Top things to do in London this January

1.    Immerse yourself in London’s culture 

We all know how brilliant London’s culture scene is, and more importantly, how accessible it is to students! 

So, before January passes by, and we’ve spent it ‘studying’, or more realistically procrastinating, why not get out to the cinema or an art exhibition?

Both the BFI Southbank and the Barbican cinema have youth memberships for under 25s that are free to join and can get you access to cinema tickets for only £3 to £5. 

The Curzon cinema (there’s one in the Brunswick Centre Bloomsbury) also offers free membership, with which you can get £5 tickets at off-peak hours. 

The Barbican also has more than just a cinema to offer, with an exhibition of Japanese sculptor Noguchi’s work and a free exhibition by Mumbai-based artist Shilpa Gupta.

Youth membership is also available for the Tate. The Tate Collective card allows under 25s access to all Tate exhibitions for £5, 20% off in the cafes, 10% off in all Tate shops, as well as many more events and creative opportunities. 

The V&A is also worth a visit. Most of their January exhibitions seem to be sold out, however, the free permanent exhibitions are great as well as an exhibition focusing on Fabergé in London. 

Another notable spot is the Dulwich Picture Gallery, which offers £5 tickets for all their exhibitions to under 30s.

Or if you are more interested in theatre, the National Theatre’s Entry Pass gives young people access to £7.50 tickets to all National Theatre productions. 

2.    Explore nature in and around London

Alternatively, why not use the weekend as an opportunity to escape the city for a bit and recharge. 

I recommend a day trip to Epping Forest, which is accessible by the central line.

Or get the district line or overground to Richmond and pay the deer in Richmond Park a visit. 

If you happen to live in the East of London a trip to Greenwich Park is a must. 

Otherwise, walks with friends (preferably before it gets dark at 4pm!) in Hampstead Heath, Alexandra Park, Finsbury Park, Hyde Park (combinable with a trip to the Serpentine Gallery), or Regents Park, if you’re looking for something near campus, are all definite mood boosters.  
 

3.    Discover London’s many food markets

Visiting Borough Market is a must if you have not been yet. This market has a history of over 1000 years, so go along anytime between Wednesday and Sunday to enjoy it in full. 

Southbank Centre Market is a popular spot and can be combined with a visit to the Southbank Centre, Hayward Art Gallery, Royal Festival Hall, or National Theatre. 

Canopy market in Coal drops yard is a newer food market but also has some great food options.

Camden market has over 34 traders, so you will be sure to find something tasty whatever your dietary requirements or taste! 

It is also open seven days a week but do not leave it too late as it closes at 6pm.

Spitalfields Market or Broadway Market in East London are both worth a visit and could be combined with a quick stop by the Columbia Road flower market. Picking up some fresh flowers or plants are sure to brighten up grey January days. 

If you’re looking for a farmers’ market to buy some fresh produce, Islington Farmers Market on Chapel Market from 10am – 2pm each Sunday is a great option. 

With very affordable seasonal fresh produce this market is sure to inspire some great meals. 

4.    Go on a charity shopping spree 

Mary’s Living and Giving for Save the Children in Hampstead, Islington, Camden, and Finsbury, might be a bit more expensive but are sure to have some quality and designer pieces in stock. 

Royal Trinity Hospice (Islington), another great option for formal wear. 

Traid in Camden and Dalston have many options and will also frequently have a sale. 

Crisis in Islington, Finsbury, Archway, Dalston and Hackney are always very good, with a large selection and affordable prices.

FARA charity shops always have a great selection of clothes, with the one on Pentonville Road (Angel) probably my favourite in London. 

5.    Watch one of London’s football teams in this year’s FA cup 

Experience the unique winner-takes-all cup tie atmosphere of the world’s oldest football competition. 

Ticket availability is often much better than for league matches – and at reduced prices.

Do not undertake any of these activities if you have tested positive for COVID-19, have symptoms, or need to self-isolate. Find out more.

Photo by Glen Carrie on Unsplash