Dine, drink and dance – here are the best things to do in London in September
It’s the start of a new month, which means it’s time to fill up your cultural calendar. As autumn arrives, London comes alive, from the last days of summer to the start of the new school year. London Fashion Week struts into town – and there are festivals galore with the London Design Festival, Open House London and Totally Thames Festival. Here are the best things to do in London in September 2026.
Tuesday 1 September
See an exhibition about the Notting Hill Carnival
Notting Hill Carnival may be over, but you can still relive the event at Carnival 60: Ian Watts at Outernet. Running from 27 August to 2 September 2026, the exhibition is free to attend and located in Tottenham Court Road. The award-winning photographer has created a visual experience across the screens, and it brings to life the colour and community of the carnival.
Where: Outernet, Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 8LH
When: 27 August to 2 September 2026
Contact: www.outernet.com
Wednesday 2 September
Catch Daniel Caesar live in London
Daniel Caesar is set to perform at The O2 in London on 2 September 2026. The singer’s rise has been built on patience. After earning early attention with the independently released EPs Praise Break in 2014 and Pilgrim’s Paradise in 2015, he broke through in a major way with his 2017 debut album, Freudian. That project turned him into a global name, thanks to its warm, intimate sound and tracks such as “Get You” with Kali Uchis and “Best Part” with H.E.R. Since then, the career highs have kept coming. “Best Part” won a Grammy, while his appearance on Justin Bieber’s “Peaches” alongside Giveon gave him his first No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100. More recently, the 2026 JUNO Awards recognised his reach with the International Achievement Award, while Son Of Spergy won Contemporary R&B Recording of the Year.
Where: The O2, Peninsula Square, North Greenwich, London SE10 0DX
When: Wednesday, 2 September 2026
Contact: www.theo2.co.uk
Thursday 3 September
See KATSEYE at The O2
K-pop sensation KATSEYE are bringing their WILDWORLD TOUR to the United Kingdom. Taking place in September, KATSEYE have announced that they will play The O2 in London on Thursday, 3 September 2026. Formed through the global talent project Dream Academy – the same company behind BTS, TXT and LE SSERAFIM – KATSEYE features an international line-up. The members come from the Philippines, South Korea, Switzerland, and the United States. The six-piece group includes Daniela, Lara, Manon, Megan, Sophia and Yoonchae. The group’s name is a reference to the gemstone chrysoberyl. Their songs are known for empowering lyrics and infectious hooks. The group’s breakthrough tracks include “Debut”, “My Way” and “Touch”.
Where: The O2, Peninsula Square, North Greenwich, London, SE10 0DX
When: Thursday, 3 September 2026
Contact: www.theo2.co.uk
Friday 4 September
Celebrate 30 years of Jay-Z
Rap icon Jay-Z will celebrate three decades in music with a headline concert at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on 4 and 5 September 2026. Born Shawn Carter in Brooklyn, the rapper has become one of hip-hop’s most influential artists, earning 25 Grammy Awards while building successful ventures across entertainment, fashion and sport. The London show will showcase a career filled with acclaimed albums, major collaborations and global hits, including “99 Problems,” “Hard Knock Life,” “Empire State of Mind” and “Run This Town.” Jay-Z has also worked with artists such as Alicia Keys, Beyoncé, Kanye West and Rihanna, although special guests for the concert have not been announced.
Where: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, 782 High Road, London, N17 0BX
When: 4 & 5 September 2026
Contact: www.tottenhamhotspurstadium.com
Saturday 5 September
Get your game on at Arcade Arena London
Arcade Arena London, a new entertainment destination, is opening in Lambeth on 5 September. Bringing together state-of-the-art technology, gaming icons and family-friendly fun, the venue promises an exciting new experience. Visitors can step inside their favourite games and become part of the action. The venue launches with three immersive games, including the PAC-MAN Live Experience where players are put in PAC-MAN’s shoes and can race through a glowing maze, collecting power, dodging ghosts and battling against the clock.
Where: Arcade Arena, 26 Lambeth High Street, London, SE1 7SJ
When: Opening 5 September 2026
Contact: https://arcadearena.co.uk
Sunday 6 September
Visit the Greenwich+Docklands International Festival
Get ready to be wowed at the Greenwich+Docklands International Festival. The festival returns from 21 August to 6 September, bringing together a dazzling programme of theatre, dance, circus and outdoor performances in public spaces. This year’s theme, We Move, celebrates movement, change and human connection through an exciting programme of international and homegrown talent. Best of all, every performance is free to attend.
