Last minute inspiration for your bank holiday weekend and half term in London – exhibitions, performances and tours

Six at the Lyric Theatre
Ongoing
Hailed as ‘the most uplifting piece of new British musical theatre’ by the Evening Standard, see Henry VIII’s six wives transform into pop stars as they tell their stories of life with the king through the most catchy, fun songs!

Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature, Natural History Museum
17 May – 3 January
Learn how the wonders of the natural world have inspired myths, legends and the creation of mythical creatures.

Walden at the Harold Pinter Theatre
22 May – 12 June
A fascinating play about how circumstances forced two estranged twin sisters to face the rivalry which had driven them apart. Starring Gemma Arterton, Fehinti Balogun and Lydia Wilson.

The Victoria & Albert Museum: Alice: Curiouser and Curiouser
From 22 May
Charting the evolution, development and reinventions of Alice in Wonderland over the past 157 years, Alice: Curiouser and Curiouser will showcase illustrations, manuscripts, photographs, fashion and theatrical imaginings through an extremely family-friendly immersive experience.

Buckingham Palace State Room and Garden Tours
From 22 May
View the fascinating State Rooms of Buckingham Palace; whilst you are there, be sure to see Buckingham Palace Garden where you can explore the 39 acres of grounds and see historic highlights including the Plane trees planted by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and the lake’s island which is home to the Buckingham Palace bees.

Covent Garden Legends and Landmarks Tour
29 May – 14 July
Discover the history of the Royal Opera House and learn more about the legends of Covent Garden.
“From famous faces to hidden worlds, stunning architecture to society scandals, you’ll learn about the history of the theatres that have stood on this spot, and other theatres nearby.”

London Zoo: The Very Hungry Caterpillar & Friends
29 May – 6 June
Hear the classic tale of The Very Hungry Caterpillar read by the creature himself then follow the trail through giant fruits. The tour concludes in Butterfly Paradise where you will be able to see many beautiful varieties of butterflies. Craft activities will be on offer, including making seed bombs for your garden to attract your own butterflies!

Tower of London: Knight School
29 May – 6 June (daily performances at 10.30, 12.00, 13.30 and 15.00)
Watch an open air performance of Knight School: The Show, where you will be transported back to the fortress in 1471, when Henry VI was held captive here. This is a fantastic introduction to the history of the tower, which you can learn about further whilst exploring the site.

Van Gogh Alive, Kensington Gardens
4 June – 26 September
Come along to Kensington Gardens to enjoy a fully immersive, multi-sensory experience that takes you through the life and works of Van Gogh.

Return to blog