9 Fun Ways To Spend This Gloomy Weekend

With January really dragging on, an exciting weekend itinerary is a must to pull us through. Luckily, London is a city which has plenty to offer, from stunning exhibitions and inspiring workshops to irresistible set menus. Whether you are looking to marvel at a new West End Show or find community on a wellness walk, this guide will help you plan your perfect weekend.

Celebrate blues music at this free event

If you are in the mood to catch some live music this weekend, Thirteen LDN has a whole line-up of internationally acclaimed artists performing at its Soho venue, as part of its Seven Days of Blues series. This free event invites you to celebrate the breadth and rich history of blues music with an impressive programme that spans jazz, rock, folk and, of course, blues.

Among those taking to the stage are duo Artie Zaitz & John Jones, The Daybreakers and acclaimed cellist Gary Washington.

Where: 1-3 Denmark St, London WC2H 8LP
Website: www.thirteenldn.com

Try out a new restaurant

Perfectly positioned just moments from Regent Street, Gaucho Piccadilly is set within a historic townhouse, across three floors. The eclectic menu reflects the spirit of Argentina and its rich culinary heritage, serving exceptional steak and Latin-inspired dishes.

Ideal for pre-and post-theatre dining, the set menu balances signature dishes with fish and seasonal vegetable options, all made with the finest ingredients.

From daytime dining to evenings in the heart of the West End, Gaucho Piccadilly is home to a stunning outdoor terrace, restaurant, and intimate cocktail bar, honouring the energy of Buenos Aires late-night culture.

Where: 25 Swallow St, London W1B 4QR
Website: www.gauchorestaurants.com

A round black table set for a refined meal, perfect for your weekend guide, features four plates of gourmet food—fish, fresh salad, and vibrant garnished dishes—alongside a glass of white wine, champagne, cutlery, and a folded serviette.

Kickstart your weekend with a wellness walk

This Friday, Em the Nutritionist will be hosting a morning wellness walk in collaboration with Plenish. This free event will take place in Battersea Park and is inviting Londoners to embark on a morning of “gentle movement, conversation and community.” Em will be on hand throughout the walk to offer expert advice on stepping into wellness during the cold winter months.

Guests will also be able to enjoy a complimentary hot drink upon arrival, and exclusive goodie bags will also be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis.

Where: 49 Parkgate Rd, London SW11 4NP
Website: www.eventbrite.com

A woman in striped pyjamas stands in a marble kitchen, pouring oat milk from a pink carton onto her breakfast plate—a peaceful moment from any weekend guide. A jar and more oat milk rest on the wooden counter, with white flowers in the background.

Catch the opening weekend of a West End show

This weekend marks the highly anticipated opening of American Psycho at the Almeida Theatre. Based on Bret Easton Ellis’ cult novel, director Rupert Goold has reimagined American Psycho for the stage.

The show follows Patrick Bateman, a successful and acclaimed businessman who seems to have it all, however, he has a sinister secret which unravels through the show’s 2-hour 45-minute run time.

While this is destined to be a sellout with limited tickets left, the Almeida website has a guide complete with top tips on how to secure yours.

Where: Almeida St, London N1 1TA
Website: www.almeidatheatre.com

Two men stand at opposite sides of a table on a gridded floor, engaged in conversation. In this WEEKEND GUIDE scene, people interact in the spacious, well-lit room—some talking, others observing the lively atmosphere.

2026 brides, attend this Rixo event

If you are a 2026 bride in need of some inspiration, Rixo is hosting a three-day shopping event this weekend at its flagship King’s Road store.

The event is in celebration of the launch of its new bridal collection, and will be complete with all its latest clothing arrivals as well as curated vintage finds from Turnvervintage.

This free event is running from Friday through to Sunday, and will also reward early shoppers with a complimentary Lili embroidery tote bag.

Where: 114-116, King’s Rd, London SW3 4TX
Website: www.Rixo.com

A woman in a long white dress leans against a stone balustrade in an outdoor garden, surrounded by tall trees and greenery—a serene scene perfect for a weekend guide to peaceful escapes. She gazes thoughtfully into the distance.

Earthworks Ceramics

If you are looking to dip your toes into the world of ceramics, this Brixton studio is offering weekend taster classes. The team at Earthworks Ceramics understands that taking up a new hobby can feel daunting, so is holding these classes to help ease you into the pottery world. It welcomes all abilities and encourages visitors to learn, create and collaborate in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Try taking up a new skill at this weekend taster class.

Where: Arch 45 Nursery Rd, London SW9 8BP
Website: www.earthworksceramicstudios.com

Two people in a pottery studio, both leaning over a table with pottery tools and vases—an ideal hands-on experience to add to your London weekend guide. Shelves with finished ceramics line the background.

Explore the winter lights at Canary Wharf

2026 marks the ten-year anniversary of the Canary Wharf Winter Lights. This year, the theme of the free event is dreamscape, as it aims to take its visitors through “surreal, ethereal and uniquely human experiences.” The trail takes between two to three hours, and includes installations like the Trispheric Garden and a special ten-year anniversary neon display.

Explore over 16 exhibits showcasing an array of artists then grab a bite to eat from one of the many restaurants that Canary Wharf has to offer.

Website: Website: www.winterlights.com

A crowd gathers at night near a bright neon sign that reads WINTER LIGHTS. Green lights and reflections add to the festive atmosphere—an ideal setting for winter date ideas as people wrapped up in cosy clothing enjoy the event.

Browse the exhibitions at London Art Fair

The London Art Fair is taking place between 21st and 25th January at the Business Design Centre in Islington and is set to celebrate the very best of Modern and Contemporary art for its 37th year. Works by David Hockney and Tracey Emin will be on display, alongside emerging talent in the industry.

You can book tickets via the official website, and in the meantime, check out our guide on The London Art Fair so you can make the most of your trip.

Where: 52 Upper Street, Islington, London, N1 0QH
Website: www.londonartfair.com

A crowded indoor art exhibition, perfect for your London weekend guide, features people viewing and discussing large artworks displayed on white walls under bright lights, beneath a high arched ceiling with a prominent clock in the background.

It’s your last chance to save big at The Cinnamon Club

In celebration of The Cinnamon Club’s 25th anniversary, the spot returns to its 2001 prices this month. The London Indian restaurant has been serving up some of its signature dishes for as little as £5 in celebration of this big birthday.

If you hope to get your hands on tandoori chicken for £6, though, or sweet potato cake for £5, you will need to move fast, as Saturday marks the final day of this irresistible offer.

Where: The Old Westminster Library, Great Smith St, London SW1P 3BU
Website: www.thecinnamonclub.com