Our recommendations for stuff happening in October & beyond!

October is here, and autumn has fully arrived in London! The air is crisp, the leaves are turning golden, and the city is buzzing with cultural events, festivals, and seasonal celebrations. This is also the time to settle into university life, meet new people, and explore everything London has to offer beyond the classroom. Whether you’re looking for a cultural day out, a scenic autumn walk, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best free things to do this month 

Art & Culture   

•  Paul McCartney: Rearview Mirror – Liverpool–London–Paris: This week is your last chance to see a free exhibition of photos taken by Paul McCartney at the height of Beatlemania. See the Fab Four's rise to fame and fortune through McCartney's lens, in candid photos snapped in 1963-4, including backstage shots taken before gigs. See the exhibition at Gagosian Davies Street in Mayfair. Until October 4.
• Danielle Brathwaite-Shirley: The Delusion:  A new video game commission and multiplayer immersive experience that explores themes of polarisation, censorship and social connection. At Serpentine North Gallery (30 Sept 2025 – 18 Jan 2026), this immersive exhibition combines gaming, art, and interactive storytelling.
• London Literature Festival at Southbank Centre: From 21 October to 2 November, the London Literature Festival returns to the Southbank Centre with an inspiring programme of talks, readings, and performances. This year’s theme explores storytelling in all its forms, featuring acclaimed authors, poets, and artists. While talks from Zadie Smith, Malala Yousafzai, Reece Witherspoon, Harlen Coben, Kamala Harris are paid, many events are free, making it a perfect opportunity to celebrate the power of words.  

Outdoor Activities   

• Take an autumnal stroll through London: As the summer sun gives way to autumnal mists, the capital's trees turn hues of umber, gold and orange, making for spectacular seasonal walks and photo opportunities, no filter required.
• World Zombie Day: on Saturday 11 October 2025, join hundreds of zombie fans for a spooky charity walk through central London. Dress in your best zombie costume and walk through iconic locations in this family and dog-friendly event. It’s free to join (with optional donations supporting animal welfare), making it a fun and meaningful way to kick off the Halloween season.

Special Events   

• Minnesota Vikings Fan Festival: at Battersea Power Station transforms into a hub of American football excitement ahead of the Vikings’ NFL London Game. Expect a giant Vikings-branded boat, live Q&A with Hall of Famer Cris Carter, cheerleader performances, mascot meet-and-greets, an NFL Skills Zone, kids’ activities, and Minnesota-inspired food, including exclusive Vikings doughnuts. Saturday 4 October - Sunday 5 October
• Diwali on Trafalgar Square: Celebrate the Festival of Lights on Sunday 12 October 2025 at Trafalgar Square from 2pm to 8pm. This free, family-friendly event features dazzling dance performances, live music, yoga and meditation sessions, sari and turban tying, puppet shows, and a bustling market with delicious vegetarian and vegan food.
• Black History Month: Events across London All October, London celebrates Black History Month with free talks, exhibitions, and cultural events across the city. Explore walking tours, museum displays, and community festivals that highlight Black heritage and contributions to British culture. There’s a mixture of free and ticketed events.
• BFI London Film Festival: from 8–19 October, the UK’s biggest film festival takes over cinemas and venues across London. Don’t miss out on the eclectic line-up of free events, including talks and debates, short film screenings, DJ nights and much more. 

Queen Mary Student Activities 

• Global café for international students at Queen Mary: This is a wonderful opportunity to relax, meet, and socialise with fellow international students. Enjoy free light food and drinks (while supply last) in a welcoming atmosphere.  The Global Café will be held in the yurt at St Benet’s Chaplaincy on Wednesday 15th October 25 @2pm We have limited capacity in the yurt, please book your place in advance.
• Wellbeing Groups and Workshops at QMUL: Queen Mary University of London offers a range of free wellbeing groups and workshops to support students throughout the academic year. These sessions cover topics various topics to help you develop healthy habits. Whether you're looking for peer support or practical tools to boost your mental health, these workshops provide a safe and welcoming space to learn and connect.
• QM Elevate: Supporting Your Student Journey: QM Elevate is Queen Mary’s dedicated programme to help new students transition smoothly into university life. It offers a wide range of resources, events, and support services, from academic guidance and wellbeing workshops to opportunities for building confidence and making connections. Whether you're adjusting to a new environment or looking to get involved, QM Elevate is here to help you thrive both personally and academically. 

That’s all for this month’s Free Fun in London! October is the perfect time to enjoy the city’s vibrant events and beautiful autumn scenery. Wrap up warm, take in the crisp air, and make the most of everything London has to offer. See you next month!