Things to do in London: Autumn Edition

Autumn in London – a magical time when the city transforms into a vibrant scene of warm hues, crisp air, and seasonal charm. The golden leaves of the city’s many parks—like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park—create a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls, while cosy cafes and pubs offer the perfect refuge for the cold.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here’s a curated list of some of our must-visit spots and the best things to do in the city this season.

HOTELS

Broadwick Soho: A boutique bolthole in Soho with bold interiors and rooftop dining.
The Hoxton, Southwark: Industrial-chic stay near Borough Market and the South Bank.
NoMad London: Stylish Covent Garden hotel set in a historic building with lively dining.
Henrietta Hotel: A cosy Covent Garden townhouse with eclectic design and a buzzy cocktail bar.
Treehouse Hotel London: Playful Marylebone hotel with skyline views and relaxed dining.
The Standard, London: Retro-inspired King’s Cross hotel with cool design and rooftop vibes.
Sea Containers London: Riverside stay on the South Bank with striking views and modern style.
The Dixon, Tower Bridge: A design-led hotel housed in a former magistrates’ court near Tower Bridge.
The Laslett, Notting Hill: Neighbourhood gem with townhouse charm and local character.
The Pilgrm: Minimalist boutique hotel in Paddington with sleek design and a laid-back café.

WALKS

Regent’s Park: A beautiful park featuring gardens and lakes in the heart of London.
Kew Gardens: A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning botanical gardens.
Richmond Park: Known for its deer and expansive autumn scenes.
St James’s Park: A serene park offering stunning views of Buckingham Palace.
Holland Park: Famous for its beautiful gardens and the serene Kyoto Garden.
Kensington Gardens: Home to the Albert Memorial and the Serpentine Gallery.
Hampstead Heath: Ideal for long walks, with panoramic views of the city.
South Bank: A riverside path lined with bookstalls, street performers, and views of the Thames.
Primrose Hill: A gentle climb that rewards with sweeping views of the London skyline.
Little Venice: A picturesque canal walk with colourful boats, waterside cafés, and a slower pace.

CAFES

Monocle Café: A stylish spot perfect for shopping in Marylebone.
Pavilion Café: Nestled in Victoria Park, it offers a relaxing atmosphere surrounded by Autumn scenes.
Host Café: A cozy spot for a leisurely brunch.
Daylesford Organic: Offers organic dishes with a farm-to-table ethos – you’ll find these dotted around London.
Sketch Parlour: Head to the luxurious parlour for a dim-lit afternoon, perfect for a cozy afternoon tea on a rainy day.
Kaffeine: An Australian-inspired café known for excellent coffee and warm service.
WatchHouse: Sleek and modern, with speciality coffee and pastries in design-led spaces.
Ozone Coffee Roasters: Industrial-chic café with small-batch coffee roasted on-site.
Prufrock Coffee: A barista training hub that also serves some of the city’s best brews.
Attendant Coffee Roasters: Quirky café set in a restored Victorian lavatory, with quality coffee and charm.

PUBS

The Holly Bush: A charming pub with a cozy atmosphere in Hampstead.
The Spaniards Inn: Rich in history, this pub dates back to the 16th century.
Churchill Arms: Known for its impressive flower displays and Thai food.
The Mayflower: A historic pub with beautiful views of the Thames.
The Roebuck: A lovely spot with a large garden perfect for sunny days.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese: One of London’s oldest pubs, rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1666.
The Grapes: A riverside pub in Limehouse dating back over 500 years, once frequented by Dickens.
The Lamb: A Victorian Bloomsbury pub with ornate glass snob screens and traditional charm.
The Dove: Cosy Hammersmith pub with a riverside terrace and literary history.
The George Inn: London’s last remaining galleried coaching inn, now a bustling pub near Borough Market.

RESTAURANTS

Petersham Nurseries: A charming café surrounded by beautiful plants.
River Café: Known for its exquisite Italian dishes and riverside views.
Scott’s Mayfair: Renowned for its seafood and elegant ambiance.
The Wolseley: A grand café-restaurant ideal for breakfast or afternoon tea.
Chiltern Firehouse: A trendy spot often frequented by celebrities.
Core by Clare Smyth: A three-Michelin-star restaurant showcasing refined seasonal British cuisine.
Sketch Mayfair: Playful, art-filled interiors with inventive menus and afternoon tea.
74 Duke: A stylish neighbourhood restaurant serving modern European dishes.
Brat Shoreditch: Celebrated for its wood-fired cooking and bold flavours.
Dalloway Terrace: Famous for its floral décor and cosy seasonal dining.

TO DO

Richmond Pub Crawl: Experience local pubs along the picturesque River Thames.
Borough Market Stroll: Explore this vibrant food market and enjoy local delicacies.
Daunt Bookshop: A beautiful, historical Edwardian bookshop.
Pottery Class: Experience a hands-on pottery session at Studio London Pottery or Crown Works Pottery.
Galleries: Explore the art world at the V&A, Tate Modern, National Gallery or the Saatchi Gallery.
ArtPlay Pavilion: An imaginative outdoor playground of slides, swings and sensory installations.

EVENING

Gordon’s Wine Bar: A historic wine bar known for its extensive selection.
Milroy’s of Soho: A whisky bar with a cozy atmosphere perfect for autumnal evenings.
Alexandra Palace Fireworks : For one of the best Bonfire Night firework displays in the city.
Rooftop Film Club: Watch classic films under the stars with a spectacular view of London.
Coppa Club Tower Bridge: A unique igloo dining experience with stunning views of Tower Bridge.
LANDER 23 by Punchdrunk: An immersive live-action adventure that feels like stepping inside a video game.
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club: Legendary Soho venue hosting world-class live jazz in an intimate setting.
The Connaught Bar: Award-winning Mayfair bar known for elegant cocktails and timeless style.
Greenwich Peninsula Market: A vibrant night market offering street food, crafts, and live entertainment.