Fall in love with London this autumn!
Step into October and discover the season’s events along the river.
A haunting half-term
Halloween is just around the corner! Enjoy these spooky and fun events, for all ages.
Shakespeare's Tales
This 31 October and 1 November, step into the eerie world of Shakespeare. Perfect for children aged 5–8 and their families, this fun, hands-on workshop uses games and activities to explore the play’s spooky characters, mysterious spells, and chilling themes. Join us in one of The Globe’s rehearsal rooms for a playful, slightly spooky family adventure.
Nearest Pier: Bankside
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Gory Stories Tour
Prepare to be horrified at the Golden Hinde from 25 October - 2 November as they peel back the pages of history to reveal the darkest and most spine-chilling tales ever told.
Join their expert storytellers as they guide you through centuries of bloodshed and brutality. Gory Stories is a family friendly tour that explores our gruesome past leaving you both fascinated and horrified.
Nearest pier: London Bridge City or Bankside
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Half-term Theatre
This half-term, join Hansel and Gretel at Fulham Palace on 30 October as they get lost in the woods and stumble upon a tempting gingerbread house. Their excitement soon takes a spooky twist when the seemingly kind old lady reveals her mysterious side! And on Friday 31 October they have Oscar the skeleton.
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Ascarium: Tricks & Treats
Dive into Ascarium: Tricks & Treats from 11 October to 2 November 2025, as the aquarium transforms with a spooky twist! Follow a magical trail to help witches and warlocks recover their missing potion ingredients, uncovering some of the eeriest sea creatures along the way. End your adventure in the Witch’s Lair, where a spell will unlock the treasure chest and reveal your special reward.
Nearest pier: London Eye (Waterloo)
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Climb into Half Term Fun at The O2
Looking for something unforgettable this half term? Take the kids on an adventure Up at The O2 and climb London’s most iconic roof! Throughout October, you can snap up 2-for-1 on children’s tickets with promo code UP241 — the perfect excuse for a family day out with a view.
Nearest pier: North Greenwich
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Halloween on Ice
Dust off your broomsticks and lace up your skates! On the 31 October join in Canary Wharf Ice rink for a spooky night on the ice with ghostly tunes, eerie lights and plenty of thrills. Dress as a witch, wizard, pumpkin or vampire and glide in style - perfect for families, friends or a fright-filled date night.
Nearest pier: Canary Wharf
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Spend the day making unlimited journeys (and memories) aboard our services with your family and sail pier-to-pier across London. A Family Hop-on Hop-off gives unlimited all-day travel to 2 adults and up to 3 children (5 to 15). Kids 4 and under travel free.
London Literature Festival
The London Literature Festival returns to Southbank Centre 21 October - 2 November, offering the capital's longest-running celebration of the written and spoken word. Every autumn, the festival presents a stellar lineup of renowned authors alongside emerging literary talents, making it a must-attend event for literature enthusiasts.
Nearest pier: London Eye (Waterloo)
Get ready to light up your November with the Battersea Park Fireworks!
On the 1 and 2 of November, South London's grandest fireworks display returns for a two-night extravaganza in Battersea Park.
Saturday night promises a magnificent firework show, a traditional bonfire, and an array of winter comfort foods, cosy mulled wine, and glow-in-the-dark face-painting.
Come along Sunday night for a family-oriented experience. Alongside delicious food, drinks, and face-painting, Sunday offers a unique, earlier light display perfect for the little ones, replacing the traditional bonfire with an awe-inspiring show.
Nearest Pier: Battersea Power Station
Diwali on the Peninsula
On 18 October, the Peninsula will come alive with a vibrant celebration of Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Enjoy a day filled with South Asian traditions, from lively dance and music performances to henna tattoos and a chai tea ceremony. Get creative with lantern-making and join the Riverside Lantern Parade in the evening. Delicious food will be at the heart of the festivities, with Canteen Food Hall and Bar serving flavorful dishes, alongside independent South Asian food vendors offering both savory and sweet treats.
Nearest pier: North Greenwich
Diwali in Trafalgar Square
Join the Diwali celebrations at Trafalgar Square on 20 October for a vibrant, free event! Enjoy lively stage performances, take part in dance workshops, and unwind with yoga and meditation sessions. There’s also a children’s zone packed with fun activities, making it a perfect family day out.
Nearest Pier: Embankment
Pop up at Gravesend Town pier
This autumn, join us at Gravesend Town Pier for a series of exciting pop-up events. From live entertainment and family-friendly activities to showcasing local food, drink and artists there’s something for everyone to enjoy by the river. There's even a café on hand serving delicious treats to make sure everyone stays refreshed!
The next event is a free photography exhibition, talk and workshop by artist Phil Fisk taking place on 11 and 12 October.
House & Garage night at Clipper Lounge EMB
If you're near Embankment, stop by Clipper Lounge EMB at Embankment Pier on the 23 October! Enjoy stunning riverside views with a drink from our menu of cocktails, beers, and more. Open to Uber Boat by Thames Clippers passengers and the public, it's the perfect spot for a quick refreshment or relaxing break by the Thames.
Don't miss
It's an artsy October
The Decorative Fair
The Decorative Fair returns from 30 September - 5 October, and it’s not just for interior designers. As one of London’s leading art fairs, it’s a must-visit for anyone passionate about antiques, fine and decorative art, or 20th-century design. Of the three annual editions (Spring, Autumn, and Winter), the Autumn Fair is a standout, with over 130 specialist dealers showcasing a remarkable selection of objects and art.
Nearest pier: Battersea Power Station
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1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair
Founded in 2013 by Touria El Glaoui, 1-54 is the first and only international art fair dedicated to contemporary African art and its diaspora. Held annually in New York, Marrakech, and London, the fair's name reflects the 54 countries of the African continent.1-54 returns to Somerset House from 16-19 October for its 13th year, featuring over 60 international exhibitors.
Nearest Pier: Embankment
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Affordable Art Fair Battersea
The Affordable Art Fair Battersea from 15 - 19 October offers the chance to explore the thrill of art collection with thousands of original artworks. 100 leading galleries from around the world will be showcasing the best in contemporary art, offering a world of inspiration.
Nearest Pier: Battersea Power Station
Find out moreBFI London Film Festival
BFI London Film Festival returns this October for its 68th edition, in partnership with the British Film Institute. Taking place from 8-19 October across various South Bank venues, the festival will also stream select events on BFI Player for those unable to attend in person. Don’t miss out on this exciting celebration of film!
Nearest pier: London Eye (Waterloo)
Oktoberfest at Between The Bridges
From 3-17 October, Oktoberfest returns to Between The Bridges for its biggest celebration yet, with overflowing two-pint steins, Bavarian-style street food, and party vibes inside a German Beer Hall-style venue on London’s South Bank.
Nearest Pier: London Eye (Waterloo)