- Home
- London Features
- London Calendar 2012
-
March in London 2012
March in London 2012
With winter on the way out, March's Ideal Home Show and the Country Living Fair are great occasions for a spring clean. Elsewhere, the Affordable Art Fair comes once again to Battersea Park, while pop sensations The Wanted and JLS swing by the O2. And don't forget St Patrick's Day on the 17th!

The Wanted
The O2, London, SE10 0DX3rd March 2012

Barbican Weekender - Urban Stories
Barbican Centre, EC2Y 8DS3rd March 2012 - 4th March 2012
Exploring the use of the voice through music, film, song, art and performance, Barbican Weekender brings the centre alive with a weekend of events from artists, performers, choirs, poets, beatboxers, storytellers and interactive installations. From Shakespeare to Grime, London is bursting at the seams with fascinating stories, and the Barbican Foyers will be filled with opportunities to get inspired. So if you fancy taking dance classes with the award-winning Boy Blue Entertainment or giving your vocal chords a workout in a free opera workshop, take part and you be in with a chance of performing on the Barbican stage. With all this and much, much more going on, you'll be hard pressed no remain un-entertained.
More info: Barbican Weekender - Urban Stories Map, Prices, Opening Times and Nearest Tube
International Garden Photographer of the Year
Kew Gardens (Royal Botanic Gardens), London, TW9 3AB3rd March 2012 - 10th April 2012
Hosted at Kew Gardens for the first time, this exhibition gives visitors the chance to see the winning and finalist's images from the International Garden Photographer of the Year competition. Displaying the best garden, nature and outdoor photography from around the world, the images will offer an insight into the world of plants, gardens, landscapes, nature and the photographer's perception of this beautiful world. The exhibition will have four different categories: The Beauty of Plants, Wildlife Havens, Beautiful Gardens, Greening the City and Breathing Spaces. Taking place within the Nash Conservatory, a 19 century glasshouse, it will be a unique setting for this wild display of photographs.

Move It
Olympia, London, W14 8UX9th March 2012 - 11th March 2012
Whether you want to be a ballerina or learn how to dance like a 'Strictly Come Dancing' star, Move It has all the dances covered. Billed as 'The show for anyone working, teaching or looking for a future in acting, singing, performing arts, stage management and technical theatre,' Move It brings together pupils, teachers and recent graduates looking to make new contacts in the industry. There are around 250 dance classes you can take part it, covering everything from the bunny hop to hip hop. The Masterclasses offer dancers the opportunity to work with a top class tutor and make new connections. If that sounds a bit too energetic, you can always see how it's meant to be done with performances from 1,500 dancers representing groups as diverse as the New English Contemporary Ballet company and the London Swing Dance Society. There's something for all levels from beginners to the serious professional, including seminars on nutrition and how to do a good audition.

National Science and Engineering Week
Royal Air Force Museum London, London, NW9 5LL29th February 2012 - 18th March 2012
Many of London's major museums, galleries, schools and universities take part in National Science and Engineering Week this March in a bid to inject a bit of fun into learning and inspire a new generation of budding scientists. Last year over 4,500 mind-blowing events attracted 1.7 million people to join in with the celebrations of all things scientific. The theme this year is 'our world in motion' which encompasses everything from the tiny particles that make the world spin to the mobile phones helping humans interact around the world. Activities on offer include a chance to participate in a real CSI/Forensic Science Investigation. A theatrical exploration of the social and moral issues raised through advances in pharmacogenetics at The Royal Albert Hall, and The Royal Institution invites Professor Alan Davies to answer questions like 'How strong is the gravity of Krypton?' in his discussion on the science and mathematics of superheroes. There are plenty of chances for schools to get in on the action, NSEW have set an ideas task for 5-14 year olds challenging them to invent a multi-terrain global racer that runs on renewable power.
More info: National Science and Engineering Week Map, Prices, Opening Times and Nearest Tube
Sweeney Todd
Adelphi Theatre, WC2R 0NS10th March 2012 - 22nd September 2012
The disturbingly humorous Sweeney Todd is returning to the West End in 2012. Starring Michael Ball and Imelda Staunton, the play that has a strangely dark storyline showcased in a laughable manner will be taking the stage at the Adelphi Theatre. Telling the story of how Sweeney Todd has returned to London after years of being wrongly held in prison, he is now on a quest of vengeance to gain justice. Teamed with a pie-shop owner, Mrs Lovett, he sets out to retaliate against the wrongs done to him and his family. Directed by Jonathan Kent, this popular performance is back in theatreland until the autumn, just search Sweeney Todd in LondonTown.com to book your tickets.
