October in London always leaves us feeling a little sad because we know that winter’s on its way (which can mean plenty of rain and grey skies in our lovely city). Nevertheless, there’s still plenty to enjoy - leaves are falling and scrunchy on the ground, you can still get away with wearing a light coat and the clocks haven’t been set back yet.

And anyway, whatever the weather, there’s so much to do in our capital that you’re never going to be bored. So whether it’s a trip to the theatre, browsing an art fair, enjoying a long walk on Hampstead Heath or going out trick-or-treating, you’re going to have fun.

Here are a few things we at La Gaffe would recommend you check out this month, if you're in London…

1. Barcelona, Duke of York Theatre - begins 21st October

With a limited run of just twelve weeks, the explosive new play ‘Barcelona’ by Bess Wohl is coming to the West End and, by all accounts, is quite riveting. Starring Lily Collins (Emily in Paris) & Álvaro Morte (Money Heist), the action begins when, late at night in Barcelona, a drunk American woman goes home with a tall dark stranger ( a Spanish man).

What you envisage to be a drunken one-night-stand, with few consequences, quickly becomes an ‘invitation to danger’ twisting up the personal and the political. The sexual encounter is over, Manuel just wants her to leave. But Irene has other ideas. Amusing, sexy and often surprising, Barcelona ‘explores the gap between the fantasy of who we pretend to be and the truth of who we are.’

Tickets are going to sell fast so don’t delay and book today.


2. Black History Month - throughout October

Black History Month takes place every October in the UK and every year it becomes more and more interesting and relevant. Why is it important? Because it gives everyone - whatever their race, creed, or religion - to understand more about those of African and Caribbean heritage and how their culture has impacted Britain.

From talks about Martin Luither King and Martin X to discussions about the Windrush generation and women in finance, Black History Month is celebrated in local communities all over London, where museums, workplaces and community centres will take time to talk about all kinds of subjects, including migration, music and Britain’s colonial past. So whether you’re interested in gospel music, rap, Otis Redding, black hair braiding or walking tours, why not check out the enormous number of events that are being offered throughout the capital. It’s the perfect way to have fun and learn some history too…

3. London Cocktail Week - 3rd to 13th October

Launched in 2010 and ever-popular with those who like to mix up their drinks flavours, London Cocktail Week is back. Once you’ve purchased your wristband, the capital is your oyster, with hundreds of bars offering all kinds of curated cocktails, including plenty of ‘signature’ numbers.

Each of the venues taking part is hand-picked for quality, and there are plenty of themes too - some are hotel bars, others all about design, spots that cater particularly for foodies and others that are an archilovers paradise.

With tastings, masterclasses, food stalls and ‘bar takeovers’ to boot, it’s the perfect way to spend an evening with your date or with your mate…and you might even learn to mix the perfect martini as a bonus! And remember, a cocktail is never just a cocktail…


4. Halloween at the Tower of London - 26th October for a week

One of London’s top attractions, and loved by everyone, this is a great place to take the kids over half term - not only will they learn about the 900-year history of this incredible place (think torture, executions, diamonds and ravens) but they’ll have the chance to follow a ‘spooky trail’ around the Tower, And as the organisers say, it’s designed to Designed to spook, not terrify, as you lose yourself in the eerie atmosphere and have an unforgettable Halloweeen experience.

Just bear in mind that the Tower of London is busy year round and never more so than when school is out, so book in advance and perhaps make a day of it down by the River Thames - after you’ve had a history lesson, you can take a stroll west, head to the South Bank then cross over and hit Covent Garden market for a bite…

5. BFI Film Festival - 9th to 20th October

Back for its 68th year the BFI's London Film Festival is back for all those who love nothing more than watching a movie on the big screen. Based down at the South Bank,but with screenings taking place all across London, you can book online and - even better - if you’re under 25 you can pick up a ticket for the princely sum of £5 (matinees are also cheaper for adults…)

This year’s special presentations include Steve McQueen’s ‘Blitz’ (a wonderful Second World War drama), ‘Silent Sherlock’ (classic Conan Doyle) and the new documentary by Ry Cooder ‘It’s Never Too Late’ following Elton John on his final live US tour. There’s also immersive art, a programme of ‘extended reality’ (XR) and a free gaming lounge! Oh and let’s not forget the screen talks - think Mike Leigh, Andrea Arnold, Zoe Saldana and Denni Villeneuve…

Finally, if you’re coming to London and looking for a place to stay, why not consider staying at La Gaffe Hotel Hampstead? Located in leafy Hampstead, our comfortable, family-run and family-owned guest accommodation. is just three minutes walk from the tube, a quick stroll both to the lush, green Heath and charming Hampstead Village, and we offer you a warm welcome and a great breakfast cappuccino…? We offer comfortable guest accommodation which is both family-owned and family-run, and returning guests never fail to tell us how much they feel they have a home away from home, from the moment they check in to the moment they say goodbye.

Our neighbourhood is beautiful, charming and historic, with all kinds of small stores, local pubs and cute cafes, not to mention Hampstead Heath on our doorstep, the perfect place for a stroll at any time of the year. Moreover, our rates include a continental breakfast and our (famous) cappuccino and because we’re only three minutes walk from the Hampstead tube, you can be in the centre of the city in just 15 minutes, courtesy of London Underground.

For more information about our rooms and to make a reservation directly with us, contact us by phone or email - we’re looking forward to seeing you!