Events in London
Each year, London marks the historic moment when Guy Fawkes and his motley crew attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and King James I in the Gunpowder Plot of 5 November 1605 – the day became known as Guy Fawkes Day, or more commonly Bonfire Night.
Every November, bonfires are lit on which effigies known as “guys” are burned, while the skies are filled with colourful fireworks. It’s also a time to enjoy traditional Bonfire Night food and drink, alongside music, funfairs and family activities.
See iconic Harry Potter film sets transformed for the winter season in a self-guided walking tour of the Warner Bros. Studio in London.
Winter has arrived at Hogwarts. Glittering Christmas trees line the Great Hall and a replica festive feast including flaming Christmas puddings is laid out on the long tables; while the top section of the hall is transformed for the Yule Ball with snow, icicles and an orchestra of magical instruments.
Get up close to props, costumes and models used in the Harry Potter films. Take a look around the studio’s famous movie sets decorated as they were for the festive scenes. And find out how different types of artificial snow and ice were created and used in the films.
Website: www.wbstudiotour.co.uk
Celebrate London's architectural wonders as Open House London throws open the doors of hundreds of buildings and spaces around the capital.
Enjoy free access to public buildings, private houses, churches, museums, schools and offices, and join tours, guided walks and activities throughout the weekend.
Highlights of the Open House London programme often include the BT Tower, The Gherkin, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, the Royal Albert Hall and Fuller's Griffin Brewery.
Website: www.openhouselondon.org.uk
Experience the biggest classical music festival on earth, with fun and affordable concerts open to all audiences at the Royal Albert Hall and across London.
Hear a wide range of classical music in a season of informal concerts with the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall and in venues across London.
From classical favourites to contemporary world premieres and family concerts, the BBC Proms offer a stage for leading musicians, singers, orchestras and soloists from across the world with a broad programme of music.
The eight weeks of concerts culminate in the famous Last Night performances including BBC Proms in the Park, full of chanting and quirky traditions.
Website: www.bbc.co.uk/proms
Watch modern and classic movies under starry summer skies with Film4 Summer Screen open-air film festival at Somerset House.
Choose from a mixed programme of UK premieres, old favourites and Cannes award-winning films in full surround sound.
Before the movies start, enjoy DJ sets inspired by the films, an exclusive screening of a short film commissioned for the festival, special guest introductions on selected nights, and plenty of food and drink options; or you can even bring your own picnic.
Website: www.somersethouse.org.uk/whats-on/film4-summer-screen