More info: Sweeney Todd Map, Prices, Opening Times and Nearest Tube
Turner Inspired: In The Light Of Claude
National Gallery, WC2N 5DN14th March 2012 - 5th June 2012
When Turner left the National Gallery two paintings - Dido building Carthage and Sun rising through Vapour - it was on the condition that the works were hung between two pictures by Claude Lorrain. With Turner Inspired: In the Light of Claude that request is put into action. The show reveals Turner's great admiration for the 17th century French master who spent most of his life in Rome - an artist who is widely regarded as the father of European landscape painting, and was described by Constable as "the most perfect landscape painter the world ever saw". At Turner's request Claude's 'The Seaport' (Seaport with the Embarkation of the Queen of Sheba) and 'The Mill' (Landscape with the Marriage of Isaac and Rebecca) are displayed in this National Gallery exhibition which includes oils, watercolours and sketchbooks and introduces visitors to the story of the Turner Bequest and its importance in the history of the National Gallery. The final room of the show exhibits archive material dedicated to this relationship.
Affordable Art Fair
Battersea Park, London, SW11 4NJ15th March 2012 - 18th March 2012
Since setting up shop in Battersea Park for the first time in 1999, the biannual Affordable Art Fair has become a well-loved institution in London's art scene, an event that strips away the pretension of the art world and gives buyers a chance to pick up some really great work at fair prices, ranging from £50 to £3,000. Previous years have seen some works sold for hundreds of pounds by artists who nowadays would not get out of bed for that kind of change (preferring instead to sell that same bed to Charles Saatchi as an installation for a cool six-figure sum). It's a fun, family event which is accessible to connoisseurs and the merely curious. There's a free creche, printmaking workshops and a specialist exhibition showcasing work by new artists.
Elvis Presley Live in Concert
The O2 Arena, London, SE10 0BB16th March 2012 - 17th March 2012
Long live the legend of Elvis Presley; and for two nights this March London will be allowing just that. With Elvis' former band mates taking to the stage to showcase some of his greatest hits, they will be aiming to bring a piece of the musical sensation back to his fans in London and creating Elvis Presley Live in Concert. With a collection of Elvis' best concert moments edited together, the producers will be removing all the sound except for the vocals enabling the band to play live to the singer's recordings. The footage of Elvis will be displayed on state of the art screens in an attempt to bring Elvis back into the room; and with singers and a 16-piece orchestra synchronising their performances along to the vocals, there is a chance that it will actually feel as though the King of Rock and Roll has returned. There will be two performances spread across two nights; the first being at London's O2 Arena and the second at Wembley.
Ideal Home Show
Earls Court Exhibition Centre, London, SW5 9TA16th March 2012 - 1st April 2012
The Ideal Home Show is the place to find the latest in home furnishings as this famous show fills up the Earl's Court Exhibition Centre with everything you need to feather your nest - and a whole lot more besides. Celebrating its 103rd year, the Ideal Home Show is the world's largest event of its kind and never fails to surprise and inspire with home decorating ideas and the latest gadgets for the kitchen. The multi award winning show features full-scale model show houses and eight themed sections: Ideal Home Improvements, Ideal Village, Ideal Food, Ideal Gardens, Ideal Shopping, Ideal Woman, Ideal Home Gadgets, and Ideal Interiors. Last year celebrity presenters including Channel 4's Home Show star George Clarke, Master Chef's Gregg Wallace, GMTV's Fiona Philips and interior designer Linda Barker were among the experts who hosted workshops and handed out home improvements advice; this year is also set to have a number of familiar faces on hand. With over 800 exhibitors there are ideas galore and products to suit all styles and tastes. March is traditionally the time for a spring clean - so why not spruce up your home while you're at it?
