October transforms London into a city of contrasts – golden parks, cosy afternoons, and a cultural calendar brimming with world-class events. From international art fairs to family festivals, film premieres to fireworks, there’s no better time to plan your autumn escape.
At The Prince Akatoki London, we invite you to discover it all with our Koyo Escape Autumn Offer. Enjoy 20% off your stay, flexible cancellation, and a seasonal welcome drink – the perfect base to make the most of October.
Why Visit London in October?
October sits at the sweet spot between summer’s energy and winter’s festivities. It’s cooler but still comfortable, and the city offers:
- Autumn colours: Stroll through Hyde Park, Regent’s Park or Kew Gardens as the trees turn golden.
- Seasonal food: Menus highlight wild mushrooms, game, and pumpkin-inspired creations.
- Cultural highlights: Major art and film festivals converge in the city.
- Family fun: Half-term activities, fireworks, and interactive exhibitions.
For visitors seeking both culture and calm, October is an unmissable time to explore London.
Unmissable Events in London – October 2025
Sumo at the Royal Albert Hall (4–6 October)
Japan’s national sport makes a rare appearance in London. Expect traditional rituals, dramatic bouts, and the unique spectacle of sumo in the Royal Albert Hall.
Tip: Book early – tickets sell quickly for this once-in-a-lifetime cultural event.
This October, the Royal Albert Hall hosts an extraordinary cultural event: professional sumo wrestling direct from Japan. For three days, the iconic London venue will be transformed into a traditional dohyo (sumo ring), welcoming some of the sport’s most celebrated rikishi (wrestlers).
Sumo is more than a contest of strength – it’s a ceremony rooted in Shinto ritual, where each movement is steeped in symbolism. From the salt purifications to the thunderous clash of wrestlers, the experience is as much about heritage and spirituality as it is about sport.
The event marks a rare opportunity to see sumo outside Japan, and the Royal Albert Hall adds its own grandeur to the spectacle. Visitors can expect not only bouts between champion wrestlers but also demonstrations of sumo traditions, storytelling about its 1,500-year history, and opportunities to learn about Japanese culture.
Akashi-Tai Sake Masterclass (23 October) at The Prince Akatoki
October at The Prince Akatoki brings a unique opportunity: a guided sake masterclass with Akashi-Tai. Learn the craft of Japan’s most refined beverage in the intimate, elegant setting of our Malt Lounge and Bar. Book here.
Perfect for: Couples and culture-seekers looking for a taste of Japan without leaving Marylebone.
Discover the elegance of Japanese sake without leaving Marylebone. On 23 October, The Prince Akatoki will host an exclusive Akashi-Tai Sake Masterclass, led by experts from one of Japan’s most renowned sake producers. Guests will enjoy a guided tasting of premium sake varieties, learning how subtle differences in rice, water, and brewing create distinct flavour profiles.
This intimate event goes beyond tasting – it’s a chance to deepen your understanding of Japan’s 500-year-old brewing traditions while enjoying the serene surroundings of our hotel. Perfect for couples, food lovers, and anyone eager to connect with Japanese culture.
Tip: Spaces are limited, book early to secure your place at this exclusive in-house experience.
BFI London Film Festival (8–19 October)
The UK’s biggest celebration of cinema returns with global premieres, screenings, and red-carpet moments. From indie gems to Hollywood blockbusters, BFI brings the world’s best films to London.
Venues: Southbank Centre, Leicester Square, Curzon cinemas.
The BFI London Film Festival transforms the capital into the world’s stage for cinema. Running from 8–19 October, it features international premieres, gala screenings, and appearances from acclaimed directors and actors. With screenings across Leicester Square, the Southbank Centre, and independent venues, the festival attracts film lovers from all over the globe.
Expect a mix of blockbuster titles and indie discoveries, alongside panel talks, Q&As, and immersive events that showcase the diversity of modern cinema. It’s the perfect opportunity to spot the next award-winning film before its general release.
Tip: For the best experience, explore the BFI’s programme in advance – tickets to red-carpet events sell out quickly.
Diwali Festival, Trafalgar Square (19 October)
Celebrate the festival of lights in the heart of London. Dance, music, street food, and storytelling bring Trafalgar Square to life in a free, family-friendly event.
On 19 October, London lights up with the Diwali Festival at Trafalgar Square. This free, family-friendly event celebrates the festival of lights with live music, dance performances, storytelling, and authentic Indian street food.
Stalls line the square with crafts and flavours from across the subcontinent, while the stage comes alive with Bollywood dance groups, classical musicians, and theatre. It’s one of the capital’s most vibrant cultural gatherings, drawing locals and visitors alike to celebrate together.
Tip: Arrive early with family – the event is free but gets busy, and the best performances are scheduled for the afternoon and early evening
Frieze London, Regent’s Park (9–13 October)
Art collectors and enthusiasts gather at one of the world’s most influential art fairs. Explore leading galleries, cutting-edge installations, and curated talks.
Insider tip: Pair your visit with a stroll through the autumnal Regent’s Park – a short walk from The Prince Akatoki.
Every October, Frieze London brings the global art world to Regent’s Park. From 9–13 October, over 160 leading international galleries showcase cutting-edge works, ranging from emerging artists to established masters.
