Welcome to the vibrant city of London, where exciting experiences await you this month! In this edition of “What’s On in London 2023,” we’re thrilled to showcase the best temporary attractions that are making waves in the city. London’s dynamic cultural scene is constantly evolving, offering visitors unique opportunities to immerse themselves in limited-time events and experiences. From captivating art exhibitions and dazzling theatre productions to thrilling festivals and extraordinary pop-up installations, there’s something for everyone.
Get ready to discover the magic of London as we guide you through the must-see temporary highlights that will leave you with unforgettable memories of your visit to the city. Let’s dive into the thrilling world of “What’s On in London 2023” and explore the extraordinary array of temporary delights that await you this month!
Contents
- Open Air Cinema
- Temporary Exhibits
London’s Open Air Cinema
Experience the enchantment of open-air cinemas in London during the summer season. As the warm evenings arrive, the city transforms into a cinematic wonderland with a plethora of outdoor screenings in picturesque locations.
From classic films to the latest blockbusters, immerse yourself in the magic of cinema under the stars. Grab your blanket, popcorn, and friends, and prepare for unforgettable movie nights in the heart of London’s open-air cinemas.
- Experience the magic of open-air cinema at Barbican Cinema’s Outdoor Cinema series, set in the breathtaking Sculpture Court. This year, with Campari as the official drinks sponsor, indulge in a complimentary Campari Spritz or a refreshing Crodino non-alcoholic aperitivo with every ticket. Curated in collaboration with artists and programmers from various art forms, the programme offers a diverse selection of films to cater to every cinematic taste.
- Dates: 23rd Aug – 3rd Sep 2023
- Experience the ultimate summer cinematic experience with The Luna Cinema. From captivating Oscar-winning films to beloved classics, their carefully curated screenings under the stars promise a memorable evening for date nights, social gatherings with friends, or a blissful night out.
- Locations Chiswick House, Kenwood, Dulwich Park, Marble Hill, Clapham Common, Westminster Abbey, Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, Kew Gardens, Wimbledon Park
- Dates: from 6th July – 24th September 2023
- Experience cinematic events like no other as we transform nights at the movies into memorable experiences. Join us with your friends and loved ones for city skylines, sunsets, starlit evenings, delicious food, awesome drinks, and great movies on the big screen. The Rooftops offer a curated selection of cults, classics, and new releases, representing our love for film. Enjoy breathtaking city views, personal headphones for an immersive audio experience, comfortable deckchairs, a hand-picked program of iconic movies, and incredible food and drinks. It’s time to elevate your cinema experience. Join the Rooftop film club movement and be part of the future of social cinema.
- Bussey Building Peckham, Roof East Stratford
- Date: Summer 2023
What’s on at The British Museum
Embark on a captivating journey through history at the iconic British Museum, where temporary exhibits offer a limited-time opportunity to witness extraordinary treasures from around the world. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of these fleeting exhibitions, unveiling captivating artefacts and untold stories that will leave a lasting impression long after your visit.
Luxury and Power – Persia to Greece
Exhibition 4 May – 13 Aug 2023
Uncover the captivating clash between Greek soldiers and the opulent Persian king’s tent in an exhibition that goes beyond ancient Greek triumph. Delve into the complex relationship between luxury and politics, exploring how the Persian Achaemenid court used precious objects as symbols of authority. From Athens’ creative adaptations to Alexander the Great’s fusion of styles, witness the breathtaking craftsmanship of gold, silver, and glass artifacts. These treasures shaped the political landscape of Europe and Asia, leaving a lasting legacy on our perception of luxury today. Don’t miss this captivating journey through power, beauty, and interconnected ancient cultures.
China’s hidden century
Exhibition 18 May – 8 Oct 2023
Experience a groundbreaking exhibition revealing the resilience and innovation of 19th-century China. Amidst civil uprisings, foreign wars, and the end of dynastic rule, explore a period of remarkable creativity driven by political, cultural, and technological change. Through exquisite objects and research by the British Museum and London University, uncover the lives of remarkable individuals and the textures of 19th-century Chinese society. Witness the emergence of new art forms and technological advancements that transformed the era. This extraordinary exhibition opens a new chapter in understanding late imperial China.