Head of the River Race
Putney Bridge, London, SW6 3JD17th March 2012
The Head of the River Race is one of the classic races on the rowing calendar, a warm up for the Oxford vs. Cambridge Boat Race that follows the exact same course backwards, from Mortlake to Putney Bridge along the Thames. There are 420 crews in all, rowing down the 4.25 mile course, testing their willpower and teamwork in this uniquely macho sport. It is also a particularly nice stretch of the river, so even if you are not that excited by rowing, this is a really nice spot to enjoy a walk or a pint, and watch the boats glide past - hopefully the tides will dictate that the race coincides nicely with an early pub lunch, but you'll have to book early if you want a seat that faces the river.
Six Nations Rugby: England v Ireland
Twickenham Stadium, London, TW1 1DZ17th March 2012
England take on Ireland in the final round of matches in this years Six Nations. England only play at home twice during this year's tournament and this finale will come on the back of games in Edinburgh, Rome and Paris, as well as a tough encounter with World Cup heroes Wales at Twickenham a few weeks previously. Games between England and Ireland are always well worth the admission fee. Two tries from Ireland wing Tommy Bowe and a late conversion from veteran fly half Ronan O'Gara saw the Irish to a 16-20 win the last time they visited south London in 2010 and it was Declan Kidney's side who prevented England from winning the Grand Slam last year with a final round 24-8 victory in Dublin. Both sides have questions that need answering after the World Cup: England's problems are well documented and the composition of their side is as unknown now as it may well be on the eve of the tournament. The Irish will be without legendary centre and captain Brian O'Driscoll, who misses the whole tournament with a shoulder injury, and they'll be keen to avenge a disappointing World Cup campaign that saw them beat Australia but lose to Wales at the quarter final stage. .
St Patrick's Day Parade & Festival
Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DS17th March 2012
London's Irish community have always celebrated St Patrick's Day in the traditional manner, with church services, music, dancing and plenty of Guinness and whisky. In recent years, the capital has also hosted a major weekend celebration - the UK equivalent of parades in New York and Chicago. London's parade has floats from all 32 Irish counties, with street theatre along the route which starts at Piccadilly (Park Lane side) at 12 noon, goes along Lower Regent Street, Pall Mall East via Trafalgar Square to Whitehall. The main performance stage is in Trafalgar Square with live shows, music and dance, from midday. There's also a Children's Culture Corner with storytelling, shadow animation, dance, musical instruments and poetry, and there'll be the chance to join in with the arms-by-the-sides dancing. Look out for Irish speakers roaming around the square, on hand to teach you a few phrases. Of course, the best places to celebrate are the pubs and Catholic churches throughout London, with their mix of religion, music and good cheer. Keep an eye on where the real London Irish go after the parade and you could be in for a memorable evening.
Country Living Magazine Spring Fair
Business Design Centre, London, N1 0QH21st March 2012 - 25th March 2012
As daffodils and snowdrops push through the ground, Spring takes charge and urges us to shake off the shackles of winter and have a change. The Country Living Magazine Spring Fair at Islington's Business Design Centre is full of ideas for sprucing up your home and wardrobe, and also encourages visitors to try their hand at something new. Celebrating twenty years of the show there will be over 125 new exhibitors to the show this year; as well as free workshops with the price of entry that include hat making, wire jewellery making, applique and biscuit decorating. Do arrive early though, as places are limited. The Country Living Theatre is another source of hands-on ideas as experts give talks on flower arranging, jam making and other home crafts. But leave time to browse the many stalls packed with cushions, fabrics, clothes, bags, jewellery, homeware and more.
English National Ballet: Beyond Ballets Russes Programme 1 (L'apres-midi d'un faune/Faun(e)/Firebird
London Coliseum - English National Opera (ENO), WC2N 4ES22nd March 2012 - 28th March 2012
The English National Ballet has put together an outstanding programme of performances celebrating the great legacy of the Ballets Russes. Picasso, Debussy, Chanel, Matisse and Nijinsky were among a few of the inspiring composers, choreographers, artists and dancers that worked on the original Ballets Russes collaborations. Nijinsky's L'apres-midi d'un faune, (which caused controversy with its mesmerising Debussy score) will be performed alongside David Dawson's Faun(e). Also on the bill is the world premiere of a new reworking of Firebird from British choreographer George Williamson. The programme finale comes in the spectacular form of MacMillan's interpretation of The Rite of Spring.
