Various London venues
Prices vary
Some of London’s most illustrious institutions – the National Army Museum, Royal Hospital Chelsea and Chelsea Physic Garden – join forces for the eighth edition of this history bonanza. A line-up of 100 events explores history from every angle, with author talks, guided walks, and family-friendly fun. 2026's edition is curated by BBC World Affairs Editor John Simpson, who'll talk about his six decades reporting on global events.
There'll also be a staging of Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas (Oct 1) at Chelsea Old Church, close to where it was first performed in 1688, an opportunity to go behind the scenes at Royal Court Theatre, free living history tours of Chelsea Physic Garden, and walking tours exploring the area’s spies, artists, queer history and rock-and-roll past.