Things to Do in London in October: Events, Festivals, Halloween and More

October is the time when London reveals a whole new side of itself. The summer crowds begin to fade, the parks turn shades of gold and red, and the city comes alive with autumn events, outdoor adventures, and unique experiences around every corner.
From exploring spooky streets and scenic walking trails to discovering seasonal festivals, riverside spots, and local neighbourhood events, there are plenty of ways to enjoy London beyond the usual tourist attractions.

Whether you are visiting for a weekend break, a backpacking trip, or a longer stay, this guide highlights some of the best things to do in London in October 2026, with practical tips for travellers staying in hostels in London and exploring the city on a budget.

London Events in October 2026

1. Bloomsbury Festival 2026

Bloomsbury Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary with a month-long programme of arts, theatre, literature, music, science and community activities. More than 150 events are expected to take place at cultural venues and public spaces throughout Bloomsbury.
Date: 1–31 October 2026
Venue: More than 40 participating venues across Bloomsbury, London
Paid: Free and paid events

2. Japan Matsuri 2026

Japan Matsuri brings Japanese culture to Trafalgar Square through live music, traditional dance, martial arts and family-friendly activities. Visitors can also explore Japanese food stalls, cultural displays and performances throughout the day.
Date: 4 October 2026
Venue: Trafalgar Square, Westminster, London
Paid: Free

3. Diwali on the Square 2026

Diwali on the Square is the Mayor of London’s annual celebration of the Festival of Lights at Trafalgar Square. The programme includes live music, dance performances, cultural activities, food stalls and family entertainment.
Date: 25 October 2026
Venue: Trafalgar Square, Westminster, London
Paid: Free

4. Brassed Off Live

The acclaimed British film Brassed Off will be screened at the Royal Albert Hall with its music performed live. The Grimethorpe Colliery Band, which appeared in the original film, will accompany the screening.
Date: 2 October 2026
Venue: Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London
Paid: Paid

5. BFI London Film Festival

The 70th BFI London Film Festival will present international cinema, television productions, documentaries and immersive storytelling. Screenings, premieres, industry talks and special events will be held at venues across London.
Date: 7–18 October 2026
Venue: Multiple London venues, including BFI Southbank, BFI IMAX, Royal Festival Hall, Curzon Soho, Curzon Mayfair, ICA, Prince Charles Cinema and Vue West End
Paid: Mainly paid, with selected free activities

6. Black Panther in Concert

Marvel’s Black Panther will be shown on a large screen at the Royal Albert Hall while Chineke! Orchestra performs Ludwig Göransson’s award-winning score live. The event combines cinematic action with a full orchestral performance.
Date: 9 October 2026
Venue: Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London
Paid: Paid

7. Sholay in Concert

The landmark Indian film Sholay will be screened at the Royal Albert Hall with its soundtrack performed live. The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra will bring the film’s music and dramatic moments to life.
Date: 10 October 2026
Venue: Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London
Paid: Paid

8. Knit + Stitch Show

The Knit + Stitch Show at Alexandra Palace brings together knitting, sewing, embroidery, quilting and textile art. Visitors can attend workshops, watch demonstrations and shop from specialist craft and fabric suppliers.
Date: 8–11 October 2026
Venue: The Great Hall, Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London
Paid: Paid

9. Frieze London and Frieze Masters

Frieze London presents contemporary art from leading international galleries, emerging artists and specially commissioned projects. Frieze Masters, held alongside it, focuses on historical works, antiquities, Old Masters and modern art.
Date: 14–18 October 2026
Venue: The Regent’s Park, London.
Paid: Paid

10. New Scientist Live

New Scientist Live brings science and discovery to London through expert talks, interactive exhibitions and practical demonstrations. Topics include space, technology, health, the natural world and the future of scientific innovation.
Date: 10–12 October 2026
Venue: ExCeL London, Royal Victoria Dock, London
Paid: Paid

11. Professor Brian Cox

Professor Brian Cox presents a large-scale live science show exploring astronomy, physics and the origins of the universe. The production combines accessible scientific explanations with cinematic visuals and immersive stage technology.
Date: 23 October 2026
Venue: The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

12. Deadly Live with Steve Backshall

Wildlife presenter Steve Backshall brings the natural world to the stage in an educational family show. The performance features animal stories, natural-history insights and demonstrations centred on some of the planet’s most fascinating species.
Date: 27 October 2026
Venue: OVO Arena Wembley, Arena Square, Wembley, London
Paid: Paid

