September Favourites 2019
Curious to catch a glimpse of the Queen's residence? Buckingham Palace is open to the public until the end of September.
More to do and enjoy in London and the UK in our September Favourites.
1st-30th September
An array of surprising, diverse and accessible arts and culture throughout the month of September along the 42-mile stretch of the Thames. The programme works collaboratively with artists, local communities, river interest organisations and businesses to spotlight the river with spectacular art to create a diverse and sustainable creative riverfront. We recommend: The Ship of Tolerance at Millennium Bridge, Heritage Cruise with Iain Sinclair and The Ship of Tolerance: A Concert for London.
4th - 14th September
Celebrating over 60 years of unparalleled artistry, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater presents three thrilling programmes of dance, all featuring the soul-stirring masterpiece, Revelations – the most seen modern dance piece in the world.
The legendary company’s irresistible dancers dazzle with their trademark technical brilliance and passionate energy, bringing audiences to their feet every night. Highlights include: the UK premiere of Rennie Harris’ uplifting Lazarus (Programme A); The Call which sees Ronald K. Brown offering up his love letter to Ailey set to the music of Bach (Programme B); and Ella, Artistic Director Robert Battle’s celebration of the legendary singer.
5th September
Making its world premiere in London, the Wolf of Wall Street immersive production is based on the famous movie about New York stockbroker, Jordan Belfort's memoir. This production was adapted and directed by Alexander Wright (The Great Gatsby). The Audience will dive into the world of greed, power, and excess.
14th September
This annual London River Marathon attracts over 330 crews from all over the world. The Great River Race is a boat race up the River Thames. The race is 21.6 miles from London Docklands to Ham in Surrey. It appeals to every level of competitor, from dedicated athletes who like winning, to those who enjoy laughter, fancy dress and charity stunts and it is a great day for competitors and spectators.
14th-22nd September
London Design Festival celebrates and promotes London as the design capital of the world. Design Districts are a key component of the Festival with each district constituting a cluster of events within a short walking distance of each other. Landmark Projects are major installations that create something extraordinary in response to a variety of stimuli such as a particular material, a theme or a location. A unique collaboration with the V&A fills the museum each September with an extraordinary range of design installations large and small, intricate and majestic.
21-22 September
Open House London is the world’s largest architecture festival, giving free public access to 800+ buildings, walks, talks and tours over one weekend in September each year. Visit London’s best buildings!
Check the full building listings or buy a printed guide to plan your visits over the weekend. They encourage buildings to keep access free to those who show up on the day, however some buildings (and particularly tours) will require pre-booking. Find out more on the individual buildings’ pages and plan your weekend in advance.
22nd September
The Chiswick House Dog Show invites all dogs to join in celebrating the canine world. This year's theme is about celebrating 50 years since the first moon landing. Put your thinking caps on for some great fancy dress ideas. There will be 18 fun classes, My Dog's Got Talent, celebrity judges, food and drinks, over 40 stalls, and an egg and spoon relay. By joining, everyone's efforts will be to raise money to fund projects that help to improve the Chiswick House of Garden.
29th September
London's festival for Japanese culture returns Sunday, 29 September. This free annual festival brings people together to celebrate Japanese food, music, dance, and activities for all the family. This year's concept is "Future Generations." This festival will be happening all day in Trafalgar Square. There will be two performance areas – the main stage and martial arts stage, as well as a family activity tent including manga, calligraphy, and origami. And of course, stalls providing information, Japanese goods and delicious Matsuri food!
20th Nov-5th Jan 2020
A sparkling after dark trail lights up Kew Gardens from the 20th Nov until 5th Jan every day 5pm – 10pm (advance booking only). Framed by glittering spiral trees, dynamic laser projections will illuminate the iconic Temperate House. A dazzling arch leads to a cascade of glowing silvery shards at the Treetop Walkway. Walk amongst immersive vines as they surprise with changing ribbons of light, and wander beneath the branches where mysterious fairy-fire known as Will-o’the Wisp softly glows. A lot of family favourites as well like the Holly Bushes that sings, the Tunnel of Light twinkles with thousands of pea-lights, and the flickering Fire Garden takes its place amidst the festive experience.
day trip: Leicester
Just over an hour from London, there’s a lot to discover in Leicester, from Richard III’s burial site to Roman ruins and a beautiful cathedral. Take a stroll down the cobbled streets of the Old Town, steeped in medieval history; enjoy the river and canal-side scenery in Aylestone; hang out with the fashionable crowd in the hustle and bustle of Queens Road independent shops and eateries or take in a show at the magnificent Curve theatre at the heart of St George’s Cultural Quarter. And there are museums like the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery, which has a great collection of Arts and Crafts Movement pieces. The possibilities for experiences are endless!
Manchester 27th Sep
Leeds 28th Sept 2019
Glasgow 29th Sept 2019
The Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert is touring all around the UK. The concert features the Oscar winning composer, John Williams' musical score. The concert is performed by the Novello Orchestra and conducted by David Mahoney live to the film. The tour will visit Manchester, Leeds, Glasgow, Birmingham, and Liverpool
Southampton 7th September
London 21st September
Cambridge 28th September
In the month of September, Shine Night Walk 10K will be happening in London, Birmingham, and Cambridge. Shine Night Walk gathers thousands of participants to light up the streets during a night-time walking marathon, half marathon, or 10K. Participants have to select the cancer type they want to support and raise funds for it.
Glasgow
2nd September-23rd November
Based at Òran Mór in the West End of Glasgow, A Play, a Pie and a Pint produces the most new-writing of any theatre in the UK. The idea of A Play, a Pie and a Pint is: a new play at lunchtime every week that lasts no more than an hour, accompanied by a pie and a pint. For a full schedule please click here.
10th-16th September