Check out our British Museum Highlights Guide.
What’s on at The Natural History Museum
Discover the wonders of the natural world at the renowned Natural History Museum in London. Don’t miss the chance to explore their remarkable temporary exhibits, showcasing rare specimens and immersive displays that bring the natural world to life in extraordinary ways. From fascinating temporary installations to captivating interactive experiences, these limited-time exhibits offer a unique and enriching journey that will leave you in awe of our planet’s biodiversity.
Titanosaur: Life as the Biggest Dinosaur
Exhibition until 7th Jan 2024
Step into the awe-inspiring world of the colossal Patagotitan mayorum, one of the largest creatures to have ever roamed the Earth. Experience the thrill of witnessing this extraordinary dinosaur up close as it goes on display in Europe for the first time. Immerse yourself in a captivating, interactive exhibition that takes you on a journey from its football-sized egg to its fully grown form, complete with bite marks from a formidable predator. Discover the secrets of how this magnificent titan survived and thrived, while also exploring the world of present-day giants and learning how we can protect them. Get ready to be amazed by the sheer scale and wonder of this unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Dino Snores
1-2 dates per month, sells out quickly!
Experience an unforgettable sleepover adventure surrounded by extraordinary creatures at the museum. Set up camp in the galleries and embark on an evening of exploration, torchlight expeditions, and engaging activities. From a dinosaur t-shirt workshop to an educational science show presented by a Museum scientist, you’ll be immersed in a world of excitement. After a cozy night’s sleep, wake up to a delicious breakfast and continue your journey with a captivating trail through iconic galleries, discovering fascinating facts about the natural world. This exclusive sleepover is an opportunity not to be missed, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Check out our Natural History Museum Highlights Guide.
What’s on at The National Gallery
Indulge your love for art at the esteemed National Gallery in London. Step into a world of artistic brilliance and take advantage of the opportunity to witness captivating temporary exhibits, featuring masterpieces from renowned artists. From captivating exhibitions showcasing diverse artistic styles to thought-provoking installations, these limited-time displays offer a unique chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and creativity of the art world. Don’t miss out on this chance to experience the temporary wonders that await you at the National Gallery.
After Impressionism: Inventing Modern Art
Exhibition Until 13 August 2023
Delve into a transformative era of artistic exploration and innovation that set the stage for the art of the 20th and 21st centuries. Celebrating the groundbreaking achievements of Paul Cézanne, Vincent van Gogh, and Paul Gauguin, this exhibition traces their profound influence on French artists, as well as their impact on art circles across Europe. With an impressive collection of nearly a hundred works by renowned artists like Klimt, Munch, Matisse, Picasso, and more, including iconic pieces and sculptures by Rodin and Claudel, this exhibition showcases the birth of a new, boundary-pushing art movement encompassing Expressionism, Cubism, and Abstraction. Immerse yourself in the art of this remarkable era with loans from prestigious institutions and private collections worldwide, providing a truly exceptional and enlightening experience.
Saint Francis of Assisi
Exhibition Until 30 July 2023
Immerse yourself in the extraordinary life and lasting impact of Saint Francis of Assisi through the UK’s first major art exhibition dedicated to his legacy. From the 13th century to the present day, this captivating exhibition explores why Saint Francis remains a figure of profound relevance, revered for his spiritual radicalism, compassion for the poor, love of God and nature, and powerful advocacy for peace and interfaith dialogue. Journey through time as you encounter medieval panels, relics, manuscripts, contemporary films, and even a Marvel comic, showcasing how artists across generations and continents have been captivated by Saint Francis’s story. Featuring renowned works from the National Gallery Collection and international loans, including pieces by Caravaggio, Botticelli, Stanley Spencer, and Richard Long’s exciting new commission, this curated exhibition illuminates the enduring allure of Saint Francis and his enduring impact on art and humanity.