BADA Antiques & Fine Art Fair
Duke of York Square, London, SW3 4LU21st March 2012 - 27th March 2012
Throwing their doors open for just one week in March 2012 the BADA Antiques & Fine Art Fair gives art fans a rare opportunity to peruse and purchase pieces from specialist dealers. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, textiles, and fine furnishings are all displayed under one roof, from Chippendale to Cartier and Tompion to Turner the variety and quality of the selection simply cannot be matched. Situated in a specially designed pavilion on the Duke of York Square, in the heart of affluent Chelsea, the high calibre of the art is matched by the fair's refreshments, a Cellini Restaurant and Taittinger Champagne Bar.
Pick Me Up Contemporary Graphic Art Fair
Somerset House, WC2R 1LA22nd March 2012 - 1st April 2012
This is the third year for the UK's first contemporary graphic arts fair after a successful launch in April 2010. The best and most innovative graphic artists, collectives and galleries in the country and from across the world will be on display at Pick Me Up; offering an exuberant mix of artworks for sale to the public. A lively series of events and activities accompany the fair, including a Portfolio Surgery with illustrator Zara Wood, whilst the spectacular Somerset House is once again host for this excellent opportunity to experience the energy and excitement of the graphic art scene in 2012.
English National Ballet: Beyond Ballets Russes Programme 1 (L'apres-midi d'un faune/Faun(e)/Firebird
London Coliseum - English National Opera (ENO), WC2N 4ES22nd March 2012 - 27th March 2012
The English National Ballet has put together an outstanding programme of performances celebrating the great legacy of the Ballets Russes. Picasso, Debussy, Chanel, Matisse and Nijinsky were among a few of the inspiring composers, choreographers, artists and dancers that worked on the original Ballets Russes collaborations. Nijinsky's L'apres-midi d'un faune, (which caused controversy with its mesmerising Debussy score) will be performed alongside David Dawson's Faun(e). Also on the bill is the world premiere of a new reworking of Firebird from British choreographer George Williamson. The programme finale comes in the spectacular form of MacMillan's interpretation of The Rite of Spring.
Human Rights Watch International Film Festival
Curzon Soho, W1D 5DY23rd March 2012 - 1st April 2012
15 years since its launch, the Human Rights Watch Film Festival returns to London with a line-up of 16 powerful documentaries and five thought-provoking dramas. Held at venues such as the Curzon Soho, the Ritzy Cinema in Brixton Oval and the ICA on the mall, the festival is always attended by many of the featured filmmakers and film subjects. The 2012 schedule sees films such as '!Women Art Revolution;' a loving tribute to the feminist art movement that took 40 years to make, 'Lost Angeles;' a rare insight into LA's skid row, and making its UK premiere is 'You Don't Like the Truth - 4 Days Inside Guantanamo'; featuring security camera footage from inside the contentious detention camp.
More info: Human Rights Watch International Film Festival Map, Prices, Opening Times and Nearest Tube
JLS The 4th Dimension
The O2, London, SE10 0DX23rd March 2012 - 25th March 2012
Since bursting onto the XFactor scene in 2008, JLS have continued on an upward journey in their music career. Taking over London's O2 for three nights their arena tour; JLS The 4th Dimension is guaranteed to be packed with perfectly synchronised dance moves, cheeky winks and of course Aston's famed back flips, oh and maybe one or two screaming fans. The band has reaped the rewards of the music industry; with five UK number one singles, an over 4 times platinum debut album, two MOBO awards as well as 2 Brit awards. They are the ultimate proof that music reality shows really can lead to more than a Christmas number one and five minutes in the fame game.
More info: JLS The 4th Dimension Map, Prices, Opening Times and Nearest Tube
The Cruise Show
Olympia, London, W14 8UX24th March 2012 - 26th March 2012
The Telegraph Cruise Show will be sailing into London Olympia in March for a day of travel inspiration and advice. For those having trouble deciding on a holiday location, a cruise may be the perfect answer, with the chance to sail the seas to a number of destinations in one holiday. The show will be inviting along major cruise lines and specialist operators to help first time cruisers as well as seasonal sailors to learn more and discover their dream route. With a number of talks ranging from Where to go cruising, to New to cruise, get on the right ship and Upgrade to all-inclusive, visitors will be able to uncover which boating experience is best for them.To get advance tickets for only £5 simply quote LONDONTOWN when booking online or by calling 0871 620 4024.
