October is such a special time to visit London; summer is well and truly over, and we embrace the start of the cosy months in the capital.

Think crunchy golden leaves, seasonal coffee syrups and spooky themed snacks!

The ‘Ber months are really some of my favourites in London; there’s something magical about these months which makes me feel nostalgic and just like a kid again every time they roll around. 

Whether you are planning an afternoon in London or a full blown holiday, here are some tips and ideas to help you get the best out of your visit.

October in London: Things to Do, Eat and Drink

Halloween Activities in London throughout October

Halloween lovers rejoice!

If you’re a fan of spooky season, you will definitely want to check out the Halloween events London has in store! Whether you prefer spine chilling thrills or perhaps you’re more of a cosy pumpkin patch person, there’s bound to be something up your street.

• There are plenty of parties going on across London; get creative with your costume and head out for some drinks. Even if you’re not planning to party, it’s always a fun time of year for people watching on the tube! The Lucky Pig are hosting a free-to-attend, spook-tacular soirée, serving cocktails including Mar-ghoul-Ritas, Zombies, or Palo-Mares, with 25% off all drinks on 31st October.
• London’s museums run monthly ‘Lates’; themed evening events where you can explore the exhibitions by night, and take part in pop up activities. Last October I attended a Halloween themed Late at the Science Museum, and there was all sorts of weird and wonderful workshops to get involved in. We got to create realistic looking scars and wounds using latex and make up, there was a best dressed competition complete with catwalk and even a silent disco; plus the bar was open so we could grab a glass of wine or two. Such an interesting and educational evening!
• Take the kids on a Halloween-inspired Kids Bus Tour with sightseeing company Tootbus this October half-term. Discover London’s history, enriched with fun facts and stories told by our live guides, and be entertained with some spooky tales, ghoulish facts and stories to reveal a darker side of London this Halloween, plus kids will be treated to some spooky treats (from 18th October to 2nd November)
• Brave the London dungeon and their free fall drop ride ‘Drop Dead’ as well as their Tyrant boat ride which takes passengers on a journey through Henry VIII’s reign.
• It is the season of the witch afterall, so why not jump on the train and head to Harry Potter Studios for their ‘Discover the Dark Arts’ halloween celebrations; expect hundreds of floating pumpkins, Death Eater encounters and you’ll get the chance to perfect your duelling techniques!

Weather and what to Wear in London during October

London is known for unpredictable weather, and October is no different; it can go from sunny to soggy in minutes!

With average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) throughout the month, you’ll definitely want to include these essentials on your packing list:

• A light waterproof jacket
  
• An umbrella (preferably small and sturdy, which can be popped into a bag if the weather turns for the better)
  
• Comfortable shoes (I always recommend taking multiple pairs of shoes that you can rotate during city break style trips to avoid sore feet. Trainers, boots and flats should have you covered for all eventualities)
  
• Layers!!

Culture and events this October in London

More Halloween

Covent Garden change up their seasonal displays regularly and they usually create something special for spooky season, so it’s worth a wander.

If you’re a theatre lover, see if you can nab some tickets to see Stranger Things, Phantom of the Opera, or Wicked; the perfect theatre experiences for embracing all things mystical and magical…

There are various charity Halloween walks taking place across the city; just a few of the incredible charities include GOSH, Farleigh Hospicce and The Brain Tumour Charity. 

Wander the illuminated Halloween trail at Kew Gardens, which is suitable for all the family. When you’re done, tuck into wickedly delicious treats such as freaky fries and toasted monster marshmallows!

Phantom Peak is a unique immersive experience; a fully realised Wild West town inhabited by quirky characters. Visit during their Halloween celebration ‘The Lunar Festival’, from 19th September.

Tatty Devine are tingling Ghost Walk through the historic streets of Covent Garden on 28th October. Hear chilling tales as told by a mysterious ghost hunter extraordinaire, uncover a goodie bag featuring limited edition Ghost Charm Earrings, and haunt your jewellery collection with 10% off* jewellery in-store.

If you’re looking for fun and thrills for all the family, there are several themed parks near to London that host Halloween celebrations every year. Legoland for smaller adventurers, Chessington is great for the whole family, and Thorpe Park is aimed at thrill seekers, with its immersive scare mazes.

Throughout half term week, visitors will be able to follow a mapped Halloween trail in and around High Street Kensington with the opportunity to take in some strange sights, workshops and treats. Then, on All Hallows’ Eve from 4-7pm, Holland Park will transform into the Playful Park of Peculiar, a theatrical playground filled with monochrome characters, surreal and spooky installations, interactive games and quirky entertainment.  These events are free and kid friendly, so if you’re looking for budget friendly celebrations take a look at High Street Kensington’s website.

Health and Wellbeing

The Westin London City hotel are offering a programme of cultural wellness experiences, including ‘The Art of Renewal’ by Caroline Winn, an artistic collaboration with hands-on Clay & Cocktail on 8th October & 29th October; and innovative Floating Sound Bath wellness sessions (16th October, 25th October & 4th December), hosted in the spa’s tranquil swimming pool.

Food and Drink spots in London to try in October

Captivating Cocktails

Slug and Lettuce are releasing their ‘Enchanting Elixirs’ – a range of cocktails inspired by your favourite witches! Get down there and grab these 2-4-1 cocktails from 5th October.

The Chocolate Cocktail Club are also serving up some decadent delights, including a kinder boo-eno and a rasp-boo-ry fright! If you are a fan of chocolate treats, this bar’s for you.

Hithe + Seek have created two eerie cocktails – think dripping ‘blood’ pipettes and floating candy eyeballs! Try their Neon Nightmare – a vibrant, electric-coloured serve with a spooky garnish twist, or their Eternal Night – a dark, dramatic cocktail with a haunting presentation.

I’ve created a mega list of every happy hour drinks deal in London, as well as a guide to getting free drinks so if you’re looking for cheap drinks, definitely check these articles out.

Spooky Snacks and Afternoon Teas

If you’re looking for less tricks and more treat yo’self, Flavourtown bakery have created the most eye catching Halloween cupcake range and at Crosstown bakery you can grab a doughnut selection box filled including matcha monster doughnuts.

During October, the Milestone Hotel will be offering a Halloween themed children’s afternoon tea; enjoy a wicked line-up of sweets – from pumpkin spice blondies to candy apple macarons! From 27th october – 2nd November.

B-Bagel have brought back their iconic black and orange halloween bagels for a limited time only, and I got to try one! 10/10 delicious and seasonal. Would recommend!

Admire the Colours and Seasonal Decor this October in London

Enjoy a picturesque walk through one of London’s many parks. I took an autumnal walk through Hampstead Heath last year and it was beautiful! Kyoto Gardens located within Holland Park are another spot to visit during autumn, as the Japanese maple trees are stunning shades of red and gold at this time of year.

If you are a fan of admiring the London’s charming doorway decor, October is one of the best times of year (second to December), as people adorn their porches with autumnal door garlands, wreaths, and piles of grinning pumpkins.  Grab a free coffee and head to Kensington and Belgravia to spot the best doorway displays.

London is not famous for it’s pumpkin patches; however, they can be found on the outskirts of the city and surrounding areas, so if you’re willing to hop on a train you can spend the afternoon picking your own.

Final Thoughts – October in London: Things to Do, Eat and Drink

There is soo much to fit in this month in London! Check out the rest of my monthly guides for the inside scoop and plan a magical, fun filled trip.

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