Events

SXSW London 2025

2 - 7 June | Shoreditch

Founded in 1987 in Austin Texas, South By Southwest (SXSW) is best known as a trailblazer in interdisciplinary innovation and cultural convergence. The spotlight turns to the first-ever SXSW London, with one mission in mind: “beautiful collisions.” This superstar festival turned mega-brand continues to evolve as the ultimate ultra-hip, ultra-cool destination for innovation, creativity, and connection.

London Design Biennale

5 - 29 June | Somerset House

Featuring world-leading design, innovation, creativity and research by exhibitors from across the globe, London Design Biennale showcases today’s designers and ideas that will change our world. This year’s theme ‘Surface Reflections’ by Artistic Director Dr Samuel Ross MBE, Founder of A COLD-WALL*, explores how ideas are fuelled by both our internal experiences and external influences.

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Exhibitions

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José María Velasco - A View of Mexico

Until 17 August | National Gallery

See the first UK exhibition of Mexico’s much-loved artist, José María Velasco.Velasco, working in Mexico in the 19th century, was a man of many interests. He was fascinated by advances in geology, the archaeology of his home country, the study of local flora, and the increasing presence of industrialisation.

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Yoshitomo Nara

Until 31 August | Hayward Gallery

Dive into the captivating, creative world of Yoshitomo Nara in the largest European retrospective of one of Japan’s most celebrated artists. Featuring more than 150 works in drawing, painting, sculpture, installation and ceramics, this comprehensive exhibition offers audiences the opportunity to immerse themselves in Nara’s personal and creative world.
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New Restaurants

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Twenty8

Open Now | Covent Garden

A New-York-inspired brasserie opens in Covent Garden. Twenty8 NoMad (based on the address of the hotel), it will bring in a light refresh of the already impressive room, led by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio. The restaurant describes the new look as a more laid-back affair with “moody, playful charm” and a new wood-burning hearth has been added to the room.

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Myrtos

Open Now | South Kensignton

Myrtos is from ex-Pied a terre chef Asimakis Chaniotis. The food takes its inspiration from across Greece, using produce sourced from Greece and the UK. Desserts include their own pistachio cake and they’ll have a cheese trolley showcasing Greek cheeses. It’ll also have an impressive cocktail selection as Bar Line from Athens, which is the sixth on the world’s best Bars list, will be behind the drinks here.

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Our Theatre Recommendations

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The Brightening Air

Until 14 June 2025 | London Theatre

This new play, set in Ireland in the 80’s is both funny and moving. Its unique style is something that only Olivier award winning writer and director Conor McPherson can evoke. He is such a gifted writer, and this story of family members coming back to the rural family home is an emotional rollercoaster of laughs, anxieties and sadness. The cast are superb and your tears will flow.

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Here We Are

Until 28 June 2025 | National Theatre

“Mrs. Warren’s Profession” at the Garrick Theatre is a powerful revival of George Bernard Shaw’s classic play, starring Imelda Staunton and Bessie Carter. This sharp and witty drama explores the clash between morality and economic necessity as a young woman uncovers the truth about her mother’s controversial past. With its compelling performances and timeless social commentary, this production brings fresh urgency to Shaw’s critique of Victorian hypocrisy.