Alternative London: Five Events Off the Beaten Path
London is a city of contrasts with one of the most diverse populations in the world; it’s little wonder that this cosmopolitan urban area boasts some of the most offbeat attractions and events anywhere. Some of London’s more unusual tourist attractions are well known to tourists, like the celebrity figures at Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum; others are less famous, like the equally realistic waxwork figures at the London Dungeon that document some of the less savoury aspects of London’s history. Here are a few upcoming events that showcase the alternative side of London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Dinosaurs Unleashed
For a limited time, dinosaurs will once again roam the earth, at least on Oxford Street. From 28 January 2009 through the end of April, twenty-four life-sized prehistoric creatures from the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods will appear in all their glory at the Dinosaurs Unleashed exhibit. Adults and children alike will get a thrill from the fearsome Tyrannosaurus Rex and the fierce velociraptors, but the real show-stopper is the gigantic diplodocus. This replica of the peaceful plant-eating dinosaur is taller than two double-decker city buses and longer than three, making it a huge attraction in every sense. Dinosaurs Unleashed features a number of hands-on learning activities for children, making it a perfect excursion for families.
London Tattoo Convention
For the most avant-garde designs in the field of tattoos, the London Tattoo Convention offers guests and industry professionals the chance to compare notes and body art. Burlesque dancers strut across the stage, while a number of world-renowned tattoo artists practice their craft in public demonstrations at this annual event. Those interested in the anthropological, sociological and psychological implications of tattoo art will appreciate the British Tattoo History Museum located near the convention’s headquarters in the Tobacco Road; rock and roll fanatics will love the live musical performances by a number of cutting-edge acts. The 2010 London Tattoo Convention is scheduled for September, and is expected to attract visitors from all around the world.
Do Something Different Weekend
For artistically-minded travellers, the Barbican Centre presents an eclectic group of events and exhibitions each year as part of the East Festival of the arts. Hands-on activities allow visitors to learn about recycling, sewing and other crafts, and musical events include the Big Ukulele Bash and the bold sounds of the BBC Symphony Orchestra. From science exhibits to film festivals to social events including a grown-up game of hide-and-seek, there’s sure to be something to delight, educate, and amuse every member of the family at the Barbican’s Do Something Different annual weekend event scheduled for March 2010.
2010 London Lesbian & Gay Film Festival
This year, the 23rd Annual London Lesbian & Gay Film Festival will once again bring guests the best of gay and lesbian cinema from around the world. Visitors can meet with filmmakers, participate in discussion groups, or engage in professional development workshops to learn filmmaking techniques. Films to be shown include documentaries, short films and feature-length movies, including some old favourites along with the best of the new; the experimental films on offer often draw a crowd and attract the attention of national critics. The London Lesbian & Gay Film Festival is held at the British Film Festival in Southbank, and is scheduled for the end of March 2010.
Horseman’s Sunday
An annual event for over forty years, Horseman’s Sunday is celebrated at St. John’s Church Hyde Park on the last Sunday in September and features a procession of over one hundred horses in front of the historic church. The vicar leads the procession on horseback and, once they’ve arrived at the forecourt, he blesses the horses and presents them with rosettes. The ceremony, first instituted in 1968 in response to the proposed closing of local stables, has become an important church event attended by a number of local dignitaries including the Lord Mayor of Westminster.
When planning a visit to one of these events, carefully research the hotels London has on offer in the area and book early if possible; the best bargains are usually snapped up quickly. For travellers seeking last minute hotels London can present challenges in finding accommodations, but even greater savings can sometimes be achieved by booking rooms that would otherwise go unsold. Careful planning and research can allow the judicious holidaymaker to enjoy the stranger side of London without spending a fortune to do so.