For a memorable night out, the Dorchester in Mayfair is hosting Who’s Cooking Dinner? At this high-octane charity evening for Leukaemia UK, 20 top chefs – including Claude Bosi, Sally Abé and Francesco Mazzei – will each take over tables, serving a four-course menu to guests who won’t know who’s behind the stove until the night begins. A live auction adds extra excitement, and all proceeds go to blood cancer research. It’s a chance to enjoy Michelin-star cooking, rubbing shoulders with the culinary elite in a sleek, intimate setting.

The Dorchester, 53 Park Lane, Mayfair W1K 1QA; 15th September

Visit LeukaemiaUK.org.uk

Simon Stone’s contemporary take on Henrik Ibsen’s The Lady From The Sea has opened at the Bridge Theatre. Alicia Vikander stars opposite Andrew Lincoln in a gripping story of love, freedom and personal rebellion. In a modern setting, Stone’s direction emphasises raw emotion and tension, bringing the 19th-century classic into the present.

Bridge Theatre, Southwark, SE1 2SG; until 8th November

Visit BridgeTheatre.co.uk

Get your culture fix at the newly opened David Bowie Centre at the V&A East Storehouse from 13 September. Housing over 90,000 items – from handwritten lyrics to stage costumes – the collection charts Bowie’s influence on music, fashion and culture. The exhibition offers a rare chance to dive into the world of one of the 20th century’s most innovative artists.

V&A East Storehouse, E20 3AX; from 13th September

Visit VAM.ac.uk

Signature Brew Blackhorse Road is dedicating this weekend to the ultimate comfort food. Its Burger Fest rounds up cult favourites like Meatcastles, Black Bear Burger, Zephyr Burger and Smash N’ Slide for two days of bun-fuelled indulgence. Each trader will serve their signature creation for £10 or less, while the brewery keeps the pints flowing. Festival-goers can crown a ‘people’s champion’ and even enter Jarritos giveaways to win a Masterbuilt BBQ – perfect if you fancy recreating the action at home.

Signature Brew Blackhorse Road, Unit 15, Blackhorse Lane, Walthamstow, E17 5QJ 

Visit Tixr.com

A lively Irish boozer is throwing a one-off bash this weekend to mark the halfway point to St Patrick’s Day. Nancy Spains in Monument will be pulling pints of Murphy’s and serving up hearty snacks while live music brings the atmosphere of Dublin to the City. Expect sing-alongs, late-night dancing and plenty of craic as the party runs into the small hours.

143 Fenchurch Street, City, EC3M 5BS

Visit NancySpains.co.uk

For one week only, Open House Festival gives you access to some of London’s most interesting spaces – from hidden houses to architectural landmarks. This year’s line-up includes Ruislip’s Manor House, Greenview House and Westminster’s St Matthew’s Church, plus dozens more places across the capital. You can drop in, join a guided walk or book a session online to uncover design, history and stories from every corner of London.

Various locations; 13th-21st September 

Visit Programme.Openhouse.org.uk

Somerset House has a new dining destination courtesy of chef Imad Alarnab. Aram is part café, deli and restaurant, drawing inspiration from the flavours of Syria, Turkey, Cyprus and beyond. Mornings mean za’atar croissants, halva brownies and cardamom coffee. Lunchtimes are all about colourful salads and mezze-style plates, while evenings will soon feature charity suppers and communal feasts. 

Aram, Somerset House, Strand, West End, WC2R 1LA

Visit AramByImad.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…

One of London’s most photographed pubs, The Churchill Arms is as much a landmark as it is a watering hole. Famous for its flower-covered façade and Churchill memorabilia inside, it also serves excellent Thai food – best paired with a pint or two in its atmospheric bar.

Visit ChurchillArmsKensington.co.uk

On the banks of the Thames opposite Parliament, the serene Garden Museum also has a great café. Housed in a deconsecrated church, it mixes history with contemporary exhibitions on design, nature and landscape – plus, there's a tower climb for panoramic city views.

Visit GardenMuseum.org.uk

Set inside Whitechapel Gallery, Townsend is a grown-up spot for modern British dining. Pared-back interiors ensure the focus stays on the seasonal cooking and there are standout wines to match. Make it part of a cultural afternoon – exhibition first, then supper.

Follow @Townsend_Restaurant

Tucked away on a cobbled lane, The Holly Bush is one of north London’s most atmospheric pubs. Low beams, wood panelling and open fires make it a great choice for a Sunday pint or a hearty plate of fish pie.

Visit HollyBushHampstead.co.uk

The world’s oldest barbershop – established in 1805 – is still the benchmark for classic grooming. From traditional wet shaves to contemporary cuts, it’s discreet, polished and rooted in tradition, making it a central London go-to.

Visit TruefittAndHill.co.uk