London Events: October 8-11, 2026
A range of exhibitions, markets, and free activities are scheduled across the capital.
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Several major events and attractions are scheduled across London between October 8 and October 11, 2026, offering a variety of activities for residents and visitors. These include large-scale exhibitions, art fairs, and historical site access.
Arts and Crafts Exhibitions
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Alexandra Palace will host the Knit & Stitch Show from October 8 to October 11, 2026. The event will feature hundreds of exhibitors selling supplies such as yarn, fabric, and sewing machines, alongside galleries displaying textile art. Concurrently, from October 8 to October 11, 2026, the Old Truman Brewery in east London will host The Other Art Fair. This event aims to showcase artworks from over 100 artists, catering to various budgets.
Historical and Scientific Attractions
Hampton Court Palace is offering free access to its grounds on October 10 and 11, 2026, allowing visitors to explore areas like the Great Fountain Garden and the Privy Garden without purchasing a palace ticket. However, entry to the palace interior, the Maze, and the Magic Garden playground will still require admission fees. Science enthusiasts can attend New Scientist Live at Excel London from October 10 to October 12, 2026. The event will feature talks by experts on topics including wildlife, dark matter, and human evolution.
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Community and Themed Events
A free, family-friendly zombie walk is scheduled to take place in central London on October 10, 2026, as part of World Zombie Day. The event aims to celebrate horror and creativity while raising funds for the Dead Good Club, an organisation promoting digital media literacy. On the same day, the London Welsh Centre will hold its Autumn Market, featuring over 50 Welsh traders selling handmade gifts, food, and artwork to support the centre's accessibility fundraising campaign.
Other Notable Events
Other events taking place include the Bloomsbury Festival, a local culture celebration running until October 31, 2026. London Zoo is offering a Winnie the Pooh storybook trail until November 1, 2026, marking the centenary of AA Milne's characters. Tate Britain's exhibition 'The 90s', guest-curated by Edward Enninful OBE, opens on October 8, 2026, and runs until February 14, 2027. The National Portrait Gallery will also open 'Tim Walker's Fairyland: Love and Legends' on October 9, 2026, featuring photographs of LGBTQ+ trailblazers.
Saturday, October 10 Activities
Saturday, October 10, will see a free book hunt at Valence House Museum in Barking and Dagenham, organised by the B.A.D. Fairy. Local London Guiding Day will offer free guided walks across various areas, with a 'Back to the Future' theme. Kings Place will host 'Classically Black', a day of performances and discussions redefining classical music. The Blackhorse Beer Mile will host Harvestfest, a free seasonal celebration with entertainment and artisan drinks. The V&A South Kensington will premiere Maya Man’s StarQuest, combining a screening with a performance-lecture. Families can attend a Family Day at William Morris Gallery in Walthamstow. The David Lean Cinema in Croydon will screen 'Exhibition On Screen: David Hockney'. In Soho, O'Neill's Wardour Street will host an afternoon of indie music for over-30s. Boxpark Wembley will have a Motown Day Party. The Cinema Museum in Kennington will host 'The Bill Reunion'.
Questions this report answers
+What arts and crafts events are happening in London?
The Knit & Stitch Show is at Alexandra Palace from October 8-11, 2026, featuring yarn, fabric, and textile art. The Other Art Fair is at the Old Truman Brewery from October 8-11, 2026, showcasing artworks from over 100 artists.
+Are there any free activities available?
Yes, Hampton Court Palace grounds are free to enter on October 10-11, 2026. A free zombie walk is planned for central London on October 10, 2026. The Harvestfest on Blackhorse Beer Mile is also free, and free guided walks are available on October 10.
+What family-friendly events are scheduled?
A free, family-friendly zombie walk is taking place in central London on October 10, 2026. Families can also design front doors and create posters at William Morris Gallery's Family Day in Walthamstow on October 10, 2026.
+What science events can I attend?
New Scientist Live is scheduled at Excel London from October 10-12, 2026. The event will feature talks by experts on various scientific topics, including wildlife, dark matter, and human evolution.
WE FILE
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The London Travel Desk assembled this report from the outlets listed below. Language-model drafting is reviewed under human editorial supervision, with scoring notes and corrections kept visible.
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