best time of year to stay in a serviced London apartment!
BBC Proms in the Park
During the month of September, Hyde Park plays host to the grand finale of the BBC Proms in the Park. This is the largest open-air classical music in the UK and you can expect fabulous live music and amazing fireworks. This is British eccentricity at its best and the culmination of the iconic two-month classical music festival. The last night of the proms is not be missed!
Londinium
If history is more your bag, then you will enjoy the Londinium season of events which runs from the end of July through to the end of October. If you want to learn more about the Romans and investigate their impact on the capital there are plenty of things for you to enjoy, including exhibitions, tours and events. Have fun, gladiator style, with interactive games and check out the 3D animated projections for a glimpse of the Roman way of life. Renowned historians will give talks on Roman topics and there are family activities and live performances, too.
Frieze Sculpture 2017
If you want to enjoy the fresh air of autumn prior to the coldness of winter then pop along to Frieze Sculpture 2017 located in Regent’s Park English Gardens. During September, you can see a wonderful outdoor exhibition that showcases work from some of the world’s most renowned sculptors. There are more than 25 sculptures, all by admired artists of the 20th century. There are pieces by Eduardo Paolozzi and Gary Hume, to name but a few. Take a tour and learn about the sculptures and those who have worked so tirelessly to create them. If you prefer to make your own way around you can download the free audio tour app.
The Great River Race
On Saturday 9th September, the River Thames will play host to The Great River Race. Billed as “the rowing equivalent to the London Marathon.” Over 300 boats will set off on a 21.6-mile journey that will take them from east to west, starting at the Isle of Dogs and crossing the finish line at Ham House. This race is all about having fun, but the competition is fierce and teams of rowers push hard to receive one of the 35 trophies on offer. There’s plenty going on for spectators too, including live music, a beach and donkey rides for the kids, and plenty of refreshments. It’s all rounded off with an amazing finale river party at Ham.
With so many autumn delights to witness it would be a shame to rush your visit – especially since the list above gives only the briefest of glances into some of the delights to be had in London this September. Other highlights include:
- Open House London, 16-17 September – This annual event really is a special day for anyone with even a passing interest in the capital’s architecture as 800 venues are opened for one weekend only to members of the public. Cost is free, so be prepared for an early start and some long queues at some of the more iconic sites, but the wait will be worth it.
- The London Design Festival, 16-24 September – Hundreds of events and exhibitions combine to promote London’s claim as the design capital of the world. There is an enormous range of installations, trade shows and seminars to discover across the city, exploring artwork, product design, illustration and much, much more besides.
- The Beavertown Extravaganza, 8-9 September – This two-day beer festival takes place in the heart of Canary Wharf, so takes in one of the most stunning areas of London, as well as dozens and dozens of the world’s finest brewers. Expect great food, a buzzing atmosphere, fascinating seminars, and some delicious beers to boot!
September is the perfect time for a London holiday, so make the most of it, take your pick from all the fantastic goings-on, and book one of our London vacation apartments today!