Free things to do in London this week.
Looking for more free things to do in London? Here are 102 of em! We’ve also compiled this epic map of free stuff in London, and have a helpful guide on where to see art in London for free, and where you can catch cheap and free comedy or live music for free.
Catch the final week of this David Hockney show
Serpentine North’s David Hockney exhibition begins in a couple of weeks, but if you can’t wait that long, swing by Annely Juda Fine Art (Hanover Square) for the final week of Some Very, Very, Very New Paintings Not Yet Shown In Paris. As the name suggests, it’s an exhibition of never-seen-before works finished by Hockney in the last few months, all showcasing his dedication to ‘reverse perspective’ in painting.
Until 28 February.
Ogle celebs in a swanky hotel
Liam Gallagher, Bill Nighy, Cate Blanchett, Denzel Washington… you’re guaranteed to spot all these and more at the Corinthia London hotel in Whitehall right now — appearing as they do in Lorenzo Agius’s free exhibition, Look At Me. You’ll find the pictures arranged in the lounge, and while you might choose to enjoy them sat down with a cup of coffee/glass of fizz, you can simply nip in and check them out.
Until 28 February.
Delve into London’s affairs of the heart
Guildhall Library hosts guide Pete Smith on Tuesday afternoon, for a free talk about the romantic side of the capital. Hear about optimistic assignations, regretful leave-takings, a sprinkling of cads and flirts… and more than one soppy statue. Watch in person at Guildhall Library, or online.
24 February.
Get an intro to Women in Print
The William Morris Gallery’s current exhibition, Women in Print, celebrates the women who have been at the core of creating department store Liberty’s iconic print fabrics. On Tuesday, you can get deeper insight with a free introductory tour to the exhibition, and delve further into its objects and themes.
24 February.
Let your best idea take off
British entrepreneur and bestselling author Simon Squibb is at the London Palladium for a special (free!) event celebrating 80 years of airline Cathay Pacific.
He shares his entrepreneurial experience in starting over 19 different companies and investing in 78+ start-ups, and gives audience members a chance to pitch their own ideas to him, live. Standout ideas might potentially be supported by the airline.
25 February.
Gen up on JMW Turner
More than 250 years after his birth, get to know the art of JMW Turner a bit better. Arts Society Lecturer Val Woodgate gives a free talk about his life and career on Thursday afternoon, from his training under Joshua Reynolds at the Royal Academy, to his later years when he produced some of his best work.
Watch the talk in person at Guildhall Library, or online.
26 February.
Consider the ethics of satire
The rights and wrongs of satire in a historical context are under discussion in Thursday’s free Gresham College lecture. Professor Judith Hawley talks about how the role of satire has been challenged, and satirists themselves have come under attack, in recent years, prompting a debate about the links between free speech and hate speech.
Watch in person at Barnard’s Inn Hall, or online.
26 February.
See Docklands illuminated after dark
An evening of large-scale outdoor performances and installations inspired by the four elements awaits at UEL’s After Dark festival on Thursday. Open to everyone, and taking place at the Docklands Campus, the show is a mash-up of lights, fire and circus performances. Highlights include Osadia, an interactive hair-sculpting performance which transforms participants into glowing, dramatic artworks, and The Light Ship by Circo Rum Ba Ba — an illuminated ship with playful performers aboard.
26 February.
Get to know Highgate at a Heritage Weekend
The history and community of the Highgate area is celebrated at the Lauderdale House Heritage Weekend, which offers a programme of free events across two days.
Saturday is the Local Heritage Fair, where you can meet representatives from 20 different organisations including Camden History Society, Friends of Kenwood, and Highgate Society. Hear free short talks on topics including the lives of 10 girls and women buried together in an unmarked grave in Highgate Cemetery.
Sunday is family day, with themed arts and crafts sessions, and a trail to follow through the house, with free chocolate for the first 50 children to complete it.
28 February-1 March.
And something rather lovely that’ll cost you less than a fiver…
Shake off the soot and noise of the city, with a two-hour nature journaling walk and workshop setting off from Barnes Common on Saturday morning. Jot down words, pictures — and even numbers — as you record your observations on this easygoing stroll, with a chance to discuss findings with fellow journalers at the end. It’s £3.96 (inc.booking fee).
28 February.
