Giles Guide to London: Exciting Events

Looking for plans this weekend? Discover exciting events from August 8th to 11th and explore a range of engaging activities and events happening in London that promise to pique your curiosity!

Cocktails in the City

Experience the ultimate cocktail celebration at "Cocktails in the City," where London's top 20 bars come together in one stunning venue. Enjoy expertly crafted drinks, interactive mixology sessions, live music and a vibrant atmosphere, all while sampling an array of unique and delicious cocktails. This event is a must-attend for cocktail enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy an unforgettable night out this weekend.

Date & Time:
Thursday August 8th, 2024, from 5:00pm - 10:00pm
Friday August 9th, 2024, from 4:00pm -10:00pm
Saturday August 10th, 2024, from 12:00pm - 4:15pm or 5:00pm - 10:00pm

Location: Bedford Square (right behind the St. Giles London Hotel)

Price: £24 per person

Event Website: For more details about the event and to purchase tickets please click here

 

London Craft Beer Festival 

Enjoy this weekend at the Craft Beer Festival for a celebration of the finest brews, featuring a curated selection of over 800 local and international craft beers from more than 100 breweries. A ticket for this event includes entry, all your beers as well as a souvenir glass to take home. Take in the vibrant atmosphere with live music, delicious food stalls, and the opportunity to meet the brewers behind your favourite beers. Don’t miss this ultimate craft beer experience!
Date & Time:
Friday August 9th, 2024, from 11:30am - 4:30pm or 6:00pm -11:00pm
Saturday August 10th, 2024, from 11:30am - 4:30pm or 6:00pm -11:00pm

Location: Tobacco Dock (Building), 50 Porters Walk, London E1W 2SF

Price: £65 per person

Event Website: For more details about the event, pricing and to purchase tickets please click here

 

The Journey of Illumination, presented by Hendrick’s Gin & Time Out

Experience the unexpected at "The Journey of Illumination," an immersive evening hosted by Hendrick’s Gin and Time Out in Dalston. Enjoy jaw-dropping entertainment, including cabaret star Le Gateau Chocolat and the Voguing extravaganza by Haus of Dons, while savouring delicious Hendrick’s Gin cocktails. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of wonder and awe on August 8 at MC Motors. One ticket will garner your entry to the event with a sample on arrival, along with two Hendrick’s Gin cocktails to drink at your leisure at the end of the experience.

Date & Time: Thursday August 8th, 2024; 30-minute time slots from 5:30pm - 9:00pm

Location: MC Motors, 28 Miller's Ave, London E8 2DS

Price: £15 per person

Event Website: For more details about the event and to purchase tickets please click here

 

Turning Tides Music Festival

Greenwich Peninsula's Turning Tides festival is transforming Design District into a bustling centre of live music. The event comprises a day full of renowned UK and international performers, all building to a headline performance by the explosive Girl Ray. Enjoy this weekend full of interactive art installations, live music, excellent food and drink, all set against the stunning riverside backdrop. Don’t miss this unique, family-friendly event that promises something for everyone.

Date & Time: Saturday August 10th, 2024, from 1:30pm- 10:30pm

Location: Design District, 13 Soames Walk, London SE10 0AX

Price: Free

Event Website: For more details about the event and to book a free ticket click here

 

Thamesmead Festival

Join the Thamesmead Festival for a celebration of music, culture, and community, featuring headliners Kele Le Roc and Terri Walker, along with local talents like Still Shadey and Groove 101. Enjoy diverse performances across multiple stages, including dance, spoken word, and acoustic sets, while savouring delicious cuisine from around the world. This vibrant, family-friendly event promises an unforgettable day of entertainment and creativity.

Date & Time: Saturday August 10th, 2024, from 12:00pm - 7:30pm

Location: Southmere Park, Hartslock Dr, London SE2 9XA

Price: Free

Event Website: For more details about the event and to book a free ticket click here

 

Art in the Park

Discover the creative side of Brixton at the Windmill's "Art in the Park" event, a vibrant celebration of local artistry set in a beautiful outdoor setting. Enjoy this year’s theme of “growth” with free drop-in workshops and activities suitable for all ages. This family-friendly event offers a unique opportunity to engage with the community and support local artists. Don't miss out on this inspiring day of art, creativity, and fun in the heart of Brixton.

Date & Time: Sunday August 11th, 2024 from 1:00pm - 5:00pm

Location: Windmill Gardens, 100 Blenheim Gardens, London SW2 5DA

Price: Free

Event Website: For more details about the event click here

 

Festival of Fairytales 2024

Immerse yourself in a magical celebration of storytelling and creativity at the Festival of Fairytales, guest curated by Originary Arts at the Garden Museum this summer. Designed to delight children aged 4-10 and their grown-ups, explore enchanted gardens, engage in creative workshops, and enjoy live performances set against the backdrop of a medieval church. Dress up as your favourite fairytale characters and let your imagination grow wild amidst giant peaches, magic beans, and global tales of bravery and transformation. Visit the Garden Museum this Sunday for a whimsical adventure where nature and fantasy collide!

Date & Time: Sunday August 11th, 2024 from 10:00am - 4:00pm

Location: Garden Museum, 5 Lambeth Palace Rd, London SE1 7LB

Price: £12 per adult; £5 per child (under 16); Free for children under 4

Event Website: For more details about the event and to buy tickets click here

 

The Big Market — Riverside East

This Sunday discover The Big Market’s amazing lifestyle and homeware market at Riverside East. Set along the scenic riverside, this market offers a delightful shopping experience with a wide array of fresh produce and homemade goods from local businesses. Eat, Drink, Shop, Relax this weekend at the Big Market.

Date & Time: Sunday August 11th, 2024 from 12:00pm - 6:00pm

Location: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, 5 Thornton Street, London, E20 2AD

Price: Free entry

Event Website: For more details about the event click here

 

Queer Market — Hackney Bridge

Visit Hackney Bridge this Saturday to explore the Queer Market, for a vibrant celebration of LGBTQIA+ culture and community! Enjoy a day filled with live music, diverse street food, and unique shopping opportunities in an atmosphere of inclusivity and joy. With a small donation starting from £1 to support the event, you can immerse yourself in a lively celebration of all things queer. Don’t miss this exciting event that promises great tunes, tasty treats, and a strong sense of community!

Date & Time: Saturday August 10th, 2024 from 12:00pm - 8:00pm

Location: Hackney Bridge, Units 1-28, Echo Building, E Bay Ln, London E15 2SJ

Price: Donations starting at £1

Event Website: For more details about the event and to make a donation to reserve a spot click here

 

Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition

Step into the whimsical world of Wes Anderson at this captivating exhibition, where the acclaimed filmmaker’s distinctive visual style and storytelling come to life. Explore meticulously crafted sets, vibrant colour palettes, and quirky characters that define Anderson's iconic films. With 7 themed rooms, interactive installations and more than 200 photos you are transported into the surreal universe of Wes Anderson. This exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the creative genius behind beloved classics and should not be missed!

Date & Time: Thursday - Sunday until August 25th

Location: 81-85 Old Brompton Road, London SW7 3LD

Price: Ticket Prices vary and start from £11.99 for adults

Event Website: For more details about the event and to book your ticket click here
 

No matter what you have in store for the weekend, London boasts an exciting array of events to enjoy. Immerse yourself in festival celebrations, join vibrant parties, discover colorful markets, explore captivating exhibitions, and much more! This dynamic city caters to all tastes, ensuring everyone can savor the experience. Maximise your time here and craft enduring memories with your loved ones.