OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST OF WHAT'S ON IN LONDON THIS MONTH

BFI London Film Festival

 (Various locations but mainly the South Bank, SE1, 6th - 17th October)

Over 12 days London’s South Bank will be at the heart of the film festival experience. There's a rich and varied programme of fiction, documentary, animation, art, short film, restored classics as well as international works made in immersive and episodic forms. Definitely something for everyone.

 Frieze London

(Regent's Park, NW1, 13th - 17th October)

The godfather of London art fairs, Frieze London takes over vast swathes of Regent's Park, allowing galleries from all over the world to showcase work by established and emerging artists.  At the same time, the Frieze Sculpture  Park has taken residence in the English Gardens and features work from artistic giants such as Anthony Caro, Isamu Noguchi and Rose Wylie.  Always a highlight of the London art calendar.

Say 'Prost' to Oktoberfest

(Various locations, all month)

There is a whole host of Oktoberfest events across London for you to celebrate. Expect giant tents, group sing-alongs, Oompah bands, German nibbles and the obligatory vast selection of beers. Dig out your lederhosen and get stuck in.

 London Literature Festival

(Southbank Centre, SE1, 21st - 31st October)

This year’s theme is friendship and the lineup has a host of big names. Artist Grayson Perry, children's authors Lauren Child and Michael Rosen, comedian Daisy May Cooper, artist Ai Weiwei and musician Tracey Thorn are just some of the faces making an appearance. The festival culminates in readings by the authors shortlisted for this year's Booker Prize and is being hailed as the 'Glastonbury for literature lovers.'

Illuminature 

 (London Wetland Centre, SW13, from 22nd October)

Experience the wetlands in an experience taking you on an after-dark trail through different habitats, illuminated only by sculptures of wetland wildlife. Along the route, play in the immersive tunnels, hop along the responsive lily-pads and interact with nature and light. Perfect family entertainment. After all, who doesn't love a light festival?

 Japanese Autumn Festival

(Kew Gardens, all month)

Whilst Japan may still be off-limits to visitors, this autumn Kew Gardens is hosting an entire festival dedicated to the art, plants and culture of Japan. The Temperate House is transformed into an homage to the land of cherry blossoms with a huge thread installation featuring 5,000 haikus from  Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota and an immersive soundscape from artist Yosi Horikawa. Expect to see a host of chrysanthemums, Japan's national flower, and the obligatory selection of bonsais.

Candlelit Museum Tour at Sir John Soane's Museum

(Lincoln's Inn Fields, WC2, 29th October)

One of the capital's hidden gems has now opened after hours to allow visitors to immerse themselves in the atmospheric surroundings of one of England's most distinguished 19th century architects. On this guided tour, lit only by candlelight, you will see a sarcophagus, statues of the dead and some of Hogarth’s best-known works in one space.  Just in time for Halloween. 

Dance Umbrella Festival

(Barbican, 8th - 24th October)

This is London’s boldest, brightest, most accessible festival of dance. Highlights include Takeshi Matusmoto’s 'Club Origami', an interactive dance meets paper show with lots of audience participation and Greek choreographer Dimitris Papaioannou’s 'Traverse Orientation', one of the most anticipated European shows of the year and a veritable assault on the senses.

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