Check out our National Gallery Highlights Guide.
What’s on at Westminster Abbey
Step into the timeless beauty of Westminster Abbey, an iconic symbol of British history and culture. While exploring this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site, be sure to seize the moment and visit the temporary exhibits, offering a rare glimpse into the rich tapestry of royal events and significant historical moments. From captivating displays illuminating the lives of past monarchs to immersive installations that bring centuries of architectural grandeur to life, these limited-time exhibits provide a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the captivating history and sacred traditions of Westminster Abbey.
The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries
Monday – Friday: 10.00am – 3.00pm (last entry)
Saturday: 9.30am – 3.00pm (last entry)
Sunday: Closed
Tickets from £5 (in addition to entrance ticket)
Experience the architectural marvel of the new Weston Tower, an exquisite addition to the historic Westminster Abbey since 1745, designed by Ptolemy Dean. Inspired by the abbey’s Gothic patterns, this star-shaped structure seamlessly blends with the existing Gothic architecture, featuring stone, glass, lead, and oak materials. Inside, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries offer breathtaking views of the Great West Door and Cosmati Pavement, while showcasing a fascinating collection of around 300 objects spanning a millennium of history. From Queen Mary II’s coronation chair to Queen Elizabeth I’s corset and artifacts reflecting worship and daily life at the abbey, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Westminster Abbey’s past.
Luna Cinema
25-30 July 2023
Experience the magic of open-air cinema at Westminster Abbey, where an exciting line-up awaits you this July. From the dazzling spectacle of Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis to the adrenaline-pumping Oscar-winning Top Gun: Maverick, there’s a film for every taste. Set against the stunning backdrop of the historic abbey, known for its coronations and Royal Weddings, these unforgettable cinema nights offer the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the quintessentially British summer scene. So, grab your seat, unwind, and savor the enchantment of cinema under the stars.
Hidden Highlights: Westminster Abbey
July, August & September 2023
Tickets £15 (in addition to entrance ticket)
Embark on an exclusive experience that takes you behind the scenes of Westminster Abbey, granting access to areas typically off-limits to the public. Lasting 75 minutes, this immersive experience unveils the lost medieval sacristy, unveiled during a monumental archaeological endeavour. Additionally, you will explore the Florence Nightingale & Nurses’ Chapel, a poignant tribute to nursing professionals who perished during World War II, as well as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries, showcasing a wealth of treasures from the abbey. Lastly, step into history within the Jerusalem Chamber, the medieval chamber where Henry IV breathed his last and Henry V ascended the throne. Prepare for an extraordinary journey into the hidden realms of Westminster Abbey’s past.
Check out our guide to Everything you need to know about Westminster Abbey
What’s on at St Paul’s Cathedral
Experience the awe-inspiring majesty of St. Paul’s Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Delve into the extraordinary temporary exhibits on display, offering a glimpse into the cathedral’s storied past and its role as a witness to historic events. From immersive displays showcasing the cathedral’s remarkable architectural details to captivating exhibitions unveiling the stories of those who have left their mark within its hallowed walls, these limited-time exhibits provide a unique opportunity to explore the hidden treasures and profound significance of St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Christopher Wren: The Quest for Knowledge
Exhibition Opens 27th April 2023
Free with a regular entrance ticket
Join us in commemorating the incredible life of Sir Christopher Wren, the visionary scientist, mathematician, and architect behind the iconic St Paul’s Cathedral. In our exhibition, “Sir Christopher Wren: The Quest for Knowledge,” we delve into the early years and career of this remarkable figure, shedding light on his lesser-known accomplishments in mathematics, astronomy, and physiology. Explore the design and construction of his greatest masterpiece, St Paul’s Cathedral, while immersing yourself in a treasure trove of archival materials, drawings, photographs, and personal artefacts that offer a captivating glimpse into Wren’s extraordinary world.
Check out our guide to everything you need to know about St Paul’s Cathedral
