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Try something different

If you are looking for ideas for what to do in South Kensington, try something different today. Discover jewellery, earthquake simulators, journey to space, fashion. and so much more.

London Craft Week x V&A Academy 2025

13th - 20th May
Various times
V&A South Kensington
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From millinery and silversmithing to weaving and puppetry, be inspired by live demonstrations from world class artisans as part of London Craft Week.

Koi Fish Pond Jelly Making

22nd May
5pm-7pm
The Royal Society of Sculptors
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Join Rowena Hume from My Mini Workshops for a very special workshop and create your own Koi fish pond. Share with loved ones or enjoy on your own.

Embracing Craft, Connecting Culture

12th-18th May
11am-6pm
The Royal Society of Sculptors
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This free exhibition showcases crafts and traditions across regional boundaries and generations, representing the essence of Hong Kong as a melting pot of vibrant cultures.

Image credit: © HarperCollins Publishers

Queen James: The Life and Loves of Britain's First King

20th June
4:30pm-6:30pm
Kensington Palace
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Author Gareth Russell's ground-breaking new book, Queen James: The Life and Loves of Britain's First King puts James, genius, liar, spendthrift, idealist, and the men he loved, at the centre of one of the most dramatic stories in British royal history.

Hidden Stories of Kensington Gardens Walking Tour

30th May
11am-12:30pm
Kensington Gardens
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A green oasis located in the heart of the city, discover the rich history of Kensington Gardens on this walking tour.

Family Fun: Fairy Festival

7th June
1pm-4pm
Leighton House and Sambourne House
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Inspired by the Victorian fascination with fairies, come along for a drop in afternoon of enchanting fairy fun in the museum garden.

Future of Food

24th July-4th Jan 2026
9am-6pm
Science Museum
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Just announced! A new, free exhibition about how food must change to protect the planet. Be the first to see it this summer—opens 24 July 2025.

The Enchanted Cinema: Ghibli's Forest

27th May
10:30am or 1pm
Royal Albert Hall
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Create a live score to the mysterious bamboo forests and baby turtles of Studio Ghibli’s The Red Turtle (2016) and the fan-favourite cat-bus and flying scenes from My Neighbour Totoro (1988).

Stage on Screen

4th–29th May
Various times
Institut français
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Theatre, cinema and literature are intertwined in a season of films exploring innovative approaches to text, process & performance, with classic films and compelling narratives set on and off the boards.

The Global Conference of the Birds

23rd May-1st June
10am-5pm
Ismaili Centre
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Tanzanian artist Shafina Jaffe blends spirituality, nature, and sustainable practice on Tanzanian bark cloth. Jaffer’s work reflects on the soul’s search for truth amid today’s climate crisis.

Workshop: Crafting Narratives through Lighting Design

17th May
10am-4pm
Design Museum
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Create your own lamp inspired by the Museum's display PLATFORM: Bethan Laura Wood.

After-Hours at Leighton House: Mirage and Memory

14th May
6.30pm-8.30pm
Leighton House and Sambourne House
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Discover the work of three extraordinary ceramicists, Rabya Alfadl, Nibras Alsalman and Dahouk Chamsi-Pasha, as they transform the interiors of Leighton House. Meet the artists and explore their work after hours, with a paid bar available throughout the evening.

Family Fun: Pasta Chandeliers

19th July
11-12:30pm & 2:30pm-4pm
Leighton House and Sambourne House
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Inspired by the vibrant colours, twists and turns of the Murano glass chandelier hanging in Leighton's Drawing Room, join these family fun craft sessions to recreate a mini version made out of...pasta!

Playday: Miffy’s Birthday

14th June
10.30am-3.30pm
Design Museum
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Miffy is celebrating her birthday at the Design Museum! Join the Museum for a festival of play, creativity and design for all ages and abilities.

Evening ticket – RCM Jazz Orchestra at the Festival of Percussion

11th May
7:15pm
Royal College of Music
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Join the grand finale of the Percussion Festival, in a vibrant evening concert with the RCM Jazz Orchestra and exceptionally talented special guest Gregory Hutchinson.