September in London is like the capital’s most thriving encore: summer peaks in through the day, autumn is beginning to turn the leaves’ colour and the events line up is solid! The city of London comes alive during these events and festivals.
If you thought the month of September was just the end of summer and nothing else, it’s ideal that you reconsider. Here is a list of the best things to do in London in September.
1. Totally Thames (From 1st to 30th September)
For the whole month, the Totally Thames Festival takes over the capital’s iconic river. You can expect boat races, river-inspired art all around, guided foreshore walks that uncover history’s oldest treasures, outdoor performances and installations that float along the water.
Some of these events’ activities also include family-friendly options such as mudlarking with archaeologists or kids’ workshops. Tourists and locals can also explore the pop-up gigs on the banks to massive sculptures glowing under Tower Bridge.
If you explored the riverfront all day long, a short walk back to your serviced apartment to unwind sounds ideal. Space Apart Hotel is just a short distance from the River Thames – this means that you can drop off your bags and recharge before leaving for the next day’s adventures.
2. CelebrASIA (5th to 7th September)
CelebrASIA is an event hosted by none other than Battersea Power Station. This event is a three-day cultural feast of music, workshops and amazing food. Visitors can enjoy a line-up of interesting options, including satay, momos, pho, biryani, bubble tea, complemented by live bands’ music and dancers by the riverside, all in Zone 1.
3. Black on the Square (6 September)
On September 6th, the famous Trafalgar Square transforms into a massive celebration of Black culture and creativity. Black on the Square combines live music, dance performances, workshops, poetry and community stalls in the heart of London. It is a free-for-all event and one of the most uplifting days on the September London calendar.
4. BBC Proms (until 13 Sept)
You do not need to be a classical music aficionado to enjoy the BBC Proms, especially the famous Last Night of the Proms. For two months straight, the Royal Albert Hall will host the world’s biggest classical music festival. You can expect soaring symphonies, modern mash-ups, flag-waving, sing-alongs and an energy that feels close to a rock concert.
5. London Podcast Festival (5th September to 14th September)
Inviting all podcast enthusiasts to the London Podcast Festival held at King’s Place. This is your chance to step inside your favourite shows. You can catch big-name podcasters record live episodes, host panels and answer fan questions. This event will make you laugh, learn and probably walk away with a new list of podcasts to binge on.
Post-event, if you’d like to cook a hot meal yourself, Space Apart’s serviced apartments in Hyde Park offer this private, comforting luxury.
6. London Design Festival (13th to 21st September)
London will become the world’s design capital for one week in September. The London Design Festival seamlessly transforms the city into a giant gallery, complete with jaw-dropping installations everywhere from the V&A to East London warehouses. You can find yourself standing under a massive sculpture or peeking into a tiny pop-up showcasing experimental furniture. Many exhibits within the London Design Festival are free and scattered around the city.
7. Open House Festival (13th to 21st September)
If you are a curious soul and wonder what is inside those private, residents-only London doors, Open House Festival is your golden ticket. For one week, you get a chance to step into open buildings that are usually off-limits. The list includes historic mansions, cutting-edge eco homes, parliament halls and eclectic design projects. You will also find luxury hotels and hidden gems within different London neighbourhoods in this list.
8. London Fashion Week (18th to 22nd September)
The famous London Fashion Week returns with catwalks, talks and presentations from some of the biggest, renowned names and up-and-comers in the fashion industry. This entire week is filled with bursting energy that spills into the streets, complete with after-parties, pop-up exhibitions and stylish crowds taking over the famous Soho, Shoreditch and beyond.
9. The Great River Race (20th September)
The famous River Thames will host the Great River Race on 20th September, a 21-mile dash from Docklands to Ham. Over 300 boats compete during the race and the crew dresses up in superhero outfits to full Viking wear. You will spot dragon boats, kayaks, gondolas even makeshift rowboats during this race. Most spectators make a fun day out of this by setting up picnics on the riverbanks.
10. London Sculpture Week (20th to 28th September)
The world of artists steps out during London Sculpture Week. Museums and galleries around the city of London, including the Royal Academy and Tate Modern, showcase works from sculptors from across the globe. Outdoor installations, including stone monoliths and metal structures, pop up across the city.
Why September Rocks in London
September in London is that magical in-between month. You get to experience the golden glow of summer, the warmth of autumn and a bustling calendar that refuses to slow down. The city is filled with tourists, thriving events and crowds.
When you are visiting these events and the day slows down, you will want to relax in a place that matches the energy of the city. That is where Space Apart can perfectly serve you. Space Apart is within the northern edge of Hyde Park and is a calm residential space that puts many of London’s attractions & landmarks within easy reach.
Self-contained luxury is what makes this property stand out. When stepping out, guests are surrounded by attractions like the London Eye, Trafalgar Square and Madame Tussauds. World-class shopping and dining options are within easy reach.
With Space Apart, you get to experience the comfort of stylish, serviced apartments in Hyde Park, the heart of London.
