Well, it’s official - winter will soon be gone and with the clocks going forward an hour on Sunday 30th, not only will we get more daylight but - after some very cold months - hopefully a few more degrees of warmth! After all, even though London is a fantastic city to visit any time of the year, who doesn’t like to see the crocuses and daffodils in bloom and the sun shining longer!
Here at La Gaffe, we’re preparing for some busy months, since between April and October we receive a lot of guests, who are visiting our city for a variety of reasons. Many of you already have plans but for any of you looking for things to do and see in the British capital, here are some ideas from us…
Enjoy!
1. Women's History Month - throughout March across London
Why is women’s history so important? Well, how many reasons do you need? This event, spanning the entire month (the month being chosen because the 8th is International Women's Day) takes a deep dive into the history of the ongoing fight for gender equality, and highlights many of the women in history who stood up for their sex by campaigning for suffrage, education, health and employment rights (to name but a few).
From filmmakers and teachers to soldiers and sewers, get out and explore the history of these pioneers. There are also a selection of walks you can book tickets for, in different parts of the capital, learning more about these trail blazers There are also free exhibitions at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich and Queens House.
2. Carmina Burana at the SouthBank Centre - 28th March
Carl Orff’s unforgettable masterpiece, Carmina Burana, is being performed at the Royal Festival Hall on Friday 28th March, courtesy of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Brighton Festival Chorus. Composed in 1936, this cantata is based on 24 mediaeval poems and, with its bold and dramatic style, and ‘O Fortuna’ has been featured in endless film scores (most notably ‘The Omen’ and ‘Excalibur’.
Set on the banks of the River Thames, the South Bank complex is one of London’s oldest and most well-known cultural centres. Not only is it a wonderful place to hear music, it’s also perfect for wandering (take a stroll along the South Bank, all the way east to the Tate Modern and Tower Bridge or west to the Houses of Parliament and Tate Britain). It’s also packed full of cafes, bars and pubs, so head down to the centre early, have an early supper, watch the lights on London come up then head into the venue, for this monumental performance.
3. “Birdsong” at Alexander Palace - until 8th March
Birdsong, by the accomplished author Sebastian Faulks is a work of historical fiction, though it is inspired by fact and Faulks's own experiences. The plot centres on Stephen Wraysford, a young Englishman who arrives in France and finds himself staying with the Azire family. Soon, he falls in love with Isabelle, a woman who is unhappily married, and they begin a turbulent love affair. But it is the eve of World War I and with the world on the brink of catastrophe, will the relationship be able to stay the course?
Marking the 30th anniversary of this internationally-acclaimed novel, why not head to Alexandra Palace in north London to see Birdsong on the stage? The production stars award-winning actor Max Bowden, best known for the role of Ben Mitchell in EastEnders, James Esler (Litvinenko) and Charlie Russell (The Goes Wrong Show, And Then There Were None (BBC) this is a story of love and loss that shouldn’t be missed.
4. "Illustrating the Land of Childhood” exhibition at Burgh House, Hampstead - 6th March until 14th December
We’re privileged to be situated in the beautiful neighbourhood of Hampstead, where there are so many lovely buildings on our doorstep. One of them is the hidden jewel we featured in a previous post - it’s called Burgh House. A true cultural hub in our area, it puts on concerts, opera recitals and art exhibits on a regular basis.
This month, they're featuring an exhibition by Helen Oxenbury entitled ‘The Land of Childhood.’ It’s the first ever solo exhibition of work by this marvellous children’s illustrator for books such as Farmer Duck, Three Little Wolves and the enormously-successful ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’.
Pop in to see some of her original sketches and paintings, and explore the Hampstead Museum upstairs afterwards. They’ve also got a fantastic little cafe called ‘The Buttery’ which serves light bites and delicious homemade cakes.
5. ‘Frock Me’ Vintage Fashion and Jewellery Fair, Kensington Town Hall - at Hampstead Town Hall - 2nd March
There’s nothing like rummaging around for the perfect outfit (or accessories to match it) in London - the city is full of charity shops, thrift stores and pop-up events where you can find the most incredible - and unique - buys.
So for all those dedicated Followers of Fashion, 2nd March is a date to put in your diary. In the heart of swanky W8, at Kensington Town Hall there’s going to be a fantastic - one day only event - where you can search for the perfect item that’s calling out for you to buy it. The pop-up will feature over 100 vendors selling clothes, jewellery, textiles and other rare items - highly-curated, with plenty of British fashion labels to boot - it’s the best place to find inspiration for your Spring Look!
You can buy tickets on the door for ‘Frock Me’ or book in advance…
If you're coming to London and looking for a lovely 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.
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!