How to Spend 2025 in London
Strand Palace places you at the centre of London’s cultural and entertainment hotspots. Here’s your guide to the best events, attractions, and experiences near the hotel in 2025.
1. The Vault Festival (January to March)
Explore cutting-edge theatre, comedy, and cabaret at this underground festival near Waterloo.
2. London Fashion Week (February)
Located only a 3-minute walk across the road from the hotel, take a peek as Somerset House hosts this stylish event, featuring runway shows, pop-up boutiques, and workshops with industry experts.
3. New MAMMA MIA! Afternoon Tea at Strand Palace (Ends November)
Indulge in a theatre-inspired experience with Strand Palace’s brand-new MAMMA MIA! Afternoon Tea. Inspired by the hit musical, this special menu features Greek-inspired treats, signature cocktails, and premium teas.
4. The Royal Opera House (2025)
Catch a performance of opera or ballet at this iconic Covent Garden venue. Upcoming highlights include:
La Traviata (Verdi) – Jan-Feb 2025
The Nutcracker (Tchaikovsky) – Dec 2024-Jan 2025
Coppélia (Delibes) – Mar 2025
Don Giovanni (Mozart) – Apr-May 2025
Aida (Verdi) – Jun 2025
The Sleeping Beauty (Tchaikovsky) – Jun-Jul 2025
New Year’s Eve Gala Concert – Dec 31, 2025
5. Six Nations Rugby at Twickenham (February to April)
Watch thrilling live rugby matches as the top national women’s and men’s teams compete in this annual championship.
6. New V&A East Storehouse (May)
Explore over 1,000 archives from the V&A’s collection, including vintage football kits, Glastonbury memorabilia, and samurai swords. The venue will also house the David Bowie Centre, featuring over 80,000 objects dedicated to the music icon.
7. Theatre Tours: National Theatre (January to July)
Take a guided tour of the National Theatre to see how world-class productions come to life, including:
The Crucible – Jan-Apr 2025
The Book of Dust – Feb-Mar 2025
Much Ado About Nothing – Mar-Apr 2025
The Ocean at the End of the Lane – Apr-May 2025
The History Boys – May-June 2025
A Midsummer Night's Dream – Jun-Jul 2025
8. Diva at the V&A (Closes in April)
Celebrate legendary performers in this dazzling exhibition featuring costumes, photographs, and rare memorabilia.
9. The Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace
Explore rotating exhibitions from the Royal Collection, featuring rare artworks, historical treasures, and royal artifacts.
10. West End Shows Close to Strand Palace
Enjoy world-class theatre just a short walk from the hotel. Including the revival of Hercules, set to launch this summer! Must-see productions include:
Mamma Mia! at the Novello Theatre
Mean Girls at the Savoy Theatre
Back to the Future: The Musical at the Adelphi Theatre
Tina – The Tina Turner Musical at the Aldwych Theatre
Hercules at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane
11. London Marathon (April)
Cheer on runners as they race past landmarks like Big Ben and the Tower of London.
12. Outdoor Cinema at Somerset House (May to June)
Watch classic films in the open air at one of London’s most stunning settings. Perfect for a romantic evening under the stars.
13. Henley Royal Regatta and Royal Ascot (June)
Don’t miss your chance to take a day trip of elegance outside of the city.
Experience the charm of Henley’s Regatta rowing event on the River Thames. Book your tickets for riverside views, champagne, and a touch of English tradition.
Dress to impress and revel in the atmosphere at Royal Ascot, enjoying a horse racing and fine dining at this prestigious event.
14. Southbank Centre's Summer Series (June to August)
Enjoy live music from jazz to classical and contemporary artists, with performances from stars like Yussef Dayes, including:
London Philharmonic Orchestra – June 2025
BBC Proms at the Royal Festival Hall – July-Aug 2025
The King's Singers – July 2025
Alfie Boe & Friends – July 2025
Southbank Centre's Summer Festival – June-Aug 2025
15. Thames River Boats
As the evenings get lighter see London on the River Thames this Summer. Catch a scenic ride with Uber Boat, departing from Embankment Pier, just minutes from the hotel. It’s a fast and fun way to explore London’s riverside landmarks.
16. Wimbledon Championships (June to July)
Soak in the excitement of the world’s premier tennis tournament. From thrilling matches to strawberries and cream, it’s a quintessential summer experience.
17. New Sadler’s Wells East – 2025
Experience world-class contemporary dance at this new 550-seat venue in Stratford. The opening season will showcase a wide range of contemporary dance performances, enhancing London’s dance scene.
18. Open House London (September)
Explore over 800 iconic and hidden architectural gems across the city with free access to landmark buildings. This annual event allows visitors to step inside famous buildings such as the Shard, 10 Downing Street, and the Gherkin, as well as lesser-known gems like private homes, historic sites, and contemporary architecture. Take guided tours, enjoy talks from architects, and discover the city’s rich architectural history.
19. The Great British Bake Off Live (October)
A live, interactive experience celebrating the nation’s favourite baking competition, with appearances from past contestants and judges.
20. SXSW London – October 2025
Discover up-and-coming global music acts at this multi-venue festival in Shoreditch. The event will feature over 70 music performances, 420 talks on business and tech, and 250 film screenings, including international premieres.
21. Frieze London Art Fair (October)
Experience one of the world’s leading contemporary art fairs, showcasing top galleries and artists in Regent’s Park.
22. London Film Festival (October)
Watch international film premieres, Q&As, and special screenings at venues around London, including Leicester Square.
23. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park (November to January)
Enjoy the festive magic of this iconic Christmas attraction, featuring an ice rink, circus shows, markets, and thrilling rides.
24. Ice Skating at Somerset House (November to January)
Glide across the ice at one of London’s most iconic rinks, set against the backdrop of Somerset House’s stunning courtyard.
25. Regent Street Christmas Lights (November to January)
Kick off the holiday season with the dazzling Christmas light display along one of London’s most famous shopping streets.
From cultural landmarks to exclusive experiences, Strand Palace Hotel puts the best of London at your doorstep. Whether you're here for theatre, fine dining, or iconic events, your perfect city adventure awaits!