13. Mind Body Soul Experience

The Mind Body Soul Experience explores wellbeing, personal development and spiritual practices. Visitors can attend talks and workshops, discover complementary therapies and meet lifestyle exhibitors.
Date: 16–18 October 2026
Venue: The Great Hall, Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London
Paid: Paid

14. Vegan Life Live

Vegan Life Live celebrates plant-based food, ethical products and sustainable living. The event features cooking demonstrations, talks from specialist speakers and a broad selection of vegan food and lifestyle exhibitors.
Date: 16–18 October 2026
Venue: The Great Hall, Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London
Paid: Paid

15. OM Yoga Show

The OM Yoga Show offers yoga classes, practical workshops and wellbeing sessions for beginners and experienced practitioners. Visitors can meet teachers, explore different yoga styles and browse specialist health and lifestyle products.
Date: 16–18 October 2026
Venue: The Great Hall, Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London
Paid: Paid

16. The International Dance Festival 2026

The International Dance Festival brings leading ballroom and Latin American dancers to the Royal Albert Hall. Competitors take part in the prestigious International Championships before an audience of dance enthusiasts.
Date: 8 October 2026
Venue: Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London
Paid: Paid

17. Critical Role Live

Critical Role Live brings the cast of the popular role-playing series to The O2 for an evening of improvised storytelling. The performance combines fantasy, comedy and live role-playing as the cast develops an adventure on stage.
Date: 26 October 2026
Venue: The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

18. Hasan Hates Ronny | Ronny Hates Hasan: A Debate to the Death

Comedians Hasan Minhaj and Ronny Chieng bring their energetic live comedy and debate format to the Royal Albert Hall. The show combines sharp social observations, opposing viewpoints and competitive humour.
Date: 16 October 2026
Venue: Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London
Paid: Paid

19. Niall Horan: Dinner Party Live on Tour

Niall Horan performs two concerts at The O2 as part of his Dinner Party Live tour. The shows will feature music from his solo career, with Flowerovlove appearing as the special guest.
Date: 2–3 October 2026
Venue: The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

20. Karan Aujla: P-Pop Culture World Tour

Punjabi singer and rapper Karan Aujla brings his P-Pop Culture World Tour to The O2. The arena performance will feature his popular Punjabi tracks alongside a large-scale international concert production.
Date: 4-5 October 2026
Venue: The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

21. Westlife 25: The Anniversary World Tour

Westlife celebrates 25 years of music with three consecutive concerts at The O2. Audiences can expect a set featuring the group’s best-known ballads, pop hits and an anniversary-tour production.
Date: 9–11 October 2026
Venue: The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

22. Kakkars Live in Concert

Neha Kakkar and Tony Kakkar perform together at OVO Arena Wembley for a one-night concert. The show brings Bollywood favourites, Indian pop music and energetic live performances to the arena.
Date: 11 October 2026
Venue: OVO Arena Wembley, Arena Square, Wembley, London
Paid: Paid

23. The Pussycat Dolls: PCD Forever Tour

The Pussycat Dolls bring their reunion tour to The O2 with a production featuring their biggest pop and dance hits. Special guests Lil’ Kim and Deja Vu are also scheduled to appear.
Date: 13 October 2026
Venue: The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

24. Manifest Live in London

Turkish pop group Manifest performs its first UK headline concert at OVO Arena Wembley. The show introduces London audiences to the group’s dance-led performances, pop tracks and visual stage production.
Date: 16 October 2026
Venue: OVO Arena Wembley, Arena Square, Wembley, London
Paid: Paid

25. Boyzlife

Boyzlife brings together Boyzone’s Keith Duffy and Westlife’s Brian McFadden at indigo at The O2. The pair will perform well-known songs from both groups alongside stories from their careers.
Date: 17 October 2026
Venue: indigo at The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

26. Duran Duran Halloween 2026

Duran Duran presents a Halloween-themed concert at The O2 inspired by the band’s Danse Macabre project. The show will combine familiar hits, specially selected covers and a dark theatrical production.
Date: 31 October 2026
Venue: The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

27. Simple Plan: Europe Tour 2026

Canadian pop-punk band Simple Plan performs at OVO Arena Wembley as part of its European tour. The concert will feature music from across the band’s career, with Charlotte Sands appearing as support.
Date: 3 October 2026
Venue: OVO Arena Wembley, Arena Square, Wembley, London
Paid: Paid

28. The Strokes: Reality Awaits Tour

New York rock band The Strokes brings the Reality Awaits Tour to The O2. The performance is expected to feature the group’s best-known indie-rock tracks alongside music from its wider catalogue.
Date: 6-7 October 2026
Venue: The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

