For something truly out of the ordinary, Max Richter’s SLEEP performance is returning to London for the first time in nearly a decade. This epic eight-and-a-half-hour piece is designed to be listened to in bed, which explains why Alexandra Palace will be transformed into a giant dormitory for two special nights. Guests lie down, switch off and drift in and out of consciousness as Richter and his ensemble play through the night. At sunrise, a light breakfast is served. At £250 a ticket, it’s not cheap, but think of it as a boutique hotel stay with one of the world’s greatest living composers as your soundtrack.
 
Alexandra Palace Way, Muswell Hill, N22 7AY; 5th-6th September
 
Visit AlexandraPalace.com

For four evenings only, Kew’s stunning grounds will play host to some of Britain’s sharpest thinkers and most entertaining voices. The line-up ranges from Richard Osman’s dry wit to Mary Beard’s razor-sharp history lessons, plus appearances from Nicki Chapman and Alexander Armstrong. Each talk takes place beneath the stars in an outdoor theatre, creating a setting that’s as inspiring as the conversation. Whether you’re into literature, culture or just enjoy hearing smart people riff on big ideas, this is a rare chance to combine intellectual stimulation with a glass of something cold in one of London’s most beautiful backdrops.

Kew Gardens, Richmond, London; 4th- 7th Sept 2025

Visit InConversationAtKew.SeeTickets.com

Hoxton’s legendary boozer, The Macbeth, has reopened under new ownership and is looking better than ever. The pub has long been a hub for live music – hosting early gigs from Florence + The Machine and The xx, and more recently Fontaines D.C – and its new custodians are keeping that spirit alive. Jamie Allan, of Four Legs and The Plimsoll fame, has teamed up with Patrick Nolan to revive the interiors, restoring 19th-century murals and installing a new oak bar. The food menu leans Portuguese, with morcela sausage, pork and cheese rolls and snail rice all making an appearance. Drinks pour until late, with DJs and live acts set to keep the Hoxton faithful happy.

70 Hoxton Street, Hoxton, N1 6LP

Follow @TheMacbethHoxton

Missed Edinburgh this year? Soho’s Underbelly Boulevard is bringing the festival vibe to central London. Across September, it’s hosting a rotating line-up of comedy, cabaret and left-field theatre from Fringe stars. Highlights include Little Squirt by Darby James, a whip-smart one-man musical that earned rave reviews in Edinburgh, alongside cult favourite The Amazing Bubble Man. It’s the closest you’ll get to the Fringe without boarding a train north – and a sharp reminder of why Soho remains London’s cultural playground.

6 Walker’s Court, Soho, W1F 0BT; Various dates throughout September

Visit UnderbellyBoulevard.com

Peckham’s latest Vietnamese arrival is already drawing crowds thanks to its playful interiors and inventive cooking. By day, Lai Rai delivers bánh mì and iced coffee; by night, it transforms into a buzzing canteen-bar where cocktails accompany bold small plates. Expect vibrant takes on classic dishes – from sugarcane-skewered prawn lollies with rice and satay to smoky betel-leaf beef served with a coffee-barbecue jus. The décor is equally striking, with striped brickwork, neon flourishes and cinematic lighting giving it a Wes Anderson-style edge. Pop into the nearby Montpellier for a drink for the road. 

181 Rye Lane, Peckham, SE15 4TP

Visit LaiRai.London

If your commute is powered by podcasts, this is the event for you. Kings Place transforms into a live-recording hub, welcoming some of the biggest names in the audio world. No Such Thing As A Fish, The Allusionist, and dozens more comedy, history and niche shows will record in front of a live audience, with plenty of meet-the-host sessions and fringe events in the bar. The festival always uncovers rising stars too, so it’s a chance to discover the next big thing before everyone else is listening. 

Kings Place, King’s Cross, London, POSTCODE; 4th-14th September 

Visit KingsPlace.co.uk

Later this month, Barack Obama makes a rare London appearance for one night only. The 44th President of the United States will take to the stage at The O2 in conversation with historian David Olusoga. Expect insights into leadership, democracy, and global politics delivered with the clarity and optimism that defined his presidency. Obama’s talks are always part storytelling, part masterclass in resilience – and in a year of uncertainty, his perspective carries particular weight. Tickets are expected to go fast, so book now if you want to hear one of the world’s most influential figures speak in person.

The O2, Peninsula Square, Greenwich, SE10 0DX; 24th September

Visit TheO2.co.uk

Here’s where we spotlight some of London’s tried-and-tested hangouts. From top-drawer boozers to cultural icons, these are the classic spots worth having on your radar this weekend…

Part cultural hub, part design showcase, Japan House is where cutting-edge architecture, tech and craft sit alongside exhibitions on everything from manga to modern gastronomy. A sharp spot for an afternoon with substance.

Visit JapanHouseLondon.uk

Set inside a grand Georgian mansion, this eclectic spot blends antique-filled dining rooms with a cracking bar. It’s part restaurant, part curiosity shop – perfect for a long lunch or a late-night cocktail.

Visit BrunswickHouse.London

Right on the canal, this independent brewery serves inventive beers alongside stone-baked pizzas. With its industrial aesthetic and waterside terrace, it’s one of East London’s most reliable group hangouts.

Visit CrateBrewery.com

The home of cricket is as much about heritage as it is sport. Even without a match on, tours of the Pavilion and Long Room are a rite of passage – and a solid excuse to hit the Tavern afterwards.

Visit Lords.org

Part the iconic department store, Ruffians brings modern grooming to the heart of London. Expect sharp cuts, beard trims and straight-talking style advice in a space that feels more like an insider club than a barbershop.

Visit Ruffians.co.uk