10 Things to Do in London in October Your Autumn 2024 Guide
10 Things to Do in London in October Your Autumn 2024 Guide
10 Things to Do in London in October Your Autumn 2024 Guide

10 Things to Do in London in October Your Autumn 2024 Guide

Thursday, 03 October 2024
London in October: Your Ultimate Autumn Guide

London in October has the kind of weather that makes you want to throw on your favourite jumper, pull up your boots, and wrap yourself in a snug scarf before heading out to explore. The air is cool, the trees are bursting with fiery reds and oranges, and the city just feels extra cosy. With fewer tourists and so many exciting autumnal events happening, it's the perfect time to take in all that the city has to offer. Whether you're after cultural festivals, spooky Halloween fun, or just want to warm up in a pub with a mulled cider, London is brimming with seasonal charm. 

Those visiting the city this autumn will find Imperial London Hotels a perfect fit. Our family of hotels offer both comfort and easy access to the best that London has to offer in October.

Person carving a jack-o'-lantern pumpkin with a knife, preparing for Halloween, in an outdoor setting.
Person carving a jack-o'-lantern pumpkin with a knife, preparing for Halloween, in an outdoor setting.

 1. PUMPKIN PICKING & CARVING AT COVENT GARDEN

Nothing says autumn quite like pumpkins! Covent Garden transforms into a charming pumpkin paradise this time of year, where you can either pick your own pumpkin or get creative with pumpkin carving. The whole area is decked out in autumn décor, giving it a warm and festive feel. It’s an Instagrammer’s dream come true. You’ll find food stalls with delicious seasonal bites and plenty of cosy spots to take in the atmosphere.

When? Throughout October
Where? Covent Garden

The exterior of a lit-up theatre with a marquee advertising a show as pedestrians walk by.
The exterior of a lit-up theatre with a marquee advertising a show as pedestrians walk by.

2. WATCH A SHOW IN WEST END

Head to the dominion theatre for Elton John’s The Devil Wears Prada musical. Full of glamour, sass, and high-energy tunes, it’s a stylish escape into the world of fashion drama—perfect for a spooky season night out!

Or, for something a bit darker, check out the Soho Halloween Cabaret at Phoenix Arts Club. This thrilling show features jaw-dropping stunts, drag performances, and eerie surprises in the haunted dressing rooms of this iconic West End venue.

Don’t forget your costume!

To finish a night of excitement, head to the Atrium Bar and Restaurant at the President Hotel, where you can enjoy handcrafted cocktails in an elegant Art Deco setting.

When? Throughout October
Where? West End 

A waiter in traditional attire carries multiple large beer steins at a crowded Oktoberfest.
A waiter in traditional attire carries multiple large beer steins at a crowded Oktoberfest.

3. ATTEND OKTOBERFEST IN LONDON

Even though October brings a chill, London knows how to keep things warm with its very own Oktoberfest celebrations. While it might not be Munich, London offers plenty of Bavarian vibes. Expect traditional German beers served in giant steins, hearty German food like pretzels and bratwurst, and live oompah bands to keep the energy high.

Venues like Pergola Paddington and The Electric Ballroom host some of the biggest celebrations, complete with long communal tables, traditional lederhosen, and endless toasts of "Prost!". 

After a day of festivities, rest easy at the City Sleeper Hotel, offering a convenient and cosy stay just a short distance from all the Oktoberfest action. 

Whether you’re going with friends or making new ones, Oktoberfest is all about fun, food, and…beer!

When? Throughout October
Where? Various venues across London

Tickets typically start from £10-£15 depending on the venue.
 Two people clink glasses at a bar, one holding a cocktail with lime and mint, and the other holding a fancy cocktail in a coupe glass.
Two people clink glasses at a bar, one holding a cocktail with lime and mint, and the other holding a fancy cocktail in a coupe glass.

4. LONDON COCKTAIL WEEK

If beer isn’t your thing, don’t worry—London Cocktail Week is coming up! This festival is the ultimate way to sample some of the city’s best cocktail creations. Hundreds of bars participate, offering signature drinks and exclusive creations at discounted prices for those with a festival wristband. You’ll also find pop-up bars, mixology masterclasses, and cocktail tours to guide you through London’s extensive bar scene.

Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just enjoy trying something new, London Cocktail Week is a great way to discover hidden gems and enjoy the city’s nightlife in a more sophisticated way…or not.

After exploring the London Cocktail scene, unwind at the Royal National Hotel, where comfort and convenience await. 

When? October 3rd to 13th
Where? Bars across London

Grab a wristband for £20 to get access to exclusive cocktails at over 250 bars!

A person walks alone down a path in a park during autumn, surrounded by trees with orange and yellow leaves.
A person walks alone down a path in a park during autumn, surrounded by trees with orange and yellow leaves.

5. EXPLORE LONDON’S PARKS IN AUTUMN

London’s parks in October are dreamy! The trees turn into beautiful shades of gold and red, making it the perfect time for a relaxed stroll—or a crisp run if you’re feeling up for it! 

If you’re in central London, take a long walk through Bloomsbury and enjoy the  literary history as well as 15 squares and gardens. Russell Square Gardens or Tavistock Square Garden are the largest. Both are steps away from the city’s buzz but with all the peaceful vibes you need.

