Events in London
Heritage open days
11- 14 September
Four days celebrating England’s fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. Buildings of every age and style throw open their doors, ranging from castles, factories, town halls, parish churches and Buddhist temples. It is a once-a-year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which bring to life local history and culture.
The Great River Race
13th September
A spectacular event attracting around 300 crews from all over the globe and appealing to every level of competitor from those who enjoy fun, fancy dress and charity stunts, to serious sports men and women who like to win. A great fun day out for competitors and spectators.
Thames Festival
13 -14 September
Two days of free music and entertainment on the south bank of the Thames, between Westminster Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge. The event starts at 12 noon and ends at about 10pm on each day. One of the highlights is the Night Carnival on Sunday evening. Starting from the Victoria Embankment, at about 7:30pm. It follows the road east, crosses the Thames at Blackfriars Bridge, and continues west along the South Bank before finishing behind the Royal Festival Hall at about 9:30pm. From 9:45pm to 10pm there will be fireworks launched from a barge between Waterloo Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge.
Riverfront Jazz
18 -29 September
Also known as the Greenwich Jazz Festival, this is a series of jazz events (many of them free) in and around Greenwich (in south-east London; nearest station: Cutty Sark on the DLR).
Canary Wharf Jazz Festival
17 -20 September
Free jazz concerts in Jubilee Park, Canary Wharf (nearest Tube/DLR station: Canary Wharf). There are lunchtime (1pm) and early evening (7pm) concerts on Wed-Fri, then a full afternoon event (1-7:30pm) on Saturday