Exhibition
Make the most of the final weeks of summer with an unforgettable day (or evening) out in London's West End. From blockbuster exhibitions and theatre to family-friendly art trails, live music and indulgent dining experiences, here's what's on this August.
📍Venue: National Portrait Gallery
🗓️ Dates: Until 6th September
Discover the remarkable life and enduring legacy of one of Hollywood's most iconic stars. Bringing together photographs, film, fashion and personal objects, Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait explores the woman behind the legend.
🎟️ Tickets: Various prices | More Information
📍Venue: Royal Academy of Arts
🗓️ Dates: Until 30th August
Celebrate the creativity of the next generation at the Royal Academy's annual Young Artists' Summer Show. Featuring thousands of artworks by talented young people aged 4–18 from across the UK.
🎟️ Tickets: Free | More Information
📍 Venue: National Gallery
🗓️ Date: 14 August, 1 - 2pm
Join exhibition curator Sarah Herring for an engaging introduction to Waldmüller: Landscapes. Discover the work of Austrian artist Ferdinand Georg Waldmüller, whose richly detailed landscapes capture the beauty of the natural world with remarkable realism.
🎟️ Tickets: Free | More Information
📍Venue: Nöel Coward Theatre
🗓️ Dates: Until 5th Spetember
Adrian Lester returns to the West End in a dazzling new production of Edmond Rostand's timeless classic. Blending razor-sharp wit, romance and heartfelt emotion, this fresh adaptation follows the brilliant swordsman Cyrano as he struggles to express his love, believing his appearance makes him unworthy. A captivating theatrical experience that breathes new life into a literary masterpiece.
🎟️ Tickets: Various prices | More Information
📍Venue: Across Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square & St. James's Market
🗓️ Dates: Until 30th August
Embark on a playful art trail through the West End as five larger-than-life sculptures by internationally renowned artist Mr Doodle appear across some of London's most recognisable locations. Perfect for families, art lovers and curious explorers alike, the free trail invites visitors to discover the artist's signature monochrome characters and joyful illustrations while exploring the neighbourhood.
🎟️Tickets: Free | More Information
📍Venue: Larry's, National Portrait Gallery
🗓️ Dates: Every Thursday - Saturday, 5pm - 11pm
Ease into the evening with live jazz performances at Larry's, the stylish bar tucked beneath the National Portrait Gallery. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, an extensive wine list and seasonal dishes while talented musicians provide the soundtrack, making it an ideal destination for after-work drinks or a relaxed late-night dinner in the heart of the West End.
🎟️ Tickets: Booking Recommended | More Information
📍Venue: Fortnum & Mason Bookshop (Third Floor)
🗓️ Date: 4th August, 6:30pm - 8pm
Food writer and broadcaster Marie Mitchell joins acclaimed food historian Dr Jessica B. Harris for an evening exploring the stories, traditions and cultural significance of food. Expect fascinating conversation, personal insights and delicious inspiration as the pair discuss how recipes and kitchens connect communities across generations and continents.
🎟️ Tickets: £20 | More Information
📍Venue: Sofitel London St. James
🗓️ Date: Throughout August
Step into the theatrical world of The Phantom of the Opera with this limited-edition afternoon tea at Sofitel London St James. Inspired by Andrew Lloyd Webber's beloved musical, the experience features beautifully crafted pastries, savoury treats and elegant desserts themed around the iconic production, making it the perfect pre-theatre indulgence or special summer treat.
From world-class art galleries and institutions, to the West End’s best theatres, cinemas, hotels, restaurants and bars, find the venues you’re looking for with our business listings.
Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery sits seconds away from Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square, London. It was the first portrait gallery in the world when it opened in 1856 and houses the world's largest collection of personalities and faces, from the late Middle Ages to the present day.
Gallery
The National Gallery is one of London's greatest art museums located in Trafalgar Square, London. Founded in 1824, it houses a collection of over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900.
Gallery
The Royal Academy of Arts is a world-renowned art institution based in Burlington House on Piccadilly, London. For over 250 years, the RA has existed to champion art and artists and offers a place where art is made, exhibited and debated. Enjoy their expanded campus with free displays, new spots to eat, drink and shop, and much more.