A Place in the Sun Live
Earls Court Exhibition Centre, London, SW5 9TA30th March 2012 - 1st April 2012
A Place in the Sun Live is giving visitors the chance to browse for their ideal home abroad and gain a taster of what a life in the sun could be like. Following the successful television show and magazine, Earls Court will be brimming with hundreds of exhibitors representing a number of countries and offering properties ranging from £20,000 to over £1 million. With a daily session looking specifically at emigration and further seminars on buying property in locations such as Spain, Italy, Cyprus and Turkey this day should equip visitors with all the information needed to relocate abroad. If fully committing to moving abroad isn't the dream, then head over to The Fractional Pavilion; a new feature to this year's event where the options of part owning abroad are discussed, allowing you to spend a few weeks a year in the sunshine and the rest in the comfort of Blighty. Tickets can be booked through the website, and advance tickets include a free six month subscription to A Place in the Sun magazine.
The Chocolate Festival
Southbank Centre, London, SE1 8XX30th March 2012 - 1st April 2012
Just in time to stock up for Easter, The Chocolate Festival returns to Southbank Centre with plenty more chocolatiers and artisan delights to tickle your taste buds. This event will feature stands from award winning chocolatiers such as William Curley, Damian Allsop, Paul Wayne Gregory and Co-Couture, renowned chocolate companies such as Rococo, Valrhona and Hotel Chocolat and new companies such as Choki of Brockley and Simply Hand Made Chocolates. Demonstrations, tastings and talks will take place in the main marquee, where attendees can learn about the health benefits of chocolate, how to include chocolate in savoury dishes as well as tutored tastings. As always, there will be dozens of stalls all showcasing chocolate and chocolate products, such as hot chocolate, chocolate cakes, crepes, churros, a chocolate fountain, self-making kits and much more. If you are a chocoholic, or you know someone who is, then you simply cannot afford to miss this event.
Harry Potter Studio Tour
Warner Bros Studio Tour London, London, WD25 7LS31st March 2012
If you or your family are fans of the hugely successful Harry Potter film series, then be sure not to miss this amazing opportunity to visit the set of the movies and take a behind-the-scenes look at the magic behind the eight-movie series. Explore the incredible sets and marvel at the costumes and props as you are told secrets about the making of the films and shown things that the camera never let you see before. You'll have the opportunity to learn about the special effects and animatronics that helped make Harry Potter one of the most successful film series of all time. Discover the wonder of the Great Hall, the setting for some of Harry Potter's most famous scenes, and catch a glimpse of some iconic props, including Harry's Nimbus 2000 broomstick and Hagrid's motorbike. The tours take place at Leavesden Studios, 20 miles outside of London.
British Design 1948-2012: Innovation in the Modern Age
Victoria and Albert (V & A) Museum, London, SW7 2RL31st March 2012 - 12th August 2012
British Design celebrates post-war art and design in Britain since the time of the last Olympic Games to be held in London right up until the present day. Taking in significant moments from British history and incorporating how Britain encourages art and remains at the forefront of world creativity and design, Innovation in the Modern Age showcases over 300 objects including product design, fashion, furniture, photography, sculpture and fine art. Robin Day's Polyprop Chair, a mural by John Piper from The Festival of Britain, art by David Hockney and Henry Moore, fashion from the late Alexander McQueen, the first E-type Jaguar car... all this and much more will all be on display, making this exhibition one not to miss if you're a fan of British history and culture.
Roundhouse CircusFest
Roundhouse, London, NW1 8EH28th March 2012 - 30th April 2012
Vaudeville, circus and cabaret come to the Roundhouse for a five week season of CircusFest, as a colourful mix of renowned theatre companies and circus groups take to the stage. There are performances from the likes of the Spavaldo brothers, Funk Da Cirque, Cirkus Cirkör and the Underground Film Club is joining in the fun, putting on a special programme of circus-themed film screenings as diverse as Santa Sangre and The Circus. Cirque Mandingue start things off with their Foté Foré, a high-energy mix of acrobatics and street dance, set against West African drumming and hip hop beats. This pretty much sets the tone for what to expect from CircusFest - something a bit crazy, anarchic and high octane. For the finale, audiences will step back in time at Professor Vanessa's Wondershow, a celebration of the golden era of circus.