For something a bit grander, Primrose Hill and Regent’s Park are gorgeous this time of year, with leaves gently falling around. Whether you’re snapping photos for the 'gram or just soaking up the views, London’s parks are a must.
If you're into photography, early mornings or late afternoons give you the best light to capture all those autumn vibes full of mist and crisp air!

Black History Month banner with red, yellow, and green brush strokes on a black background.
Black History Month banner with red, yellow, and green brush strokes on a black background.

6. CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH

October marks Black History Month in the UK, and London hosts a range of events that celebrate the richness of Black culture and its influence on British society.  One highlight to mark on your calendar is "Hidden Black History in the Streets of London", taking place on 14th October at 1pm, organised by Equinet. This captivating event offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich and often overlooked Black history woven into London’s streets.This one-hour session highlights key Black History walks across the city, uncovering stories from North, South, East, and West London.

For a comfortable stay nearby, consider the Bedford Hotel, where you can relax after a day of discovery and reflection on the historical journeys through the city.

When? All month
Where? Various venues, with the Black History walk on 14th October.

Celebrate, learn, and connect with London's rich Black heritage this October!
Three women in elegant attire and decorative masks smile while holding champagne glasses at a masquerade-themed event.
Three women in elegant attire and decorative masks smile while holding champagne glasses at a masquerade-themed event.

7. ATTEND A HALLOWEEN PARTY (OR TWO!)

London goes big for Halloween with club nights, spooky masquerades, and immersive horror experiences. Highlights include a party at The Mansion, a Halloween all-nighter in a private central London venue. Expect two dance floors with DJs spinning pop, R&B, electro, and house, plus live performances and dancers. For an unforgettable experience , Elrow and Boomtown are teaming up for a two-day immersive party that’s selling out fast. 

After a night of thrills, stay close to hustle at Morton Hotel for a relaxing and stylish stay, perfectly located in the heart of the action.

When? End of October, especially the weekend before Halloween
Where? All over London

A grand hall with arched architecture inside a museum, featuring a large whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling, as visitors explore below.
A grand hall with arched architecture inside a museum, featuring a large whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling, as visitors explore below.

8. EXPERIENCE GHOSTLY ADVENTURES AT LONDON MUSEUMS

This time of the year is perfect to explore London’s museums—they’re seriously spook-tacular! (sorry we had to). If you’re up for some chills, check out the London Dungeon for a mix of history and horror with live actors that'll have you jumping in your seat. 

Feeling brave? The Museum of London has haunting tours packed with spooky stories from the city’s past.
Just a couple of minutes' walk from the Tavistock Hotel, you can dive into ghostly legends behind ancient artefacts at the British Museum, while the Imperial War Museum takes a darker look at the impact of war.

These spooky spots fill up fast, so book early! And for a "boo-tiful" experience without the crowds, try visiting early in the morning or late afternoon! 

Halloween-themed sugar cookies shaped like pumpkins, bats, and ghosts, decorated with black and orange icing, are laid out on a flat surface.
 Halloween-themed sugar cookies shaped like pumpkins, bats, and ghosts, decorated with black and orange icing, are laid out on a flat surface.
9. EXPERIENCE FAMILY-FRIENDLY HALLOWEEN FUN IN LONDON

Halloween isn’t just for adults—London has tons of family-friendly events too! 
If you’re visiting with little ones, you can enjoy kid-appropriate spooky activities like ghost storytelling and even mild haunted house experiences. There are also fun workshops for children, such as spooky crafts and face-painting, perfect for getting the whole family into the spirit of the season.

A favourite for families is the Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter, where they transform the iconic film sets with Halloween decorations and special effects. 
Walking through the Great Hall lit by floating pumpkins? It doesn’t get much more magical than that!

When? Throughout October
Where? Warner Bros. Studios and more… 
An empty, stylish London pub interior with wooden tables, cushioned booths, modern décor, and warm lighting, featuring a large potted plant and mirrored walls.
Stylish interior at The London pub with wooden tables, cushioned booths, modern décor, and warm lighting, featuring a large potted plant and mirrored walls.

10. ESCAPE THE AUTUMN CHILL WITH A DRINK IN THE LONDON PUB

One of our absolute favourites is The London Pub—it’s got that perfect mix of quintessential English charm wrapped up with a modern twist. Whether you’re sipping a pint of craft  ale or cosying up with a warm mulled cider, it’s a classic British experience that’s hard to beat.

Another great spot near Holborn is The Princess Louise. This historic pub is a gem, known for its beautiful Victorian interior—think ornate glass work, cosy nooks, and plenty of character. It’s the perfect place to relax with a traditional pint or a hearty pie after a day of exploring.

Pro Tip: Make sure to take a peep around The London pub; the decor alone is worth the visit! 

A cosy, well-lit Morton hotel room with a large bed, decorative pillows, patterned wallpaper, and warm bedside lighting, featuring two windows with curtains.
A cosy, well-lit Morton hotel room with a large bed, decorative pillows, patterned wallpaper, and warm bedside lighting, featuring two windows with curtains.

To make your stay even better, stay with us at one of the Imperial London Hotels. Located in the heart of Bloomsbury, you'll enjoy comfort and convenience with some of the city's best spots right at your doorstep. 

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Save up to 20% off when you stay longer than two nights, three nights or more!
Stay Longer, Save More

Special Offers

Stay Longer, Save More

Multi Night Savings
Save up to 20% off when you stay longer than two nights, three nights or more!