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Spring is around the corner, and that means more time outside exploring the world again! Fortunately, the capital is stepping up to the challenge – so we’ve put together a list of some of our favourite activities that’re on this March in London – from St Patrick’s Day celebrations to International Women's Day.
Things to do in London this March for families
Have a picnic under the cherry blossoms
The Japanese tradition of hanami requires only good food, good friends and cherry blossom (or Sakura as it’s known in Japan). There’s a great selection of places to go to find these pretty pink blossoms decorating the place, from St Paul’s Cathedral to Kew Gardens. Check out our list of the best locations.
Join a fun run for the World Literacy Trust
Dress up in your best red-and-white stripes for a Where’s Wally Fun Run in aid of the World Literacy Trust. With options for walking, jogging or running across the pretty Clapham Common, it’s a great chance to have a bit of fun and stay fit too! Your registration fee includes a costume – so don’t worry if you don’t have anything at home – and a medal to take home when you cross the finish line.
Be inspired by Tim Peake
In 2015 Tim Peake became the first British astronaut to visit the International Space Station to conduct a spacewalk (as well as run a marathon!) whilst orbiting Earth. As part of his first ever UK tour, he’s recounting some of details of his thrilling journey into space – from training to launch, spacewalk to re-entry – in this opportunity to spend an amazing evening with one of the world’s greatest living astronauts.
Exhibitions in London this March
Elegant and Enchanting at Kew Gardens
Head to the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew for this incredible display of stunning artworks put together by botanical artists from Japan, China and Thailand. Curated by renowned botanist Dr Shirley Sherwood OBE, these exquisite paintings and drawings are a look into the botanical and horticultural richness of east Asia.
Infinity Mirror Rooms at the Tate Modern
Internationally acclaimed Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama brings two of her globally-acclaimed Infinity Rooms to London’s Tate Modern. Filled with the Brilliance of Life is one of the largest installations produced, transporting you into a space of seemingly-endless reflection; or step into Chandelier of Grief to discover a boundless universe of rotating chandeliers.
Fashioning Masculinities: The Arts of Menswear at the Victoria & Albert Museum
The V&A open their first major exhibition exploring men’s fashion on 19 March, featuring around 100 outfits including those worn by Harry Styles, Marlene Dietrich and David Bowie, as well as those designed by Harris Reed and Gucci. Launching at a time of unprecedented creativity in menswear designs, it’s an rare opportunity to discover the history of men’s fashion – from the lavish European courts to the current explosion of energy in international design.
Life in a Cup – Coffee Culture in the Islamic World at the British Museum
While a great many of us enjoy a cup of coffee, the drink holds a special place in parts of the Islamic world. Its fascinating history, with unique traditions and preparation rituals that make it part of the way of life from its origin in the Yemen to its perceived threat to social order in the Middle East – and eventually its migration along trade and pilgrimage routes to Eastern Europe.
America in Crisis at the Saatchi Gallery
Closing in April, this is your last opportunity to discover more than 120 works by 40 leading American photographers documenting the immense social changes in the United States from the 1960s to the present day. Originally conceived in 1969, the 2021-2022 version compares the originals to new work produced a full five decades later – during another time of great social, political and cultural upheaval in American history.
Life Through a Royal Lens at Kensington Palace
Opening in March, this exhibition will bring together some of the most iconic photographs ever taken of the Royal Family. Featuring images from renowned photographers like Rankin, Annie Leibovitz and Norman Parkinson, you’ll also discover some of the most stunning images produced of the Queen and Queen Mother. And for the first time, images taken by the Royal Family themselves will feature – as well as photos taken by the public, specially selected by the curators.
Other great things to do in London this March
Celebrate LGBT films at the BFI
The British Film Institute offer a month packed with screenings, events and Q&As as part of the return of BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival. Including a program to raise the visibility of of the women who’ve been making documentaries over almost a hundred years – from the female pioneers of the 1930s like Ruby and Marion Grierson to the rich contemporary work of Penny Woolcock and Waad Al-Kateab.
Enjoy a game of Monopoly with a difference
Fan of Monopoly? Then this might just be the afternoon out for you! Take part in a life size game of the family favourite on a gigantic 15 x 15 metre board with matching tokens (including a giant scottie dog), and complete activities to acquire properties – from staging a heist in Mayfair to cracking Enigma codes in Whitehall. Choose from one of four boards to play from – making it great for grownups and kids alike.
Celebrate St Patrick’s Day at Trafalgar Square
Sunday 13 March sees London’s annual St Patrick’s Day Festival take place in Trafalgar Square. Now one of London’s favourite cultural events, more than 50,000 people celebrate the annual procession of Irish marching bands, dance troupes and pageantry as it winds from Hyde Park Corner to Trafalgar Square. This year sees the Garda band return from Dublin, as well as the popular giant St Patrick and a three-day film festival courtesy of Irish Film London
Ready to take a trip to the city again? Find the best tickets for you with our great variety of fares across the network. Or take a look at our Railcards to find out how to save even more money.