29. The Rock Orchestra 2026

The Rock Orchestra presents orchestral versions of well-known rock and metal songs in a theatrical setting. Costumed musicians, dramatic lighting and large-scale arrangements create an immersive arena show.
Date: 25 October 2026
Venue: OVO Arena Wembley, Arena Square, Wembley, London
Paid: Paid

30. Tokio Hotel: Arena Tour 2026

German rock group Tokio Hotel brings its 2026 arena tour to OVO Arena Wembley. The concert will feature music from the band’s international career with a new stage and visual production.
Date: 28 October 2026
Venue: OVO Arena Wembley, Arena Square, Wembley, London
Paid: Paid

31. Pete & Bas

South East London grime duo Pete & Bas performs a headline show at indigo at The O2. Known for their humorous personalities and energetic delivery, the pair will perform tracks from their growing grime catalogue.
Date: 9 October 2026
Venue: indigo at The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

32. Asake: In God We Trust World Tour

Nigerian Afrobeats artist Asake returns to The O2 as part of his In God We Trust World Tour. The concert will combine Afrobeats, amapiano influences and a large-scale arena production.
Date: 15 October 2026
Venue: The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

33. J. Cole: The Fall-Off Tour

American rapper J. Cole performs two concerts at The O2 as part of The Fall-Off Tour. The shows will feature music from his established catalogue alongside material connected with his latest project.
Date: 19–20 October 2026
Venue: The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

34. Jay Park: Body Rolls & Serenades

Korean-American singer, rapper and performer Jay Park brings his Body Rolls & Serenades tour to OVO Arena Wembley. The concert blends hip-hop, R&B, dance and Korean popular music.
Date: 26 October 2026
Venue: OVO Arena Wembley, Arena Square, Wembley, London
Paid: Paid

35. The World of Hans Zimmer: A New Dimension

The World of Hans Zimmer presents music from some of cinema’s most recognisable soundtracks at The O2. A live orchestra, solo performers and cinematic visuals will bring the composer’s work to the arena stage.
Date: 12 October 2026
Venue: The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

36. Brandi Carlile: The Human Tour

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile brings The Human Tour to The O2. The concert will feature her blend of Americana, rock, folk and emotionally driven songwriting.
Date: 21 October 2026
Venue: The O2, Peninsula Square, London
Paid: Paid

37. Overmono

Electronic duo Overmono performs at Alexandra Palace following the release of Pure Devotion. The show will feature the duo’s combination of club music, atmospheric production and distinctive live visuals.
Date: 28 October 2026
Venue: The Great Hall, Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London
Paid: Paid

What backpackers should know before visiting London in October

October is a great time for travellers exploring London, with seasonal events, cultural celebrations, autumn walks and plenty of affordable experiences across the city. Visitors staying in London backpackers accommodation can enjoy a mix of free activities, local neighbourhoods and major attractions while keeping travel costs manageable.

Book early for major October events such as the BFI London Film Festival, Frieze London, Halloween attractions and popular autumn exhibitions, as tickets can sell out quickly. Many travellers looking for things to do in London on a budget can also explore free festivals, outdoor spaces and seasonal activities across the city.

• Expect larger crowds during the October half-term period, particularly at family attractions, museums and Halloween events. Timed entry is worth booking where available.
• Remember that the clocks go back on 25 October 2026, which means earlier sunsets and shorter daylight hours for sightseeing.
• Plan parks, riverside walks and outdoor attractions earlier in the day, then leave film screenings, theatre shows and indoor events for the evening.
• Keep your distance from deer in Richmond Park and Bushy Park during rutting season. Stay at least 50 metres away and avoid approaching them for photographs.
• Wear shoes with good grip, as wet leaves, muddy park paths and damp pavements can make autumn walks slippery.
• Check whether Halloween events are suitable for your group, as some ghost tours, immersive attractions and evening experiences have age limits or strong horror content.
• Carry a waterproof jacket and dress in layers. October weather can shift quickly between mild spells, wind and rain.
• Check the official event page before travelling for timings, entrances, age restrictions, bag rules and last admission details.
• Allow extra time for busy events and weekend travel, as queues, security checks, engineering works and crowded stations may delay your journey.

Planning Your October Stay in London

October brings film, art, literature, Halloween celebrations, cultural festivals, autumn walks and seasonal attractions across London. With events spread across central London, Regent’s Park, the South Bank, Bloomsbury and other neighbourhoods, staying near reliable transport links makes getting around much easier while exploring some of the best neighbourhoods in London.

For travellers looking for a hostel in Hendon, London Backpackers offers budget-friendly accommodation, comfortable rooms and facilities, with convenient connections to central London, major venues and October attractions.