Where: Across Greenwich, East London and Thamesmead
When: 21 August to 6 September 2026
Contact: https://festival.org
Monday 7 September
Take in the terrace at Café François
Enjoy the last days of summer at Café François in Borough Market. The Provence Terrace has been created in partnership with leading organic wine estate, Château Léoube. The concept brings the taste of the South of France to the capital. Chef Partner Matthew Ryle has launched a menu of Provence-inspired plates – dig into the Rotisserie Chicken while sipping on the Château Léoube Rosé.
Where: Café François, 14 to 16 Stoney Street, London, SE1 9AD
When: Daily from 8am to midnight
Contact: www.cafefrancois.london
Tuesday 8 September
Have a laugh at Under the Influence
Following Under the Influences run at this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe, it will transfer to King’s Head Theatre in London. The musical will run from 8 to 26 September, and has been created by The Gilbert Twins and Shona Maule. The story explores couples therapy and co-dependency, all with comedy and chaos.
Where: King’s Head Theatre, 116 Upper Street, Islington, N1 1QP
When: 8 to 26 September 2026
Contact: https://kingsheadtheatre.com
Wednesday 9 September
Catch Bon Jovi in London
You’re half way there – the Bon Jovi: Forever Tour is coming to Wembley Stadium in London. Taking place on 4, 6 and 9 September 2026, this is a rare chance to watch the rock legend in action. The tour also heads to Dublin and Edinburgh. Expect big anthems including Livin’ On A Prayer, It’s My Life, and You Give Love a Bad Name.
Where: Wembley Stadium, Wembley, London HA9 0WS
When: 4, 6 and 9 September 2026
Contact: www.wembleystadium.com
Thursday 10 September
Be wowed by history at The Bayeux Tapestry
From 10 September 2026, The Bayeux Tapestry arrives at the British Museum in London for the very first time. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this extraordinary treasure, marking almost 1,000 years since it was last in England. Stretching an astonishing 70 metres in length, the piece tells the story of the Norman invasion and the Battle of Hastings in 1066. The exhibition will bring this pivotal moment in history to life and explore everything from warfare and ships to clothing, food and furniture.
Where: The British Museum, Great Russell Street, London, WC1B 3DG
When: 10 September 2026 to 11 July 2027
Contact: www.britishmuseum.org
Friday 11 September
Check out Beefbar at Dear Jackie
Get ready for some meat, glorious meat. Beefbar can be found around the world, from Dubai to Riyadh. This September, Beefbar at Dear Jackie will open at Broadwick Soho in London, and here’s what to expect. The new venue will take over the ground-floor bar and lower-ground restaurant at Broadwick Soho. The spaces were previously home to Dear Jackie and, before that, Bar Jackie. The name Dear Jackie was inspired by the owner’s mother.
Where: Beefbar at Dear Jackie, Broadwick Soho, 20 Broadwick Street, Soho, London, W1F 9NE
When: Opening 10 September 2026
Contact: www.broadwicksoho.com
Saturday 12 September
See Sam Smith at the London Coliseum
Sam Smith is returning to London for an intimate eight-night residency at the London Coliseum this September. Part of the global To Be Free residency series, the shows will take place on 8, 9, 11, 12, 15, 16, 18 and 19 September 2026. The run marks Smith’s first UK concerts since 2023’s Gloria arena tour and follows performances in New York, San Francisco and Mexico. The concerts arrive shortly after the release of Smith’s fifth studio album, Hazel Eyes, featuring singles including “My Guy”, “To Be Free” and “Love Is A Stillness”. With a catalogue spanning “Stay With Me”, “Too Good at Goodbyes”, “Dancing With a Stranger” and “Unholy”, the residency offers a rare chance to see one of Britain’s biggest pop stars in a theatrical setting.
Where: London Coliseum, St Martin’s Lane, London, WC2N 4ES
When: 8 to 19 September 2026
Contact: https://londoncoliseum.org
Sunday 13 September
Watch the St Katharine Docks Classic Boat Festival
Get swept away by the beauty of the St Katharine Docks Classic Boat Festival Taking place on 12 and 13 September 2026, visitors can watch more than 50 historic vessels sail into St Katharine Docks. The charming celebration also includes music, talks and family-friendly activities.
Where: St Katharine Docks, 50 St Katharine’s Way, London, E1W 1LA
When: 12 to 13 September 2026
Contact: www.skdocks.co.uk
Monday 14 September
Have dinner at KOBE Mayfair
One of Mayfair’s newest steakhouse arrivals, KOBE has brought its beef-first concept to 16 Hay Hill, taking over the former Lusin site. The restaurant is among a select number of UK venues officially registered with the Kobe Beef Association in Japan, giving diners access to certified Kobe beef alongside a broader selection of premium Wagyu. The menu keeps the focus firmly on the meat, with dishes such as Wagyu tataki and steak tartare with pickled daikon, shallots, smoked olive oil and sriracha setting the tone before the headline cuts arrive. Open daily for lunch and dinner, the London flagship combines serious sourcing with a sleek Mayfair setting, making it a destination for steak lovers looking to explore some of the world’s most prized beef.