The fair is not just about buying art – it’s about experiencing the latest ideas in contemporary culture. Expect large-scale installations, talks from curators and artists, and satellite exhibitions across the city. For collectors, Frieze is an essential stop; for curious visitors, it’s an inspiring glimpse into today’s creative landscape.
Tip: Combine your visit with a stroll through Regent’s Park – one of London’s most beautiful green spaces, especially during autumn.
Bicester Village VIP Shopping Package
Just an hour from London, Bicester Village offers more than 150 boutiques with exceptional savings. The VIP Shopping Package at The Prince Akatoki enhances the experience with hands-free shopping and exclusive perks.
Step into the new season with a wardrobe refresh at Bicester Village, one of Europe’s leading luxury shopping destinations. Just an hour from London, the Village is home to over 150 boutiques from the world’s most prestigious fashion and lifestyle brands, offering remarkable savings of up to 60% off.
With The Prince Akatoki’s VIP Shopping Package, guests can enjoy exclusive benefits including hands-free shopping, priority bookings, and tailored privileges designed to make the experience even more seamless. It’s the perfect day trip for fashion lovers, combining designer finds with the tranquillity of the Oxfordshire countryside. Book here.
Tip: Ask our Concierge to arrange transfers – we’ll ensure your shopping day is as effortless as it is enjoyable.
London Restaurant Festival (1–31 October)
London Restaurant Festival returns this October, bringing a month-long celebration of the city’s finest dining experiences. Expect exclusive tasting menus, chef collaborations, and one-off events that showcase why London is one of the world’s greatest food capitals. Book here.
Tip: Book ahead to secure tables at popular venues. This is one of the busiest times of the year for London’s restaurants.
This October, the London Restaurant Festival takes over the capital, with participating restaurants offering special menus and immersive dining events throughout the month. From Michelin-starred kitchens to neighbourhood gems, the festival is a chance to explore London’s dynamic food scene in new and exciting ways.
At TOKii, our Japanese-inspired restaurant at The Prince Akatoki, guests can experience the artistry of omakase dining, where our chefs carefully curate a multi-course tasting journey highlighting the best seasonal ingredients. For those looking to get hands-on, our Sushi Masterclass offers the opportunity to learn the craft of sushi-making with our expert chefs, blending education with indulgence.
The festival is as much about storytelling as it is about flavour, and TOKii embodies that ethos with menus designed to surprise and delight. Whether you’re joining us for a one-off tasting or looking to immerse yourself in the masterclass, it’s a chance to celebrate Japanese culinary traditions in the heart of Marylebone.
London Cocktail Week (9–19 October)
London Cocktail Week returns this October with ten days of innovative mixology, pop-ups, and exclusive menus across the capital’s best bars. It’s the perfect chance to sip your way through London’s world-leading cocktail scene.
From 9–19 October, London Cocktail Week transforms the city into a playground for cocktail lovers. With hundreds of venues taking part, guests can expect limited-edition serves, immersive tastings, and events led by some of the industry’s most talented bartenders.
Here at The Malt Lounge & Bar, our intimate Japanese-inspired space, we’ll be celebrating Cocktail Week with a showcase of Suntory whiskies and whisky cocktails. Expect refined serves that highlight the elegance and depth of Japanese spirits, from perfectly balanced highballs to inventive creations inspired by the seasons.
For guests looking to extend the experience, our expert mixologists are on hand to guide you through the stories and craftsmanship behind Japan’s most celebrated whiskies. It’s an opportunity to connect with both the artistry of Suntory and the serene luxury of The Prince Akatoki.
Whether you’re discovering London’s bar scene for the first time or returning to old favourites, Cocktail Week is the ultimate way to experience the capital’s creative spirit – and Malt Lounge & Bar is your perfect starting point.
West End Theatre in October
London’s West End is world-famous for its spectacular shows, and October is the perfect month to experience it. From timeless classics to cutting-edge new productions, there’s something for everyone on stage this autumn.
Tip: Book tickets in advance for popular shows like Hamilton, The Lion King, and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – they sell out quickly.
This October, the West End offers a rich mix of performances, making it a must-do during your London stay. Families can delight in The Lion King or Matilda the Musical, while couples may opt for the drama of Les Misérables or the energy of Hamilton. For something truly immersive, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child continues to wow audiences with its dazzling stagecraft.
Theatre in London is more than just entertainment – it’s part of the city’s cultural heartbeat. The district’s glittering marquees, historic venues, and buzzing streets make an evening at the theatre a quintessential London experience.
For guests of The Prince Akatoki, the West End is just a short journey away. Combine a day of exploring autumn events with a night at the theatre, before returning to the tranquillity of Marylebone. It’s the perfect way to round out your October itinerary.
Plan Your October Escape with The Prince Akatoki
From the dazzling lights of the West End to cultural festivals, film premieres, and seasonal celebrations, October is one of the most inspiring times to experience London. Whether you’re here for art, food, shopping, or family fun, the city offers endless ways to fill your days – and The Prince Akatoki provides the perfect calm retreat at the end of it all.
Enhance your stay with our Koyo Escape Autumn Offer or explore more tailored experiences on our Special Offers page. From wellness escapes to shopping packages and dining experiences, each offer is designed to help you make the most of your visit.
Return to serenity after the buzz of London’s October events – and let us take care of the details.