The Savoy concierge’s guide to London: the October 2026 edition

Events

BFI London Film Festival

7 - 18 October | BFI Southbank and partner venues across London

The British Film Institute's flagship celebration of international cinema returns for its landmark 70th edition, showcasing the very best in world cinema. The festival features world premieres, gala screenings attended by A-list directors and actors, thought-provoking industry talks, and immersive storytelling experiences across multiple genres.

‍

London Restaurant Festival

1 - 31 October | Various restaurants across London

A month-long celebration of London's dynamic dining scene, the London Restaurant Festival sees hundreds of restaurants across the capital offering specially curated menus, exclusive chef collaborations, and unique dining experiences. Highlights include masterclasses led by renowned chefs, wine pairing dinners, behind-the-scenes kitchen tours, and limited-edition tasting menus at both Michelin-starred establishments and beloved neighbourhood favourites. It is an ideal opportunity to explore new venues or revisit classics at special prices.

‍

Oktoberfest  

1 - 3 October | Finsbury Park

London's take on the traditional Bavarian beer festival brings authentic German culture to the capital for three days of celebration. The event features two massive festival tents, each housing up to 2,000 guests, with long communal tables, live brass bands, and traditional lederhosen-clad staff. Visitors can enjoy freshly tapped German beers, hearty dishes such as bratwurst, schnitzel, and pretzels, plus lively entertainment including folk dancing and sing-alongs.

‍

‍

Exhibitions

‍

Bayeux Tapestry

Open now - July 2027 | British Museum

One of the most extraordinary cultural events in London this year, the Bayeux Tapestry returns to England for the first time in almost 1,000 years. This remarkable 70-metre embroidered masterpiece chronicles the events leading to the Norman Conquest and the Battle of Hastings.

‍

Painting the French Riviera

2 October 2026 – 31 January 2027 | Royal Academy of Arts

A spectacular celebration of the Côte d’Azur and its profound influence on modern art. More than 120 works by artists including Monet, Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, Bonnard and Yves Klein explore the Riviera as both artistic inspiration and a cultural phenomenon.
‍

Renoir and Love

3 October 2026 – 31 January 2027 | National Gallery

A major exhibition examining Renoir's fascination with love, intimacy and human relationships. The presentation offers a particularly elegant opportunity to discover one of Impressionism's most celebrated painters through the theme of romance and emotional connection.

‍

‍

New Restaurants

‍

Bubala

Open mid-October | Covent Garden

Housed in a historic, Grade II-listed building on the corner of Garrick Street and Floral Street, it stands as the brand's largest and most ambitious location yet. Guests can enjoy relaxed, communal dining with signature sharing plates like halloumi with chamomile honey, alongside an expanded wine and cocktail program and a spacious outdoor terrace.

‍

Endo & Moga

Open Early October | Chelsea

A dual concept Japanese venue. ENDO is an intimate, 10 seat omakase restaurant that highlights traditional craftsmanship, wild-caught British seafood, and a menu centred on dashi. Upstairs, Moga operates as a contemporary Japanese listening bar serving tea infused cocktails alongside curated vinyl music played through custom Taguchi speakers.

‍

‍

Our Theatre Recommendations

‍

The Lives of Others

Adelphi Theatre

A high-profile limited engagement adapted and directed by Robert Icke, bringing Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck’s acclaimed drama to the West End. The production stars Keira Knightley, Stephen Dillane and Luke Thompson, giving it strong prestige and casting appeal. It is particularly well suited to guests looking for a serious, star-led theatrical event.

‍

The Cherry Orchard

Harold Pinter Theatre

Chekhov’s classic drama returns to the West End in a new adaptation by ConorMcPherson, directed by Ian Rickson. Led by Kristin Scott Thomas, the production offers a distinguished blend of literary depth and high-calibre British theatre. It is an excellent choice for guests seeking a refined, emotionally resonant evening.

‍

Manon

Royal Opera House

Kenneth MacMillan’s dramatic ballet is one of The Royal Ballet’s most compelling and romantic works. With its sweeping score, lush staging and intense central love story, it offers a richly theatrical evening at one of London’s most prestigious venues. It is especially appealing to guests who enjoy classical ballet with emotional scale and visual elegance.