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Anyone else got a touch of that September-ish ‘back to school’ feeling? The first conkers are starting to speckle London’s pavements, stationery shops are looking increasingly tempting, and there’s a brisk breeze that means you can finally wear a jumper without becoming filled with sweaty regret.
And with the start of a new season comes the desire to become a new person, with fresh hobbies and hangouts to match. Luckily, London’s got you covered, with any number of possible past-times jostling for your attention. Many of them are pricy but some are totally free, meaning you can spend your spare cash on more important things, like chic sweaters or seasonal gourd displays.
Read on for our pick of the best free things to do this weekend.
The best free things to do in London this weekend, September 12-14
1. Browse the stalls at artist book fair GLUE
Discover the delights of thick matte pages, hand-sewn bindings and radical ideas at this celebration of indie and DIY bookmaking. This event at the Institute of Contemporary Arts will host 70 indie publishers including the likes of SMUT, Montez Press and Sports Banger, with special exhibitions and a packed programme of talks, workshops and parties. Hot Potato – the ‘newspaper for people who don’t read the news’ – is putting on an exhibition for the occasion, as is photographer Sana Badri. While you’re there, drop into a bookbinding workshop, have a go at self-portraiture or sit down for a talk from radical publishers Verso Books. All the events are free to attend, reserve your spot in advance to guarantee a place.
ICA, SW1. Sep 13-14. Free.
2. Spend the day on Marylebone Lane
Marylebone is one of the priciest neighbourhoods London has to offer, but don’t let that hold you back from doing a little pleasurable window shopping. This Saturday, Marylebone Lane is fully pedestrianised, making it the perfect time to go for an enjoyable stroll down this pristine, historic road. To sweeten the deal, there’s also lots of fun stuff going on, including live music and entertainment, and special events and workshops at the lane’s shops, bars and restaurants.
Marylebone Lane, W1. Sep 13. Free.
3. Celebrate the 25th birthday of a cultural powerhouse
You’d never imagine that Somerset House has only been on the scene for two and a half decades: this grand building sits firmly at the heart of London’s cultural life. Celebrate its big birthday at this free weekend of creative programming, which will let you explore every corner of this sprawling arts centre. In hidden spaces Deadhouse and Maker Street, you’ll meet the resident creatives who work here. And there’ll also be free performances drawn from the worlds of dance, live art and music, plus film showings, workshops, tours and family activities.
Somerset House, WC2. Sep 13-14. Free.
4. Play croquet at the House of Lime
Ooh, wouldn’t it be dreamy to escape to a fancy country club for the weekend? But if you don’t have that kind of time/money (and frankly who does) then you can get a zingy taste of fresh air at this pop-up from the Lime bikes people. It’s a tongue-in-cheek affair that promises an indoor lawn for bowls and croquet, a pool side terrace (with no actual swimming so leave the bikini at home), and fun freebies including Chin Chin soft serve and Lime-themed nail art. There’s even a Lime bike valet service so you can live the high life, no gold card required: just flash your Lime app to get in.
White Rabbit Studios, EC2. Sep 12-13. Free.
5. Have a go at some watersports at Tidefest
This free festival is part of Totally Thames festival, and it’s all about the fun of messing about on and beside the river. You can watch sporting events including kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding, and even have a go if you’re ready to risk an unscheduled Thames dip. There are also guided Thames history walks and river dipping sessions, so you can delve under the gleaming surface of London's famous waterway.
Strand on the Green, W4. Sep 14. Free.
6. Have a snoop around some usually off-limits buildings
Nosy neighbours, this one’s for you. Annual festival Open House London returns this weekend, offering curious curtain-twitchers a rare chance to pull back the curtain and go through the keyholes of some of the capital’s most renowned – and often most secretive – buildings, completely free of charge. There are over 700 events on the programme for this year’s festival, including plenty of drop-in sessions that don’t require advance booking. And to help you decide what’s worth your time, we’ve even rounded up our favourite London landmarks and private homes worth a visit. Happy snooping!
Various London venues. Sep 13-21. Free.
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