London Design Week
Design Centre Chelsea Harbour, London, SW10 0XE11th March 2012 - 16th March 2012
Showcasing the latest styles and ideas, London Design Week invites designers, architects, the media and tastemakers to come together at this international event to discover and admire innovative ideas that will lead the way in the design world. The first three days are trade only, but with the final three days open to the public, there will be lectures by industry professionals, workshops and demonstrations all on offer, creating the perfect opportunity for visitors to learn new style tricks and uncover the 2012 Spring/Summer trends.
Sting: Back to Bass
Hammersmith Apollo, London, W6 9QH19th March 2012 - 21st March 2012
Celebrating 25 years of his solo career, Sting will be taking it back to bass for his 2012 tour. Gracing the stage at Hammersmith Apollo for three nights, the former Police star will be performing all of his hits stripped down, including records that havenât been aired for years. The set list will be an exciting concept for any major Sting fans as the 21 songs blend both The Police and solo tunes. Highlights will include 90s hit Fields of Gold, early solo tune Message in a Bottle and one of the bands biggest hits Every Breath You Take. This will be a unique opportunity for audiences to embrace a career spanning 25 years in one evening.
The Guardian Open Weekend
Kings Place, London, N1 9AG24th March 2012 - 26th March 2012
The Guardian prides itself in opening up to its readers, expressing and welcoming a range of voices and opinions. Going one step further, the Guardian Open Weekend welcomes the public through their doors into a festival of entertainment, ideas and inspiration. As well as the newspaper's own writers, editors, digital developers and photographers, guest speakers from around the world will be participating in over 200 scheduled events. There will be appearances and speeches from the likes of Charlie Brooker, Jon Snow, Dave Miliband and the band Mumford & Sons, enabling visitors to engage in an educational and entertaining blend of debates, talks, workshops, music, comedy, poetry and food.

London Olympic Test Event:British Gas Swimming Championships 2012
London Olympics Aquatics Centre, London, E20 2ST3rd March 2012 - 10th March 2012
Great Britain's top swimmers take to the pool to secure a place on Team GB in the Olympic Games in the British Gas Swimming Championships 2012. The likes of double Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington, 50m backstroke world record holder Liam Tancock and double Paralympic gold medallist Ellie Simmonds will all be in action during this week of swimming trials at Zaha Hadid's slick new Aquatics Centre. For most British swimmers it will be their first taste of the new Olympic pool, while for spectators who failed to snap up tickets for London 2012, this is an ideal opportunity to get a slice of pre-Olympic action - and check out the London 2012 Olympic Park in the process.
London Events in 2012
January in London 2012
The year begins with a bang with the Chinese New Year Celebrations, the awe-inspiring Cirque Du Soleil - Totem and the 2...
February in London 2012
Don't forget it's Valentine's Day on the 14th - but there's plenty more going on this month besides, from the high octane drama of...
April in London 2012
The Queen celebrates her birthday with the annual Gun Salutes in Hyde Park - though the official celebrations don't take plac...
May in London 2012
The Chelsea Flower Show and the Open Air Theatre in Regent's Park get London's summer season in full swing in a month book-ended b...
June in London 2012
June in London means one thing: strawberries and cream in SW19 as Andy Murray bids to become Britain's first Wimbledon winner sinc...
July in London 2012
London 2012 means one thing and one thing only: the Olympic Games which take place in London from the 27th July to 12th August 201...
August in London 2012
August is a month of party fuelled activities in London, kicking off with The Great British Beer Festival where visitors can try h...
September in London 2012
September plays host to the world famous Last Night of the Proms as well as the Mayor’s Thames Festival on the same day so expect ...
October in London 2012
October brings together a variety of events starting with the Scandinavia Show and Frieze Art Fair. There will also be a hint of g...
November in London 2012
Lighting up the sky of London, Bonfire Night is November's highlight with a number of extravagant displays including the Lord Mayo...
December in London 2012
2012 closes with a host of typically festive happenings. There's the Peter Pan Cup Swimming Race on Christmas Day when brave souls...
London Hotels
From cheap budget places to stay to luxury 5 star suites see our special offers for hotels, including Ramada Hotel & Suites London Docklands from 43% off. |