Where: KOBE Mayfair, 16 Hay Hill, Mayfair, London, W1J 8NY
When: Daily from 12pm to 11pm
Contact: www.kobe-restaurant.co.uk
Tuesday 15 September
Join Shoreditch Design Week
Shoreditch Design Week forms part of the London Design Festival. Running from 15 to 20 September, it brings together design, creativity and innovation. The event takes place across more than 60 showrooms, galleries and creative spaces. The festival includes four exhibition venues, which will showcase emerging designers, ground breaking materials, and neurodivergent design. Plus, the Sanctum of Renewal art installation is on show at Hart Shoreditch.
Where: Across Shoreditch
When: 15 to 20 September 2026
Contact: https://londondesignfestival.com
Wednesday 16 September
Check out the Chelsea Arts Festival
Chelsea Arts Festival brings together all things cultural. Check out the art markets, comedy shows, dance performances, readings and more. The guests include Bernardine Evaristo, Nish Kumar, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Mishal Husain, and Bella Freud. As this year marks 50 years since punk exploded on the King’s Road, there will be a celebration of the genre. Saatchi Gallery will host A Night of T/Reason, which brings together voices from the era.
Where: Across Chelsea
When: 16 to 20 September 2026
Contact: www.kingsroad.co.uk
Thursday 17 September
Watch Turning the Tide in Blackfriars
It can sometimes feel like you are walking on a movie set in London. Join the free screening of Turning the Tide, a film and projection installation by the Turner Prize-nominated artist, Catherine Yass. projected onto the disused Blackfriars Railway Bridge columns, it forms part of the Totally Thames Festival.
Where: Blackfriars Bridge, Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 9UD
When: 17 to 20 September 2026
Contact: https://thamesfestivaltrust.org
Friday 18 September
Catch Baby Keem in the capital
Baby Keem brings The Ca$ino Tour to London this September. The American rapper was brought up in a musical family – his cousin is Kendrick Lamar, after all. His songs combine influences of hip-hop and trap. In 2019, he released his debut single “Orange Soda”. His singles also include “Booman,” “Family Ties,” and “Lost Souls”. The tour supports the Grammy winner’s latest album Ca$ino, released in February 2026. The project leans into maximal, arena-sized swagger.
Where: O2 Academy Brixton, 211 Stockwell Road, Brixton, London, SW9 9SL
When: Friday 18 September 2026 at 7pm
Contact: www.ticketmaster.co.uk
Saturday 19 September
Watch Cate Blanchett at the National Theatre
Cate Blanchett and Nina Hoss take to the stage in Electra at the National Theatre. Running from 19 August to 10 October, the show follows Electra, a daughter consumed by rage, and Persona, an actress who suddenly falls silent. The show fuses together myth and modern psychology, and explores identity.
Where: Lyttelton Theatre, National Theatre, South Bank, London SE1 9PX
When: 19 August to 10 October 2026
Contact: www.nationaltheatre.org.uk
Sunday 20 September
Discover London landmarks at Open House Festival
London is home to iconic buildings, including 10 Downing Street, BBC Broadcasting House and the BT Tower. If you’ve ever been curious about what’s behind those doors, Open House Festival 2026 is here to help. Running from 12 to 20 September, the event unlocks the capital in a unique way. This year, the locations include the Barbican Conservatory, Leadenhall Market, The Lloyd’s Building, and Zaha Hadid Foundation archive.
Where: Across London
When: 12 to 20 September 2026
Contact: https://programme.openhouse.org.uk
Monday 21 September
Be inspired by London Fashion Week
London Fashion Week struts into town. Running from 17 to 21 September 2026, it includes a stylish programme of shows, presentations, and events. The biggest British designers will be showcasing their latest collections. While the event is invitation only, there will be a range of activations across the capital – and you may well bump into a famous fashionista face or three.
Where: Across London
When: 17 to 21 September 2026
Contact: https://londonfashionweek.co.uk
Tuesday 22 September
Check out the FACT Dining Awards London
The FACT Dining Awards London return to the capital on Tuesday, 22 September 2026. The invite-only event celebrates the culinary talent, innovation and diversity that make London’s dining scene so exciting. The winners will be revealed at an invite-only ceremony at CÉ LA VI London, with 53 awards across 27 cuisine categories.
