Unmissable London events this weekend: culture, festivals & fun

Watch more than 330 crews from around the world race 21 miles along the Thames past major London landmarks in this iconic river race. A great spectacle for visitors, with viewpoints along the river to soak up the atmosphere.

An open‑air electronic music festival bringing 70+ artists across bass, house and techno to Gunnersbury Park. Expect multiple stages, food stalls and a lively crowd of music fans.

A dedicated food and drink festival with street food traders, craft beers, live entertainment and family‑friendly activities in a leafy suburban park. Ideal for sampling British and international cuisines in a relaxed outdoor setting.

A fermentation‑focused food event celebrating pickles, kimchi, kombucha and other brined treats at Hackney Bridge. Expect tastings, workshops, talks and street food vendors along the canal.

A warehouse party to mark the end of summer, with DJs, dancing and drinks running late into the night. A quintessential East London underground experience for nightlife lovers.

An outdoor R&B festival featuring DJs playing classics and current hits in an open‑air venue in East London. Expect a party atmosphere, street food and a stylish crowd.

A family fun day with games, activities and entertainment suitable for children, likely including stalls, inflatables and performances. A relaxed option for families looking for an easy day out.

A monthly open hour at a working riding stables where visitors can explore the yard, meet the horses and learn how the stables operates. Great for children and animal lovers wanting a gentler local experience.

Enjoy free access to the famous formal gardens and extensive parkland surrounding Hampton Court Palace, including historic plantings and riverside walks. Perfect for a relaxed half‑day trip out of central London.

A major open‑house architecture festival where you can explore remarkable buildings and spaces usually closed to the public across London. Expect guided tours, talks and self‑guided visits to landmark structures.

The grand finale of the BBC Proms season, a patriotic and exuberant classical concert famed for communal singing and flag‑waving. An essential British cultural experience for music‑loving visitors.

A parallel outdoor Proms celebration in Hyde Park featuring live orchestral music, guest performers and a festive atmosphere with picnics and big screens. Ideal if you prefer a more relaxed open‑air setting.

A city‑wide design festival showcasing installations, exhibitions, talks and pop‑up projects in museums, galleries and public spaces. Great for creative travellers keen to explore contemporary design in different neighbourhoods.

A major fashion industry event presenting catwalk shows, presentations and showcases from leading British and international designers. While many events are trade‑only, select shows and related activities are accessible to fashion‑interested visitors.

A weekend workshop series exploring fairies, folklore and imaginative art using watercolours and ink. Ideal for creative visitors wanting a hands‑on, small‑group arts experience.