What’s on in London – September 2023

With a selection of unmissable events, September 2023 in London is just like that gift that keeps on giving! Kickstart the month by immersing yourself in the rhythmic embrace of Totally Thames, where the river comes alive with a month-long exhibition of art, culture and festivities. Next up, the UK Capital’s architectural gems invite you to explore hidden treasures and iconic structures at Open House London 2023. And for all you design enthusiasts, the London Design Festival is a playground of innovation and creativity. London in September is your canvas for discovery, so grab your curiosity and let’s paint the town!

Totally Thames: 1 Sep – 1 Oct

Dive into a world of wonder along the iconic River Thames this September as Totally Thames returns for an exhilarating month-long celebration of arts and culture. It’s a dynamic tapestry of creativity that unfolds on, beneath, and beside the Thames.

With over 90 spellbinding events, there’s something for everyone. From enchanting pop-up performances to boating adventures that let you explore the river’s secrets, here’s your chance to witness art installations that transform the riverbank into an open-air gallery. Get hands-on with river clean-ups, or immerse yourself in live performances, talks and workshops that ignite your imagination.

FT Weekend Festival: 2 Sep

Are you looking for more meaningful conversations than what’s on social media? Look no further than Kenwood House in Hampstead. At the FT Weekend Festival, brilliant minds converge to discuss contemporary politics, big data, interiors, arts and.

Get ready for a guided Portuguese wine tasting led by Master of Wine Julia Harding and a captivating panel on the future of podcasts, featuring Radio 1’s Greg James. It’s a day for thinkers, dreamers, and doers. Ditch the keyboard, grab your notepad, and let in person conversations ignite your intellect.

Open House London 2023: 6 – 17 Sep

Discover the Capital’s hidden gems at Open House London 2023, where some of the city’s top landmarks throw open their doors for all to explore. This colossal annual festival transforms London into an open book of secrets, granting access to private residences, government edifices and historic enclaves that are mostly kept a mystery to the public.

With free half-hourly tours and inviting walk-ins, Open House London is nothing short of a smorgasbord of architectural wonders. Here, you will be served with a thrilling amalgamation of walks, talks and tours, offering a rare glimpse into the city’s hidden treasures.

The Home of Food Festival: 9 – 10 Sep

Your taste buds are in for a culinary adventure at Lord’s Cricket Ground, where the hallowed turf transforms into the Home of Food Festival for one unforgettable weekend. Renowned chefs, led by Tommy Banks, a three-time Great British Menu champion, will whip up some tantalising dishes.

But that’s not all – the pièce de résistance is an all-star dining experience featuring a four-course extravaganza crafted by a stellar lineup of Michelin-starred maestros. Enjoy wine tastings and cocktail masterclasses as the kids play cricket. The sport’s true loyalists can take part in a guided tour of Lord’s iconic spaces.

Greenwich Comedy Festival: 13 – 17 Sep

Prepare for a laugh riot at the 15th anniversary of the Greenwich Comedy Festival. Set against the historic backdrop of the National Maritime Museum, this year’s lineup is nothing short of comedy royalty. For a reasonably-priced ticket, indulge in over two hours of hilarity featuring four to five top-notch comedians per show.

Catch the legendary Jack Dee, the irreverently funny Ed Gamble from Off Menu and Netflix sensation Phil Wang, all under the Big Top. Joining the laughter brigade are Taskmaster star Fern Brady, the incomparable Russell Kane, ventriloquist extraordinaire Nina Conti and the genius of wit, Stewart Lee. Plus, discover a treasure trove of fresh comedic talent. Get ready to laugh till your sides ache!

England vs New Zealand: 13 & 15 Sep

Cricket fever will grip London again as England takes on New Zealand in the last two matches of what is expected to be a thrilling One Day International series! On September 13th, the iconic Oval will host the 3rd ODI and on the 15th, Lord’s Cricket Ground will host the fourth and final game.

Relive the memories of the glorious World Cup 2019 final, where the Three Lions finally brought the cup home. As the defending champions gear up for the world cup in India later this year, taking on the Kiwis is expected to be a mouthwatering clash between the two powerhouses of cricket.

London Design Festival: 16 – 24 Sep

Celebrate our beloved city’s reign as the design capital of the world at the 21st edition of the London Design Festival. The iconic festival has been a driving force behind London’s booming design industry, and it’s only getting better.

This year, in tribute to the legendary Sir Christopher Wren, the festival showcases two mesmerising Landmark Projects, honouring his architectural and scientific legacy. The V&A Museum will serve as the festival’s creative hub, transformed by contemporary designers. Join the global design community and explore the future of aesthetics at LDF 2023!

The Great River Race: 16 Sep

Get ready for an aquatic spectacle at The Great River Race! As the River Thames transforms into a marathon course, 200 boats and over 1,500 competitors embark on an epic journey from Millwall in the East to Richmond in the West, conquering all 28 of the city’s bridges.

It’s a dazzling showcase of determination, where athletes chase their records and revellers embrace the thrill of fancy dress, laughter and charitable giving. From dedicated rowers to those out for sheer fun, this 21-mile river marathon is a fun day out.

How The Light Gets In London 2023: 23 -24 Sep

Hosted at Kenwood House, this annual philosophy and music festival, brought to life by the Institute of Arts and Ideas, promises an electrifying lineup.

Sip wine as you dive deep into theories, science and politics, guided by some of the brightest minds. From world-renowned philosophers to Mercury Prize-winning music maestros, top political figures to rib-tickling stand-up comics, here’s your chance to witness how the light gets in!