Where: CÉ LA VI London, 1 Paddington Square, Paddington, London, W2 1DL
When: Tuesday 22 September 2026
Contact: www.factmagazines.com
Wednesday 23 September
Watch soul stars at Blue Note London
St Martins Lane Hotel in London is set to welcome Greenwich Village’s jazz club, Blue Note. Opening on 23 September 2026, the new bar will be located in the basement of the hotel. In 1981, Blue Note first opened in New York and welcomed emerging and established artists from around the world. Over the years, the list has included Dizzy Gillespie, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Oscar Peterson, Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder.
Where: Blue Note, St Martins Lane Hotel, 42 to 49 St Martin’s Lane, London, WC2N 4EJ
When: Opening 23 September 2026
Contact: www.bluenotejazz.com
Thursday 24 September
Join Thirsty Thursdays at the Golden Hinde
The Golden Hinde ship in Southwark is being transformed into a floating pub. Running every Thursday from 5.30pm to 10pm until 24 September 2026, Thirsty Thursdays offers a unique way to enjoy a pint or three. Built in 1973, the Golden Hinde is a full-size reconstruction of the galleon sailed by Sir Francis Drake, who became the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe. Visitors can hop aboard the historic ship, grab a drink and soak up the atmosphere as they explore one of London’s most unusual drinking spots.
Where: The Golden Hinde, St Mary Overie Dock, Cathedral Street, Southwark, London, SE1 9DE
When: Thursdays from 5.30pm to 10pm until 24 September 2026
Contact: www.goldenhinde.co.uk
Friday 25 September
Party the night away at The View From The Shard
Fabric is one of London’s most famous clubs. Located in Farringdon, it hosts drum and bass DJs, welcoming the likes of Craig Richards and Terry Francis. Now, Fabric is bringing the party to The View From The Shard on 12 and 25 September. The venue will host sunset sets on the open-air viewing platform, and each date features a different DJ and musical style.
Where: The Shard, 32 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9SG
When: 12 and 25 September 2026
Contact: www.fabriclondon.com
Saturday 26 September
Check out the classic musical Rent
Rent is heading to the West End in London. Opening on 26 September 2026 at the Duke of York’s Theatre, it brings to life Jonathan Larson’s musical masterpiece. Directed by Luke Sheppard, it is a reworking of Giacomo Puccini’s opera La Bohème. The show tells the story of young artists in New York, and explores chaos, conflict and creativity. Stranger Things Star Gaten Matarazzo Will Make His West End debut in the production.
Where: Duke of York’s Theatre, St Martin’s Lane, Covent Garden, London WC2N 4BG
When: From 26 September 2026
Contact: https://rentthemusical.com
Sunday 27 September
Cheer on tennis stars at the Laver Cup
Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev are just some of the top tennis players confirmed for the Laver Cup. Taking place from 25 to 27 September, it is being held at The O2 in London. The cup was created in honour of the tennis legend, Rod Lavar, and Team World is being captained by Andre Agassi.
Where: The O2, Peninsula Square, London, SE10 0DX
When: 25 to 27 September 2026
Contact: https://lavercup.com
Monday 28 September
Visit the newly opened bar Tryst
It’s time to raise a glass to a new cocktail bar. The team behind Trèsind have opened Tryst in Mayfair. Inspired by the diverse flavours of India, the speakeasy-style venue is tucked away beneath Trèsind, and offers an intimate new destination for cocktail lovers. The conceptcelebrates India’s rich regional flavours through an inventive drinks programme. Regional Indian ingredients are reimagined using techniques including fermentation, clarification, milk washing, carbonation and sous-vide infusions, giving familiar flavours a fresh and unexpected twist.
Where: Tryst, 13-14 Hanover Street, Mayfair, London, W1S 1YH
When: Daily from 5:30pm to 12am
Contact: https://tresind.co.uk
Tuesday 29 September
See James Blake live in Brixton
James Blake recently released his latest album, Trying Times, and announced the dates for his world tour. Blake will perform his first self-released album during a headline show at London’s O2 Academy Brixton on 29 September 2026. On Trying Times, Blake draws inspiration from both pop and classic R&B for a work that primarily explores themes of love and existential dread. His work has historically intertwined dance music with singer-songwriter melodies. His hit songs include “Don’t Miss It,” “Godspeed,” “King’s Dead” and “Retrograde.”
Where: O2 Academy Brixton, 211 Stockwell Road, Brixton, London, SW9 9SL
When: Tuesday 29 September 2026
Contact: www.academymusicgroup.com
Wednesday 30 September
Visit the Away That Day pop-up in Harrods
If you’re not ready to say goodbye to the sun, thensoak up the last of summer at the Away That Day pop-up in Harrods. Running until 30 September, here you can find a selection of the brand’s best-loved warm-weather styles. Choose from sarongs to swimwear, and maxi dresses to mini dresses.
Where: Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7XL
When: Until 30 September 2026
Contact: www.harrods.com