Things to do:
First up, the Cartier Exhibition at the V&A.
If you like shiny things — and I mean really shiny — head to the Victoria and Albert Museum in South Kensington for the jaw-dropping Cartier exhibition. It features over 350 dazzling pieces, tracing the evolution of the iconic French jeweller from the early 1900s to today. You’ll see Grace Kelly’s engagement ring from High Society, Jackie Kennedy’s original Tank watch, and Queen Elizabeth II’s famous pink diamond brooch. Honestly, this is like walking through the jewellery equivalent of the Louvre.
🎟️ Tickets vary, but check the V&A website. The museum’s super accessible — just hop off at South Kensington station.
Hungry for haggis and house music?
This Saturday, check out Auld Hag’s Scottish Gala Day at Two Tribes Campfire in King’s Cross. Expect banging food from Scottish deli The Shoap, plus other vendors like Sonora and Mondo. There’ll be music from Big Miz, Theo Kottis, and Medlar — and yes, they’re crowning a Gala Queen. It’s a proper modern take on an old-school Scottish tradition, right in the heart of London.
🎟️ Entry’s free, and you can get there easily via King’s Cross St Pancras.
Need a break from the city buzz?
Hackney City Farm is calling your name. Wander among cute animals, check out their volunteer-run gardens, or sign up for a nature or sustainability workshop. If that’s not relaxing enough, grab a table at Frizzante, the on-site Italian spot serving fresh, seasonal dishes. Every Thursday, they host an agriturismo dinner with live music — yes please.
🎟️ It’s free to enter, and the farm’s not far from Hoxton Overground or Cambridge Heath station.
Feeling regal but budget-conscious?
This weekend (May 10–11), Hampton Court Palace is holding one of its Open Garden Weekends. That means you can visit parts of the gardens — like the Great Fountain Garden, Pond Garden, and Kitchen Garden — without paying a penny. You’ll still need a ticket if you want to go inside the palace or try the maze, but hey, wandering royal gardens for free? Yes.
🚆Take a train from Waterloo to Hampton Court, and you’re basically there.
Got a nerdy side or love niche films?
The Open City Documentary Festival is running until May 11, with screenings at cinemas across London, including the Barbican. There are docs on everything from forest fires to Henry Fonda — so if you’re curious, you’ll find something to dive into.
🎟️ Tickets start at £6. Plus, if you haven’t been to the Barbican yet, go. Brutalist architecture, artsy vibe — even if you’re not into concrete, it’s a cool place to explore. Link’s in the show notes.
Need a laugh?
The London Comedy Film Festival is happening at Ritzy Brixton all weekend. Expect quirky shorts, like Two Big Feet — a conspiracy theory comedy — and films that blend romance, ghosts and dark humour.
🎟️ Tickets vary, and it’s at Ritzy Cinema, right near Brixton station on the Victoria line.
Into art you can actually afford?
Wimbledon Art Fair is on now through Sunday. Over 180 artists are showing off their work, and you can buy directly from them — no middleman, just good vibes and affordable art. The best part? You can actually wander into artists’ studios. There’s live music and a bar on launch night too.
🎟️ Free entry. Take the green District line straight to Wimbledon. If you’ve just moved into a flat that’s feeling a bit bland, this is your answer.
Tate Modern turns 25!
Celebrate at their Birthday Weekender with special talks, tours, and late-night openings. It’s all free and happening at one of London’s most iconic galleries — housed in a former power station, no less.
🗓️ Runs through May 12. Nearest station? Blackfriars or Southwark — both a short walk away.
Love music and vinyl?
Check out the Independent Label Market this Saturday at Coal Drops Yard in King’s Cross. Indie labels will be selling their latest records, and there’ll be DJs and live music all day. Bonus: local artists and printmakers will be there too.
🎟️ Free entry. And if you’ve never been to Coal Drops Yard, it’s got a fascinating past — it used to store coal arriving by train in the 19th century. Now? It’s one of London’s coolest retail and event spaces.
Now for something magical
The London Hot Air Balloon Regatta might happen this weekend. It hasn’t been held since 2019, thanks to, you know, the world ending and bad weather. But fingers crossed — if it goes ahead, dozens of hot air balloons will float over London early Sunday morning, taking off from Battersea Park.
🎈 It’s free, but you’ve gotta be an early bird — we’re talking 5:30am. You’ll know by Friday if it’s on, so check the website or social for updates.
Last but not least, something to make some noise about —
The Festival of Percussion at the Royal College of Music is happening this Sunday only (May 11). It’s a full day of family-friendly workshops, talks, and concerts. Jazz/hip hop/funk/neo-soul legend Gregory Hutchinson is performing too.
🎟️ Check their site for tickets. You’ll get a map and a full schedule on arrival. It’s in South Kensington, so it’s easy to get to.
Bonus vintage vibes?
Head to Chelsea Old Town Hall for the Frock Me Vintage Fair. This is the place to find rare fashion from the Victorian era to pre-loved designer labels. Over 60 top dealers from across the UK will be there. If you’re into fashion, or just appreciate timeless style, don’t miss this.
🎟️ Tickets range from £6.13 to £8.30. Chelsea Old Town Hall is right on King’s Road, so you’re walking in fashion history.
