Londonist partner content: bringing you the best events, offers and more around the city.
Three rising stars, one intimate gig, Victorian grandeur galore
Be honest: there is a certain thrill in getting on the next big thing before it becomes, well, THE big thing. Not (just) for the bragging rights, but because it often allows you to experience it in a uniquely intimate way. And there’s no better facilitator of this than Sofar.
Sofar — which specialises in the under-the-radar gigs in unconventional venues — has a history of platforming artists early in careers which later exploded (we’re talking Grammy winners and festival headliners, here). This month, this bonafide tastemaker is giving you the chance to discover not one, not two, but THREE ones-to-watch, right here in London.
As is par for the course with Sofar, the fine details are shrouded in secrecy. But we can tell you that the gig’s taking place in the historic Grand Hall at Battersea Arts Centre, an atmospheric Grade II-listed venue that marries exposed Victorian brick with a spectacular wooden lattice ceiling designed with acoustics in mind.
It’s all happening on Thursday 26 March. Click below to book your tickets and get ready to discover incredible music before the rest of the world catches onto it.
Iconic London transport posters
Discovered Art Deco: The Golden Age of Poster Design yet? This oh-so-aesthetically-pleasing London Transport Museum exhibition explores both the origins of the art deco movement and its influence on the art that once adorned the capital’s Tube and bus network. Expect works by design greats like Edward McKnight Kauffer and Dora Batty alongside lesser-known vintage posters, plus photography and ceramics.
Flashmob at the Foundling Museum
Here’s a chance to be part of something special. On 21 March, the Foundling Museum and the Choir of Earth unleashes the power of collective song with a Hallelujah Chorus Flashmob. Start the day with a confidence-boosting vocal workshop before participating in a flashmob-style performance of Handel’s choral masterpiece. Be sure to check out the museum’s A Grand Chorus: The Power of Music exhibition while you’re here.
Half-price Sunday Roasts
Gravy’s got some serious competition… at The Great Indian gastropub in Archway, roast dinners are slathered in fragrant mace and rose sauce, dipped in fiery vindaloo, or paired with creamy tomato and fenugreek (depending on your protein of choice). Be one of the first 50 diners to try it on 22 March and can enjoy 50% off this new menu.
Don’t miss the Dove Drop Shop
New pop up! Discover Dove’s brand new refillable deodorant range at the Dove Drop Shop — in partnership with Boots. Enjoy a free drink, a photobooth moment and more as you explore. Find it at The Stables, 40 Earlham Street, Covent Garden, 12pm-8pm on on 18 March, or click below to browse the new range now.
A few of favourite bookshops
Bibliophiles are very much spoilt for choice in London, which is home to just about every flavour of bookshop we can think of. It’s got your creaky floorboards and Dark Academia'-style ramshackle stacks; it’s got expertly-curated, softly-lit shelves that feel straight out of a indie film; it’s got a rabbit’s warren of graphic novels and comic books. Check out some of our favourites on Londonist: Keys to the City.